The Best Salads Around Town | L.A. Eats

Exploring Los Angeles’ diverse and dynamic food scene, one can’t miss the incredible array of salads that range from classic to innovative. From hearty protein-packed meals to light, refreshing bites, these salads reflect the city’s rich culinary tapestry. Whether you’re in the mood for a celebrity-approved dish or a creative fusion of flavors, this guide highlights some of the best salads LA has to offer. Dive into these vibrant, flavorful options that showcase the finest ingredients and culinary craftsmanship.

Chopped Salad at Milo & Olive

Location: 2723 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Santa Monica’s popular California Italian eatery offers a substantial chopped salad featuring pickled chiles, pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, and garbanzo beans. This modern twist on the classic Italian chop can be a light lunch or a shared appetizer before the Neapolitan pizzas arrive.

Noodlerama at Health Nut

Location: 23373 Mulholland Dr, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Renowned as a Kardashian-approved salad spot, Health Nut’s original Woodland Hills location has long been a local favorite, leading to additional branches in Sherman Oaks, Culver City, and beyond. The Noodlerama, with rice noodles, shredded chicken, carrots, cucumbers, and pickled ginger in a spicy Asian dressing, is a standout, though their Chinese chicken salad is equally notable.

Caesar Salad at Pijja Palace

Location: 2711 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Pijja Palace in Silver Lake puts an Indian twist on the classic Caesar salad. Baby lettuces are topped with mango pickles and Parmesan, then dressed in a tangy, spice-infused dressing. This unique salad pairs perfectly with the restaurant’s crispy, tangy wings.

Mango, Cucumber, and Mint Salad at Bé Ù

Location: 557 N Hoover St, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Who says salads need greens? Chef Uyen Le’s creation at Bé Ù includes chunks of mango, cucumbers, and fresh mint, all tossed in a balanced dressing. Crushed peanuts and sesame rice crackers add a satisfying crunch, making it an ideal complement to the restaurant’s caramelized pork and egg dish.

Avocado and Shinko Pear Salad at Yangban

Location: 712 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Yangban’s visually stunning pear and avocado salad features Shinko pears and avocados dressed in a hot mustard vinaigrette, topped with toasted almonds and a unique rice seasoning mix. This sweet, acidic, and fatty combination is a must-have on any table.

Shaved Kale Salad at the Win~dow

Location: 1827 Ocean Front Walk, CA 90291
Known for its burgers, the Win~dow also offers excellent salads. Massaged kale ribbons are topped with pine nuts, croutons, Pecorino Romano, and thinly sliced red onions, then dressed in a lemony garlic dressing. Add fried chicken for an extra boost.

California Chicken Salad at California Chicken Cafe

Location: 15601 Ventura Blvd, Encino, CA 91436
With 11 locations around Los Angeles, California Chicken Cafe is perfect for a meal-worthy salad. The California chicken salad includes rotisserie white meat, avocado, feta, carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, lettuce, croutons, and fusilli pasta, all with a choice of dressing.

McCarthy Salad at Polo Lounge

Location: 9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA
At the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel’s Polo Lounge, the McCarthy Salad is a must-try. Named after 1960s polo player Neil McCarthy, this remixed Cobb salad is a staple, with nearly 600 sold weekly.

Salad of the Day at Alta

Location: 5359 West Adams Boulevard, CA 90016
Alta in West Adams offers a rotating salad of the day, always featuring seasonal ingredients. The base of lettuces is dressed in a honey-berbere vinaigrette, making it a refreshing choice alongside dishes like shrimp and grits or sweet potato dumplings.

Shaved Kale Salad at Jame Enoteca

Location: 241 Main St, El Segundo, CA 90245
Jame Enoteca in South Bay crafts a towering kale salad with fresh herbs, Parmesan, avocado, cilantro, scallions, and an almond vinaigrette. This impressive salad can also be found at their Venice location, Ospi.

