Rodeo Realty

May 2, 2025May 2, 2025

Economic Update | Week Ending May 3, 2025

Employees added 177,000 jobs in April despite tariff uncertainty – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 177,000 new jobs were added in April. That was slightly lower than a revised 185,000 new jobs added in March, but it far exceeded economists’ expectations of 130,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.2%. The labor participation rate increases slightly as more workers entered the workforce. Average hourly wages increased 3.8% year-over-year in April, unchanged from March’s annual increase.

Stock markets have rebounded – Stock markets have rebounded over the past two weeks with the S&P up about 8%. While stock markets were on track for their worst April since the depression following the announced tariffs, they have jumped higher over the past two weeks at the highest rate since late 2020 when they rebounded from the drop due to the pandemic. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 41,317.43, up 3% from 40,113.50 last week. It is down 7.2% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,686.67, up 2.9% from 5,525.21 last week. The S&P is down 5.9% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 17,977.73, up 3.4% from 17,382.94 last week. It is down 8.4% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024.

U.S. Treasury bond yields jump – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.33%, up from 4.29% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.79%, up from 4.74% 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 1, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.76%, down from 6.81% last week. The 15-year fixed rate was 5.92%, nearly unchanged from 5.94% last week.

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

May 1, 2025

Economic Update | Month Ending April 30, 2025

Tariffs – This was a wild month for both stock and bond markets. There were wild swings and at one point stock markets were headed for the worst April since the Great Depression before recovering to end the month slightly lower than they were at the start of the month. On April 2 President Trump in his “Liberation Day” speech announced tariffs on about 90 countries which panicked investors and markets worldwide. A full-scale sell-off began and stock markets plummeted, but recent developments have enabled the markets to recover much of those early losses. On April 9, following the initial sell-off, President Trump announced a 90-day pause on almost all countries except China. An all-out Trade war followed with China raising their tariffs to 125% on U.S. imports and Trump raising tariffs to 145% on all goods coming from China. Over the last two weeks, both sides have toned down the rhetoric as both countries have experienced a slowing in their economies. On April 12th President Trump exempted smartphones, computer monitors, chips, and various electronics from the 145% tariffs on Chinese goods. Administration officials have spoken about progress in trade negotiations. This has calmed investors from their initial panic. At month’s end, many administration officials including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, “there was an opportunity for a big deal” on trade between the U.S. and China in his address to the Institute of International Finance. Last Friday, President Trump said that he had negotiated 200 trade deals that would be completed within three to four weeks. On April 28 auto tariffs were eased and a tax credit for auto manufacturers in the U.S. was proposed. Investors, world leaders, economists, and consumers are feeling better about tariffs than they were when the initial announcement was made on April 2nd as the administration has eased off on the size and scope of the tariffs.

Inflation and interest rates – Inflation subsided in March – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 2.4% in March from one year earlier, down from a year-over-year increase of 2.8% in February. That matched the lowest annual inflation rate since last September, which was the lowest CPI rate since 2021. Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, rose 2.8% year-over-year, down from a 3% annual rate in February. That marked the lowest yearly increase in Core CPI in four years. The Producer Price Index (PPI) rose 2.7% in March from one year earlier, down sharply from a 3.2% year-over-year increase in February. The PPI gauges wholesale inflation which is considered an indicator of future consumer inflation as wholesale costs are often passed on to consumers. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price index, the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation rose 2.3% from one year ago. With inflation looking under control, it is unfortunate that mortgage interest rates and bond yields are so high. In September 2024, the CPI was at 2.4% and the unemployment rate was 4.2%. That marked the lowest inflation rate since early 2021 and the highest unemployment rate since 2021. The 10-year bond yield fell to 3.7% and the 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropped to just under 6%. After the election, inflation picked up and interest rates increased as investors and consumers felt that a change in administration would bring less regulation, and lower tax rates which in turn would boost the economy. Over the past couple of months, the economy has slowed. The latest GDP figure released on April 30th showed that the economy shrunk in the first quarter of 2025. It declined 0.3% from the previous quarter, its first quarterly decline since 2022. Normally lower inflation, slower growth, and higher unemployment would lead to lower interest rates. Today we are at the same unemployment rate, and CPI rate as we were last September, but instead of mortgage rates being just under 6% they are about 6.75%, and 10-year bond yields are about 4.2% rather than 3.7% they were when we had similar numbers last September. The only explanation is that investors fear that tariffs will reignite inflation, which would usually drop as the economy slows. Time will tell what will happen. There is a lot of uncertainty out there.

