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From a New Beatles Song to Threads Updates and More! | Tech News

From a New Beatles Song to Threads updates and more! Exciting developments are constantly on the horizon in the ever-evolving world of technology and entertainment. Today, we dive into a captivating mix of tech and pop culture updates. Join us on this journey to discover the intersection of innovation and creativity!

Apple Prepares for a Lightning-Fast Product Event Right Before Halloween

Apple is set to host a product launch event called “Scary Fast” on October 30th, sparking rumors of new Mac updates. The event invites viewers to tune in on Apple.com and YouTube, featuring an Apple logo transforming into the Finder icon. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hinted at a “Mac-centered product launch.” Speculation points to a refreshed 24-inch iMac and a new MacBook Pro, potentially featuring Apple’s M3 chip for enhanced performance. While Apple typically unveils new iPads in October, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests updates may come in the following year. The event follows Apple’s recent “Wonderlust” event, which introduced the iPhone 15 lineup, Apple Watch updates, and more. Excitement builds as Apple’s event draws closer, promising surprises.

Boston Dynamics Transforms Its Robot Dog into a Verbal Tour Guide with ChatGPT

Boston Dynamics has given its robot dog, Spot, the ability to talk and act as a tour guide. In a quirky video, Spot wears a top hat and mustache while speaking in a British accent and guiding viewers through the company’s facilities. Using OpenAI’s ChatGPT API and text-to-speech capabilities, Spot responds to questions and mimics speech movements. The robot even takes on various personas, including a 1920s archaeologist and a sarcastic character. While the video showcases Spot’s playful side, it raises questions about the capabilities of a robot widely used by police and the military. Boston Dynamics sees potential in combining AI and robotics for various applications.

Threads Introduces Polls and GIFs Features

Meta is introducing the ability to create polls and insert GIFs directly within the Threads post composer. CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased these features with a poll, which includes real-time countdown timers for voting. To view poll results, you’ll need to participate, and Threads will notify you when it concludes. Additionally, a new GIF icon allows for easy GIF searches from Giphy, offering trending options or specific GIF searches. While these are relatively minor additions, they bring Threads closer in line with features available on other platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Threads, launched in July, has already amassed “just under” 100 million monthly active users, as disclosed by Zuckerberg during an earnings call.

The Beatles’ Last Song Reconstructed with the Aid of Artificial Intelligence

WingNut Films’ AI technology, initially used for Peter Jackson’s 2021 Beatles documentary, has enabled the release of the group’s final song, “Now and Then.” John Lennon’s vocals were recovered from an old cassette of the unfinished track, recorded in the 1970s, using this technology. The song will be accompanied by a 12-minute documentary titled “Now and Then – The Last Beatles Song,” directed by Oliver Murray. Both the song and the documentary will be available for streaming and download, with a vinyl release of “Now and Then” paired with “Love Me Do.” The documentary debuts on November 1st, the song on November 2nd, and the music video on November 3rd. Paul McCartney expressed his emotion upon hearing Lennon’s voice on a genuine Beatles recording in 2023, and Ringo Starr described the experience as the closest they’ll ever come to having Lennon back in the room.

Tesla Secures Landmark $100 Million Supercharger Deal with BP

BP is set to buy $100 million worth of Supercharger equipment from Tesla. This marks the first time Tesla has provided DC fast-charging hardware for a third-party network. BP Pulse, BP’s EV charging business, will utilize this equipment to expand its charging network, with plans to invest up to $1 billion by 2030. Tesla’s hardware can provide fast charging up to 250kW and supports multiple EV types. These chargers will be deployed at BP-affiliated locations and third-party sites, initially in cities like Houston, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, DC, starting next year. BP Pulse’s Superchargers will run on the Omega software, offering user-friendly Plug-and-Charge capabilities.

