Summer Staycation By Car: Los Angeles

Looking for the best things to do at home in Los Angeles? Whether you’re a culture vulture, outdoorsy type, or simply a lover of our fine city, there’s more than enough here to keep you busy. Even lifelong Angelenos will find something new to add to their to-do list. Check out our list of things to do in your own backyard!

Take a scenic drive around the Palos Verdes Peninsula

This drive consists of ten miles of streets, mostly along Palos Verdes Drive, hugging the coast from the Torrance border to San Pedro. The first third of the drive sticks mostly to spectacular real estate a few blocks inland, but after you round Point Vicente, the drive changes dramatically. For a few miles past Terranea, there’s nothing but undeveloped oceanfront hillsides, winding roads and golden-hued bluffs.

Bike the Strand

The Strand is a 22-mile bike path, officially known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, that traces nearly the entire extent of L.A.’s westward-facing coastline. It’s the best way to tour the coastline. The path starts at Will Rogers State Beach and winds its way all the way down to Torrance County Beach.

See L.A. from above at Griffith Park

Griffith is a 4,000-plus–acre rugged park in the center of the city. The trails, the flora, the views, the howls of coyotes down the canyons at night, the twinkly lights of Downtown in the distance—L.A. may not have a grassy, centralized park, but Griffith’s massive, hilly wildnerness makes for a stellar alternative. Even when the Griffith Observatory is closed, you can still drive or hike up to the grounds of the landmark Art Deco dome to take in the unparalleled views.

Stroll through the stunning gardens at the Huntington Library

A historic library, museum, and sprawling gardens that was the bequest of entrepreneur Henry E. Huntington. The Huntington’s distinctly themed gardens are easily the most stunning manicured outdoor spaces in SoCal. Thought its library and museum are currently closed, the gardens are open with reservations.

Take your pup to the only off-leash beach, Rosie’s Dog Beach

The four-acre waterfront spot is the only legal off-leash dog beach in L.A. County. The park is named after the area’s late local canine celebrity, Rosie the English bulldog. You’ll know you’re in the pooch-friendly paradise if you see the colorful “Dogs at Play” sculpture—so you’ll want to stay between Granada Avenue and Roycroft Avenue between 6am and 8pm daily.

Streaming: What’s on Quibi?

Quibi is a phone focused streaming network that was made for those who are on the go or only have a few minutes to watch a “show” while waiting in line to get into the grocery store. Quibi presents fresh content from today’s biggest stars — one quick bite at a time. Make any moment extraordinary with incredible storytelling delivered right to your phone. From all-new original shows to must-see movies told in chapters, the next story will always be waiting. Check out our favorite Quibi Originals below!

Thanks A Million 

Big names. Big money. Big Giving. Celebrities (Jennifer Lopez, Kristen Bell, Nick Jonas, etc) kickstart a chain of kindness, each gifting $100,000 to an unsuspecting individual who have had a positive impact on their lives — with a catch. Watch as the “pay it forward” chain unfolds. All episodes streaming now.

Chrissy’s Court 

Real people. Real cases. And real, legally binding decisions. If you thought Chrissy Teigen couldn’t become an actual courtroom judge, you’ve been overruled. All episodes streaming now.

Most Dangerous Game 

A man (Liam Hemsworth) desperate and in debt. In a dystopian thriller where the hunter turns out to be the hunted. Game on. All episodes streaming now.

Survive 

Jane (Sophie Turner) wants to end it all. Then a plane crash almost ends it for her. Now she’s crawling from the wreckage with Paul, the only other survivor, and a new drive to stay alive. All episodes streaming now.

Shape of Pasta

Chef Evan Funke. Italy. And the pursuit of pasta perfection. He’s uncovering the craft and culture behind some rare and forgotten pasta shapes. Hungry yet? All episodes streaming now.

California Homes More Affordable in the Second Quarter of 2020

The California Association of Realtors announced that 33% of California households could afford to purchase a median priced single family home in the second quarter of 2020, up from 30% in the second quarter of 2019. The income needed to purchase a $610,850 median priced home was $115,200. That qualified for a payment of $2,880 which included principal, tax, and insurance on a 3.43%  30-year fixed loan with 20% down. 44% of California households were able to qualify for a median priced condominium or townhouse. The income needed to qualify for a payment of $2,280 was $90,000. That payment included principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and homeowner’s fees.

California existing-housing sales recorded record results in July!

The California Association of Realtors announced that existing, single-family home sales in July totaled 437,890 in July on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate.  That marked a staggering month-over-month increase of 28.8% from the number of sales in June. Year-over-year sales were up 6.6% from July 2019.