Spicy Soft-Shell Crab Salad at Panvimarn

Location: 4101 N Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90808
Long Beach’s Panvimarn offers a standout spicy soft-shell crab salad. Freshly fried soft-shell crab tops grape tomatoes and green and red apples, dressed with herbs. It’s a striking dish on a menu full of classic Thai fare.

Charred Cauliflower Salad at Tesse

Location: 8500 Sunset Blvd Suite B, West Hollywood, CA 90069
At Tesse, chef Raphael Francois uses a wood-burning stove to char cauliflower, adding harissa, cucumber, almonds, and pomegranate for a beautifully plated salad. It’s a versatile starter or side dish.

LA Summer Salad at Saltie Girl

Location: 8615 W Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Saltie Girl, a Boston import in West Hollywood, offers the LA Summer salad on a thick slice of iceberg lettuce. Topped with arugula, avocado, cucumbers, brioche croutons, snap peas, and more, it’s dressed in a green goddess vinaigrette. A perfect companion to their seafood dishes.

Caesar Salad at Poltergeist

Location: 1391 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Poltergeist’s Thai Caesar salad, featuring a frisée and lettuce mix, Parmesan, and tangy dressing, is topped with a distinctive rice cracker. Despite its social media fame, it remains a standout, gluten-free option without traditional croutons.

BierBeisl Salad at Lustig

Location: 3273 Helms Avenue, Culver City, CA 90232
At Lustig, chef Bernhard Mairinger revives a favorite from his previous restaurant. The BierBeisl salad combines romaine, arugula, pork belly, corn, pumpkin seeds, radish, peppers, and Parmesan, providing a bright contrast to indulgent dishes like schnitzel and chicken liver profiteroles.

Weekend Events | July 19 – July 21

We are midway through the summer and right on time for weekend fun! From nights at the L.A. Zoo to concert series in the park, there is something for all to enjoy. Check out the quintessential summer fun in your neighborhood, happening July 19 through July 21!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | July 19 – July 21

Friday Night Wine Tastings

When: Until August 30

Where: Hollyhock House

What: Now a cherished summer tradition in Los Angeles, Barnsdall Park’s wine tastings have made a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus. Located atop Olive Hill on the west lawn of the historic Hollyhock House, these Friday evening fundraisers offer attendees the chance to enjoy fine boutique wines provided by Silverlake Wine. For an additional $25, you can also tour the iconic Hollyhock House during the event. The experience is enhanced by a spectacular sunset and stunning 360-degree views of the city, making it a perfect summer evening outing.

ED RUSCHA / NOW THEN

When: Until October 6, 2024 

Where: Miracle Mile

What: This comprehensive retrospective of Ed Ruscha showcases his detailed photographs of Los Angeles streets alongside a recreated Chocolate Room. The unique installation is composed entirely of layered chocolate sheets.

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.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | July 19 – July 21

Off the 405

When: Until August 24

Where: The Getty

What: Hilltop sunset views and emerging bands make this Getty tradition a must-visit for Angelenos from both sides of the 405. This year’s lineup of free Saturday night shows includes Hailu Mergia (June 1), Slauson Malone 1 (June 15), Helado Negro (July 20), Julia Holter (July 27), and Woods (August 24). Tip: To avoid traffic and crowds, arrive early, preferably after 3pm when the parking fee drops to $15 (or $10 if you wait until the show starts). This way, you can explore the exhibits, which remain open until 8pm on Saturdays, and avoid the dinner rush.

 

Poolside Cinema at the Fairmont Miramar

When: Until September 1

Where: Fairmont Miramar | Santa Monica

What: Every Sunday during the summer at sunset, both hotel guests and visitors at the Fairmont Miramar can enjoy a movie by the luxurious pool. The Hulu-curated schedule features a mix of nostalgic favorites and recent releases. Food and drinks can be purchased from the FIG Restaurant menu, and while seating is free for hotel guests, visitors need a reservation. Tickets cost about $60 with tax, tip, and fees, but include a $45 food and drink credit plus complimentary popcorn.