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Weekend Events: Halloweekend Edition

Get ready for all that Halloweekend has in store as we take you on a thrilling journey through the bewitching heart of Los Angeles. The city of angels is gearing up for a spine-chilling weekend packed with ghoulishly delightful events. From haunted houses to family-friendly festivals, eerie night tours to costume extravaganzas, and more. Whether you’re a fearless thrill-seeker or a pumpkin-spice aficionado, there’s something for everyone in this metropolis of macabre merriment. So, grab your broomsticks and jack-o’-lanterns, as we guide you through the top Halloween happenings across the City of Angels this weekend!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | Halloweekend Edition

Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever

When: October 28

Where: Hollywood Forever Cemetary

What: Hollywood Forever Cemetery proudly boasts the title of California’s grandest Day of the Dead celebration, and there’s no reason to question it. The cemetery’s landscape is adorned with altars, adorned in dance rituals, alive with musical performances, buzzing with arts and crafts projects, and bustling with food vendors, not to mention the vibrant crowds that gather. This year’s festivities are once more divided into two ticketed events: a daytime session and an evening one.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Live with Danny Elfman

When: October 27 – 29

Where: Hollywood Bowl

What: Witness Danny Elfman’s return to the character of Jack Skellington as he takes the stage for a live performance and screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas. This unique concert-and-movie experience promises an exciting costume contest, delightful trick-or-treating, and a roster of esteemed special guests. Look forward to appearances by Halsey on Friday and Saturday, Catherine O’Hara on Sunday, and the talents of Ken Page throughout the weekend, along with Riki Lindhome on Friday and Saturday and Fred Armisen all weekend long.

Haunted Little Tokyo

When: Until October 28

Where: Little Tokyo

What: Annually, Haunted Little Tokyo magically transforms the neighborhood into a spooky labyrinth filled with Halloween-themed pop-up attractions, guided walking tours, and captivating performances. In this year’s edition, you have the opportunity to join a thrilling scavenger hunt scheduled for October 28th from 1 pm to 5 pm, and later, you can dance the night away at an exhilarating block party on October 28th from 1 pm to 5 pm.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | Halloweekend Edition

MOLAA’s Day of the Dead

When: October 29

Where: Long Beach

What: The Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach is commemorating Day of the Dead with an afternoon filled with delectable food, enchanting music, and a plethora of festive elements. Tied to the museum’s upcoming exhibition exploring the intricacies of Mexican cuisine, this year’s “Heco con Amor” celebration features more than thirty vendors, nine diverse food stations, delectable sweets, a selection of beer and wine, along with entertaining activities like face painting, a sugar skull workshop, printmaking, and tattoo artistry.

Howl-O-Ween at PetSpace

When: October 28

Where: Playa Vista

What: Select and adorn a “pup-kin,” indulge in delectable treats suitable for both humans and furry companions, and brave a spine-tingling maze featuring a truly frightening mailman at this Halloween event where costumes are encouraged, and dogs are welcome. Join the fun at the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace in Playa Vista.

Oogie Boogie Bash

When: Until October 31 

Where: Anaheim 

What: Look who’s back! The “Nightmare Before Christmas” infamous bug-filled sack is reprising its role for the Oogie Boogie Bash at Disneyland. Join this exclusive after-hours event with special tickets at Disney California Adventure Park this Halloween season.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | Halloweekend Edition

Octoberfest Encino Village Block Party

When: October 29

Where: Encino

What: Trick-or-Treat and enjoy family-friendly frights and thrills at this year’s Octoberfest Block Party. There will be face painting, pie eating contest, and so much more!

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 7 – October 31

Where: Universal Studios

What: Spooky season is creeping in, whether we’re ready for it or not. The most evident indicator? Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights has arrived, featuring haunted houses inspired by titles like The Last of Us, Stranger Things, Evil Dead Rise, The Purge, The Exorcist: Believer, and beyond.

Urban Death

When: Until October 31

Where: North Hollywood

What: Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group hosts a chilling series of vignettes. Armed with a shoddy flashlight to illuminate their path, guests navigate a labyrinth of terror before enduring a series of shocking scenes (over the course of roughly 35 minutes) that will unsettle even the most stoic of horror fans.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | Halloweekend Edition

When: October 27, 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Where: 93 W Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks

What: Thousand Oaks Post Acute presents “TOPA Trunk or Treat.” Don’t miss the 2nd annual trunk or treat on Friday, October 27, 2023, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Located at 93 West Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks. Our parking lot will be filled with decorated trunks, activities, and food. Free event for all. For additional information, call (805) 492-2444.

