Looking for ways to get creative with a small space in your
home? Low on square footage and just want to find ways to make your space feel
big? Don’t worry, we have some solutions for you!
Here are three design tricks that will help maximize your space.
Choose the right paint color
Being thoughtful in your paint choices is very important! Traditional
colors like white, cream, and light gray are great choices and will instantly
give the impression of more space. These colors will provide a clean look and
will make your room feel more expansive.
You can also create a visual openness overhead by simply
painting the ceiling white. You’ll have a welcoming space in no time!
In addition to the traditional colors, you can also go bold with dark colors. Highlight a small room by making a cozy-like environment with navy, black, and dark gray colors.
Get creative with storage
Small spaces hardly come with great storage. Creating clever
storage solutions can help keep clutter out of sight.
The kitchen is one place you can get clever with when it
comes to storage:
Hang wine glasses beneath your cupboards
Keep cleaning supplies out of sight by attaching holders to the backs of cabinet doors
Consider an adjustable cooking area with roll-away islands and pantries.
Also, don’t forget about the walls! This is a great place to add shelving and also hang big items like bicycles.
Consider multitasking furniture
When your floor space is limited, it’s important to choose furniture
that have multiple functions. Consider pieces that have hidden storage or that
you can store when not in use.
For example, if you can’t fit a dresser in your bedroom, try
adding crates under the bed for clothing. An ottoman is also a great piece that
can easily transition to a bench or even a coffee table.
Limited space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice
style. With creative solutions, you can go from a cramped space to an inviting
space with room for all.
The Rams have made it to the Superbowl as any true Angeleno knew they would! While we all prepare to celebrate their eventual win, the next item on the Game-day checklist is of course the food. So skip the generic wings and chips set-up and opt for something equally worthy of a touchdown. We’ve rounded up Superbowl Sunday approved recipes that will send your tastebuds into overtime. Oh come on you know it’s “pun-ty!”
Dips that will have you Running Back for more
Clam Chowder Dip
The creamy soup is obviously best enjoyed in a bread bowl to sop up the flavor. So not why try it as a dip so you can bring some seaside flair to the party.
The Los Angeles Rams are heading to the Super Bowl! This after their 26-23 overtime victory in the NFC championship game Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.
As a result, news outlets in Los Angeles decided to interview die-hard Rams fans! One fan being Rodeo Realty’s Richard Cure.
Rodeo Realty agent Richard Cure and family, interviewed by CBS2.Richard interviewed by ABC7.
Richard, along with his family and neighbor, were interviewed by local news stations ABC7, CBS2, and KCAL9. In addition, the Ram-ly showed off their Rams apparel and spoke about the upcoming Super Bowl game.
Mary Masciotra, Richard’s neighbor, told the news stations she paid roughly $1,200 apiece for two tickets to the game! A better price if you compare that to the current price of about $3,000 for an individual ticket! Richard said he’s okay with dodging the ticket prices and watching the big game at home! However, Mary will head to Atlanta.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Rams will be facing the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl on February 3.
Making headlines this week is a property that sold to American rapper and songwriter, Wiz Khalifa. Rodeo Realty’s Ben Bacal and David Ferrugio had the listing, which sold for $3,400,000.
The Encino home is featured on TMZ, Los Angeles Times, Curbed, and many more publications and sites. The contemporary-style house has five bedrooms and 6.25 bathrooms. The new, ultra-modern smart home features a 9-foot pivot door that takes you to the grand foyer, floating stairs, and 24-foot-high ceilings. Further, the indoor/outdoor floor plan includes a fireplace, a wine bar, and a covered patio space that overlooks the pool and spa, along with the outdoor kitchen.
Moreover, there’s an open-air terrace lounge, wrap-around balconies, and a master suite with an oversized closet with a jewelry island. In addition, the smart home also includes an alarm system, four exterior security cameras, and a sound system throughout.
2.6 million new jobs were added in 2018 as unemployment dropped to a 40-year low – The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that U.S. employers added 312,000 new jobs in December. This shocked analysts that had forecasted 178,000 new jobs. There were 2.6 million jobs added in 2018, up from 2.2 million new jobs in 2017. The unemployment rate rose to 3.9% from 3.7% in November, a 40-year low, as 419,000 new workers entered the workforce. Optimism about finding an acceptable job and higher wages were credited with expanding the workforce. Wages rose 3.2% from one year earlier, matching October’s year over wage gains which marked the largest year over year wage gain since April 2009.
Stock markets ended the year lower in 2018 – After hitting all-time highs in September, which marked the longest bull market in history, stocks took a downturn in the last quarter of the year. December marked the worst December drop since the Great Depression as fears of a trade war, political uncertainty, slowing economic activity overseas, and higher interest rates made investors more cautious. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 2018 at 23,327.46, down from 24,719.22 at the close of 2017.The S&P 500 closed the year at 2,506.85, down from 2,673.51 at the end of 2017. The NASDAQ closed at 6,635.28, down from 6,903.39 on December 31, 2017.
