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From Meta’s Disney Deal to Fi Series 3 and More! | Tech News

Stay connected with the tech news of the week! From Meta’s Disney Deal to Fi Series 3 and more, we have you covered on the latest updates. Read on and check out what’s happening across the World Wide Web in this week’s blog.

Meta Eyes Disney and A24 Deals for Mid-Priced “Loma” XR Glasses

Meta is reportedly courting Disney and indie studio A24 for exclusive films and shows to premiere on “Loma,” a lightweight, glasses-style headset that uses a pocket-sized compute puck and may evolve from Meta’s rumored “Puffin” prototype. According to The Wall Street Journal, the company wants both new and legacy titles as VR or timed exclusives to set Loma apart, pricing the device above the $300 Quest line yet well below Apple’s $3,500 Vision Pro.

Apple Poised to Unveil AirPods Camera-Shutter, Sleep-Pause, and “Studio Mic” Upgrades at WWDC 2025

According to 9to5Mac, Apple will use its June 9th WWDC keynote to showcase a major AirPods update that turns the earbuds into remote camera controls—letting users snap iPhone or iPad photos by tapping the stems—while also adding automatic audio-pause when wearers fall asleep, expanded head-gesture volume tweaks beyond Conversation Awareness, a “studio-quality” microphone mode that cleans up background noise, and a streamlined pairing flow for students sharing classroom iPads.

Washington Post Tests “Ember” AI Coach to Let Freelancers, Substackers, and Amateur Writers Publish Free Opinion Columns

The Washington Post is reportedly developing “Ripple,” an initiative that will accept outside opinion pieces—from Substack creators to first-time columnists—and guide contributors with an AI writing assistant called Ember. The tool offers a story-strength meter, outlines key components (early thesis, supporting points, memorable ending), and poses developmental prompts, automating some tasks typically handled by human editors; finished articles will still undergo editorial review. The Post hopes to secure its first content partners this summer, with public testing of Ember slated for fall, and plans to make these AI-assisted op-eds available free on its site and app as it seeks to broaden the paper’s opinion breadth and attract new voices.

Anker Solix F3000: Portable 3.1 kWh Power Station With 2,400 W Solar Input, 3,600 W Output, and Home-Backup Expansion

Anker’s new Solix F3000 rolling power station packs a 3.1 kWh LFP battery and a 3,600 W inverter that can surge to 7,200 W. Designed for vanlife, RVs, and home backup, the 91.5-lb unit accepts up to 2,400 W of solar (165 V/60 V). In addition, it includes an EV-charger and gas-generator input, or full home passthrough via a smart meter and inlet box, while a new sleep mode cuts idle drain to 24.4 W—enough to power a fridge for nearly two days. Ports include four 120 V/20 A AC, one 30 A RV plug, Anderson 12 V/30 A, two 100 W USB-C, two USB-A, and a cigarette socket. The F3000 lists for $2,499 (extra batteries $1,499 each) with accessories such as a $199 smart meter and $99 EV adapter; preorder discounts run before full retail sales begin June 25.

TikTok’s “Manage Topics” & Smarter Keyword Filters Roll Out Globally

TikTok is expanding its Manage Topics tool worldwide, letting users fine-tune how frequently the platform’s top-10 categories—such as sports, travel, humor, creative arts, and dance—appear in their For You feed (changes may take time to show and don’t affect other app sections). Accessible via Settings → Content Preferences → Manage Topics or through “Why this video,” the feature uses sliders to adjust category frequency rather than remove topics entirely. TikTok is also enhancing keyword filters with AI-powered “smart” blocking that hides videos containing related terms in captions, hashtags, or descriptions; the update will raise the user keyword limit from 100 to 200 and soon allow toggling individual blocked words.

Fi Series 3 Plus Dog Collar Brings AI Behavior Tracking and Apple Watch Integration

Fi’s new Series 3 Plus smart collar adds AI to detect barking, licking, scratching, eating, and drinking patterns. Likewise, Fi claims the update provides 80 percent accuracy, alongside step and sleep tracking. A doubled-sensitivity GPS chip offers more precise location data on the Fi collar.. Owners can now monitor activity and real-time whereabouts directly on an Apple Watch via the updated Fi app. In addition, the Fi app also scans vet records and bills for key medical info. The Fi IP68-rated, fully waterproof collar (tested to 50 m in salt water) includes an LED safety light, a three-month battery, and ships in five sizes. The Fi collar also features four colors for a subscription starting at $14 per month with hardware included.

