Summer to Fall Home Décor | Home Tips

As the warm days of summer begin to fade and the crisp air of fall rolls in, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home’s décor to reflect the changing season. Transitioning your space from the light, breezy feel of summer to the cozy, rich ambiance of fall doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few simple yet luxurious touches, you can create a space that’s inviting, comfortable, and sophisticated. Here’s how to elevate your home for the fall season with style.

1. Incorporate Rich Textures for Added Warmth

One of the easiest ways to shift your home from summer to fall is by introducing rich, luxurious textures. Swap out lightweight summer fabrics like linen and cotton for warmer, cozier options like velvet, wool, and faux fur. These materials not only add warmth but also create a more luxurious and inviting atmosphere.

For instance, consider layering your living room with plush throw blankets and decorative pillows made from sumptuous fabrics. Velvet pillows in jewel tones like deep emerald, sapphire, or burgundy instantly elevate the space and add a touch of elegance. Faux fur throws draped over a sofa or accent chair create a cozy, stylish vibe, perfect for the cooler months ahead.

2. Switch to a Fall-Inspired Color Palette

Color plays a huge role in setting the tone for the season, and fall is the perfect time to introduce deeper, richer hues into your home. While summer calls for light, airy colors like whites, pastels, and coastal blues, fall is all about earthy tones and bold, dramatic shades.

To create a seamless transition, start by incorporating fall-inspired colors into your décor. Opt for warm hues like burnt orange, deep reds, mustard yellows, and forest greens. These colors evoke the natural beauty of autumn and can be introduced through accent pieces like rugs, curtains, and wall art. For a subtle yet impactful change, consider swapping out your lighter summer artwork for pieces that feature fall landscapes or abstract designs in rich, autumnal tones.

3. Add Elegant Seasonal Accents

Elegant seasonal accents can take your home décor to the next level and make the transition from summer to fall feel effortless. Decorative accessories such as candles, vases, and centerpieces can reflect the season’s charm and add a touch of luxury.

For example, fill large glass vases with dried wheat stalks or pampas grass for a natural, fall-inspired look. Consider swapping out summery florals for arrangements featuring fall foliage, such as eucalyptus, branches with berries, or even dried hydrangeas. To enhance the cozy ambiance, place scented candles in fragrances like cinnamon, sandalwood, or pumpkin spice throughout your home. Not only do they create a warm glow, but they also fill your space with the scents of the season.

4. Update Your Entryway

Your entryway is the first impression of your home, so it’s a great place to incorporate fall décor. Swap out your summer wreath for one that features fall foliage, pinecones, or dried flowers. Consider adding a statement piece like a large, decorative pumpkin or an elegant fall-themed lantern by your front door to welcome guests with seasonal charm.

Conclusion

Transitioning your home décor from summer to fall doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul. By adding rich textures, switching to a fall-inspired color palette, and incorporating elegant seasonal accents, you can create a luxurious and inviting space that reflects the beauty of the season. Embrace the warmth and sophistication of fall in every room of your home for a stylish, seasonal refresh.

Economic Update | Week Ending September 14, 2024

Economic data this week – The August reading of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer inflation continues to moderate. Consumer prices rose 2.5% from one year ago, down 0.4% from July’s annual level of 2.9%, and the lowest annual rate since February 2021. The CPI rate peaked at 9.1% in June of 2022 and has worked its way down gradually. The Produce Price Index (PPI) was also released this week. It showed that wholesale rose just 1.7% from last August. Unfortunately, core PPI, which excludes food and energy moved up 3.3% from one year ago. The difference between the PPI and the Core PPI was mainly attributed to lower energy costs as oil prices have dropped significantly from one year ago. Next week the Fed will drop their key interest rates for the first time in four years. It is widely believed that it will be a .25% drop, as a .5% drop so close to the election could have political implications.

The graph below shows the movement of the Consumer Price Index from 2021 to the present.

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Stock markets – Stock market indexes made up last week’s losses to end the week up sharply. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 41,393.78, up 2.6% from 40,345.42 last week. It is up 9.8% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,626.78, up 4% from 5,408.42 last week. The S&P is up 18% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 17,683.98, up 5.9% from 16,690.83 last week. It is up 17.8% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields dropped sharply this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.66%, down from 3.72% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 3.98%, down from 4.03% 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 September 12, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.2%, down from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.27%, down from 5.47% last week.