July 2019 had a pretty healthy sales rate, so a 6.6% increase is remarkable considering that we are in the middle of a pandemic. The state-wide median price also hit a record high. It was $666,320. That marked a 6.4% increase month-over-month from June, and a 9.6% increase year-over-year from July 2019. The median price is the point at which one half the homes sell for more and one half sell for less. Historic low interest rates with 30-year fixed at or under 3% combined with historically tight inventory levels have pushed prices up. The unsold inventory index in July dropped to a 2.1-month supply of housing from a 3.2-month supply one year ago. The index indicates the number of months it would take to sell the supply of homes on the market at the current rate of sales. The graph below indicates the number of sales and median prices for counties in Southern California. The graph below indicates results from Southern California by county.

Home Tips: Beating the Heat

As more people continue to work from home, some while caring for loved ones, keeping homes cool and comfortable can sometimes be a challenge– especially if there is more than one person under the roof. Follow these easy ways to help your body, room and home stay cool during this heat wave

Ceiling Fans

Adjust your ceiling fan to turn counter-clockwise during the summer to help circulate the cool air downward. Be sure to turn off your ceiling fan when leaving the room because fans cool people, not rooms.

Block the Sun

Don’t let the sun overheat your home. Tilt your blinds up and close drapes and shades on windows that receive direct sunlight. If you’re outside, make the most out of awnings, trees and shrubs for shade.

DIY Mini Air Conditioner

You’ll need a pan or bowl and fill it with ice in front of a fan. The breeze from your fan will pick up the ice’s surface as it melts and will create a cooling mist for you.

Take a Bath or Shower

Taking a bath or shower can help your body cool down. The warmth of the water sends a rush of blood to your hands and feet, where the veins are right under your skin. This lets off extra heat and cools your bloodstream. Let your hair air-dry to help extend the cooling period of your body and maximize the cool and clean feeling of a shower.

Don’t Use Your Stove

Consider using your microwave or grill to cook and prepare food. It’ll help keep your home cooler and save energy as well. You can also consider ordering take-out from a local restaurant to avoid getting hot in the kitchen!

Economic update for the week ending August 15, 2020

Stock markets were up again this week – Stocks rallied again this week despite congress’ failure to pass another stimulus package. Fortunately, investors feel a package containing approximately $2 trillion in stimulus will pass. The main sticking point in the bill is the approximate $1 trillion of the Democrat’s $3 trillion bill that will be given to state and city governments to offset budget deficits caused by loss of tax revenue due to the pandemic. Republicans don’t want to use federal money to bail out state and local governments. It’s also widely felt that many state and local governments would return to more strict business closures and stay-at-home orders if not for financial concerns. Retail sales in July reached pre-pandemic levels, as did housing sales. The number of first time unemployment claims dropped below 1 million last week for the first time since March. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 27,931.02, up 1.8% from 27,433.48 last week. It’s down 2.1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 3,372.85, up 0.6%  from 3,351.26 last week. It’s up 4.4% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 11,017.12, up 0.1% from 11,010.94 last week. It’s up 22.8% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 0.71, up from 0.57% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 1.45%, up  from 1.28%  last week.

Mortgage rates – The August 13, 2020 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 2.96%, up from 2.88% last week. The 15-year fixed was 2.48%, up from 2.44% last week. The 5-year ARM was 2.90% unchanged  from 2.90% last week.

California homes were more affordable in the second quarter of 2020 – The California Association of Realtors announced that 33% of California households could afford to purchase a median priced single family home in the second quarter of 2020, up from 30% in the second quarter of 2019. The income needed to purchase a $610,850 median priced home was $115,200. That qualified for a payment of $2,880 which included principal, tax, and insurance on a 3.43%  30-year fixed loan with 20% down. 44% of California households were able to qualify for a median priced condominium or townhouse. The income needed to qualify for a payment of $2,280 was $90,000. That payment included principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and homeowner’s fees.

Official home sales numbers for July will be released next week, but preliminary numbers were quite strong. It appears that the number of sales will be about 6% higher this July than last July, and the median price will show a staggering increase of nearly 10% from one year ago. The official numbers will be included in next week’s report.
Have a great weekend!

Streaming: Independent Shakespeare Co

The Griffith Park Shakespeare Festival is commencing in your living room this year! The festival events began on August 8th and will run through the beginning of September. An all-new hybrid production of Romeo and Juliet is making its debut this year! All events are online, free, and open to all. Check them out below, and register for the link!

Without You We’re Nothing: Audience Appreciation Event

August 15 at 7:00 pm (Livestream): Register here

”We do this for you but we cannot do it without you.” Have you ever heard Xavi Moreno say this on the Festival stage? It’s true now more than ever! Consider this our love letter to the beautiful individuals who trek up the hill every summer to join us in the park. They’ll be sharing favorite stories and photos from the incredible audience as they reminisce about special memories and look forward to a time we can all gather together again under the stars.