Nights of the Jack

When: September 29 – October 31

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Stroll through the picturesque King Gillette Ranch this Halloweekend, as this hidden gem in the Santa Monica Mountains comes alive with the warm glow of thousands of intricately hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns. Nights of the Jack is back for another year, offering a one-mile walking trail experience, complete with delicious food trucks and a “Spookeasy” for added excitement. In 2023, Nights of the Jack has introduced new features to enhance the experience, including an augmented reality scavenger hunt along the trail, a captivating Día de Los Muertos display, stunning lantern art, and a special section known as “the Enchanted Forest.”

Reign of Terror Haunted House

When: September 29 – November 4 

Where: Janss Marketplace

What: Janss Marketplace has revealed the dates and ticket sales launch for the 17-night Reign of Terror Haunted House, a highly acclaimed immersive haunt experience in the U.S. Celebrating its 24th season, Reign of Terror opens its doors on September 24th at Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks, offering 138 unique rooms and 10 interconnected, spine-chilling attractions, spanning over 28,000 sq ft of floor space, all revamped and improved for 2023.

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The Top Halloween Parties for 2023 | Out & About

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for the ultimate way to celebrate in Los Angeles this year, you’re in luck. From extravagant costume carnivals to eerie EDM extravaganzas, the City of Angels is gearing up for some spine-tingling soirées. Get ready for a ghoulishly good time as we take you on a journey through the top Halloween parties in Los Angeles for 2023.

1. West Hollywood Halloween Costume Carnaval

  • Date: October 31, 2023
  • Location: Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood

The West Hollywood Halloween Costume Carnaval is not just a party; it’s a legendary street celebration that draws over half a million revelers. This year, join the massive crowd on Santa Monica Boulevard for an unforgettable night of dancing, drinking, and jaw-dropping costumes. While there are impromptu costume contests, it’s best to arrive dressed to impress. Don’t be a party pooper in jeans and a t-shirt—go all out for this larger-than-life Halloween extravaganza.

2. Fleetmac Wood Clubs – Silver Storms Ball

  • Date: October 27, 2023
  • Location: Boyle Heights

Experience the magic of Fleetwood Mac like never before at the Fleetmac Wood Clubs’ “Silver Storms Ball.” This London-based collective will have you grooving to new edits and remixes of Fleetwood Mac’s timeless classics. Dress extravagantly, whether Mac-related or not and prepare for a night of unabashed Fleetwood fun.

3. Mayan Warrior

  • Date: October 28, 2023
  • Location: Downtown Los Angeles

Bid farewell to a beloved L.A. institution as the Mayan Warrior art car holds its final event in Grand Park. This Halloween-themed party will showcase Mexican talent and serve as a fundraiser in partnership with local event collective Stranger Than. Dance the night away and pay tribute to a decade of unforgettable memories.

4. Cinespia Halloween

  • Date: Until October 31, 2023
  • Location: Downtown Historic Core

While Cinespia is famous for its cemetery screenings, its indoor Halloween events are just as eccentric. Enjoy a screening of “Rosemary’s Baby” at the Orpheum, complete with a costume party, delicious food, a full bar, and the famous Cinespia photo booth.

5. Halloween at Skybar

  • Dates: October 27 – October 31, 2023
  • Location: West Hollywood

The Mondrian’s Skybar is hosting not one but three Halloween parties this year. From the Halloween-themed edition of “The Hustle” to “Fright Night” and an evening of deep house on Halloween itself, there’s no shortage of spooky entertainment at this iconic venue.

6. Minimal Effort

  • Date: October 28, 2023
  • Location: South Los Angeles

For fans of underground house and techno, Minimal Effort promises an unforgettable Halloween party. With top talent like Ewan McVicar, Mild Minds, Manics, and Pam Sessions on the decks, you won’t need much effort to have a fantastic time.

7. Halloween at Cicada Restaurant and Lounge

  • Date: October 28, 2023
  • Location: Downtown Financial District

Step back in time at Downtown’s Cicada Club, an Art Deco ballroom inside the Oviatt Building. Enjoy an evening of big-band music and consider upgrading your ticket for a prix-fixe dinner that adds a touch of elegance to your Halloween celebrations.

8. Strange Science at the Hauntington

  • Date: October 28, 2023
  • Location: San Marino

Embrace the intellectual side of Halloween at the Hauntington with “Strange Science.” This event promises theatrical performances, scholarly lectures, rare object displays, candlelight art gallery tours, and captivating discussions on queer witchcraft and Vincent Price horror films. Enjoy ballet and acrobatic performances in this unique and festive setting.