The graph below shows the CPI rate since 2021

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the month at 40,669.36, down 3.2% from 42,001.76 on March 31, 2025. The Dow is down 4.4% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 5,569.06, down 1.6% from 5,661.85 on March 31, 2025. It is down 5.3% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed at 17,446.34, up 0.8% from 17,299.29 on March 31, 2025. It is down 9.7% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields – The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the month at 4.17%, down from 4.23% on March 31, 2025. The 30-year treasury yield ended the month at 4.66%, up from 4.59% on March 31, 2025. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury 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 1st, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.76%, up from 6.65% in March. The 15-year fixed was 5.92%, up from 5.89% in March.

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

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 March’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales March 2025 – The National Association of Realtorsreported that existing-home sales totaled 4.02 million units on a seasonally annualized rate in March, down 5.9% month-over-month from an annualized rate of 4.26 million units in February. Year-over-year sales slipped 2.4% from an annualized rate of 4.12 million units. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in March was $403,700, up 2.7% from $392,900 one year ago. There was a 4-month supply of homes for sale in March, up from a 3.2-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 32% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 15% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 26% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 3% of all sales.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 277,030 on an annualized basis in March, up 4.9% year-over-year from a revised 264,200 homes sold on an annualized basis. The statewide median price paid for a home was $884,370 in March, up 3.5% from $854,370 one year ago. There was a 3.5-month supply of homes for sale in March, up from a 2.6-month supply of homes for sale last March.

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

May 1, 2025May 1, 2025

Weekend Events | May 2 – May 4

The month of May has arrived, has so have the last few weeks of spring. From concerts to street fairs and more, we have you covered with local fun. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from May 2 through May 4!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | May 2 – May 4

Magic Castle Live on Stage

When: May 3 – May 4

Where: Downtown

What: Gaining access to Hollywood’s legendary members-only magician clubhouse, the Magic Castle, usually takes a little legwork, but this May, there’s a shortcut. The Academy of Magical Arts is bringing three nights of mind-bending illusions and sleight-of-hand to the United Theater on Broadway in Downtown L.A. Even better? Every ticket comes with a coveted invitation to the Magic Castle (note: door and dinner fees still apply for your future visit).

First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

When: Until June 6

Where: Natural History Museum | Los Angeles

What: Experience a unique night at the Natural History Museum’s First Fridays, where music, science, and art collide. From March to June, enjoy KCRW-curated DJs, live performances, guided tours, and interactive exhibits after hours. This week’s “Healing Sounds” edition features performances by VÉRITÉ and Kelcey Ayer, plus immersive sound baths in the Sensory Lounge.

MAUM Market

When: May 3

Where: DTLA

What: A go-to for in-the-know shoppers, MAUM Market spotlights AAPI artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs through a thoughtfully curated retail experience. Founded in 2022, the pop-up regularly appears in both New York and L.A., with its local edition set at ROW DTLA. Expect a stylish mix of handmade accessories, ceramics, kids’ goods, beauty finds, home decor, and more—all in a space that’s both family- and pet-friendly.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | May 2 – May 4

Beyonce – Cowboy Carter Tour

When: Until May 9

Where: SoFi Stadium | Inglewood

What: You knew Cowboy Carter belonged on stage the moment “Ya Ya” hit your speakers. Now, Beyoncé is bringing her genre-blending masterpiece to life with a highly anticipated tour—and L.A. gets a five-night spotlight at SoFi Stadium.

BeachLife Festival

When: May 2 – May 4

Where: Redondo Beach

What: This laid-back, Gen X-flavored music fest returns to the Redondo Beach shoreline for three days of sun and sound this May. This year’s lineup is stacked with nostalgic heavy-hitters, including Lenny Kravitz, Sublime, Alanis Morissette, Train, Cake, the Pretenders, O.A.R., Mt. Joy, and Jackson Browne.

Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion

When: Until August 31

Where: Westside

What: Explore over 50 of Diane von Furstenberg’s garments in this career-spanning exhibition at the Skirball, including her signature wrap dress. Alongside artwork and fabric swatches, the show highlights her philanthropic work and personal history as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | May 2 – May 4

Universal Fan Fest Nights

When: April 25 – May 18

Where: Universal City

What: Grab your phaser, spellbook, or 20-sided die—Universal Studios Hollywood is throwing an after-hours fandom bash that trades screams for pure geek joy. On select nights through May 18, explore worlds from Star Trek to One Piece, catch Yoshi’s first park appearance, and watch the new “Hogwarts Always” castle show while snagging exclusive merch and bites. Costumes that follow the guidelines are not just welcome—they’re encouraged for this multiverse meet-up.

10th Annual Great Big Family Play Day presented by Volvo

When: May 3 – May 4

Where: The Autry at Griffith Park

What: Great Big Family Play Day, presented by Volvo, returns to Los Angeles for its 10th anniversary at the iconic Autry Museum, right across from the L.A. Zoo. Often dubbed “Coachella for families,” this two-day celebration is packed with live entertainment across two stages, hands-on activities and exhibits for kids of all ages, giveaways, samples, swag, and a full lineup of food trucks. It’s a weekend of nonstop family fun you won’t want to miss!

Reunion Car and Motorcycle Show 2025

When: May 4

Where: Valley Relics Museum

What: Celebrate classic rides at the fifth annual Reunion Car and Motorcycle Show on May 4 at the Valley Relics Museum. Featuring pre-’89 cars and bikes, vintage vendors, food, music, and family-friendly fun—including pups!

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | May 2 – May 4

Simi Valley Street Fair

When: May 3

Where: Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley, CA 93065

What: The Simi Valley Street Fair returns on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. along Simi Town Center Way. Enjoy a full day of vendors, live entertainment, a beer and wine garden, city expo, free kids’ zone, and more. Admission is free!

2nd Annual Cinco de Mile Family Fun Run

When: May 4

Where: Arroyo Vista Community Center | Moorpark

What: Join the Moorpark Recreation Department for the 2nd Annual “Cinco de Mile” Family 5K Fun Run/Walk on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Arroyo Vista Community Center. Enjoy a festive day with a 5K, lotería, music, prizes, a taco lunch, and a free t-shirt!

48th Annual Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off, Car Show & Craft Brew Festival

When: May 4

Where: Conejo Creek North Park, 1379 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

What: Don’t miss the 48th Annual Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off, Car Show & Craft Brew Festival on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Conejo Creek Park North. From noon to 5 p.m. (VIP entry at 11 a.m.), enjoy unlimited chili tastings, craft beer, classic cars, live music, food trucks, and a free kids’ zone. Presented by the Rotary Club of Thousand Oaks, with proceeds benefiting local charities.

May 1, 2025May 1, 2025

From Duolingo AI to Amazon’s Satellite Launch and More! | Tech News

Don’t miss what’s happening in the world of tech! We’re wrapping up all the major headlines from the week in this week’s blog. From Duolingo AI to Amazon’s satellite launch, and more, we have you covered. Check out the latest technology news below!

Duolingo Doubles Its Catalog with 148 New AI-Built Language Courses

Duolingo is rolling out 148 new language courses. The app’s seven most-studied languages—Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin are now available in all 28 app interface languages. Duolingo used generative AI and a “shared content” system to create and customize courses in under a year. Likewise, Duolingo shared that this process originally took years to create. AI now handles much of Duolingo’s content generation and validation, while learning-design experts focus on quality control that is aligned with CEFR standards. CEO Luis von Ahn says Duolingo is becoming “AI-first,” prioritizing automation in hiring and reviews. Of course, Duolingo stated that it has no plans to cut full-time staff. The expansion opens Duolingo’s platform to more than one billion potential learners worldwide.