Keeping the Momentum: Theater’s Role in Social Justice

August 22 at 7:00 pm (Livestream): Register here 
Join Carene Rose Mekertichyan in a panel discussion with important voices in the Black theater community. How has theater been used to bring about social change and how can the LA Theater community maintain the momentum of this current movement?

Making the Magic of the Festival: Stories from Backstage


August 29 at 7:00 pm (Livestream): Register here 
Ever wonder how a small group of people work together to create one of the most beloved Shakespeare Festivals in the country? Carolina Xique, the producer of the ISC Art Break podcast series, digs into what makes the Festival tick, especially this year. Along the way, she’ll uncover more than a few backstage stories and explore what it takes to bring Shakespeare’s plays to the Los Angeles community. (Hint: it usually involves gaffer tape.)

ROMEO & JULIET


September 3rd, 4th, 5th, & 6th at 7:00 PM (Livestream)
(Recording available September 7 – 13): Register here

This brand new production of Romeo & Juliet is directed and adapted by Melissa Chalsma. It features Nikhil Pai as Romeo, Bukola Ogunmola as Juliet, and many of your favorite ISC ensemble members. This hybrid stage production will use movie-making, animation, social media, and their own ISC stage in Atwater. The front and center of this new production is the Shakespearean acting of the ISC Ensemble.

Valley Eats: Farm to Table

Right now more than ever it is important to support our local farmers. Ordering takeout from restaurants who support our local farms is a way to do just that! Check out these delicious restaurants with the freshest fare throughout the Valley.

Farm Table Co  – Van Nuys

A hidden jewel in Van Nuys, right across the street from the courthouse. They have a delicious breakfast and brunch menu with some of the freshest farm to table dining in the valley.

Urban Plates – Woodland Hills

A local favorite for a lunch that you don’t get sick of is found at Urban Plates. They have hot plates, salads, soups, local beers, wines, etc. Enjoy farm-fresh foods while supporting local breweries and wineries in the valley.

Odyssey Restaurant – Granada Hills

The views from this restaurant are fantastic, and they have put a lot of work into making sure it is a safe dining experience for all— for those who choose to dine in. The steaks here are tender and flavorful, and the vegetables are fresh and crisp!

Wood & Water – Sherman Oaks

It is pretty hard to find a restaurant with guaranteed fresh seafood nowadays, and after reading many reviews, this place is the place to get the best oysters in the valley!

Malibu Farm – Malibu

If you’re in the market for fresh, local fare sourced from Southern California farms and ranches, look no further than Malibu Farm. This unique farm-to-table restaurant is the brainchild of owner Helene, who originally launched the business with ingredients grown and produced in her own personal garden and backyard farm.

LA Eats: Farm to Table

Right now more than ever it is important to support our local farmers. Ordering takeout from restaurants who support our local farms is a way to do just that! Check out these delicious restaurants with the freshest fare throughout Los Angeles.

Manhattan House

Chef Juan Torres of Manhattan House sources his ingredients from local farms – from meat that has been hand-chosen and butchered in-house to fruits and vegetables grown in Manhattan Beach community gardens. This Italian-inspired gastropub even bakes its own sourdough onsite, which is rumored to rival the likes of San Francisco sourdough.

Salt’s Cure

Locavores are bound to love the contemporary vibe of Salt’s Cure, which sources ingredients exclusively from California. They butcher and craft their meat in house and partner with local fishermen for sustainably caught seafood fresh from the Pacific Ocean. They also get their produce directly from farmers and farmers markets in the Los Angeles area. From brunch and dessert to dinner and drinks, this restaurant is a must if you want to enjoy gorgeous plates with great service and a wonderful atmosphere – all while supporting local farmers, fishermen and producers.

Malibu Farm

If you’re in the market for fresh, local fare sourced from Southern California farms and ranches, look no further than Malibu Farm. This unique farm-to-table restaurant is the brainchild of owner Helene, who originally launched the business with ingredients grown and produced in her own personal garden and backyard farm. It has since grown in popularity and now includes items from other local producers. But you can still find some of her homegrown items on the menu, like Asian pears, persimmons and eggs.

Akasha

Akasha takes the farm-to-table movement up a notch with a dedication to eco-friendly production. The chef designs each menu based on the produce available at the local farmers market. At Akasha, you’ll enjoy delicious, locally sourced food at peak freshness. That means seasonal eating is that much easier when you settle in for a meal here. And if you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, you can peruse the drinks menu, which includes a wide variety of locally-produced beer, spirits and wine.