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

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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!

From SpaceX to Google Wallet and More! | Tech News

From SpaceX to Google Wallet and more, we have you covered! Check out your tech news in this week’s blog as we wrap up the top headlines from across the web.

Meta Updates AI Content Labels on Social Platforms

Meta is refining how it labels AI-edited content across Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. The new “AI Info” tag will now appear in a menu in the top-right corner of images and videos edited with generative AI, rather than directly beneath a user’s name. Users can click the menu to access details about any AI modifications. This change aims to better represent the extent of AI involvement in content creation, whether it’s light edits or fully AI-generated. The update follows criticism of Meta’s previous “Made with AI” label and will start rolling out next week.

SpaceX Achieves First Private Spacewalk with Polaris Dawn Mission

In a historic milestone, SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn astronauts completed the first private company-led spacewalk. Jared Isaacman, the billionaire funding the mission, emerged from the Dragon capsule early Thursday, testing SpaceX’s new, more mobile spacesuits. After Isaacman’s tests, SpaceX engineer Sarah Gillis also exited the capsule for further evaluations, both tethered by 12-foot oxygen cords. The mission, which saw the crew reach the highest orbit since the Apollo missions, marked a major achievement for commercial space exploration.

 

Google Wallet to Begin Beta Testing Digital IDs for TSA Checkpoints

Google Wallet will soon beta test digital IDs at TSA checkpoints in nearly half the U.S., including states like New York, California, and Texas. Google Wallet users can create a digital ID by scanning their passport’s security chip and verifying their identity with a selfie video. Though encrypted and accessible via passcode or fingerprint, Google advises keeping physical IDs as back-up. In addition to digital IDs, Google Wallet is rolling out updates like real-time pass notifications and support for prepaid commuter benefit cards. States like Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio will soon allow residents to store their IDs digitally in Google Wallet.

OpenAI Launches New “o1” Reasoning AI Model

OpenAI has introduced its new “o1” model, the first in a series of AI models. The model is designed to tackle complex questions and reasoning tasks, outperforming previous models like GPT-4o. Released alongside a smaller version, “o1-mini,” the model excels at problem-solving, coding, and math, with an 83% success rate on a math Olympiad test. Although more expensive and slower, “o1” represents a step toward human-like intelligence, using reinforcement learning and a “chain of thought” process for more accurate results. Access is available to select users, with wider availability expected soon.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 to Gain Hearing Aid Functionality

Apple announced that its AirPods Pro 2 will soon offer a hearing aid function. The feature provides a more affordable alternative to traditional hearing aids. Pending FDA approval, the feature will roll out as a free software update. It will allow users to take a home hearing test, create personalized hearing profiles, and enhance specific sounds like speech. The feature is designed for mild to moderate hearing loss. Likewise, the update integrates with the Apple ecosystem and offers hearing protection features. At $249, the AirPods Pro 2 is a more accessible option than many over-the-counter hearing aids on the market.

 

Weekend Events | September 13 – September 15

 

The heatwave is over and the weekend has arrived! It’s time to dive into what’s happening in your local community. From celebrations to street fairies and more, there are plenty of fun things to do around town. Read on below for the top events taking place the weekend of September 13 through September 15. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 13 – September 15 

Roaring Nights at the L.A. Zoo

When: September 14 

Where: Griffith Park

What: Experience the zoo like never before with this unique after-hours series, returning for two nights of ’80s cover bands and a silent disco. Exclusively for guests 21 and over, you can explore the zoo at your own pace or join in on pop-up zookeeper talks and up-close animal encounters. Let loose at live performances from local bands, and dance the night away at a carousel party. Enjoy your favorite food trucks and sip on craft cocktails from the full bar as you embrace the wild side of the night.

 

Hamilton

When: Until October 18

Where: The Pantages | Hollywood

What: The touring production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit musical Hamilton has returned to the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. With its dynamic blend of hip-hop, history, and heartfelt performances, this cultural phenomenon continues to captivate audiences in Los Angeles.