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Best Summer Local Dining Spots | L.A. Eats

Summer in Los Angeles is synonymous with sun-soaked days, balmy evenings, and a vibrant dining scene that beckons locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving a casual beachside bite or an elegant rooftop dinner, LA offers a plethora of options to satisfy every palate. Here’s a curated list of 12 must-visit dining spots to make your summer in the city unforgettable.

Hinano Cafe

Location: 15 Washington Blvd, Venice, CA 90292

A Venice Beach institution since the days of Jim Morrison, Hinano Cafe is the quintessential post-beach hangout. Known for its frosty drafts, free popcorn, and legendary dive bar burgers, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day in the sun.

Liu’s Creamery

Location: 3915 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020

Nestled in Koreatown, Liu’s Creamery offers a unique twist on traditional ice cream parlors. With flavors like cilantro and peanut powder or swirls of pineapple jam, it’s a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Not Not Bar

Location: 2424 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Combining leopard-spotted pizzas, tropical cocktails, and a lively atmosphere under a disco ball, Not Not Bar is a vibrant spot perfect for those seeking a fun night out with friends.

Sonny’s Handcrafted Ice Cream & Italian Ice

Location: 15030 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

In Sherman Oaks, Sonny’s offers handcrafted ice cream and Italian ice, making it a go-to spot for cooling down during hot summer evenings. The nostalgic vibe and delicious treats make it a favorite among locals.

Priedite BBQ

Location: 273 Bell St, Los Alamos, CA 93440

For those willing to venture a bit further, Priedite BBQ in Los Alamos serves up Central Coast barbecue that’s worth the drive. Brisket enthusiasts line up early for this weekend’s pop-up, making it a must-visit for barbecue lovers.

Din Tai Fung

Location: 395 Santa Monica Pl, Santa Monica, CA 90401

The newest Din Tai Fung location in Santa Monica offers ocean views and a menu of Taiwanese favorites like xiao long bao. With ample reservations available, it’s a luxurious spot to enjoy dumplings with a view.

Alba

Location: 8451 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069

Alba in West Hollywood brings Italian cuisine to the forefront with dishes like pasta and seafood, all served in a stylish setting. It’s an ideal spot for date nights or special occasions during the summer months.

Tower Bar

Location: 8358 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069

Classic, iconic, and a little bit cliché in the best way. Tower Bar is the spot for people-watching over martinis and pigs in blankets. Sit poolside, lean into the Old Hollywood energy, and enjoy the show.

Quality Seafood

Location: 130 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277

Seafood and sea breeze go hand in hand at this Redondo Beach institution. Order oysters, steamed clams, and beer while watching boats bob in the harbor. It’s summer dining at its most relaxed and satisfying.

Ghisallo

Location: 1622 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Ghisallo is a counter-service pizzeria offering both New York-style slices and 12-inch Neapolitan pies. With a string-lit back patio, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy pizza and beer while watching the sunset. Don’t miss their lunchtime concept, Tre Mani, for a big, beautiful focaccia sandwich.

Cha Cha Chicken

Location: 1906 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90405

This colorful Caribbean spot, just off the sand, is one of the few true BYOB joints in the city. Their leafy patio is perfect for enjoying coconut chicken with mango and jerk dipping sauce, accompanied by your favorite drinks.

Gjusta

Location: 320 Sunset Ave, Venice, CA 9029

Gjusta is a bustling Venice deli known for its grab-and-go menu and extended patio. Try the burrata and tomato sandwich or the open-faced bagel with house-made gravlax. It’s a great spot to relax and people-watch after a day at the beach.

Los Angeles’ summer dining scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re in the mood for oceanfront views, historic markets, or innovative cuisine, there’s a spot waiting to make your summer meals memorable. So, grab your sunglasses and appetite, and explore the flavors that make LA a culinary hotspot this season.

