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Mortgage Rate Update | September 12, 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 September 12, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.2%, down from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.27%, down from 5.47% 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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Our Favorite Pho Spots Around Town | L.A. Eats

As the weather cools down, there is one thing guaranteed to keep you warm…Pho. The traditional Vietnamese soup is an ideal meal for any time of the year, especially on chill days. Whether you are under the weather or just in need of a warm lunch or dinner, check out our list of top spots around town.

Pho Cafe

Location: Silverlake

It seems like food gems are easily found in strip malls, and so is the case for Pho Cafe. The Vietnamese eatery has an excellent pho tai bo vien, among other tasty options. Bright and modern, this restaurant makes for a great stop for lunch or a lowkey date night. 

Nong La

Location: Hancock Park

With two locations on Sawtelle and on La Brea, Nong La is a neighborhood favorite. At this local spot, you can expect meat that is high-quality and broth that is both light and lemongrass flavor. For a spicy kick, try the bun bo hue – a spicy lemongrass soup with pork patty and beef shank. 

Pho 2000

Location: Koreatown

For the days when you’re not feeling too well, Pho 2000’s oxtail pho is here to save the day. Enjoy Korean-style options that have just the right amount of noodles and meat. Also good to know: they’re open until 2am (and 3am on weekends).

Blossom Vietnamese

Location: Santa Monica

Blossom, a Vietnamese spot that offers noodles and more in Sunset Park, is another local go-to. The bustling, compact eatery offers family-style seating and a range of Vietnamese staples.

Glendale Pho Company

Location: Glendale

Under the radar but never a disappointment, the Glendale Pho Company is a valley go-to. The portions are huge and usually fall under $10. In addition, the rare steak is excellent.

Vinh Loi Tofu

Location: Reseda

Owner and chef Kevin Tran make fresh tofu each day for his savory and sweet vegan fare. The Iron Man pho satisfies, while the warm and sweet ginger tofu “pudding” comes through for dessert. The second location in Cerritos is just as solid as the original.

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The Best Retro Movie Theatres in Town | Out & About

As the weather cools down and the leaves turn, let’s turn back the clock for a retro movie theater outing. Tinsletown is famed for its retro fixtures, and many of these architectural icons remain in use. From silent noirs to classics and blockbusters, there is a range of films to see across LA’s many old-fashioned cinema spots. Read on for our list of favorites and catch a flick in true style!

The Theatre at Ace Hotel

In 1927, the Theatre at Ace Hotel went by a different moniker, the United Artists Theatre. Now restored to its 1,600-seat glory, the theatre still maintains the charm instilled by its iconic founders, namely Mary Pickford and Charlie Chaplin. Architecture inspired by the Spanish Gothic style, richly illustrated murals, and a vaulted ceiling covered in tiny glimmering mirrors, The Theatre at Ace Hotel is retro movie going done right!

Orpheum Theatre

Featuring the Mighty Wurlitzer, one of only three original theater organs still existing in Southern California theaters, The Orpheum theater is a retro movie theater gem. The Orpheum offers seating for over 2,000 people with orchestra, loge, balcony, and side box seating. The interior has also been featured in scenes for such films as the Oscar-winning “The Artist” and even American Idol.

TCL Chinese Theatre

Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is not just for bug budget Hollywood premieres. Established in 1927, it’s arguably the most spectacular theater of its day – and even today still! From film festivals to IMAX showings, Sid Grauman’s third theater and “dream” project is a great way to play tourists in town. In addition, the Hollywood Blvd retro movie theatre also houses a range of artifacts imported from China as well as statuary made specifically for the theater by Chinese artisans.

The Palace Theatre

Established in 1911, the Palace Theatre is the oldest of the three Broadway theaters in Los Angeles. With a faded majesty about it, the theater bodes a French renaissance style. In addition, the facade features four figures to represent the muses of vaudeville: music, song, dance, and drama. 

Vista Theatre

The Vista is a budget-friendly glimpse of Hollywood glam – with matinee shows for only $5.50. A fixture of Tinsel Town since 1923, the Vista Theatre was originally dubbed the Lou Bard Playhouse. In the vein of The Chinese Theatre, there are hand prints marking the sidewalk, and beautifully restored Egyptian statues and murals decorate the cinema.