 

CicLAvia: Venice Blvd

When: Until Dec 8, 2024

Where: Venice

What: Cycle through Palms, Mar Vista, and Venice in the Westside edition of this car-free, bike-friendly celebration.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | July 19 – July 21

Yoga in the Park

When: First Saturday of Every Month

Where: Verdugo Park | Glendale 

What: Find your balance with ‘Soulful Saturday’ yoga. Enjoy a morning of yoga, inspiring music, fresh air, refreshments, and community.

 

VALLEY RELICS MUSEUM EXPERIENCE

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved Museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum.

All-Age Skate Night

When: Every Saturday

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

What: Get your roll on this Saturday at Moonlight Rollerway’s All-age skate night. The Saturday night skate will be for all ages from 8 PM to 11 PM, with tickets required for entry.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | July 19 – July 21

Oxnard’s Heritage Square Summer Concert Series

When: Until August 16 

Where: 715 South A Street, Oxnard

What: Oxnard’s Heritage Square Summer Concert Series returns in 2024 from June 14th to August 16th, offering a diverse lineup of music styles from Reggae to Big Band, and Latin Jazz to Rock. Concerts run from 6pm to 8:30pm with a break at 7pm; reserved tables are available for a fee, individual tickets are $10 starting at 5pm, and unreserved lawn spots are free (donations appreciated).

 

Seaside Movie Night at Ventura Harbor Village – Barbie

When: July 20, 7:30pm – 9:30pm
Where: Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura
What: Join the excitement at the seaside beach ball bash inspired by the sensational movie hit “Barbie”! Enjoy a live DJ spinning tunes before the film, and participate in a Barbie & Ken costume contest for a chance to win prizes. Relax, unwind, and “Just Beach” by the seashore. (PG-13)
Sun Sets Summer Concert Series

When: July 21, 6pm – 8pm

Where: 23400 Park Sorrento, Calabasas, CA

What: The usually exclusive Calabasas Lake is welcoming concert-goers, offering a picturesque setting and plenty of field space for picnics. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and sweaters for comfort. A limited number of fixed seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. All performances are free and open to the public.

From an EV Cadillac to Dyson Headphones and More! | Tech News

We’re wrapping up the week with the top tech news headlines from across the web. From an EV Cadillac to Dyson Headphones and more, we have you covered. Read on for this week’s tech news blog!

Dyson Introduces Highly Customizable OnTrac Headphones

Dyson has launched its second pair of headphones, the $499.99 OnTrac, following its unique Dyson Zone. The OnTrac headphones focus on extreme customization, offering replaceable ear cushions and ear cups, allowing for over 2,000 color combinations. The headband features three lumps for battery cells and cushioning, while the outer caps and ear cushions are available in various colors and styles. The OnTrac headphones boast best-in-class noise cancellation, 55-hour battery life, and 40-millimeter drivers for superior sound quality. With support for SBC, AAC, and LDHC Bluetooth codecs, the OnTrac aims to compete with top headphone brands, emphasizing both style and performance.

NASA Cancels VIPER Moon Rover Project

NASA has canceled its VIPER program, which aimed to deploy a rover on the Moon’s far side to search for water. The project faced cost increases and delays, pushing the launch from 2023 to 2025. Despite spending $450 million on VIPER, NASA decided to disassemble the rover and repurpose its instruments for future missions. Astrobotic, the company initially tasked with launching VIPER, will continue to deliver the Griffin lander to the Moon without the rover by fall 2025. NASA plans to use the technology from VIPER in other lunar missions over the next five years.

Fei-Fei Li’s Startup World Labs Valued at Over $1 Billion

Fei-Fei Li, the prominent computer scientist known as the “godmother of AI,” has launched World Labs, a startup now valued at over $1 billion in just four months. World Labs aims to develop AI capable of advanced reasoning through human-like visual data processing. Known for her work in computer vision and developing ImageNet, Li previously led AI at Google Cloud and advises the White House on AI. World Labs focuses on creating AI models that understand three-dimensional environments, supported by significant funding from Andreessen Horowitz and Radical Ventures. The technology could revolutionize fields like robotics, AR, VR, and healthcare.

