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7 Ways to Spend the Day Around Town | Out & About
Even as a local, it’s easy to forget that LA has a bounty of things to do to spend the day around town. With so many local gems, we thought to share the sites you may not often see. Read on and take a stroll around town with this week’s out-and-about recommendations!
See Los Angeles from 6,000 feet above at Mount Wilson Observatory
Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Mount Wilson Observatory has amazing views of the city. Admission to the area is free, and guided tours are available. For parking, you’ll just need to buy a Forest Service Adventure Pass.
Hike the Silver Lake Stairs
If you are looking for a workout, these WPA-era staircases are ideal for fitness enthusiasts. Open for public use, you can spend the day, morning or afternoon, taking on this hidden Silver Lake gem. For an exhaustive list of the stairs, check out author Charles Fleming’s Secret Stairs.
Catch a Family-Friendly Flick at Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens
This famed botanical garden/wonderland is famed for its scenic setting. With the soon-to-be arrival of fall, it’s also where you can catch a family-friendly flick. Spend the day at Huntington and stay for a feature film in Pasadena’s most beloved nature destination.
Bike Your Way Down the Strand
Take in the coastline with a bike ride down the Strand. This bike-friendly path kicks off at Will Rogers State Beach before ending in Torrance County Beach. The Strand bike trail is a great way to spend the day and a good workout too!
Take Your Furry Friend to the only off-leash beach
Contrary to popular belief, there is only one off-leash beach in L.A. County. For the best waterfront spot to take your furry friend, make your way to Rosie’s Dog Beach. The four-acre area is perfect for the pup in your life and a lovely way to spend the day!
Get Your Foodie on at Smorgasburg LA
An incubator for L.A.’s next big food spot, everyone in LA should experience Smorgasburg LA at least once…a month. With more than 80 food and retail stalls at ROW DTLA, there is something for every appetite. Spend the day the food lover way at this downtown staple.
Enjoy Nature at Malibu State Creek Park
There is more to Malibu than the beach. Malibu State Creek Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Spend the Day in this state treasure for dramatic gorges, open pastures, lush forests, and more! With just one visit, it’s easy to see why Malibu Creek is considered one of Southern California’s most stunning spots.
The Best August Garden Plants to Add this Summer! | Home Tips
August is usually one of the quieter months for planting. With autumn closing in, many think it’s best to wait until the return of spring to begin planting again. But nothing is further from the truth, and August is still a great time for gardening if you want to look forward to colorful blooms and delicious crops for the colder months. Read on to find out what are the best August garden plants for August in California.
August Garden Vegatables
1. Carrots
When it comes to August garden plants, carrots keep your kitchen well stocked. Keep in mind you should plant carrots in areas that get a lot of sunshine, and don’t forget to add manure to the soil before you plant the seeds. This will ensure your carrots are in optimal condition for winter harvesting.
2. Cabbage
Nothing is tastier than a tender head of spring cabbage. Planting these delicious veggies in August will ensure you start harvesting soon after the new year. Don’t forget you must provide ample space for your cabbages to grow, so allow about 19 inches of spacing around each head. Additionally, make sure your seeds are well protected and don’t dry out during the growing season. Keep in mind you should provide the plants with a mesh covering to keep them protected from insects and other pests that might be looking for a yummy morsel to feed on during the winter months.
August Garden Flowers
3. Hydrangeas
If you are looking for a colorful autumn garden, hydrangeas are a great option for August garden planting. These beautiful blooms, with their large flowerheads, are great for flower beds and are available in different shades of pink, blue, white, and more. Don’t forget to plant hydrangea seeds with enough mulch or compost and add enough water to keep the soil moist.
4. Honeywort
With delicately colorful hanging bells, honeywort will add a fantastic touch of color to your fall garden if planted in the early days of the month of August. This amazing annual foliage plant grows beautifully when planted in the direct soil after soaking the seeds for 12 hours. It can be planted both in your garden and in individual pots. Honeywort flowers are great for attracting bees and hummingbirds well into the autumn months, which makes them a great addition to your garden at any time.
5. Polyanthus
Great for creating colorful borders to your garden, polyanthus flowers also add some much-needed color each autumn. One of its great benefits is that once you plant them, they will continue to grow back year after year. Remember to provide some shade as they grow because they don’t do well in the direct California sunlight.