9. Halloween Monster Night

  • Date: October 28, 2023
  • Location: Hollywood

Get ready for a clubby Halloween party like no other at Sunset Room Hollywood. Dress as extravagantly or as daringly as you like, and join the festivities featuring four DJs, three bars, aerialists, dancers, and thrilling costume contests. Halloween Monster Night has been a Hollywood tradition since ’99, and it’s not to be missed.

Los Angeles is pulling out all the stops to make this year an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re into spooky spectacles, electronic beats, or intellectual soirées, there’s a ghoulish party in LA that’s perfect for you. So, grab your costumes, your friends, and your spooky spirit, and get ready for a hauntingly good time in the City of Angels.

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Fall Wreath Ideas We Love | Home Tips

Everyone looks forward to autumn: a period you can find an excuse for a front door refresh. We are not referring to fresh paint for your home but a gorgeous high-end wreath to greet your guests in the upcoming holidays.

We have gathered the best fall wreaths that consistently capture every luxury homeowner’s or designer’s attention. It is easy to get the look you desire with the following mix of up-to-date fall wreaths for your home.

1. Luxury Autumn Mantle Garland

Welcome your guests with an elegant harvest garland. This Handmade wreath is an excellent addition to your fall home decor. You can buy one online, or you can make it at home. You will need decorative flowers in bold shades to give your wreath a gorgeous look. Use Authentic crocheted pumpkins for a unique flair. This piece features a snowy pine garland and decorative flowers in red, yellow, and orange shades. Add white and pale cream accents for a luxury finish.

2. A Star is Born Wreath

This piece is simple yet classic. Stand out with a star is born wreath in a big way. Making this wreath is simple if you already have a black star stand in your home. Tie leaves or tan papers together and attach them to the stand to get a cream-colored wreath burst. The contrasting black background gives the centerpiece a perfect vitality and energy for your home throughout the holiday season.

3. Elegant Green Metallic Bay Leaf

Do not discount a simple, beautiful, classic wreath’s uniqueness. Use leaflike and botanical florals to achieve a gorgeous look that will say a loud, merry hello to your visitors during the holiday. Darby Creeks make wreaths with utmost care to add to fall decor or gift your loved ones during the holiday.

4. A Tropical Delight

Unlike many wreaths that take the typical fall look, the Tropical Delight assumes a gorgeous look and feels ideal for winter and autumn seasonal decorations. You need materials like pastel-colored flowers, palm leaves, and dried stalk base to make your Tropical Delight. Use burlap fabric to create a bow and decorate flowers and palm leaves. Add a personalized letter to welcome your visitors.

5. Autumn Rice Flower

Welcome your visitors with the beauty and monochromatic flair of the wreath. The Autumn Rice Flower Wreath features faux materials with a fantastic texture that creates natural beauty for your home. Magnolia’s wreath is an excellent addition to your fall decor.

6. Pine Chip Brown Wreath

Crate and barrel using one key ingredient to make a fall wreath that doubles as door decor and tabletop centerpiece. The pinecone chips used to make the pine Chip Brown Wreath add elegance to your home.

Shopping for Fall Wreaths

The season of glorious fall foliage is a reminder that we are getting closer to holidays, such as Thanksgiving. As you prepare for fall wreath shopping, ensure that you find a shop that offers a beautiful floral collection.

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Weekly Economic Update | Week Ending October 21, 2023

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Stock markets dropped again this week – Recent data has shown that the economy has heated back. This has caused interest rates to rise further. Some data this month included: The number of new jobs created in August surged after falling in July. The CPI has risen for three consecutive months after dropping for twelve straight months prior to June. Retail sales jumped and increased in an amount that was more than double the increase that experts expected. Third quarter corporate profits have been stronger than expected. Jerome Powell spoke this week. Following his comments on bond yields, raising debt to finance, a tight labor market, and inflation, stocks dropped further and bond yields rose to their highest yields since the 2008 financial crisis. While economists are trying to stay out of politics, the situation in Israel and the infighting in the House of Representatives has to be looked at as well for the drop in stock prices and the rise in interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 33,127.29, down 1.6% from 33,670.29 last week. It is down 0.1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,224.16, down 2.4% from 4,327.78 last week.  It is up 10% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 12,983.81, down 3.2% from 13,407.28 last week. It is up 24% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.93%, up from 4.63% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 5.09%, up from 4.78% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of October 19, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.63%, up from 7.57% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.92%, up from 6.89% last week.