RMS Titanic, Inc. Conducts New 3D Scans of Titanic Wreckage

RMS Titanic, Inc. is sending remote-operated submersibles (ROVs) to the Titanic wreckage for the first time since 2010 to perform digital 3D scans and capture high-resolution images. The seven-person crew reached the Titanic’s location recently and aims to compare new scans with those from 2010 to assess deterioration and the impact of the ocean and previous expeditions. Equipped with advanced 65K resolution cameras, the ROVs will also search for new marine life and areas of debris. RMS Titanic, Inc. plans to use the findings for public exhibits in Las Vegas, Orlando, and touring displays worldwide.

Cadillac Reveals 2025 Escalade with Enhanced Tech and Design

Cadillac is updating its gas-powered Escalade with features inspired by its electric counterparts, ahead of the release of the electric Escalade IQ later this year. The 2025 Escalade will showcase new vertically positioned headlights, an illuminated grille, and a badge reminiscent of the Cadillac Lyriq and Celestiq EVs. Inside, the SUV boasts a 55-inch pillar-to-pillar display, split into a 35-inch screen for the driver and a 20-inch screen for the passenger, continuing the trend of screen maximalism. New features also include power doors that open automatically with the key fob and close with a brake pedal press. Pricing details are yet to be announced, but the tech upgrades suggest it may exceed six figures.

Hidden Gems in Malibu | Out & About

There is no shortage of hidden gems in Los Angeles County’s local neighborhoods. From DTLA to Malibu, there are sure to be sites you’ve yet to see. We are sharing our favorite hidden gems in Malibu for this week’s edition of Out & About!

Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club

Tucked into the sprawling hillsides of Malibu is a hidden gem worth making a visit to. Whether you are in need of a staycation or simply want brunch, Calamigos Ranch is worth a visit. The property has endless things to see and do, an ideal venue for special occasions. Bonus: They also have a beach club where you can enjoy a sunny day in Malibu.

Topanga Lookout Trail

The Santa Monica Mountains have no shortage of ideal spots for scenic views. The same can be said for the Topanga Lookout Trail, a two-mile round trip hike. Once the site of a fire tower, the trail stands above the Red Rock Canyon Park and provides great views of the mountainscape. In addition, you will also get stellar views of Calabasas and the Santa Susana Mountains.

Pirates Cove

Another hidden gem in Malibu is the sand beach cove referred to as Pirates Cove. This secluded area is a must-visit on the west side of Point Dume. In addition to being a scenic spot, it’s been featured in films like the 1968 film Planet of the Apes. Access to Pirates Cove is from the southern end of Westward Beach. Once you have enjoyed your time in the cove, you can venture to the nearby nature preserve in Point Dume State Beach.

Paramount Ranch

As the name suggests, Paramount Ranch has been the home to a number of film productions. The ranch began being leased by Paramount Pictures in 1927 and has been featured in productions like Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, and Westworld, among others. This hidden gem offers several miles of scenic hikes through chaparral, riparian, and valley oak savannah plant communities. You can choose to walk, bike, or ride a horse through the ranches’ trail offerings and scenic environment.

Little Dume

Popular amongst surfers, Little Dume Beach is a small east-facing cove near Point Dume in Malibu. The scenic beach area is great for a walk along the shore or a quiet beach day. Visitors will need to walk from Paradise Cove Beach or Big Dume Beach in order to access this hidden gem in Malibu. 

 

Beat the Heat Energy-Efficient Tips | Home Tips

When July hits, the heat often comes in full force. Keeping our homes cool and comfortable becomes a priority. But cranking up the air conditioning can lead to skyrocketing energy bills. So, what’s the solution? With some simple DIY strategies and energy-efficient practices, you can create a cooler home without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you beat the heat this July:

1. Optimize Your Insulation

Proper insulation is critical in maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home. It acts as a barrier, keeping the cool air inside and the hot air outside. If your home isn’t properly insulated, you may be losing a significant amount of cool air. Check your attic, walls, and floors for any insulation gaps and fix them with spray foam or fiberglass batt insulation.