Economic Update | Week Ending August 16, 2024
| Economic news this week – It was a big week for economic news. On Tuesday, the Producer Price Index (PPI), a gauge of wholesale prices, was released. It showed that producer prices in July had increased 2.2% from one year ago. That was a sharp drop from a 2.7% year-over-year increase in June. Wholesale prices are often an indicator of the future of consumer prices as wholesale costs get passed on to consumers. On Wednesday, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was released. Consumer prices in July were 2.9% higher than they were last July. That marked the lowest inflation rate since March 2021. Bond yields and mortgage rates dropped following these reports. On Thursday, new unemployment claims and the July retail sales report were released. New unemployment claims fell for the second straight week signaling that the labor market is better than expected and that the August unemployment rate may be lower than current expectations. That report comes out on the first Friday of September. Retail sales unexpectedly jumped in July. Because consumer spending fuels inflation we saw bond yields and mortgage rates end the week higher than they were after the inflation reports were released in the middle of the week. Stock markets now have recovered from their sell-off at the beginning of the month when it looked like unemployment was rising faster than expected and the economy was stalling.
The graph below shows the CPI rate from 2021 to now
Stock markets posted their best week since November 2023 – Strong retail sales data and lower first-time unemployment claims offset investors’ concerns about the economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 40,659.79, up 2.9% from 39,497.54 last week. It is up 7.9% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,554.25, up 3.9% from 5,344.15 last week. The S&P is up 16.5% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 17,631.72, up 5.3% from 16,745.30 last week. It is up 17.5% year-to-date. U.S. Treasury bond yields dropped sharply this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.89%, down from 3.94% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.15%, down from 4.23% 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 August 15th, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.49%, up from 6.47% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.66%, up from 5.63% 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. California home affordability – The California Association of Realtors released its second quarter affordability index this week. It showed that 14% of households could afford to purchase a $906,000 median-priced home, down from 17% in Q1 2024, and down from 16% in the 2nd quarter of 2023. Year-over-year the median price had jumped 9% from the second quarter of 2023. A household income of $236,800 was required to qualify for a monthly payment of $5,920, assuming a 20% down payment on a 30-year fixed at a 7.10% rate. They found that 22% of households were able to afford a $690,000 median price condo, down from 24% in Q1 and 25% one year ago. A household income of $180,000 was needed to qualify for a $4500 monthly payment. Fortunately, interest rates are significantly lower than they were in the second quarter and inventory levels have risen so affordable will be higher in the third quarter, but still near historic low levels. Have a great weekend! |
From Meta Quest to Apple Robotics and More! | Tech News
Stay connected with what’s going on in the world of tech, from Meta Quest to Apple Robotics and more! This week’s blog wraps up the leading headlines from across the web. Check it out below!
Sonos Enhances App Experience with Continuous Improvements and Innovation
Sonos is making significant strides in enhancing its mobile app experience, responding to customer feedback with frequent updates and improvements. CEO Patrick Spence highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation, explaining that the app redesign is paving the way for future growth and new product categories. As Sonos focuses on delivering the best possible user experience, the company remains dedicated to refining its offerings and maintaining its reputation as a leader in whole-home audio solutions.
Meta Introduces Quest HDMI Link App for Expanded Screen Use
Meta has launched a new app for Quest 3, 2, and Pro headsets, allowing users to repurpose their devices as screens for consoles, laptops, and other video sources. The free Meta Quest HDMI Link app, paired with an affordable capture card, provides a versatile and cost-effective alternative to single-purpose video glasses. With the ability to display video in 1080p at 60fps on a floating, resizable screen, the app offers a big-screen experience without the need for a projector. This innovation adds flexibility and new functionality to existing Quest hardware.
Meta Enhances Threads with New Features for Users and Brands
Meta is testing exciting new features on Threads, its rapidly growing platform with over 200 million monthly active users. Among the updates, users can now save up to 100 drafts and customize their homepage by reordering pinned columns, enhancing the user experience. For brands, a new Insights page offers detailed analytics on follower demographics and content performance, with post scheduling soon to follow. These enhancements position Threads as a versatile platform for both casual users and marketers, further solidifying its appeal.