U.S. Treasury Bond Yields higher in 2018 – The 10-year U.S. treasury bond closed the year at a 2.69% yield, up from 2.40% on December 31, 2017. The 30-year treasury yield ended the year at 3.02%, up from 2.74% on December 31, 2017.Mortgage Rates higher in 2018 – The December 28, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30 year fixed mortgage rate average was 4.55%, up from 3.99% on December 29, 2017. The 30-year fixed rate was over 5% in October before declining in November and December. The 15-year fixed was 4.01%, up from 3.44% . last December. The 5-year ARM was 4.00%, up from 3.55% at the close of 2017. Fortunately, rates dropped in the final quarter. The 30-year hit 5% in September.
Year over year price gains moderated in 2018 after 7 years of price gains. For the first 7 months of the year we saw the same month year over year price increases of 6-8%, but by years end those prices were just 1.5% above the same month one year earlier – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing home sales totaled 372,260 in December on a seasonally adjusted annualized basis. That was down 11.6% from last December. It marked the fewest sales in a month since January 2015. The statewide median price was $557,600, up 1.4% from December 2017. On a regional basis Los Angeles County’s median-price of $588,140 was up 1.8% from last December. Orange County had a median price of $785,000, down 0.1% from December 2017. Ventura County’s median price of $640,000 was down 0.8% from last December. Inventory levels also continued to rise. Active listings have increased 30% from 2017. The unsold inventory index hit record lows before moving up steadily in the last 9 months of 2018. There was a3.5-month supply of homes listed in California, up from a 2.5-month supply in December 2017. It should be noted that a “normal market” has a six-month supply of homes listed, so inventory levels which are well above the all-time lows of 2017 are still at low historical levels. Los Angeles County had a 3.5-month supply, up from a 2.4-month supply last December. Orange County had a 4-month supply, down from 2.6 months last December. Ventura County had a 5.5-month supply, up from a 4-month supply in December 2017.
From flying fish to laid-back luaus, here are our picks of the best things to do on Santa Catalina Island
Once a getaway for Hollywood elites to escape from paparazzi, Catalina Island has in recent decades become more of a not-so-secret treasure for everyday Angelenos and visitors looking for a simple, relaxing vacation. Cars are few and far-between on the island, and just about everything is either walking distance or a short golf-cart-taxi-ride away; whether you’re shooting for a family vibe, an outdoor-sports experience or a party-heavy hang, Catalina’s got something for everyone in both its port town of Avalon and out into the wild island interior. Here are the best things to do no matter your vibe once you hop off the hour-long boat ride from the mainland.
Flying Fish Voyage
What is it: One of the only opportunities you’ll ever have to watch fish fly. Seriously.
Why go: For nearly a century, Catalina’s flying fish boat has been wowing visitors with a surreal experience that seems culled from a dreamworld. Every night over the summer, the crew lures Cheilopogon pinnatibarbatus californicus (otherwise known as flying fish) out of the water for not-quite-actual-flying-but-it-sure-looks-like-it glides up to 100 feet. Bring a jacket—it can get chilly —and keep your eyes out: the fish often end up landing inside the boat.
Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens
What is it: A beautiful ode to the island’s famous founding father.
Why go: William Wrigley, Jr (yes, the gum guy) is responsible for the development of Catalina. So of course the garden and memorial that carries his name is one of the most beautiful spots on the island. It’s a moderate hike from the beach (you can also get up to it by renting a bike, or via golf cart—more on that in a bit). Once there you’ll be immersed in a 37-acre botanical garden focused on plants endemic to California and the Channel Islands. See breathtaking views from the tower overlook built from quarried rocks culled from the island itself.
The Catalina Casino
What is it: Not a gambling hall—rather, it’s a palatial special-events venue complete with a beautiful art-deco movie theater.
Why go: The sort-of-Roman-looking Catalina Casino is the most iconic building on the island, with walls full of stories. Steeped in over 90 years of history, your able to learn more about Catalina Casino on three different walking tours. If a tour’s not your thing, it’s still worth going to a movie there (first-run films show nightly at 7:30pm). The art deco theater is gorgeous, and there’s often pre-show music played through its 1920s-era organ.
Luau Larry’s
What is it: A classic burger-and-drinks shack—with the best fries you’ll ever have.
Why go: First time visitors to Catalina can’t help but notice slews of tourists sporting straw hats. It’s because they’ve all had the Wiki Wack at Luau Larry’s. The fun signature cocktail comes with one of the ubiquitous headpieces. Grease the drink down with their curly fries, which are always perfectly crispy, and seasoned with—well, it’s a secret, but it’s gotta be magic, whatever it is. The burgers aren’t bad, and there are often live-music singalongs at night.