The Egyptian Theatre

The second theatre from Sid Grauman, The Egyptian, is just a few skips down from the Chinese Theatre. With an extensive courtyard, the inspiration for The Egyptian came after the discovery of King Tut’s tomb in 1922, which led to an Egyptian craze that swept the nation.

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Solar Panels and Your Home | Home Tips

Living in California, locals know how many benefits there are to installing solar panels on your home. To determine the solar panel type best suited for your installation, there are certain factors to consider. Below is a guide based on each type’s appearance, cost, and efficiency to determine the one that works best for your household.

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Appearance:

Monocrystalline cells appear black because of how light interacts with the pure silicon crystal. The back sheet of the monocrystalline solar panel is often black, silver or white, while the metal frames are typically black or silver.

Material

As the name suggests, monocrystalline solar panels are made from single silicon cells. To build a monocrystalline or polycrystalline panel, pure silicon is formed into bars and cut into wafers which are then framed together to form solar cells.

Cost

Of all other types, monocrystalline panels are the most expensive option, largely due to the manufacturing process known as the Czochralski process. This process is energy-intensive and often results in a lot of wasted silicon.

Efficiency

Since they come in higher wattage modules, monocrystalline panels have the highest power capacity and efficiencies higher than 20 percent.

Suitability

Monocrystalline solar panels are best suitable if you have limited space available and want to maximize your electric bill savings in the long run.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Material

Also referred to as multi-crystalline panels, polycrystalline solar cells are made of many fragments of raw silicon crystals that are melted together in a mold before being cut into wafers.

Appearance

As a result of the light reflecting off the silicon crystals in the cell, polycrystalline solar cells show a bluish hue. The frames of polycrystalline panels are silver, while the back sheets are either silver or white.

Efficiency

Polycrystalline solar panels have lower efficiency of between 15-17% as they do not generate as much electricity from the sun compared to Monocrystalline panels.

Suitability

This solar panel is ideal for property owners with a lot of space but on a budget.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

Material

Thin-film panels are made from single or multiple layers of PV elements. The PV elements are deposited over a surface of glass, plastic, or metal. The most common types of thin-film solar panels are made using the CdTe technology.

Appearance

As the name suggests, thin-film panels are often slimmer than other panel types. Thin-film solar panels usually come in both blue and black hues.

Cost

The overall cost of a thin-film solar panel installation is lower than the other types of panels. In addition, the process of thin-film solar installation is less labor-intensive. This is because the panels are lighter weight and more maneuverable, thus reducing the general labor costs.

Efficiency

Efficiencies will vary based on the specific material used in the cells. Likewise, thin-film panels tend to have lower power capacities and efficiencies closer to 11 percent.

Suitability

Thin-film panels require a lot of space to meet your energy needs and are best suitable for large commercial roofs since they have more area to place them on. It wouldn’t make sense to place them on residential installations where space is limited.

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Economic Update | Week Ending September 7, 2024

U.S. hiring stabilized in August after dropping in July – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 143,000 new jobs were added in August. That was an increase from a revised 89,000 jobs added in July, yet below economists’ expectations of 165,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate ticked down 4.2% in August from 4.3% in July which marked its highest level since October 2021. Average hourly wages increased 3.8% year-over-year in August, up from a 3.6% annual increase in July. Stock markets dropped on fears that as the economy is heading toward a slowdown, which it needs to do to control inflation, spending will drop, and profits will decrease. Economists widely speculated that with job growth higher than in July, wages increasing at a higher rate, and the unemployment rate stabilizing, there was enough strength in the report for the Fed to do a .25% rate drop rather than a .50% rate drop at their meeting next week.

Stock markets – Stock markets dropped sharply this week. While all indexes were down, the tech-heavy Nasdaq had its worst week since 2022, dropping over 6%. Although tech stocks fared the worst, the sell-off was broad-based with nearly all sectors falling as investors feel that the slowing job market will lead to some sort of slowdown in the economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 40,345.42, down 2.9% from 41,563.08 last week. It is up 10.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,408.42, down 4.2% from 5,648.40 last week. The S&P is up 18.4% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 16,690.83 down 6.4% from 17,713.63 last week. It is up 18% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields dropped sharply this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.72%, down from 3.91% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.03%, down from 4.20% 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 September 5, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, unchanged from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.47%, down from 5.51% 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.