WhatsApp “Private Processing” Brings Opt-In, End-to-End Privacy to Meta AI Chats

Meta is rolling out Private Processing, an optional WhatsApp feature that routes Meta AI requests through an encrypted, OHTTP-protected relay so neither Meta, WhatsApp, nor third parties can see or store your messages once a session ends. Designed for tasks like AI chat summaries, the system deletes data after each use, invites third-party security audits, joins Meta’s bug-bounty program, and will debut “in the coming weeks.” Similar to Apple’s Private Cloud Compute but activated only when users ask, Private Processing keeps IP addresses hidden, blocks attackers unless the whole system is breached, and comes with a forthcoming security design paper to prove its guarantees.

Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch Z-Wave Lets ADT Plus Users Unlock Doors and Disarm Alarms with a Fingerprint

The new Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch with Z-Wave ($279.99) pairs directly with ADT Plus to unlock your door and disarm the security system in one fingerprint tap, replacing the discontinued Nest X Yale combo. This is Yale’s first Z-Wave smart lock with biometric access, using the new Z-Wave User Credential Command Class for secure PIN and password management over ADT’s hub. The lock also supports keypad codes, the ADT app, and traditional keys, and works with ADT’s Trusted Neighbors and Home Away automation features. While compatible with any Z-Wave 800-series hub as a regular smart lock, fingerprint-triggered alarm control is exclusive to ADT Plus for now. Available now at ADT.com, the lock aims to simplify smart-home security by combining fast, touch-based entry with seamless alarm integration.

Meta AI App Debuts Social “Discover” Feed and Full-Duplex Voice to Challenge ChatGPT

Meta has replaced its Ray-Ban View companion with a full standalone Meta AI app. The app pairs Llama 4 smarts with a new Discover feed, showing public AI prompts. The prompt replies allow users to like, comment on, share, or remix for a more social take on chatbots. Likewise, the free assistant is already integrated into Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. In addition, the app lets you chat or use an opt-in, real-time voice mode powered by Meta’s full-duplex model. This, of course, allows for fast, overlapping conversation and a richer personality. Meta AI pulls profile data from Facebook and Instagram (US and Canada only) to personalize answers, remembers user details on request, and offers real-time web results plus image generation. Voice and full-duplex features launch first in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, while the Discover feed aims to demystify AI and drive engagement as Meta eyes future hardware like upgraded Ray-Ban glasses with a heads-up display.

Amazon’s Project Kuiper Launches First 27 Satellites, Begins Race With Starlink

Amazon has placed its first 27 Project Kuiper satellites in low-Earth orbit. The launch sent the satellites aloft on a ULA Atlas V from Cape Canaveral at 7 p.m. ET on April 28, 2025. The craft deployed 280 miles up and is already talking to ground stations. Likewise, this paves Amazon’s way for “high-speed, low-latency” Kuiper internet service later this year. This marks the first of 80 scheduled launches that will lift all 3,236 Kuiper satellites. Amazon’s $10 billion network aims to challenge SpaceX’s Starlink, which already has more than 7,200 satellites in orbit. ULA is upgrading its Florida facilities for a faster launch cadence. CEO Andy Jassy calls the milestone “the first step in a much longer journey.”

May 1, 2025May 1, 2025

Mortgage Rate Update | May 1, 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 1, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.76%, down from 6.81% last week. The 15-year fixed rate was 5.92%, nearly unchanged from 5.94% 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.

April 30, 2025April 28, 2025

Top 10 New Restaurants to Try This Week | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles resets its culinary compass weekly, and the current crop of openings proves the city never stops innovating. Check out the top new restaurants around town from the Valley to the Westside, Downtown, and the South Bay. Book quickly—most release reservations 30 days out and vanish within minutes.

1. Prose — Woodland Hills

Location: 21150 Ventura Boulevard, Woodland Hills, California 91364

When it comes to new restaurants in Woodland Hills, Prose is certainly a must. Chef David Gussin’s modern California menu glides from grilled king-trumpet mushrooms to a forty-ounce tomahawk for two, served in an emerald-green room with brass accents.

2. Din Tai Fung — Santa Monica

Location: 395 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, California 90401

The Taiwanese dumpling icon debuts a 330-seat rooftop overlooking the Pacific. Head to Din Tai Fung’s SaMo outpost and order the crab-and-pork xiao long bao and watermelon soju slushies.