Descanso Beach Club
What is it: The ‘fancy’ beach on the island, with cabanas, booze and more.
Why go: You can set a blanket on Avalon’s main beaches for free if you’d like. But it’s worth taking a walk just past the Casino to Descanso. Here they offer rentable chaise lounges and cabanas. They’re also the only place on the island you can enjoy alcoholic beverages(for all you rose drinkers). There are also rentable paddleboards, snorkel sets and kayaks, and, over the summer, DJs and live bands on weekends.
Golf cart rental
What is it: The best way to see a large percentage of the island—and get a great view.
Why go: Sure, you could spend all your time on Catalina in town in Avalon. But if you want to explore more of the island, the best way is via golf cart. In about two hours you can see beautiful views, check out some of the historical structures and explore hidden spots.
Eco Zip Line
What is it: A high-intensity aerial experience.
Why go: High-octane adventure seekers should seek out two Catalina experiences: the Ocean Runner boat tour, which blasts through the water at high-speeds on a ribcraft boat, and this high-flying tour, which descends over five ziplines, 600 feet above Descanso, from a unique vantage point to learn about the island’s unusual ecosystem if you’re not just in it for the thrills.
Hiking trails
What is it: An outdoorsperson’s prime reason to visit.
Why go: Catalina’s inland is covered with hiking trails and camping spots. With over 165 miles of trails to explore, you’ll have options ranging from easy to expert. Obviously, it’s a way to get closer with nature: the island’s host to tons of interesting plants and animals. These include tiny Island foxes and imposing buffalo! With some luck, on an inland hike, you may see a herd peacefully grazing.
Catalina Room Escape
What is it: Avalon’s newest family-friendly activity.
Why go: Just opened in 2018, the island’s only escape room (pirate-themed, naturally). It is a challenging and fun way to spend an hour if you have one to spare. Just keep in mind: duck, and then look up. We didn’t, and needed to ask for a hint. You’re welcome.
Bar-hopping
What is it: A time-honored nighttime tradition.
Why go: There’s not a ton of nightlife on Catalina, which can become part of the appeal of a visit. Stop by for karaoke at El Galleon, venturing later in the night to the Marlin, before hitting the dance floor at Club Chi-Chi. Then end the evening with a final nightcap at the Locker Room. The next night? Repeat.
Mt. Ada
What is it: William Wrigley Jr’s old mansion—and your fancy lunch spot.
Why go: Mt. Ada, once William Wrigley Jr.’s mansion, and now the fanciest hotel on the island, is also an ideal dining spot. It’s only open for lunch, with a three-course menu that’s not exactly formal, but does have an air of classiness.
With the Lunar New Year quickly approaching, Los Angeles and it’s surrounding areas have already started on the celebrations. Mark the Year of the Golden Pig with these festive events happening in and around the city. Kicking off this weekend through February!
Lunar New Year Festival
Date: Saturday, January 26-Sunday, January 27, 2019
Location: Downtown Monterey Park
Event producer World Journal and a bounty of food vendors, entertainers and merchants invite you to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Pig in Monterey Park. The Festival will offer unique gifts and speciality items along with food booths. amusement rides and lots of live entertainment. Arrive early Saturday morning to view the arrival of the traditional New year lion and dragon dancers with firecrackers to kick-off the festival. Various types of entertainment will be featured on both days with crowds of 50,000-100,000 expected to attend. Be sure to plan ahead, click here for more information.
Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau (BHCVB) will host “Happy Chinese New Year, Charming Jing-Jin-Ji” in Beverly Hills on January 26, 2019. This is the eighth consecutive year of Beverly Hills hosting a Chinese New Year celebratory event. The 2019 Chinese New Year event will be divided into three parts: a variety show, a “Jing-Jin-Ji” photo exhibition and a cultural heritage crafts display and demonstration. The variety show will feature performance groups from Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei with Chinese acrobatics, martial arts, folk dance, Peking opera and more. The cultural heritage crafts display and demonstration will include Peking Opera costumes, ceremonial tea service, traditional folk music and more.
Location: Richard and Karen Carpenter Center, Long Beach
Don’t miss an afternoon of award-winning acrobatics and artistic form from world renowned troupe-Golden Dragon Acrobats. Hailing from Cangzhou in the People’s Republic of China, they represent a time-honored tradition that begun over twenty-five centuries ago. The troupe’s athleticism combined with ancient and modern dance and music present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty.
Similar to the celebrations taking place at the Caruso’s The Grove, The Americana at Brand will celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Pig with a day of family fun. Enjoy complimentary entertainment and activities that focus on the rich history and traditions of the new year on The Green.