U.S. existing-home sales – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.96 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in September, down 15.4% from an annualized rate of 4.68 million in September 2022.  The median price for a home in the U.S. in August was $394,300, up 3.2% from $383,500 last September. There was a 3.4-month supply of homes for sale in September, up from a 3.2-month supply last September. First-time buyers accounted for 27% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 18% of all sales. All-cash purchases accounted for 29% of all sales.  Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing–home sales totaled 240,940 on a seasonally adjusted annualized basis in September, down 5.4% month-over-month from August, and down 21.5% from a revised 307,000 annualized sales pace in September 2022. September marked the twelfth straight month with sales dropping under 300,000 on an annualized basis.  Year-to-date, the number of homes sold was down 28.5% from the first nine months of 2022. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $843,340, up 3.2% from $817,150 a year ago. There was a 2.8-month supply of single-family homes for sale in September.

The graph below includes sales data by county in Southern California.

Have a great weekend!
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Weekend Events | October 20 – October 22

Get ready for a thrilling October! From eerie movie nights and spooky events to family-friendly gatherings and beyond, we’ve got your schedule packed with excitement. Dive into our weekly selection of local happenings from October 20 to October 22.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 20 – October 22 

Cinespia Cemetery Screenings

When: Until October 31 

Where: Hollywood Forever Cemetery

What: The renowned cemetery screening series in Los Angeles concludes its season with a lineup of eerie selections. This includes a screening of “Halloween” on October 14 and “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” on October 21 at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Additionally, there will be an off-site showing of “The Ring” on October 20 at L.A. State Historic Park.

Dine L.A.

When: October 6 – October 20

Where: Various Locations

What: Spend your Friday dining in style for the final day of Dine L.A.! The bi-annual two-week dining event returned for its autumn edition and it has not disappointed. You can enjoy prix fixe menus at numerous restaurants, with options for both takeout and dine-in, starting as low as $15 for lunch and $25 for dinner.

CicLAvia: Heart of L.A.

When: Until December 3 

Where: Downtown LA

What: CicLAvia’s upcoming ride on October 15 promises to be one of its most remarkable events to date. This bike-friendly gathering will transform nearly eight miles of city streets into car-free zones. The route will encompass iconic areas such as Figueroa and Broadway in downtown Los Angeles, Chinatown, 1st and Central in Little Tokyo within the Arts District, and extend across the 6th Street Bridge towards 1st Street in Boyle Heights.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events |  October 20 – October 22 

Beverly Hills Art Show

When: October 21 – October 22

Where: Beverly Gardens Park

What: Since 1973, artists have gathered at Beverly Gardens Park every spring and fall to display their creations at what was once known as the Affaire in the Gardens festival. This year, the event will spotlight 230 artists presenting a diverse range of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, watercolors, photography, and more. Spanning four blocks along the picturesque Santa Monica Boulevard, between Rodeo and Rexford Drive, the festival promises to offer something for everyone. Attendees can enjoy free children’s activities, indulge in delicious food from food trucks, and savor beverages in the beer and wine gardens while enjoying live music performances.

Made in L.A.

When: September 30 – December 31

Where: Westwood

What: The Hammer Museum’s impressive series of biennial exhibitions continually raises the bar by shining a spotlight on emerging and often overlooked Los Angeles artists, and the sixth installment appears to be no different. Titled “Acts of Living,” this year’s exhibition centers around the idea that art is an integral part of our everyday lives. It presents a diverse collection of works, blending new commissions with historical pieces from 39 talented and prolific artists such as Marcel Alcalá, Sula Bermúdez-Silverman, Jibz Cameron, and many more.

Oogie Boogie Bash

When: Until October 31 

Where: Anaheim 

What: Look who’s back! The “Nightmare Before Christmas” infamous bug-filled sack is reprising its role for the Oogie Boogie Bash at Disneyland. Join this exclusive after-hours event with special tickets at Disney California Adventure Park this Halloween season.