Rivian Launches Compact Travel Kitchen for Outdoor Cooking
Rivian has introduced the Travel Kitchen, a compact and lightweight accessory designed for outdoor cooking on the go. This innovative kitchen setup unfolds on a vehicle’s tailgate. The device features two induction burners, a stow-away cutting board, and an LED lighting kit. Powered by any vehicle with a 120V outlet, including Rivian’s own models, the Travel Kitchen offers convenience and safety with features like a touchscreen power button and nine heat levels. Priced at $1,400, it’s now available as part of Rivian’s expanding Adventure Gear line.
Google Enhances AI Overviews with Improved Citations and Expanded Features
Google is expanding its AI Overviews to six new countries. The countries include the UK, India, and Japan, while also introducing a new citation display format. The updated design prominently features cited webpages to the right of AI-generated summaries, making it easier for users to access relevant content. Additionally, Google is adding features like saving AI Overviews for later reference and simplifying summaries. These improvements aim to enhance user experience and drive more traffic to publisher sites, reflecting positive early results in testing.
Apple Develops Innovative Home Robotics Device with Smart Display
Apple is reportedly working on an advanced home robotics device featuring an iPad-style display. The device would be attached to a robotic arm that can tilt and rotate 360 degrees. The device, led by Apple’s VP of Technology Kevin Lynch, aims to serve multiple functions. These functions include smart home control, video conferencing, and home security monitoring. Expected to launch around 2026 or 2027, the device will likely cost around $1,000. Additionally, it would utilize Siri and Apple Intelligence for responsive commands. This project marks Apple’s latest venture into home robotics, following the Vision Pro launch earlier this year.
Weekend Events | August 16 – 18
Dive into what’s happening locally with our weekend round-up of fun happening August 16 through August 18! From the HollyShorts Film Festival to the OC Fair and more, we have you covered on the best local activities this weekend. Check it out below!!
Los Angeles Weekend Events | August 16 – August 18
HollyShorts Film Festival
When: Until August 18
Where: Hollywood
What: The HollyShorts Film Festival offers a dynamic week and a half of networking opportunities, filmmaker Q&As, and screenings of short films from around the globe. Most of the festival’s events will take place at the TCL Chinese 6, the multiplex behind the iconic theater. Expect a wide range of short films, each running 40 minutes or less, with screenings from early afternoon until midnight. An all-access badge costs $160, but single-day passes are available for $60.
Roaring Nights at the L.A. Zoo
When: July 13 – September 14, 2024
Where: L.A. Zoo
What: Experience the zoo like never before at this special after-hours exploration series, returning for two nights featuring ’80s cover bands and a silent disco. Exclusively for guests 21 and over, you can explore the zoo at your leisure or gain insights from pop-up zookeeper talks and live animal encounters. Let loose at live performances by local bands and dance the night away at the carousel. Enjoy popular local food trucks and a full bar to keep the festivities lively.
Nisei Week Japanese Festival
When: Until August 18, 2024
Where: Little Tokyo
What: This two-weekend celebration of Japanese culture features martial arts displays, tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and more. The festivities attract crowds of nisei—first-generation Japanese Americans—culminating in a grand parade and the coronation of the Nisei Week Queen.
Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | August 16 – August 18
LearnAboutWine Presents: CHAMPAGNE CHALLENGE
When: August 18
Where: Culina | Beverly Hills
What: Who doesn’t love Champagne? At these luxurious tasting events, you’ll sample 18-21 different bottlings blind, experiencing the thrill as top producers are revealed. Led by Host Educator Ian Blackburn, the tasting delves into the history, legends, and laws of the Champagne region, offering a deep dive into house styles and philosophies—an event designed to elevate the wine enthusiasts of Los Angeles.
OC Fair
When: Until August 18
Where: Costa Mesa
What: Combine fried food, carnival attractions, and the occasional rodeo or demolition derby, and you get the OC Fair. What began as a quaint event in 1889 has evolved into a nearly month-long festival.