Taking places just a few days prior to the new year is the Groves Lunar celebration. Focused on the festive nature of the holidays, The Grove will highlight the storied meaning, tradition and symbolism through a dazzling display of decor and fun-filled entertainment. Enjoy lively performances and cultural activities on Gilmore Lane and The Plaza of The Original Farmers Market.
Location: The Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd.s Pasadena
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at The Huntington as the Year of the Pig begins. The festivities include lion dancers, mask-changing performances, martial arts, music and more. Enjoy the days entertainment amongst the Huntington’s stunning botanical gardens.
Santa Monica Place will be commerating the Year of the Pig with its annual Lunar New Year celebration. Hosted by comedian Paul “PK” Kim, festivities will include authentic cultural performances and activities. Enjoy an afternoon of traditional Chinese lion dance, stilt walkers, traditional dough artists, and classical Chinese folk music.
Celebrate the Chinese New Year aboard the majestic Queen Mary with Shanghai Nights. The evening soiree will be a night of Chinese culture, cuisine and dragon dancing, along with Wushu Warriors Shaolin acrobatics, a guezheng ensemble and more! It is a limited seating event that will be a feast of the senes surrounded by stunning decor.
Don’t miss out on Chinatowns biggest party of the year! Celebrate the Year of the Boar with a parade and festival in Chinatown. Featuring Marching Bands, Floats, The Miss Chinatown Queen and Court as well as delicious food, music and fun.
Here in LA, between all the traffic and day to day humdrum, it can be hard to find those can’t be missed activities happening throughout the city. Well here at Rodeo, we have you covered, scouring the world wide web for the best Angeleno approved events.
From FitExpo 2019 to a celebration of Mozarts birthday, ditch the mundane weekend routine and check out some of the fun below!
For all our whisky lovers out here in Lalaland, Barker Hanger brings to you this Friday, the event you’ve been waiting for. WhiskyX comes to Santa Monica for an evening of Whisky tasting and live music. From bourbon, scotch to rye, WhiskyX is the ultimate Whisky lovers paradise.
This Friday, the Rendon Gallery debuts in DTLA with their debut exhibit Blend. The showcase will feature collaborative work from Zachary Bennett-Brook, Kyle Boatwright, and Armando Dela among others. The of the gallery described the exhibit as such:
We wanted to present the underserved artists in L.A. and from around the world–artists that are not necessarily commercial, but have a lot tp say and have a unique perspective.”-Ralph Ziman, co-founder, The Rendon Gallery
Spend your Friday night diving into Rock n Roll history with a screening of Pink Floyd’s The Wall. A 1982 British live-action/animated musical drama film directed by Alan Parker, was based on the hit 1979 Pink Floyd album of the same name.
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center-South Hall
If your still on your new years fitness resolution, there is no better way to kickstart your Saturday then at FitExpo Los Angeles. Sponsored by Subway Restaurants, the event takes place Saturday and Sunday at the LA Convention Center. The action-packed event will offer a variety events, such a group exercise workouts and healthy eating demonstrations.
There are few cliches as well known as the “Valley Girl”, but for the sake of art let’s toss those out. 11:11 A Creative Collective showcases a group exhibition of the women shaping what it means to be a “Valley girl”. Artists at the Brand Library & Art Center show will include Rachel Apthorp, Judy Baca, and Kathi Flood to name a few. The event will also feature a pop-up newstand by the San Fernando Valley Zine Fest.
Don’t miss a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch the 24-hours of Daytona live while hearing the stories of the legendary drivers of the race. The Petersen in conjunction with Rolex, Michelin, and Microsoft, will host an immersive 24 Hour Daytona viewing party. The event will offer both VIP and general admission tickets. The VIP ticket includes exclusive lounge access, networking with speakers and other VIPs, a dedicated food and bar station and other VIP treatments.
Classical music would truly not have been the same without him, as Sunday marks the 263rd Birthday of Mozart. Celebrate the day with a concert put on by The Culver City Symphony Orchestra showcasing an All-Mozart Program. And where could be a better setting for the occasion then at the mid-century icon, Culver City’s Robert Frost Auditorium? There is no better way to spend your day then with this perfect blend of arts and culture.
If you missed out on Dine L.A., don’t miss the chance to experience the diverse cuisines of Downtown Alhambra’s restaurant scene. Taste of Alhambra Restaurant Week returns for its second annual event as part of “Visit California Restaurant Month”. The event is free to attend and tickets are not required as restaurants will offer 2-3 fixed course menus from $15-30 for lunch and $20-50 for dinner.
Spend your Sunday in downtown Torrance as the streets are transformed with vintage treasure from over 200 sellers. This eclectic open-air antique market will offer a range of activities along with it’s speciality finds. Enjoy DJ Ozzie in the park, local food specials, and a family and pet friendly environment.