San Fernando Valley Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 20 – October 22 

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 7 – October 31

Where: Universal Studios

What: Spooky season is creeping in, whether we’re ready for it or not. The most evident indicator? Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights has arrived, featuring haunted houses inspired by titles like The Last of Us, Stranger Things, Evil Dead Rise, The Purge, The Exorcist: Believer, and beyond.

CicLAmini: North Hollywood

When: September 17 – December 3

Where: North Hollywood

What: Cycle through a mile of Lankershim Boulevard during this compact version of the vehicle-free, bicycle-centric festival.

Urban Death

When: Until October 31

Where: North Hollywood

What: Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group hosts a chilling series of vignettes. Armed with a shoddy flashlight to illuminate their path, guests navigate a labyrinth of terror before enduring a series of shocking scenes (over the course of roughly 35 minutes) that will unsettle even the most stoic of horror fans.

Conejo Valley Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 20 – October 22 

Halloween Haunted Trail, Costume Contest, and Trick-or-Treat Street

When: October 21

Where: 2525 N. Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oak

What: Head to Thousand Oaks this Saturday for a Halloween event designed for young children by the Conejo Recreation & Park District. Enjoy the Haunted Trail, costume contest (starting at 6:00 PM), Trick-or-Treat Street (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM), and a captivating live reptile show at 7:00 PM. Tickets for the Haunted Trail are $5 per person (ages 2+), available online at crpd.org, with a standby line for $5 (cash only). Don’t miss the fun – buy your tickets early!

Nights of the Jack

When: September 29 – October 31

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Stroll through the picturesque King Gillette Ranch as this hidden gem in the Santa Monica Mountains comes alive with the warm glow of thousands of intricately hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns. Nights of the Jack is back for another year, offering a one-mile walking trail experience, complete with delicious food trucks and a “Spookeasy” for added excitement. In 2023, Nights of the Jack has introduced new features to enhance the experience, including an augmented reality scavenger hunt along the trail, a captivating Día de Los Muertos display, stunning lantern art, and a special section known as “the Enchanted Forest.”

Reign of Terror Haunted House

When: September 29 – November 4 

Where: Janss Marketplace

What: Janss Marketplace has revealed the dates and ticket sales launch for the 17-night Reign of Terror Haunted House, a highly acclaimed immersive haunt experience in the U.S. Celebrating its 24th season, Reign of Terror opens its doors on September 24th at Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks, offering 138 unique rooms and 10 interconnected, spine-chilling attractions, spanning over 28,000 sq ft of floor space, all revamped and improved for 2023.

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From Wi-Fi 7 to Electric Jets and More! | Tech News

Stay connected in the world of technology and media. Our weekly round-up of the latest tech news gives you a bite-size version of today’s headlines. From Wi-Fi 7 to Electric Jets and more, we have you covered!

What is Wi-Fi 7 — and do you even need it?

Wi-Fi is gearing up for another upgrade with the imminent arrival of Wi-Fi 7, following Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E. This new generation promises significant speed improvements, enhanced interference handling, and reduced network latency. Unlike previous upgrades, Wi-Fi 7 will still work seamlessly with older devices, gradually delivering better performance as you upgrade your devices to support the new standard. The key improvements in Wi-Fi 7 include increased bandwidth with 320MHz channel support, Multi-Link Operation (MLO) for combining bands, and an increase in MU-MIMO spatial streams to 16 x 16. It aims to make your smart home more reliable and improve mesh systems by allowing seamless band switching. Overall, Wi-Fi 7 holds the potential for significantly faster and more efficient wireless networking, even if the promise of 8K video may not be its most immediate benefit.

Compact, High-Speed Public EV Chargers Now Available and Expanding Rapidly

Gravity, the company known for its electric taxi fleet in New York City, has developed a compact and ultra-fast DC charging system tailored for densely populated urban areas, addressing the limited charging options for electric vehicle owners in cities. Their system, consisting of “Distributed Energy Access Points,” can deliver an impressive 500kW of energy, significantly reducing charging times. While current vehicles in North America cannot accept power beyond 350kW, Gravity aims to future-proof its setup for upcoming models. The first 500kW charging station is set to open in Midtown Manhattan, offering faster charging solutions for urban EV users.