Roll @ Santa Monica
When: Until October 14
Where: Huntington Beach
What: Ahead of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenues icy winter transformation, the location will feature a roller rink. From August 10 to October 14, Roll @ Santa Monica invites you to enjoy two-hour skating sessions with rental skates available.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | August 16 – August 18
East Meets West: An Ikebana Workshop
When: August 16
Where: Theodore Payne Foundation
What: Ikebana, a beautiful Eastern practice, incorporates organic materials beyond flowers, including branches and plants with unique aesthetics. Participants are invited to join a workshop led by Japanese artist Hiromi Sutton, where they will learn the basics of Ikebana using California native plants, followed by a simple tea ceremony.
In Between Time presents: Flowers, Sip, and Shop
When: August 16
Where: 4350 Tujunga Ave
What: Guests are invited to an enjoyable evening of floral design with Kathryn McRitchie of Handpicked Floral Co. Participants will learn sustainable design techniques, receive a new pair of floral shears to take home along with their beautiful arrangements, and shop the latest summer and fall collections at Verona by Jeni B, with a special 10% discount on purchases.
Movies on the Roof
When: Until August 31
Where: Sherman Oaks
What: Grab a seat on the rooftop of Westfield Fashion Square’s parking garage for this outdoor film series. Every Friday and Saturday throughout the summer, enjoy a variety of classic movies like Top Gun, La La Land, The Sandlot, Clueless, and more.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | August 16 – August 18
24th Annual Pooch Parade Dog Walk and Pet Expo
When: August 18
Where: 1538 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura
What: The Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.) will host its 24th Annual Pooch Parade on Sunday, August 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura. Join C.A.R.L. and their adoptable rescue dogs for a fun-filled day under the sun, celebrating this year’s theme: “Fun, Sun, Sand, and Supporting Rescue Dogs!” Feel free to dress yourself and your pup in your best beach-inspired attire for the occasion!
Movies in the Park
When: Until September 14
Where: 4550 Tierra Rejada Rd, Moorpark
What: The City of Moorpark presents Movies in the Park at Arroyo Vista Community Park, 4550 Tierra Rejada Road. Movies start at dusk, with gates opening an hour earlier. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the show. Vendors will be available, or you can bring your own snacks. No animals allowed, except service animals.
43rd Annual Wings Over Camarillo Airshow
When: August 17
Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds | 10 West Harbor Boulevard
What: The air show features thrilling aerobatic performances by classic warbirds from the CAF, military aircraft, experimental planes, and more. On the ground, visitors can enjoy a classic car show, aircraft displays, food vendors, craft beer, a STEM Pavilion, robotics exhibitions, and much more.
Mortgage Rate Update | August 15, 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 August 15th, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.49%, up from 6.47% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.66%, up from 5.63% 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.
Top Local Wine Bars | L.A. Eats
Los Angeles is a city where the wine bar culture is as diverse as its neighborhoods. From the sun-drenched streets of Santa Monica to the artistic vibes of Highland Park, each spot offers a unique experience for both the casual sipper and the connoisseur. Below is a curated list of some of the city’s most distinctive wine bars, each bringing its own flavor to the table, whether you’re seeking a lively atmosphere, a quiet retreat, or a place to discover new favorites.
Holcomb
Location: 5535 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Highland Park’s Holcomb defies the expectations of a typical wine bar with its relaxed and welcoming vibe. The natural, organic, and biodynamic wines are perfectly complemented by dishes like the mussel escabeche. Whether you choose to sit indoors, on the cozy patio, or take in the neighborhood energy from a sidewalk table, Holcomb is all about savoring the moment.
Wife and the Somm
Location: 3416 Verdugo Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90065
In Glassell Park, Wife and the Somm feels like a hidden gem. This intimate wine bar offers a well-curated selection of wines paired with simple yet satisfying bites. From cheese and charcuterie to hearty dishes like braised short ribs, it’s a go-to spot for both a relaxed evening or a leisurely brunch on the patio.
Good Clean Fun
Location: 868 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Downtown’s Good Clean Fun is anything but your standard wine bar. The focus on natural wines pairs seamlessly with the vibrant atmosphere, where you might find a DJ spinning tracks while you indulge in a plate of seasonal white pesto rigatoni or pasta pomodoro. Wednesdays bring an added treat—a $15, three-glass wine flight that draws in both locals and visitors.