Have a great weekend!
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Mortgage Rate Update | September 5, 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 September 5, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, unchanged from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.47%, down from 5.51% 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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Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

 Dive into the weekend’s top events! From Hamilton at the Pantages to Day of the Dog, and more, we have you covered for fun. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from September 6 through September 8!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

Hamilton

When: Until October 18

Where: The Pantages | Hollywood

What: The touring production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit musical Hamilton has returned to the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. With its dynamic blend of hip-hop, history, and heartfelt performances, this cultural phenomenon continues to captivate audiences in Los Angeles.

Future Imaginaries: Indigenous Art, Fashion, Technology

When: Until June 21

Where: Griffith Park

What: Over 50 works at the Autry Museum highlight how Indigenous artists envision alternative futures in response to ongoing colonial trauma. The exhibit features surreal spacescapes by Wendy Red Star, pop culture critiques from Andy Everson, and a site-specific space odyssey by Virgil Ortiz.

Metro Art Presents ‘The Last Repair Shop’

When: September 7

Where: Downtown

What: Enjoy a screening at Union Station of a documentary short that explores an instrument repair shop serving L.A.’s public school students. The event includes live orchestral performances and a conversation with members of the cast.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

Santa Monica Pier’s 115th Birthday Celebration

When: September 6

Where: Santa Monica Pier

What: The iconic Santa Monica Pier is celebrating its impressive 115th anniversary. To mark the occasion, the Route 66 terminus is hosting a free party on Friday, September 6, featuring a screening of Barbie, birthday cake and ice cream, live music, face painting, and fun games.

Day of the Dog

When: September 7

Where: Main Street | Santa Monica

What: While many Angelenos bring their dogs to street fairs, how about an event made just for your pup? Enter Day of the Dog, a free festival on Main Street in Santa Monica (between Ocean Park Boulevard and Strand Avenue), featuring 100 pet-centric vendors and a dozen dog-friendly attractions. Highlights include a ball pit, foam party, surf machine, pool party, photo ops, races, fashion shows, and even yoga with adoptable dogs.

Americana in the Park

When: Until September 29

Where: Santa Monica

What: While it may not be the beachfront bash of Twilight on the Pier, Santa Monica’s newest free concert series brings outdoor music to Gandara Park. Partnering with the beloved McCabe’s Guitar Shop, the city will host Sunday afternoon shows this September, featuring performances that delve into the roots of Americana, right next to Bergamot Station and the E Line.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

Filipino California: Art and the Filipino Diaspora

When: April 20 – September 8  

Where: Glendale 

What: Explore the works of seven contemporary artists—Eliseo Art Silva, Allison Hueman, Anthony Francisco, Maryrose Cobarrubias Mendoza, Christine Morla, Maria Villote, and Junn Roca—at the Forest Lawn Museum. Their pieces delve into Filipino culture and the Filipino-American experience.

Skate Oddity presents: Beetleskate

When: September 7

Where: La Kings Burbank Sports Center | Burbank

What: Beetlejuice and Tim Burton-inspired photo ops, skating, and music await! Enjoy tunes from Beetlejuice and Danny Elfman, along with DJ sets featuring goth and dark ’80s hits!

2024 Silents Under the Stars

When: September 7

Where: William S. Hart Park – Hart Hall | Santa Clarita 

What: “Silents Under the Stars” returns for a special evening benefiting Friends of Hart Park! This unique event features two silent films (a full-length and a short), tasty food, live musical accompaniment, and captivating insights from film historian EJ Stephens. Enjoy a silent auction and a special display of Hart family artifacts presented by the SCV Historical Society.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

Summer Season at Theatricum Botanicum

When: Until October 20

Where: Topanga

What: For over 50 years, this iconic venue has attracted theater enthusiasts to its enchanting open-air stage for captivating productions. Nestled in Topanga Canyon, the 299-seat amphitheater welcomes audiences of all ages with a diverse array of plays, from Shakespearean classics to folktales. This season’s highlights include William Shakespeare’s ‘The Winter’s Tale’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, as well as ‘Wendy’s Peter Pan’, *Tartuffe: Born Again’, and ‘The Hispanic/Latino/Latina/Latinx/Latine Vote’.

Hueneme Beach Festival

When: September 7 and September 8 

Where: 550 E Surfside Dr, Port Hueneme

What: The event at Hueneme Beach Park will feature live music on two stages, delicious food, kids’ activities, carnival rides, vendors, a chalk art exhibition, and the popular sand sculpture contest. Located at 550 E. Surfside Dr., Port Hueneme, the event offers free admission with $10 parking (or free park and ride from Hueneme Community Center and Bard Elementary School).