Google Meet Introduces Skin Smoothing and Teeth Whitening Effects for Video Calls

Google is introducing a highly requested feature that allows users to apply “beauty” effects during video calls. The Google Meet portrait touch-up feature is rolling out on mobile devices for early adopters, with a broader rollout scheduled for October 28th. It will also come to Google Meet on the web by the end of 2023. Users can choose between two portrait modes, “Subtle” and “Smoothing,” offering varying levels of complexion smoothing, under-eye lightening, and teeth whitening. This feature, aimed at lightly enhancing appearance, can be enabled in the settings and is available for premium Google accounts, excluding personal accounts. Despite being a later addition compared to competitors like Microsoft Teams and Zoom, it addresses the demand for such tools in professional video conferencing.

This Electric 30-Rotor Jet Can Be Yours…For $10 Million

German electric aviation company Lilium has partnered with EMC Jet, a Texas-based air brokerage and management firm, to break into the US electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft market. The company plans to sell its premium Lilium Pioneer eVTOL jets, which are designed as a sustainable alternative for private jet users, priced at $10 million each. These jets offer a range of around 110 miles and are ideal for short hops between airports or quick trips within urban areas. Despite not having FAA and EASA certification yet, Lilium aims to secure orders with payments tied to them ahead of receiving the necessary approvals, a common practice in the private aviation market. They project receiving the final type and production certification in 2025 at the earliest.

X to Introduce an Annual $1 Fee for New Users in Two Countries

X is introducing a $1 per year subscription for new web users in New Zealand and the Philippines. The paid plan will be part of its “Not A Bot” program aimed at reducing spam and manipulation. Users in these countries will also need to verify their accounts with a phone number. This new subscription is separate from X’s main $8 per month subscription. Users who opt not to subscribe will have limited access. Likewise, they will only be able to perform “read-only” actions like viewing posts and videos.

Original Pixel Watch Receives Wear OS 4 Update from Google

Google is releasing Wear OS 4 for its original Pixel Watch. The update will gradually roll out to users in the coming weeks depending on their carrier and device. The update introduces several enhancements, including the Google Calendar app, enhanced notifications, and more. It also enables data transfer to a new phone without a factory reset. Likewise, this allows data and settings backup for upgrading to a new Pixel Watch. However, the original Pixel Watch may not support Safety Signal, available on the Pixel Watch 2 through Fitbit Premium. This feature connects to LTE networks for emergency features.

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Weekly Economic Update | Week Ending October 14, 2023

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Stock markets were relatively unchanged this week – Despite the war in the Middle East, stock markets ended the week about the same as they were last week. We did see stocks drop following the September CPI report which showed that inflation picked up slightly in September with consumer prices increasing 3.7% from one year ago. That marked the third consecutive month of the key inflation reading increasing after dropping steadily from 9.1% year-over-year in June 2023 to 3% year-over-year in June of 2023. Unfortunately, that trend ended in July and consumer prices increases have ticked up steadily in the past three months. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 33,670.29, up 0.8% from 33,407.58 last week. It is up 1.6% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,327.78, up 0.4% from 4,308.54 last week. It is up 12.7% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 13,407.28, down 0.2% from 13,431.34 last week. It is up 28.1% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.63%, down from 4.78% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.78%, down from 4.95% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of October 12, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.57%, up from 7.49% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.89% up from 6.78% last week.

Real estate sales figures for September closings 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 city or zip code at RodeoRe.com.

Have a great weekend!
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From Threads Edit Feature to Starlink’s Cell Plan and More! | Tech News

Connect with this week’s major tech news headlines! From Threads Edit Feature to Starlink’s Cell Plan and more, we have you covered. Check out this week’s blog below for the tech news you won’t want to miss.

Threads Introduces an Edit Feature

Meta is introducing two significant updates to its Threads platform, according to CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The first is an edit feature that allows Threads users to modify their posts within five minutes of publication, without requiring a subscription fee like Twitter’s Blue service. Edited posts will be indicated with an icon next to the timestamp, although an edit history feature is not currently available. The second feature is “Voice Threads,” enabling users to create voice posts. This feature, available on the iOS app, allows users to record their voice, with the spoken text highlighted in the post as it plays. Meta has been consistently expanding Threads’ capabilities since its launch, including adding a chronological following feed, a web client, and post search functionality.