3. Fitoor — Viceroy Santa Monica

Location: 1755 Ocean Ave (Pico), Santa Monica, CA 90401

Chef Harsh Bhatia fires curry-leaf prawns and tandoori pizzas in a wood oven at one of the Viceroy’s new restaurants. Indulge in bold flavors with ocean breezes and a Bollywood-bright dining room.

4. Seline — Santa Monica

Location: 3110 Main St Ste 132 (Marine St), Santa Monica, CA 90405

Michelin-starred Dave Beran returns with a fourteen-course, produce-driven tasting menu; highlights include caviar on warm coffee custard. Pre-paid tickets drop on Resy monthly.

5. Kurrypinch — East Hollywood

Location: 5051 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90027

Sri Lankan comfort meets California produce at one of East Hollywood’s new restaurants, Kurrypinch. Enjoy lamprais wrapped with banana leaf and don’t miss the black-curry crab kottu roti or tamarind micheladas.

6. Casa Gish Bac — Pico-Union

Location: 1436 South Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90006

Oaxacan barbacoa masters David and Maria Ramos move into a sprawling new home at Casa Gish Bac. One of Pico Union;s stylish new restaurants serves up mezcal cocktails, smoky mole negro, and enfrijoladas big enough to share.

7. Restaurant Ki — Little Tokyo

Location: 111 San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, California 90012

Ki Kim’s eight-seat kappo counter blends Korean roots with Japanese technique—think flounder in aji amarillo and cod-milt gimbap—served omakase style.

8. Santa Canela — Highland Park

Location: 5601 N Figueroa St unit 120, Los Angeles, CA 90042

Pastry chef Ellen Ramos reimagines Mexican pan dulce with concha croissants and cajeta kouign-amann; arrive early, the LA-shaped churro sells out fast.

9. Attagirl — Hermosa Beach

Location: 1238 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach, California 90254

Chefs Alice Mai and David LeFevre grill prawns, lamb kofta, and market-veg mezze one block from the pier; snag patio seats for sunset cocktails.

10. Alba — West Hollywood

Location: 8451 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069

NYC’s Cucina Alba heads west with partners Cobi Levy, Will Makris, and Julian Black, serving “holiday Italian” fare—truffle-fonduta agnolotti, sage-butter gnocchi, orecchiette all’arrabbiata—plus burrata with spring peas and endless, fluffy focaccia . Pair a tiramisu espresso martini with Tuscan or Napa reds, then settle into cabana-style patio booths for a breezy date night; tables drop on Resy.

April 29, 2025April 28, 2025

Top 10 Local Spring Family Fun Activities | Out & About

Spring in Los Angeles arrives with longer days, milder weather, and an irresistible line-up of family fun outings. Whether you’re entertaining a toddler who loves trains or a teen obsessed with space, the city’s museums, gardens, and seaside attractions turn everyday weekends into memory-making adventures. The ten activities below are hand-picked for variety, value, and seasonal appeal, giving you a ready-made itinerary for spring break or any sunny Sunday.

1. Natural History Museum — Butterfly Pavilion

From March through early June, NHM’s open-air Butterfly Pavilion fills with hundreds of free-flying monarchs, swallowtails, and painted ladies—perfect for budding lepidopterists. Timed tickets mean crowd-free strolls among native blooms for spring family fun!

2. Los Angeles Zoo — Spring Fling Weekend

On March 22–23, the Zoo layers crafts, keeper talks, and live music onto its 270-species roster; all activities are included with general admission, making it one of the best-value spring festivals in the city.

3. California Science Center — Space Shuttle Endeavour

Kids who dream big can stand nose-to-nose with NASA’s Endeavour, now displayed in dramatic “ready-to-launch” vertical configuration before moving to its permanent gallery. Admission to permanent exhibits remains free; just reserve timed tickets.

4. Pacific Park, Santa Monica Pier

An all-day wristband grants unlimited spins on 12 rides, including the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel. Enjoy family fun, Earth Day-themed light shows through April.