Adams Wine Shop & Wine Bar
Location: 5357 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
Adams Wine Shop & Wine Bar, established by the late sommelier Ruben Morancy, is a tribute to diversity in winemaking. With a focus on wines crafted by women and BIPOC, the selection ranges from splurge-worthy to budget-friendly. Regular happy hours make it a neighborhood favorite, with food available from Alta Adams whenever the kitchen is open.
Stanley’s Wet Goods
Location: 9620 Venice Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232
Stanley’s Wet Goods in Culver City is as much a social hub as it is a wine bar. Regular tastings and events, often featuring producers from esteemed regions like Sonoma or Spain, keep things lively. Pair your glass with a charcuterie board or meatballs, and grab a seat—whether indoors or out—on a first-come, first-served basis.
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
Location: 1314 7th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
A decade since opening, Esters Wine Shop & Bar remains a Santa Monica favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for an informative chat at the bar, a joyful happy hour with friends, or a simple yet satisfying dinner, Esters offers a welcoming space to enjoy great wine and good company. Choose your own adventure, and let the evening unfold.
1010 Wine and Events
Location: 1010 N La Brea Ave, Inglewood, CA 90302
Sisters Leslie and LeAnn Jones have brought Inglewood its first wine bar with 1010 Wine and Events, creating a gathering place for locals to stay close to home while enjoying sips. With nearly 90 percent of bottles coming from Black-owned producers, the selection is thoughtful and inclusive. The menu also boasts Champagne, beer, and dishes like salmon sliders and Creole-style shrimp risotto.
Mirabelle Wine Bar
Location: 12518 Burbank Blvd, Valley Village, CA 91607
For a touch of romance in the Valley, Mirabelle Wine Bar in Valley Village is a charming choice. Owned by David Gibbs, the bar leans towards Old World wines that exude classic elegance. Whether inside at the bar or outside on the expansive patio, it’s an ideal spot for an intimate evening under the glow of string lights.
Baby Battista
Location: 3111 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039
Tucked beneath Nico’s in Atwater Village, Baby Battista offers a cozy escape with its vintage decor and laid-back atmosphere. The build-your-own meat and cheese plates are a highlight, perfectly complementing the eclectic wine list. Keep an eye on their event calendar for community gatherings that make this underground spot a true neighborhood favorite.
Our Favorite Local Libraries | Out & About
Libraries are often seen as serene places, but they’re more than just rows of books; they’re community hubs, places of learning, and for many, an ideal spot for remote work. The Los Angeles area boasts an array of libraries that are perfect for getting lost in a book or for getting work done. Here’s a glimpse at some of the top ones:
Los Angeles Central Library (Downtown LA):
This iconic library in the heart of downtown LA isn’t just a haven for book lovers, but it’s also an architectural wonder. With its rich history and expansive reading areas, it’s no surprise that many choose it as their remote working spot.
Westwood Branch Library (West LA):
A quieter retreat in bustling West LA, this library offers a comfortable workspace, complete with reliable WiFi and plenty of power outlets.
Studio City Branch (San Fernando Valley):
Located in one of LA’s most vibrant neighborhoods, this library is a favorite amongst locals for its cozy ambiance and extensive collection.
Thousand Oaks Library (Conejo Valley):
Beyond its massive collection of books, the library also hosts regular events, making it a hub for community engagement.
Santa Monica Public Library (West LA):
A stone’s throw away from the beach, the Santa Monica Public Library is a modern establishment that offers state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated study rooms and spaces for workshops.
Woodland Hills Branch Library (San Fernando Valley):
Situated in the Valley, this library provides a peaceful atmosphere, ample workspaces, and plenty of resources.
Malibu Library:
While slightly away from the main areas mentioned, Malibu Library deserves mention for its beautiful location and up-to-date facilities. Plus, it’s hard to beat the idea of working with a view of the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
Our Take:
Libraries are more than just repositories of knowledge. In today’s fast-paced world, they provide a quiet refuge for those looking to work, study, or simply unwind. The Los Angeles area is fortunate to have such a diverse and robust library system. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or nestled in the valleys, there’s a library waiting to welcome you.
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