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Kid-Friendly Activities and Attractions | Out & About

Los Angeles is not just a city for adults; it’s a playground for kids too! LA offers an abundance of kid-friendly activities and attractions that are sure to create lasting memories for both children and adults. In this blog, we’ll delve into the exciting world of kid-friendly fun in Los Angeles, uncovering a variety of activities and destinations that cater to the interests and imaginations of the youngest members of your family.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios:

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. Explore iconic locations such as Hogwarts Castle and Diagon Alley, experience thrilling rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and sample Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks. With its attention to detail and immersive experiences, this enchanting attraction will delight Potterheads of all ages.

Griffith Observatory:

Ignite your child’s curiosity about the universe at the Griffith Observatory. Explore interactive exhibits, observe celestial objects through telescopes, and attend fascinating planetarium shows. Kids can learn about space, astronomy, and the wonders of our universe while enjoying breathtaking views of the city. Don’t forget to take a hike in Griffith Park’s trails for some outdoor adventure.

Kidspace Children’s Museum:

Engage your little ones in hands-on learning and play at the Kidspace Children’s Museum. This interactive museum in Pasadena offers a range of exhibits and activities designed to spark creativity, curiosity, and exploration. Kids can climb, build, splash, and engage in imaginative play while discovering the wonders of science, nature, and art.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County:

Embark on a prehistoric adventure at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Encounter dinosaur fossils, explore the Nature Gardens, and marvel at the diverse exhibits that showcase the natural wonders of our planet. The museum also offers special programs and interactive displays tailored for children, making it a perfect educational and entertaining destination for the whole family.

Griffith Park and the Los Angeles Zoo:

Spend a day in Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, and make a stop at the Los Angeles Zoo. Discover a wide variety of animals from around the world, engage in animal feedings and presentations, and explore the zoo’s extensive grounds. With picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails, Griffith Park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun and family bonding.

The California Science Center:

Fuel your child’s passion for science at the California Science Center, located in Exposition Park. Featuring interactive exhibits and immersive displays, this museum offers a hands-on exploration of scientific concepts. The Discovery Rooms and special demonstrations provide engaging activities that will captivate young minds.

Santa Monica Pier:

Head to the Santa Monica Pier for a classic day of family fun. Enjoy thrilling rides at Pacific Park, indulge in sweet treats, play carnival games, and take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel. Santa Monica Pier offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for the whole family.

 

Los Angeles is a city that knows how to entertain families, providing a wide range of kid-friendly activities and attractions. LA offers endless opportunities for family fun. So, gather your loved ones and embark on new adventures via the kid-friendly landscape of Los Angeles.

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Top Summer Herbs to Plant This Season | Home Tips

Thanks to its Mediterranean-like climate, Southern California offers the perfect conditions for growing herbs commonly found in the coastal regions of Italy, Greece, and France. These flavorful plants—favorites in summer recipes—flourish in our warm, sunny environment and require minimal watering, making them ideal for both coastal and inland gardens. Whether you’re enhancing grilled dishes or elevating cocktails, a backyard herb garden can bring fresh, seasonal flavor to your summertime entertaining.

Oregano

A popular herb used in many culinary traditions ranging from Italy and Greece to Mexico and Turkey, oregano is a versatile plant that is easy to grow and may even offer medicinal properties, including improved digestion and blood sugar regulation. Many Southern California gardeners grow oregano to flavor sauces, soups, and stews. You can grow this plant directly in your summer herb garden, grow it in raised beds, or install it in a pot on your patio or terrace. To care for your oregano plants, avoid overwatering them and either water in the early morning or evening. If your garden soil is compacted, amend it with sand to ensure optimum growing conditions for oregano.

Rosemary

With its slightly pungent flavor, rosemary is a great addition to stews, meat dishes, and oily fish dishes. It pairs particularly well with vegetables like potatoes as well as meats and poultry. Rosemary thrives in sunshine and prefers a slightly loamy soil. Well-draining soil is a must, and you should also avoid overwatering these summer herbs. You can also grow rosemary in a pot placed in a sunny window of your home. Rosemary seldom needs to be fertilized.