5. Descanso Gardens — Spring Blooms

camellia forest gives way to cherry-blossom canopies and tulip beds each March. A “What’s in Bloom” guide on the garden’s site helps families plan color-coded photo ops.

6. Kidspace Children’s Museum — Butterfly Season

Pasadena’s hands-on museum transforms its outdoor arroyo into a butterfly habitat every spring; nets, nectar stations, and life-cycle demos turn science class into playtime.

7. Aquarium of the Pacific — Tentacles & Ink

A newly arrived common octopus headlines the Aquarium’s Tentacles & Ink gallery for 2025, adding eight-armed antics to 12,000 existing sea creatures. Check feeding-time schedules to catch the octopus solving puzzles for snacks.

8. Street Food Cinema

This roving series launches in late April with live bands at 6:45 p.m., gourmet food-truck pods, and family fun sunset screenings at parks from Griffith to Pasadena. Families can reserve front-row lawn space or roll up with blankets and dogs in tow.

9. Griffith Park & Southern Railroad

Mini-locomotives puff through oak groves and over miniature bridges daily, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. in spring and summer. Pair the ride with a picnic or a hike to the observatory for a full-day adventure.

10. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Older kids can wander Hogwarts sets, pose on the Friends couch, and view Batmobiles during the 90-minute cart tour; stroller-friendly routes and shaded waiting areas keep younger siblings comfortable.

Tips for Seamless Spring Outings

Reserve early: Timed-entry attractions (NHM, Science Center, Kidspace) sell out quickly during school breaks.
Arrive at opening: Early slots at the Zoo and Pacific Park beat crowds and midday heat.
Pack layers: Coastal evenings dip into the 60s even after 80-degree days.
Hydrate sustainably: Most venues feature touch-free refill stations—bring reusable bottles to cut waste.

From walking among butterflies to watching a classic film beneath the stars, Los Angeles overflows with family-friendly possibilities each spring. Pick one or stitch several together for a multi-stop adventure—you’ll create family fun memories as bright as the season’s first blooms, all without leaving the 323.

April 28, 2025April 28, 2025

Curating a Luxury Home Wine Cellar | Home Tips

A well-designed luxury wine cellar does more than store bottles; it spotlights your passion, safeguards your investment, and adds undeniable cachet to your property. Whether you collect first-growth Bordeaux or boutique Napa Cabs, the following luxury wine cellar design principles will help you craft a space that is as functional as it is beautiful.

1. Start with Location and Climate Control

Temperature and humidity dictate how well wine ages. Aim for a constant 55 °F (13 °C) and 60–70 percent humidity. Basements remain popular, but modern cooling units make above-grade installations feasible. If you’re converting a spare room or under-stair alcove, insulate walls with closed-cell foam and install a vapor barrier before adding studwork. Pair a commercial-grade split or ducted cooling system with smart sensors that alert you to fluctuations on your phone—peace of mind in any zip code.

2. Choose Racking that Marries Form & Function

Racking is the jewelry of luxury wine cellar design. Traditionalists gravitate toward hand-finished mahogany or redwood; minimalists prefer powder-coated metal pegs that make bottles appear to float. Plan for three bottle configurations:

Standard 750 ml slots for everyday pours
Magnum or Champagne niches for large-format prestige bottles
Display rows pitched at a gentle angle to showcase labels without disturbing sediment

A blend of angled presentation rows and dense bulk storage maximizes capacity while keeping trophy bottles front and center. Include adjustable shelves for wooden cases, and don’t overlook a ventilated drawer for decanters and Coravin® tools.

3. Illuminate with Purpose

Lighting should flatter the wine and the architecture without emitting damaging heat or UV. Recessed LED strips tucked beneath shelves create a soft glow that highlights labels. Accent back-lighting behind showcase bottles or etched glass doors adds drama. Install fixtures on dimmers—lower light levels preserve cork integrity and set a welcoming ambiance for tastings.

4. Specify Finishes that Signal Sophistication

Floor-to-ceiling glass doors framed in slim bronze keep humidity in while putting your collection on full display. For floors, sealed limestone or wide-plank European oak resist temperature swings and moisture. Wall treatments can elevate the space: think herringbone brick, Venetian plaster, or even reclaimed barrel staves for subtle vineyard chic. Echo the cellar’s palette in adjoining tasting areas—leather stools, marble tasting tables, and antique wine maps tie the ensemble together.