City of Camarillo End of Summer Block Party

When: September 7 

Where: Constitution Park, Paseo Camarillo

What: The City of Camarillo’s 60th anniversary will be celebrated with an End of Summer Block Party on Saturday, September 7, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Constitution Park. There will be live performances on stage by Mariachi Camarillo, Ori Tahiti Ventura County, and Bad Habit. Visit cityofcamarillo.org/camarillo60 for additional information.

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From Bang and Olufson to Instagram and More! | Tech News

As the week comes to a close, it’s time to wrap up the leading headlines from across the tech world. From Bang & Olufson to Instagram and more, we have you covered! Check out your tech news read below!

Bang & Olufsen Unveils $1,549 Beoplay H100 Headphones

Bang & Olufsen has introduced its new Beoplay H100 headphones, priced at $1,549. The new Bang & Olufsen headphones surpass the cost of the H95 model. Justifying the premium, the H100 features improved noise-cancellation, enhanced repairability, and luxurious materials like lambskin leather and scratch-resistant glass. With easily replaceable components, including ear pads, batteries, and drivers, the Bang & Olufsen H100 aims for longevity. Equipped with 40mm titanium drivers, Dolby Atmos support, and 10 microphones for superior noise-cancellation, they offer 32 hours of battery life. Available in three colors, the Bang & Olufsen H100 delivers high-resolution sound and premium craftsmanship.

Instagram Adds Comments to Stories Feature

Instagram now allows users to leave public comments on Stories, a shift from the previous private message-only replies. Comments will be visible to anyone who can view the Story, with privacy settings in place—only followed accounts can comment on private Stories, and for public accounts, comments are limited to followed users. Comments, like Stories, will disappear after 24 hours unless saved as a highlight. This addition is part of Instagram’s broader push to increase engagement, alongside other recent features like disappearing Notes and more prominent floating hearts on posts.

Microsoft to Host “Wave 2” Copilot Event in September

Microsoft will hold a special “Wave 2” Copilot event on September 16th, led by CEO Satya Nadella and VP Jared Spataro, to showcase the next phase of Copilot innovation. Focused on the business side of its AI offerings, the event will introduce new features for Microsoft 365 Copilot and potentially unveil updates for Copilot Pro, its consumer subscription. In addition to rebranding efforts, Microsoft aims to attract more businesses to its $30 per user per month Copilot subscription by enhancing AI tools across Office apps.

WPC Unveils Wireless Power Standard for Kitchen Appliances

The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has finalized the specifications for the Ki wireless power transfer standard, allowing smaller kitchen appliances like toasters and blenders to operate cord-free. Using electromagnetic induction, Ki can transmit up to 2,200W of power, far more than Qi chargers used for phones. Ki transmitters can be integrated into countertops and cooktops, offering a seamless, clutter-free kitchen experience. While consumer products are not available yet, appliance makers can begin submitting Ki-compatible devices for certification by year-end.

The Jevons Paradox and the Future of Autonomous Vehicles

The future of self-driving cars is looking brighter as industry leaders like Cruise, Waymo, and Tesla push forward with advancements. Cruise has rebooted under new management. Waymo is expanding across the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Tesla promises an upcoming robotaxi service. Advocates highlight the potential for autonomous vehicles to make roads safer and reduce emissions. Likewise, this presents an exciting opportunity for cleaner, more efficient transportation in the future.

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The Top Pasta Spots | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles is home to some of the best Italian dining spots, offering authentic pasta dishes that transport you straight to Italy. Whether you crave classic spaghetti or something more adventurous, these restaurants deliver delicious, memorable meals. Explore this guide to find your next favorite pasta eatery in LA.

Sirena

Location: 1415 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90401

Nestled on a bougainvillea-draped terrace just steps from the shimmering Pacific, Sirena offers a memorable dining experience with some of LA’s finest pasta dishes, crafted under the expertise of former Mozza chef David Almany. Indulge in dishes like linguine vongole, bucatini all’amatriciana, or pappardelle ragu Bolognese. Enhance your meal with pastry chef Thessa Diadem’s hot focaccia, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce. Be sure to leave room for an array of delectable desserts.