Mint

Add minty flavor to your maridades, pestos, or even your cocktails right from your summer herb garden. Mint thrives in sunshine but will also grow in partial shade. Be sure your plants have plenty of space for good air circulation in order to avoid mildew. These herbs prefer a light, well-draining soil that’s slightly loamy. Unlike the previous two herbs mentioned above with their drought-tolerant properties, mint is less forgiving if kept dry. Be sure to water your mint plants early in the morning or evening.

Sage

Not only is sage a lovely summer herb for any garden, it is extremely useful as a kitchen herb. Especially popular in holiday recipes, sage is easy to dry for use in the winter. To grow sage, choose a sunny site with well-draining soil. After these summer herbs flower in the summer, you should cut them back so they don’t become woody and to encourage new plant growth. Mexican sage is popularly grown in Southern Californian herb gardens. Not only is it great for cooking, but can also be burned in your fire pit to keep mosquitos away.

Lavender

Lavender may not be as useful in the kitchen as the above herbs, but it is a lovely addition to pasties and teas. Plus, it boasts beautiful small blooms that will add fragrance to your garden and floral displays. Lavender prefers a sunny, dry location and requires minimum care. It also repels pests like flies and mosquitoes. In addition, Lavender is drought-tolerant, so don’t overwater this lovely herb.

These summer garden herbs are perfect to grow year after year. You can use them fresh from your garden or dry them for use all year long.

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Economic Update | Week Ending May 31, 2025

The Fed’s preferred measure of inflation showed inflation continuing to ease – On Friday, the Commerce Department released the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index (PCE). Headline PCE rose 2.1% from last April. Core PCE rose 2.5% from last April. Unfortunately, The Fed and treasury bond investors are still leery that tariffs will eventually cause inflation to heat up. Both short-term and long-term interest rates are much higher than they should be with the current inflation rate.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,270.07, up 1.6% from 41,603.07 last week. It is down 5.1% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,911.51, up 1.8% from 5,802.82 last week. The S&P is down 2.1% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,113.77, up 2% from 18,737.21 last week. It is down 2.6% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.41%, down from 4.51% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.92%, down from 5.04% 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 May 29, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.89%, up from 6.86% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.03%, slightly up from 6.01% last week.

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

Have a Great Weekend!
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Economic Update | Month Ending May 31, 2025

Annual inflation rates have reached a four-year low – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April was released in May. The annual inflation rate in April dropped to 2.3%, its lowest rate since February 2021. Core CPI, which excludes volatile components like food and energy rose 2.8% year-over-year. The Producer Price Index was also released. Producer prices (wholesale prices) dropped 0.5% month-over-month in April, their largest monthly decline since 2006. Year-over-year producer prices were up 2.4% in April. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index (PCE), rose 2.1% from last April. Core PCE rose 2.5% from last April. Unfortunately, the Fed and treasury bond investors are still leery of tariffs causing inflation to heat up. Both short-term and long-term interest rates are much higher than they should be with the current inflation rate.

The graph below shows the CPI rate since 2021

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields – Treasury bond yields jumped in May as investors worried that tariffs may ignite inflation. The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the month at 4.41%, up from 4.17% on April 30, 2025. The 30-year treasury yield ended the month at 4.92% , up from 4.66% on April 30, 2025. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates rose with treasury bonds in May – 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 May 29, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.89%, up from 6.81% last month. The 15-year fixed was 6.03%, up from 5.94% last month.

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

Stock markets rebounded in May. They have now made up almost all their losses from when the tariffs were announced at the beginning of April – The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the year at 42,270.07, up 3.9% from 40,669.36 on April 30, 2025. The Dow is down 5.1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 5,911.69, up 6.1% from 5,569.06 on April 30, 2025. It is down 2.1% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed at 19,113.77, up 9.6% from 17,446.34 on April 30, 2025. It is down 2.6% year-to-date.

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. These are April’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales April 2025 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.00-million units on a seasonal annualized rate in April, down 2% from an annualized rate of 4.08 million units last April. The median price paid for a home sold in the U.S. in March was $414,000, up 1.8% from $406,600 one year ago. There was a 4.4-month supply of homes for sale in April, up from a 3.5-month supply in April 2024. First-time buyers accounted for 34% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 15% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 25% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 267,710 on an annualized basis in April, down 3.4% from 277.0300 in March. Year-over-year sales were down 0.2% from a revised 268,170 annualized homes one year ago. The statewide median price paid for a home was $910,160 in April, up 0.2% from $904,010 last April. There was a 3.5-month supply of homes for sale in April, up from a 2.6-month supply of homes for sale last April.