 

Future Imaginaries: Indigenous Art, Fashion, Technology

When: Until June 21, 2026

Where: Griffith Park

What: Over 50 works at the Autry Museum highlight how Indigenous artists envision alternative futures in response to ongoing colonial trauma. The exhibit features surreal spacescapes by Wendy Red Star, pop culture critiques from Andy Everson, and a site-specific space odyssey by Virgil Ortiz.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 13 – September 15 

Lumen: The Art and Science of Light

When: Until December 8 

Where: The Getty

What: This fall, the Getty presents an impressive lineup of PST Art exhibitions, including a deep dive into Bell Laboratories’ mid-century art and science experiments, medieval astrology, and this unique exhibition. The show offers a multi-faith exploration of how astronomy and optics influenced both art and religion during the Middle Ages.​

 

‘Only Murders in the Building’ Escape Game

When: Until December 31 

Where: Century City 

What: The beloved murder mystery parody of true crime podcasts, Only Murders in the Building, comes to life with an exciting escape room experience. A section of Westfield Century City transforms into a mock movie set, where you and your team will be challenged to track down a missing film reel.

 

Americana in the Park

When: Until September 29

Where: Santa Monica

What: While it may not be the beachfront bash of Twilight on the Pier, Santa Monica’s newest free concert series brings outdoor music to Gandara Park. Partnering with the beloved McCabe’s Guitar Shop, the city will host Sunday afternoon shows this September, featuring performances that delve into the roots of Americana, right next to Bergamot Station and the E Line.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 13 – September 15 

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 13   

Where: Universal Studios | Universal City

What: Spooky season is creeping up, and the first sign is here: haunted houses have begun to take over Universal Studios. The theme park’s Halloween Horror Nights, just outside of Hollywood, features terrifying experiences inspired by A Quiet Place, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Insidious, and The Purge, along with a chilling maze created by The Weeknd.

 

Burbank YMCA 100th Birthday Celebration

When: September 7

Where: The Colony Theatre Company, North 3rd Street, Burbank, CA, USA

What: The Y is excited to celebrate its 100th Anniversary at The Colony Theatre on Friday, September 13th. This milestone event honors a century of transformative services and invites everyone to envision the future of Burbank as we continue our impactful legacy. Join us for an evening of delicious small bites, drinks, a silent auction, and a special presentation showcasing the lives that have been positively transformed through the Y’s work. It’s a wonderful opportunity for members and the community to come together and celebrate.

 

Embroidery Social

When: September 14

Where: Brand Library Lawn | 1601 West Mountain Street Glendale 

What: Embroidery enthusiasts are invited to a playful morning at the artsy Brand Library on the second Saturday of the month. Whether beginners or experienced stitchers, attendees can connect with fellow embroidery lovers at this welcoming gathering, one of many events organized by @folk.lounge. Participants are encouraged to bring their current projects or start something new while exchanging tips, tricks, and stories as they work on their creations.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 13 – September 15 

Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival at Ventura Harbor Village

When: September 14, 10am – 5pm

Where: 1593 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura

What: The Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival returns on September 14-15, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ventura Harbor Village. This waterfront event showcases over 50 talented chalk artists creating vibrant murals along the promenade, including Greg Wray, renowned for his work on the Sonic the Hedgehog series, who will be crafting a Sonic-themed beach scene for spectators to enjoy.

 

Hispanic Heritage Celebration

When: September 14, 1pm – 4pm

Where: Stagecoach Inn Museum

What: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage in the Conejo Valley with a vibrant day of activities, music, and crafts. Highlights include a performance by Ballet Folklorico Cielito Lindo de Simi Valley. This will feature traditional dances from Colombia, El Salvador, and Mexico from 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Attendees can also enjoy hands-on experiences like corn grinding, tortilla pressing, coffee, and cinnamon grinding. Additionally, there will chances to make cattle-brand necklaces, and a fun photo op with lassoing on a saddle.

 

Summer Season at Theatricum Botanicum

When: Until October 20

Where: Topanga

What: For over 50 years, this iconic venue has attracted theater enthusiasts to its enchanting open-air stage for captivating productions. Nestled in Topanga Canyon, the 299-seat amphitheater welcomes audiences of all ages. Enjoy a diverse array of plays, from Shakespearean classics to folktales. This season’s highlights include William Shakespeare’s ‘The Winter’s Tale’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. In addition, catch ‘Wendy’s Peter Pan’, *Tartuffe: Born Again’, and ‘The Hispanic/Latino/Latina/Latinx/Latine Vote’.

Mortgage Rate Update | September 12, 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 September 12, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.2%, down from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.27%, down from 5.47% 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.