5. Integrate Smart Tech & Security

Inventory management is no longer a pen-and-paper affair. Platforms like CellarTracker® or InVintory scan barcodes, track provenance, and forecast optimal drinking windows. A hidden IP camera and discreet motion sensor protect your investment, while biometric or keypad entry systems keep unauthorized hands away. Add a backup generator to maintain climate control during power outages—critical insurance for priceless vintages.

6. Elevate the Tasting Experience

Reserve space for a tasting nook: a small sink, integrated wine fridge for whites, and concealed trash cabinet streamline service. Ambient music, art-curated walls, and customizable RGB lighting turn private pours into memorable moments. Finally, include a display niche for rare empty bottles—think 1982 Lafite or Screaming Eagle—so guests can admire past triumphs as they toast future ones.

Final Pour

A thoughtfully executed luxury wine cellar design balances engineering precision with aesthetic finesse. By mastering climate, racking, lighting, and tech, you’ll create a cellar that matures your wines gracefully while serving as a showpiece for your home. Raise a glass: the ultimate connoisseur’s retreat is only a blueprint—and a few carefully stacked bottles—away.

April 25, 2025April 26, 2025

Economic Update | Week Ending April 26, 2025

This week major stock market indexes jumped, and bond yields settled as investors have become less uncertain about the economy. Following the April 2nd announcement of tariffs on about 90 countries which panicked investors and markets worldwide, there have been a lot of developments which have calmed the markets. On April 9th, following the initial sell off, President Trump announced a 90-day pause on almost all countries except China. An all-out Trade war followed with China raising their tariffs and Trump raising tariffs to 145% on all goods coming from China. Over the last two weeks, both sides have toned down the rhetoric as economic forecasts for both countries were not positive. On April 12th President Trump exempted smartphones, computer monitors, chips, and various electronics from the 145% tariffs on Chinese goods. Administration officials have spoken about progress in trade negotiations. This has calmed investors from their initial panic. Last week President Trump spoke about firing Fed Chairman Powell, who he referred to as a loser. Investors again became less optimistic, stock markets dropped, and bond yields and interest rates jumped, but on Tuesday President Trump said that “he has no intentions of firing Powell.” On Wednesday Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, “There was an opportunity for a big deal” on trade between the U.S. and China in his address to the Institute of International Finance. On Friday, President Trump said that he has negotiated 200 trade deals that would be completed within three to four weeks. Investors, world leaders, economists, and consumers are feeling better about the ramifications of the tariffs than they were when the initial announcement was made on April 2nd.

Stocks Markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 40,113.50, up 2.5% from 39,142.23 last week. It is down 10% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,525.21, up 4.6% from 5,282.70 last week. The S&P is down 8.7% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 17,382.94, up 6.7% from 16,286.45 last week. It is down 11.4% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024.

U.S. Treasury bond yields jump – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.29%, down from 4.34% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.74%, down from 4.80% 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 April 24, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, nearly unchanged from 6.83% last week. The 15-year fixed rate was 5.94%, downfrom 6.03% last week.

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

U.S. existing-home sales March 2025 – The National Association of Realtorsreported that existing-home sales totaled 4.04-million units on a seasonal annualized rate in March, down 5.9% month-over-month from an annualized rate of 4.26-million units in February. Year-over-year sales slipped 2.4% from an annualized rate of 4.12 million units. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in March was $403,700, up 2.7% from $392,900 one year ago. There was a 4-month supply of homes for sale in February, up from a 3.2-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 32% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 15% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 26% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

Have a Great Weekend!

April 24, 2025April 24, 2025

Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27

The weekend has arrived, and so has your round-up of local fun! From Earth Day celebrations to the LA Times Book Fest and more, we have you covered! Check out what’s happening around town from April 25 through April 27.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27

Camp Cleanup: Earth Day

When: April 26

Where: Atwater Village

What: Swap your Saturday scroll for a riverside reboot with L.A. Waterkeeper at North Atwater Park. Spend a feel-good morning scooping litter while soaking up stories about the L.A. River’s past and future, then head home clutching a handmade wildflower seed ball—your personal mission to keep pollinators buzzing.