The graph below lists home sales data by county in Southern California.

 

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Mortgage Rate Update | May 29, 2025

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 May 29, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.89%, up from 6.86% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.03%, slightly up from 6.01% 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.

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From Google Magic Editor to Spotify Podcast Tools and More! | Tech News

Stay connected with the biggest headlines in the world of tech. From Google Magic Editor to Spotify Podcast tools and more, there is plenty of buzz from across the web. Check out our weekly recap of the tech news you want to hear in this week’s blog!

WhatsApp Beta Tests Logout Button That Lets You Keep or Erase Local Data

A new “Logout” option spotted in Android beta 2.25.17.37 lets users sign out of WhatsApp on their primary device. Likewise, this update lets users sign out without deleting the app or wiping it in system settings. Users can access the feature after tapping the button (found under Settings > Account, just below Delete Account), and from there choose “Keep all Data & preferences” for a temporary break or “Erase all Data & preferences” to start fresh. Of course, this update offers relief for single-SIM users who swap accounts and anyone who wants a pause without losing chats. Public rollout timing and iOS availability remain unclear.

Google Drive Adds Gemini AI Video Summaries and View Counts for Workspace Users

Google is rolling out Gemini in Drive for video files. The update lets Workspace and Google One AI Premium users (English only) ask a chatbot for instant summaries, action items, or key updates from caption-enabled videos without watching them. Likewise, the overlay previewer or a new tab hosts the feature. In addition, this complements a new analytics panel that now shows how many times each Drive video has been opened. Of course, this feature gives creators quick insight into engagement.

Spotify Rolls Out Following Feed and Smarter Podcast Discovery Tools

From Google Magic Editor to Spotify Podcast tools and more

Spotify’s latest mobile app update adds a dedicated “Following” feed inside the main Podcasts tab. Likewise, this change gives Spotify listeners one-stop access to the newest episodes from shows they already follow. The Home screen now surfaces personalized podcast and video-podcast recommendations just below shortcuts. This will sometimes include a brief note explaining why each title was suggested. For Spotify creators, episode pages will soon feature an “In This Episode” section that links directly to music or other content discussed. Additionally, threaded replies and emoji reactions bring richer interaction to podcast comments on Spotify.

Google Photos Revamp Brings Magic Editor AI to All Android Phones and Adds QR Album Sharing

Google Photos’ redesigned editor puts Pixel-exclusive AI tools in users’ hands. The Magic Editor’s Auto Frame for AI-cropping and fill, and text-to-image Reimagine come front-and-center alongside a new AI Enhance button. This feature auto-combines effects like object removal, sharpening, and lighting tweaks. In addition, users can also brush specific areas to get context-aware suggestions, such as background blur or subject relocation. The former two-tier menu collapses into a single row of three thumbnails (Enhance, Dynamic, AI Enhance) for faster access. In addition, a pop-up tool palette surfaces the best edits without digging through tabs. Rolling out globally to Android next month (iOS later this year), the update also introduces QR album sharing. Of course, this update lets anyone scan a code to view or contribute photos—ideal for events and group trips.

Apple Brings Self-Service Repair to Latest iPad Line, Adds Canadian Support and New Parts Distributor

From Google Magic Editor to Spotify Podcast tools and more

Starting tomorrow, Apple’s Self-Service Repair program will let do-it-yourselfers order official replacement products for current iPad models. The available models include the A16 iPad, A17 Pro iPad mini, M4 iPad Pro, and both M2 and M3 iPad Air. This rollout joins the iPhones, Macs, and Studio Display already covered since the program’s 2022 debut. Pricing (iPhone spares run $69–$379) hasn’t been revealed, but iPad parts are expected to cost more. Apple also plans to roll the repair initiative into Canada this summer. MobileSentrix has been tapped as a U.S. parts seller through its Genuine Parts Distributor program, giving independent shops easier access to official components.