2. Make the Most of Window Treatments

Window treatments aren’t just for decoration; they can significantly affect the temperature inside your home. In the summer, about 76% of the sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters in the form of heat. Consider investing in thermal curtains, cellular shades, or reflective window films that can help block heat from entering your home.

3. Maintain Your Cooling System

Your air conditioner works hard during the hot summer months. Regular maintenance can keep it running efficiently, which in turn can save energy and money. Replace filters monthly during the summer and consider a professional tune-up once a year.

4. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely

Ceiling fans can be a great way to supplement air conditioning, allowing you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort, according to Energy.gov. Just make sure your fans are rotating counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air downwards.

5. Install a Programmable Thermostat

With a programmable thermostat, you can automatically adjust the temperature in your home at different times of the day. For example, you can set it to a higher temperature when you’re away from home and lower it shortly before you return. This can help save energy without sacrificing comfort.

6. Cook Smart

Avoid using the oven or stove during the hottest parts of the day. Consider using a microwave, slow cooker, or outdoor grill instead. You can also try making no-cook meals like salads and sandwiches.

Remember, every bit of energy you save helps to reduce your home’s overall demand. Not only are these tips cost-effective, but they’re also better for the environment. Stay cool and enjoy the summer months in your comfortable, energy-efficient home.

Economic Update | Week Ending July 13, 2024

Economic news this week – As Real Estate Brokers we are focused on inflation. Higher inflation drives mortgage interest rates higher. Higher mortgage rates make homes less affordable. This week there was more evidence that inflation is cooling. On Thursday, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was released for June. Month-over-month the CPI dropped 0.1%, its first month-over-month decrease since May 2020, at the peak of the pandemic. Year-over-year the CPI rate was 3%, its lowest in three years, and down from a 3.3% increase in May. Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy costs was up 3.3% year-over-year, its smallest increase since April 2021. These readings were well below economists’ expectations. Friday the Producer Price Index (PPI) was released. Unfortunately, it climbed 0.2% month-over-month in June. That was above the 1% rise economists expected. Year-over-year wholesale prices are up 2.6%, also above expectations. The Michigan survey of consumer sentiment hit an 8-month low. In this bad news is good news for a rate cut environment, that brought rates down further. Next week we will get retail sales figures. If those follow consumer sentiment, we will see rates continue to drop. Several Fed officials also spoke this week and even the most hawkish ones expressed their satisfaction with the direction of inflation and inflationary pressures. The Fed has left its key rates at the highest levels in 25 years for almost a year. They have stated that a cycle of cuts will begin as soon as they feel inflation is under control. Experts gave a 97% chance of a Fed rate cut in September.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 40,000.90, up 1.6% from 39,375.87 last week. It is up 6.1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,615.35, up 0.9% from 5,567.19 last week. The S&P is up 17.7% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 18,398.45, up 0.3% from 18,352.67 last week. It is up 22.6% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.18%, down from 4.28% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.39% down from 4.47% 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 July 11, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.89%, down from 6.95% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.17%, down from 6.25% last week.

The graph below shows the trend 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.

June home sales figures will be released next week by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. You can get that data now for your county, city, or zip code at RodeoRE.com.

Have a great weekend!

Mortgage Rate Update | July 11, 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 July 11, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.89%, down from 6.95% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.17%, down from 6.25% 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.

From YouTube Shorts to Gemini AI and More! | Tech News

Never miss a beat in the world of tech! Check out what’s happening from across the web with our weekly tech news write-up. From YouTube Shorts to Gemini AI and more, we have the news you want to know below!