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books

When: April 26 – April 27

Where: USC Campus

What: Bookworms, assemble: USC’s sunny campus morphs into a bibliophile block party during the two-day Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, where you can browse rows of indie stalls, nab hot-off-the-press signings, and catch star-studded chats with the likes of Chelsea Handler, Jenny Slate, Jon M. Chu, Rachel Kushner, and TJ Klune—plus chef demos from Brooke Williamson and Nicole Rucker. Entry and most talks are free (premium speaker sessions start around $10), so bring the kids for screenings, live tunes, and cultural performances, then toast the written word at Friday’s Los Angeles Times Book Prizes.

Pizza City Fest

When: April 26 – April 27

Where: L.A. Live | DTLA

What: Stretchy-pants alert: L.A. Live transforms into a molten-cheese playground as Pizza Fest rolls in with 40 slice slingers under one roof. Graze your way through Time Out faves like Pizzana, Triple Beam, and Prince Street while gawking at dough-flipping demos and saucy chats with pie pros Roxana Jullapat and Andy Wang—it’s basically the carb Olympics.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27

Skirball Puppet Festival

When: April 27

Where: Westside

What: Watch the Skirball morph into a living toy box as marionettes, shadow sprites, and full-body giants roam between show-stopping acts from L.A.’s best puppeteers. Jam to live music, craft your own pint-size performers, and soak up classic and brand-new tales in a festival where the strings—and the smiles—never stop.

Pixar Putt

When: February 7 – June 1

Where: Anaheim

What: After stops at D23 and 2nd & PCH, Pixar Putt has found its perfect home at the Pixar Place Hotel, near California Adventure. This 18-hole mini-golf course brings Pixar classics like Toy Story, The Incredibles, and Coco to life. Opening weekend is sold out, but the course runs through June 1.

Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion

When: Until August 31

Where: Westside

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27

Universal Fan Fest Nights

When: April 25 – May 18

Where: Universal City

Habitat Restoration Day & Earth Month Celebration

When: April 26

Where: Van Nuys

What: Swap your Saturday stroll for an Earth Day–powered eco-workout with Friends of the L.A. River at Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve. Rip out fire-fueling invaders, pick up watershed wisdom, and leave with dirt-under-your-nails bragging rights—all totally free once you RSVP.

Friends of My Place: A Curated Wine & Music Experience

When: April 26

Where: Who Goes There | 13737 Ventura Boulevard

What: My Place uncorks an easy-going night of boutique pours, vinyl grooves, and “schnacks” to keep your palate happy between sips. Drift from the DJ’s spinning stacks to the tasting table, swirl a glass (or two) you’ll want to take home, and mingle with fellow wine lovers—no dress code, no pretense, just pure vino vibes. Pre-order your wine-and-snack combo to lock in the good times.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27

Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Cruise Night

When: April 25

Where: 2222 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010

What: Rev up those engines—the Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Cruise rolls back into town every fourth Friday, March 28 through October 24 (4–7 p.m.). Parade your classic car down Ventura Boulevard to Studio Channel Islands Art Center, where 200+ gleaming rides, live music, vendors, and face-painting await—and don’t forget to grab pre-ordered bites from Old Town eateries to fuel the fun.

28th Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fishing Derby

When: April 26 and April 27

Where: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

What: Join the fun at the 28th Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fishing Derby at Cachuma Lake, April 26–27, 2025, featuring competitive fishing categories for crappie, catfish, trout, bass, sunfish, and carp. With an increased prize pool this year, participants can win cash, fishing gear, and more.

Ventura EcoFest

When: April 27

Where: 2060 Cameron St | Ventura

What: Celebrate Earth Day at the Ventura EcoFest, hosted by Ventura Charter School, on Sunday, April 27 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Enjoy live performances, eco-friendly vendors, interactive kids’ activities, delicious local food, and a raffle featuring a $1,000 Disney Cash grand prize. Attendees are encouraged to use sustainable transportation, and proceeds support the school’s sustainability-focused educational programs.