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Weekend Events | May 30 – June 1

As May turns to June, it’s time to dive into a weekend filled with local fun! From wine fests to art walks, there are plenty of activities happening locally for all to enjoy. Check out the top events in your neighbourhood taking place May 30 through June 1.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | May 30 – June 1 

GAME ON! Science, Sports & Play

When: Until August 31 

Where: California Science Museum | USC/Exposition Park

What: The California Science Center debuts a new 17,000-square-foot exhibition on May 15 that explores the science of sports and movement. Kids can take on interactive challenges and get tips from L.A.-based athletes like Debbie Allen and Freddie Freeman. The free exhibit also features public art for the first time, including a Dodgers mural by Gustavo Zermeño Jr., and will remain on display through the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Cinespia Cemetery Screenings

When: Until June 28 

Where: Hollywood 

What: Cinespia returns to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for another season of iconic outdoor movie nights—an L.A. summer staple. Pack a picnic, bring your favorite drinks (yes, alcohol is allowed), and enjoy cult classics under the stars with DJ sets, photo booths, and festive vibes. Enjoy Blue Velvet this Saturday, May 31.

Jazz @ LACMA

When: Until June 20 

Where: Mid-City

What: A beloved L.A. tradition, Jazz at LACMA brings free live jazz to the museum’s welcome plaza every Friday evening throughout the summer. Grab a seat in the plaza (first-come, first-served) or picnic on the lawn and enjoy performances from jazz greats past and present, just behind the iconic Urban Light installation.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | May 30 – June 1 

Off the 405

When: Until June 20 

Where: Mid-City

What: Enjoy sunset views and live music at the Getty’s beloved free Saturday-night concert series, set against the stunning hilltop backdrop. This year’s lineup includes performances by SML (May 31), Madi Diaz (July 12), Empress Of (July 26), and Emile Mosseri (Aug 23). Arrive after 3pm for discounted parking and time to explore the exhibits before the show.

Garden Party at the Culver Hotel

When: Until June 7 

Where: Culver City

What: The historic Culver Hotel is launching weekly floral-forward garden parties, kicking off on Memorial Day weekend and running through Labor Day. At the furry-friend-friendly Saturday series, your pup can enjoy a “barcuterie” board of snacks while you sip summer spritzes, yuzu-spiked Arnold Palmers, and punch. Meanwhile, canapés like coconut ceviche, avocado tartine, and tuna on crispy rice will be presented in vintage birdcages. A live DJ will provide an ambient soundtrack, and a pop-up flower bar will be on hand offering bespoke bouquets.

LAWineFest

When: May 31 – June 1 

Where: Long Beach

What: Celebrating its 20th year, this women-led wine festival returns to Long Beach’s Harry Bridges Memorial Park with hundreds of wines, brews, and spirits from around the globe. Enjoy unlimited tastings, live music, food trucks, and local artisan vendors—all included with your GA ticket and souvenir wine glass. Plan ahead and consider using ride-share or public transit.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | May 30 – June 1 

Downtown Burbank Arts Festival

When: May 31 – June 1 

Where: Van Nuys

What: Downtown Burbank shuts down its main thoroughfare to car traffic for this biannual arts festival, curated by indie artisan marketplace Jackalope. Over 170 local hand-selected artisans will fill San Fernando Boulevard from Magnolia Boulevard to Angeleno Avenue. Shop art and photography, original fashion and jewelry, paper goods, home decor, food, and more. You’ll also find live art and activities for kids like terrarium- and slime-making workshop,s and face painting. And unlike some artisan markets, Jackalope offers free admission.

Let’s Go Glendale

When: May 31 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford Street

What: On May 31, South Glendale Avenue will turn into a vibrant, car-free zone for Let’s Go Glendale, a new open-streets event inspired by CicLAvia. Stroll, bike, or roll through the neighborhood while enjoying live music, local shops, and tasty eats. The event is free and pet-friendly—just make sure your pup is on a leash!