Tesla Delays Fully Autonomous Robotaxi Reveal

Tesla has postponed the unveiling of its fully autonomous robotaxi to October to allow more time for engineering and testing, Bloomberg reports. Originally scheduled for August 8th, the delay was communicated internally but has not been publicly announced. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has emphasized Tesla’s identity as an AI and robotics company over a traditional automaker, has long teased the robotaxi concept, envisioning revenue opportunities for Tesla owners through autonomous ride-hailing. Despite previous ambitious timelines, Tesla’s current Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems still require active driver supervision. Meanwhile, competitors like Waymo are already operating fully autonomous robotaxis in several US cities. Tesla describes the upcoming robotaxi as “purpose built,” designed from the ground up for self-driving, often without traditional controls. For more details and updates, visit Tesla’s official website.

YouTube Introduces New Features for YouTube Shorts

YouTube has rolled out new features for YouTube Shorts, including text-to-speech narration and auto-generated captions, mimicking TikTok’s popular functionalities. The text-to-speech feature allows users to add an artificial voiceover by tapping the “add voice” icon, with four voices currently available. Auto-generated captions can now be added directly within Shorts, offering customizable fonts and colors. Additionally, YouTube has introduced Minecraft-themed effects, including a green screen background and a minigame called Minecraft Rush. These updates reflect the ongoing trend of video platforms adopting each other’s features, with YouTube’s strategy to enhance Shorts proving successful.

Google Enhances Robot Navigation and Task Completion with Gemini AI

Google is enhancing its robots’ navigation and task completion abilities using Gemini AI, specifically the Gemini 1.5 Pro model. According to a new research paper by the DeepMind robotics team, Gemini’s long context window allows RT-2 robots to understand natural language instructions better. By “watching” video tours of environments like homes or offices, the robots learn to execute commands, such as locating a power outlet for charging a phone. In tests, these robots achieved a 90 percent success rate across over 50 instructions within a 9,000-square-foot area. Gemini 1.5 Pro also enables the robots to plan tasks beyond navigation, such as checking for a favorite drink in the fridge. While processing instructions can take 10–30 seconds, these advancements suggest future robots could assist with everyday tasks like finding keys or wallets.

280 Earth’s Carbon Capture Technology Aims to Mitigate Data Center Emissions

Data centers significantly contribute to carbon emissions, exacerbated by the energy demands of training AI models. A startup, 280 Earth, spun out of Google’s X, proposes a solution by developing technology that captures carbon dioxide from the air, utilizes servers’ waste heat, and generates water for cooling. The company secured a $40 million agreement through the Frontier initiative, supported by Stripe, Alphabet, Meta, Shopify, and McKinsey, among others. 280 Earth’s continuous sorbent technology enhances efficiency, avoiding the energy losses of batch processing. Besides capturing CO2, it also extracts water vapor for cooling needs, addressing both emissions and resource consumption. While promising, these carbon capture technologies face challenges related to cost, scalability, and safety, and are not substitutes for reducing fossil fuel dependence.

SpaceX’s Starlink Mini Dish Now Available to All in the US

SpaceX’s new Starlink Mini dish, touted by Elon Musk as a world-changing innovation, is now available to anyone in the US. The compact internet-from-space kit integrates a dish and Wi-Fi router into a weatherproof, laptop-sized package that consumes less power than previous models and can be powered by a 100W USB-PD source. Initially offered only to current Residential subscribers, the Starlink Mini is now accessible to vanlifers and digital nomads. Priced at $599, it comes with two service options: Regional and Mini Roam. Both plans can be paused between uses.

Paramount Global and Skydance Media Merge in $28 Billion Deal

Paramount Global and Skydance Media have agreed to merge. The merger creates a new joint venture temporarily dubbed “New Paramount,” valued at approximately $28 billion. As part of the deal, Paramount Chair Shari Redstone will sell National Amusements for $2.4 billion. Likewise, Skydance will invest $8 billion to merge with Paramount, purchasing shares and addressing debt. This merger aims to fortify Paramount amid industry changes and sustain its success. Skydance founder David Ellison will become the new chairman and CEO of Paramount. Former NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell will serve as president. The agreement, subject to closing conditions, is expected to be finalized in the first half of 2025.