Industriel

Is there anything more fashionable than a French-inspired urban farm in the heart of Los Angeles? Industriel claims to serve the kind of cuisine you’d enjoy at your grandmother’s farmhouse in Provence … if she had sleeve tattoos. That means you can find everything on the menu from cheese boards and short rib croquettes to lamb chops with poblano pesto, coconut-brined chicken wraps and vegan ice creams. No matter which dishes you choose, rest assured that nothing you order has seen the inside of a supermarket.

 

Summer Vacation By Car: California Highway 1 Road Trip

Want to take a road trip? California Highway 1 from central to northern California is among the most beautiful drives in the world! There is plenty to see along the way. Here is a road trip we have outlined for you! Turn on that Big Little Lies soundtrack or Beach Boys (if that is more your speed), and hit the road!

Hearst Castle

San Simeon is a town on the Pacific coast of San Luis Obispo County. It’s about halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along State Highway 1. Here you will find Hearst Castle, a hilltop mansion built by publishing tycoon William Randolph Hurst. He commissioned architect Julia Morgan to design and build the estate on a 40,000-acre property his Father, George Hearst, had purchased in 1865, which he inherited in 1919. Through many changes by William Hearst, he and Julia Morgan took nearly 30 years to complete the project.  The mansion is known today as Hearst Castle and is open by appointment to the public. A trip there is a must! Website: https://hearstcastle.org/ Reservations Telephone: 800.444.4445

**We suggest you take Take Tour #1! Before the tour, try to catch the screening of the IMAX film “Building The Dream” (Phone Number: 805.927.6811).

The Highway between San Simeon and Ragged Point is one of the most picturesque in the world.

Ragged Point

Ragged Point Inn & Restaurant: Just 16 miles north of Hearst Castle, you will find a great lunch and place to stay that’s close to Hearst Castle. This is the starting point of the Big Sur coast. Worth stopping to check out the lookout from the back of the restaurant. Website: www.raggedpointinn.com Reservation Telephone: 805.927.4502

Big Sur

Nepenthe RestaurantStop by here for lunch or dinner! The view is one of the best of the coast in California. You shouldn’t miss this one even if you just stop and walk around. Try the Ambrosia Burger! Reservation Telephone: 831.667.2345 

Big Sur Bakery— This is located near the Post Office. They have a really great breakfast!

Big Sur Lodge

This place is a great place to rent a cabin within the State Park. Some cabins have kitchens & fireplaces. It has a pool, a restaurant and some great hikes to take. It is also pretty inexpensive. Reservation Telephone: 800.424.4787

Ventana Inn & Spa

Elegant but casual. It has a great restaurant, pool, hot tubs. Very much the icon of Big Sur. Walk around the restaurant & shops…mellow & a bit expensive. Reservation Telephone: 800.628.6500

Post Ranch Inn

They have 30 luxurious rooms. Rated best hotel in USA. Amazing restaurant & wine list, dramatic views, and dramatic prices. Check out the Post Ranch Mercantile, a small gift shop store that is located on the property. Reservation Telephone: 800.527.2200

Point Lobos State Reserve

Point Lobos is 23 miles from Big Sur on the way to Monterey. Park and walk/hike/Picnic. This is a great place to see nature and sea life. 300,000 people visit this spot each year & there is a good reason why!

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel is a beautiful, quaint beach town on the Monterey Peninsula. It is known for its museums, galleries, fairytale cottages, great restaurants, stores, and the historic Carmel Mission there are plenty of bed and breakfasts and luxurious but quaint hotels.

17 Mile Drive

Start in Carmel and travel from the south to the north. Pay to see how the 1% lives.

Pebble Beach

Along the 17 mile drive, you will arrive at Pebble Beach. Here you will find six of the most famous golf courses in the U.S. and home to the PGA tour. They are Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill, Cypress Point, The Dunes and Shore, Poppy Hills, and The Links at Spanish Bay!

Pacific Grove

A small community between Carmel and Monterey…. worth checking out. We prefer this more than Carmel by the Sea just because it is less touristy and is a bit more off the beaten path.

Asilomar Conference Grounds

The best value for basic lodging in California. Built by the same architect that built Hearst Castle, Julia Morgan. The dunes and beaches are lovely. Reservation Telephone: 831.372.8016

Restaurants

La Dolce Vida: Very good Italian Restaurant: Reservation Telephone: 831.375.7786 Located in Pacific Grove at 663 Light House Dr.

Pepper’s Mexicali Café: A great Mexican fusion cafe. Locals’ favorite with a good vibe. Reservation Phone: 831.373.6892 Located at: 170 Forest Ave. Pacific Grove.

Monterey Bay

The Monterey Bay Aquarium

A very popular attraction! Arguably one of the most well-known attractions in northern California.

Cannery Row

Read a John Steinbeck novel, like East of Eden, to appreciate this area a bit more. It is a beautiful homage to the literature of John Steinbeck. (The Steinbeck Museum is about 20 miles away in Salinas)