Our Favorite Pho Spots Around Town | L.A. Eats

As the weather cools down, there is one thing guaranteed to keep you warm…Pho. The traditional Vietnamese soup is an ideal meal for any time of the year, especially on chill days. Whether you are under the weather or just in need of a warm lunch or dinner, check out our list of top spots around town.

Pho Cafe

Location: Silverlake

It seems like food gems are easily found in strip malls, and so is the case for Pho Cafe. The Vietnamese eatery has an excellent pho tai bo vien, among other tasty options. Bright and modern, this restaurant makes for a great stop for lunch or a lowkey date night. 

Nong La

Location: Hancock Park

With two locations on Sawtelle and on La Brea, Nong La is a neighborhood favorite. At this local spot, you can expect meat that is high-quality and broth that is both light and lemongrass flavor. For a spicy kick, try the bun bo hue – a spicy lemongrass soup with pork patty and beef shank. 

Pho 2000

Location: Koreatown

For the days when you’re not feeling too well, Pho 2000’s oxtail pho is here to save the day. Enjoy Korean-style options that have just the right amount of noodles and meat. Also good to know: they’re open until 2am (and 3am on weekends).

Blossom Vietnamese

Location: Santa Monica

Blossom, a Vietnamese spot that offers noodles and more in Sunset Park, is another local go-to. The bustling, compact eatery offers family-style seating and a range of Vietnamese staples.

Glendale Pho Company

Location: Glendale

Under the radar but never a disappointment, the Glendale Pho Company is a valley go-to. The portions are huge and usually fall under $10. In addition, the rare steak is excellent.

Vinh Loi Tofu

Location: Reseda

Owner and chef Kevin Tran make fresh tofu each day for his savory and sweet vegan fare. The Iron Man pho satisfies, while the warm and sweet ginger tofu “pudding” comes through for dessert. The second location in Cerritos is just as solid as the original.

The Best Retro Movie Theatres in Town | Out & About

As the weather cools down and the leaves turn, let’s turn back the clock for a retro movie theater outing. Tinsletown is famed for its retro fixtures, and many of these architectural icons remain in use. From silent noirs to classics and blockbusters, there is a range of films to see across LA’s many old-fashioned cinema spots. Read on for our list of favorites and catch a flick in true style!

The Theatre at Ace Hotel

In 1927, the Theatre at Ace Hotel went by a different moniker, the United Artists Theatre. Now restored to its 1,600-seat glory, the theatre still maintains the charm instilled by its iconic founders, namely Mary Pickford and Charlie Chaplin. Architecture inspired by the Spanish Gothic style, richly illustrated murals, and a vaulted ceiling covered in tiny glimmering mirrors, The Theatre at Ace Hotel is retro movie going done right!

Orpheum Theatre

Featuring the Mighty Wurlitzer, one of only three original theater organs still existing in Southern California theaters, The Orpheum theater is a retro movie theater gem. The Orpheum offers seating for over 2,000 people with orchestra, loge, balcony, and side box seating. The interior has also been featured in scenes for such films as the Oscar-winning “The Artist” and even American Idol.

TCL Chinese Theatre

Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is not just for bug budget Hollywood premieres. Established in 1927, it’s arguably the most spectacular theater of its day – and even today still! From film festivals to IMAX showings, Sid Grauman’s third theater and “dream” project is a great way to play tourists in town. In addition, the Hollywood Blvd retro movie theatre also houses a range of artifacts imported from China as well as statuary made specifically for the theater by Chinese artisans.

The Palace Theatre

Established in 1911, the Palace Theatre is the oldest of the three Broadway theaters in Los Angeles. With a faded majesty about it, the theater bodes a French renaissance style. In addition, the facade features four figures to represent the muses of vaudeville: music, song, dance, and drama. 

Vista Theatre

The Vista is a budget-friendly glimpse of Hollywood glam – with matinee shows for only $5.50. A fixture of Tinsel Town since 1923, the Vista Theatre was originally dubbed the Lou Bard Playhouse. In the vein of The Chinese Theatre, there are hand prints marking the sidewalk, and beautifully restored Egyptian statues and murals decorate the cinema.

The Egyptian Theatre

The second theatre from Sid Grauman, The Egyptian, is just a few skips down from the Chinese Theatre. With an extensive courtyard, the inspiration for The Egyptian came after the discovery of King Tut’s tomb in 1922, which led to an Egyptian craze that swept the nation.