Fluffology Presents: Puppy Yoga with Pawsitive Beginnings

When: June 1 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford St. | Sun Valley

What: Join us at Love Always Sanctuary on Saturday, May 24, for a special event dedicated to keeping your pets safe during emergencies. Led by renowned fitness trainer and emergency preparedness expert Jean Pierre, this 3 p.m. class will cover how to build a pet emergency kit, identify hazards, and create a safety plan for all kinds of animals—from cats and dogs to birds and beyond.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | May 30 – June 1 

Ventura Spring Wine Walk & Vendor Fair

When: May 31

Where: Topanga

What: The Wine Walk takes place in Downtown Ventura from the Museum of Ventura County through the 600 block of Main Street with vendors and live entertainment. Shop artists, crafters, non-profit organizations, commercial, and food vendors. The street fair and entertainment are free and open to the public!

Conejo Orchid Society Annual Show and Sale

When: May 30  

Where: 2331 Borchard Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320

What: The Conejo Orchid Society presents its annual Orchid Show and Sale on May 30 and 31 at the Newbury Park Library, 2331 Borchard Road. This free event features a stunning exhibit of members’ orchids, educational displays, and a wide selection of orchids and companion plants for sale—many perfect for Southern California gardens. Learn orchid care tips, shop for unique plants, and support a local gardening community.

Ojai Valley Century Bike Rides

When: May 31 

Where: Libbey Park, 210 S Signal St, Ojai

What: The 2025 Ojai Valley Century bike ride returns on Saturday, May 31, offering five scenic route options ranging from 31 to 134 miles. Riders will journey through Ojai, past Lake Casitas, over the double Casitas Pass, and down the coast to Ventura. All participants can enjoy a post-ride BBQ—more details available online.

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The Best Local Food Trucks | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles is a food lover’s paradise, and one of the best ways to experience its culinary delights is through its vibrant food truck scene. The city is a haven for food truck enthusiasts, offering an ever-evolving lineup of rolling kitchens dishing out everything from bold fusion bites to comforting classics. In this blog, we’re hitting the streets to uncover some of the city’s standout food trucks—where inventive menus and unforgettable flavors make each stop a culinary adventure. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full-on feast, these mobile eateries are serving up some of the best bites LA has to offer.

Lettuce Feast

Originally launched as a blog to share vegan recipes, Lettuce Feast quickly evolved into a beloved food truck. Founded by Willie and Eva, the duo is devoted to serving up crave-worthy vegan comfort food that proves just how satisfying plant-based eating can be. One bite, and you might find yourself rethinking meat altogether.

Kogi BBQ

Kogi BBQ is where Korean-Mexican fusion takes center stage, earning its status as a legendary food truck in Los Angeles. Helmed by Chef Roy Choi, the menu bursts with creativity—think iconic short rib tacos and craveable kimchi quesadillas. With bold flavors and perfectly balanced textures, Kogi delivers a culinary experience that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious.

Mariscos Jalisco

Seafood lovers, take note—Mariscos Jalisco is a must-visit food truck in LA. This beloved, family-run staple is famous for its signature shrimp tacos, inspired by the coastal flavors of Jalisco. Each taco is perfectly crisp, stuffed with tender shrimp, and finished with a vibrant, house-made salsa. Lines are common, but one bite will show you why the wait is well worth it.

The Grilled Cheese Truck

Craving comfort food on wheels? The Grilled Cheese Truck has you covered with its irresistible lineup of melty, cheese-packed sandwiches. From classic combos to indulgent creations like the mac ‘n’ cheese melt, each bite delivers nostalgic goodness with a twist. Pair it with a side of tomato soup, and you’ve got the ultimate feel-good meal on the go.

Leo’s Taco Truck

No exploration of LA’s food truck scene is complete without Leo’s Taco Truck. Known for their flavorful al pastor tacos, Leo’s Taco Truck grills marinated pork on a spit. The tacos are served with fresh toppings and warm tortillas. The juicy and tender meat is delicious. Combined with the vibrant flavors of cilantro, onions, and salsa creates, it’s a taco experience not to be missed!

Ben Y Ana Hibachi

Y Ana Hibachi has earned a loyal following with its bold take on Japanese cuisine and sizzling Teppanyaki-style cooking. Known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients, this food truck serves up flavorful dishes that are as satisfying as they are memorable. Every plate is a celebration of taste and technique.

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