La Dolce Vita

Location: 9785 Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Though LA isn’t typically known for its red sauce joints, the revived La Dolce Vita in Beverly Hills is here to challenge that notion. The menu showcases five distinct pastas, including a classic spaghetti and meatballs, a delightful tagliatelle vongole bursting with clams and parsley, and a creamy bucatini al limoni. Complement your pasta with a chilled seafood salad and a crisp martini for an unforgettable dining experience.

Funke

Location: 9388 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Chef Evan Funke’s namesake restaurant in Beverly Hills has quickly become the epicenter of pasta in Los Angeles. This two-story glass-and-steel establishment churns out a dozen different pasta shapes, with six formed by hand and six extruded. Alongside beloved dishes from Funke’s other ventures (Mother Wolf and Felix), the restaurant introduces new favorites like the Piemontese classic, agnolotti del plin, ensuring every pasta lover leaves satisfied.

Pasta Sisters

Location: 3280 Helms Ave, Culver City, CA 90232

Pasta Sisters is a haven for pasta aficionados, offering both freshly made pasta to take home and composed plates ready to enjoy. Choose from an array of options like spaghetti, tagliatelle, pappardelle, and lasagna sheets. The menu also features specialty dishes, including pasta with bottarga or porcini mushrooms, satisfying every craving for authentic Italian flavors.

Crossroads

Location: 8284 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 | 4776 Commons Way Suite A, Calabasas, CA 91302

Chef Tal Ronnen’s Crossroads continues to impress a decade after opening in WeHo, offering a refined dining experience without overt vegan cues. Settle into a cozy, candle-lit booth, sip on a carefully crafted cocktail, and savor the restaurant’s signature pastas. Highlights include the Impossible “meat” Bolognese with house-made tagliatelle and a seasonal ravioli filled with summer corn, all complemented by a slightly spicy tomato “butter” sauce.

Angelini Osteria

Location: 7313 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Angelini Osteria on Beverly Boulevard is a legendary destination for pasta lovers, thanks to chef Gino Angelini’s masterful creations. The menu features standout dishes like the signature lemon cream pasta, linguine with sea urchin, and lasagna topped with fried basil. This cozy osteria is a must-visit for those seeking authentic, expertly crafted Italian cuisine.

Antico Nuovo

Location: 4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

At chef Chad Colby’s Antico Nuovo, an ideal meal begins with piping hot focaccia and continues with as many pasta dishes as your table can manage. The menu, which changes with the seasons, features delicate rabbit-filled parcels (plin dell’ alta langa) and the classic pappardelle with beef cheek and veal tongue ragu. For a truly immersive experience, snag a seat along the open kitchen and watch the magic unfold.

Spina

Location: 3193 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90039

Spina in Atwater Village is a pasta lover’s paradise, with chef Pablo Cruz crafting dishes using noodles from Mani In Pasta, a renowned handmade pasta company. The menu includes a half-dozen primi, ranging from classics like cacio e pepe to ricotta-stuffed ravioli with butter and sage. For those seeking indulgence, the tonnarelli al tartufo e salsiccia, priced at nearly $40, is a must-try.

La Cava

Location: 13565 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

La Cava is celebrated for its impeccable Italian cuisine, making it one of the top Italian restaurants not just in the San Fernando Valley, but in all of Southern California. The pasta, described as “better than homemade,” and the delicately flavored pizza receive high praise from patrons. With its authentic Tuscan atmosphere, enhanced by warm, crispy bread drizzled with olive oil and herbs, La Cava offers an experience that transports diners straight to Italy. The owner’s Italian heritage and commitment to excellence ensure that every dish is prepared with the utmost care.

Gravina Malibu

Location: 28925 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

Gravina Malibu is a culinary gem offering authentic Italian cuisine in a picturesque setting near Point Dume. This family-run restaurant is lauded for its flavorful, homemade pastas and expertly prepared dishes like sea bass and lobster ravioli. The intimate ambiance, coupled with outstanding service, makes it a favorite for date nights and post-beach dinners alike. Patrons frequently return for the delicious food and the genuine Italian hospitality.

Spruzzo

Location: 538 Palisades Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90272-2844

Spruzzo in Pacific Palisades stands out in a neighborhood filled with Italian eateries, going beyond traditional fare. The menu features highly praised dishes like Vodka Rigatoni and seafood pasta. With its comfortable patio and well-crafted cocktails, Spruzzo, owned by the team behind the successful Malibu location, offers a high standard of dining at reasonable prices, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

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