Solar Panels and Your Home | Home Tips

Living in California, locals know how many benefits there are to installing solar panels on your home. To determine the solar panel type best suited for your installation, there are certain factors to consider. Below is a guide based on each type’s appearance, cost, and efficiency to determine the one that works best for your household.

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Appearance:

Monocrystalline cells appear black because of how light interacts with the pure silicon crystal. The back sheet of the monocrystalline solar panel is often black, silver or white, while the metal frames are typically black or silver.

Material

As the name suggests, monocrystalline solar panels are made from single silicon cells. To build a monocrystalline or polycrystalline panel, pure silicon is formed into bars and cut into wafers which are then framed together to form solar cells.

Cost

Of all other types, monocrystalline panels are the most expensive option, largely due to the manufacturing process known as the Czochralski process. This process is energy-intensive and often results in a lot of wasted silicon.

Efficiency

Since they come in higher wattage modules, monocrystalline panels have the highest power capacity and efficiencies higher than 20 percent.

Suitability

Monocrystalline solar panels are best suitable if you have limited space available and want to maximize your electric bill savings in the long run.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Material

Also referred to as multi-crystalline panels, polycrystalline solar cells are made of many fragments of raw silicon crystals that are melted together in a mold before being cut into wafers.

Appearance

As a result of the light reflecting off the silicon crystals in the cell, polycrystalline solar cells show a bluish hue. The frames of polycrystalline panels are silver, while the back sheets are either silver or white.

Efficiency

Polycrystalline solar panels have lower efficiency of between 15-17% as they do not generate as much electricity from the sun compared to Monocrystalline panels.

Suitability

This solar panel is ideal for property owners with a lot of space but on a budget.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

Material

Thin-film panels are made from single or multiple layers of PV elements. The PV elements are deposited over a surface of glass, plastic, or metal. The most common types of thin-film solar panels are made using the CdTe technology.

Appearance

As the name suggests, thin-film panels are often slimmer than other panel types. Thin-film solar panels usually come in both blue and black hues.

Cost

The overall cost of a thin-film solar panel installation is lower than the other types of panels. In addition, the process of thin-film solar installation is less labor-intensive. This is because the panels are lighter weight and more maneuverable, thus reducing the general labor costs.

Efficiency

Efficiencies will vary based on the specific material used in the cells. Likewise, thin-film panels tend to have lower power capacities and efficiencies closer to 11 percent.

Suitability

Thin-film panels require a lot of space to meet your energy needs and are best suitable for large commercial roofs since they have more area to place them on. It wouldn’t make sense to place them on residential installations where space is limited.

Economic Update | Week Ending September 7, 2024

U.S. hiring stabilized in August after dropping in July – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 143,000 new jobs were added in August. That was an increase from a revised 89,000 jobs added in July, yet below economists’ expectations of 165,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate ticked down 4.2% in August from 4.3% in July which marked its highest level since October 2021. Average hourly wages increased 3.8% year-over-year in August, up from a 3.6% annual increase in July. Stock markets dropped on fears that as the economy is heading toward a slowdown, which it needs to do to control inflation, spending will drop, and profits will decrease. Economists widely speculated that with job growth higher than in July, wages increasing at a higher rate, and the unemployment rate stabilizing, there was enough strength in the report for the Fed to do a .25% rate drop rather than a .50% rate drop at their meeting next week.

Stock markets – Stock markets dropped sharply this week. While all indexes were down, the tech-heavy Nasdaq had its worst week since 2022, dropping over 6%. Although tech stocks fared the worst, the sell-off was broad-based with nearly all sectors falling as investors feel that the slowing job market will lead to some sort of slowdown in the economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 40,345.42, down 2.9% from 41,563.08 last week. It is up 10.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,408.42, down 4.2% from 5,648.40 last week. The S&P is up 18.4% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 16,690.83 down 6.4% from 17,713.63 last week. It is up 18% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields dropped sharply this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.72%, down from 3.91% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.03%, down from 4.20% 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 September 5, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, unchanged from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.47%, down from 5.51% 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.

Have a great weekend!

Mortgage Rate Update | September 5, 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 September 5, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, unchanged from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.47%, down from 5.51% 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.