Adobe Develops Generative AI for Video Manipulation

Adobe unveiled Project Fast Fill, an experimental AI tool for video manipulation, showcased at the MAX conference. It can add or remove objects in videos with ease, akin to Google’s Magic Editor but for video. This feature is being considered for integration into Premiere Pro and After Effects. Adobe is actively developing AI editing tech for various media, including audio, 3D design, and voice translation. With AI tools for both photos and videos becoming more accessible, questions about media authenticity arise. Fast Fill marks a significant step toward broader AI-driven video manipulation.

Google’s AI-Enhanced Search Can Now Generate Images

Google is introducing its Search Generative Experience (SGE), allowing users to generate images from text prompts starting Thursday. This move follows Microsoft’s introduction of a similar feature in Bing Chat using OpenAI’s DALL-E model earlier this year. With SGE, users opted into Google’s Search Labs program can enter a query in the search bar, and the AI-powered tool generates images based on the prompt. The tool is powered by the Imagen family of AI models. Google also emphasizes responsible use, embedding metadata and watermarking to denote AI-generated images and preventing violations of its prohibited use policy. Additionally, Google is introducing draft generation tools using SGE for written content, allowing users to export drafts to Google Docs or Gmail.

Starlink Unveils New Page to Promote Upcoming Cellular Service in 2024

SpaceX has launched a new webpage to promote its upcoming “Starlink Direct to Cell” service, which aims to provide cellular connectivity to existing LTE phones using satellite technology. Initially, the service will focus on texting in 2024, with voice and data functionality planned for 2025, along with support for IoT devices. The service will work with existing LTE phones without the need for hardware, firmware changes, or special apps, offering seamless access to text, voice, and data. While the service may have relatively slower speeds of two to four megabits per second compared to terrestrial networks, it will provide extensive coverage, including remote areas in the continental US, Hawaii, parts of Alaska, Puerto Rico, territorial waters, and beyond T-Mobile’s network signal. Satellite connectivity for smartphones is becoming increasingly important, with companies like Apple and AST SpaceMobile exploring satellite-based solutions for emergency communication and 5G connectivity.

TikTok Revamps Payment System for Creators of Popular Filters and Effects

TikTok is introducing significant changes to its creator fund. This will be specifically for those who develop popular filters and effects on the platform. The Effect Creator Rewards program, is expanding to more regions, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, and the Philippines. The eligibility requirements have also been revised. Now creators can join with just five published filters, with at least three of them used in 1,000 videos. The payment structure will shift from a flat fee to a variable rate depending on factors like the region. These changes aim to make it easier for a wider range of effects creators to participate and potentially earn money from their creations. Previously, creators were often making filters without compensation, and the new system seeks to improve their monetization opportunities.

Uber Eats Introduces Multi-Store Ordering Feature

Uber Eats has introduced a new feature called “multi-store ordering.” The feature allows customers to order from two different stores or restaurants simultaneously without an extra fee. This feature comes in handy when, for example, one person craves tacos while another wants pizza. Customers can select items from a store’s menu. At the bottom of the menu, they will find a button to bundle their order with items from another store. This feature, while convenient for customers, may pose challenges for delivery drivers.

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Weekend Events | October 13 – October 15

Fun and haunts await this October! From spooky screenings and haunted happenings, to family friendly gatherings and more, we have you covered through October 31. Read on below for our weekly round-up of local events happening this October 13 through October 15.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 13 – October 15 

Dine L.A.

October 31

When: October 6 – October 20

Where: Various Locations

What: Summer has come to an end, and the “eat-your-feelings” season is upon us. It’s time to save some money with DineLA, the bi-annual two-week dining event that’s back for its autumn edition. You can enjoy prix fixe menus at numerous restaurants, with options for both takeout and dine-in, starting as low as $15 for lunch and $25 for dinner.

CicLAvia: Heart of L.A.

When: Until December 3 

Where: Downtown LA

What: CicLAvia’s upcoming ride on October 15 promises to be one of its most remarkable events to date. This bike-friendly gathering will transform nearly eight miles of city streets into car-free zones. The route will encompass iconic areas such as Figueroa and Broadway in downtown Los Angeles, Chinatown, 1st and Central in Little Tokyo within the Arts District, and extend across the 6th Street Bridge towards 1st Street in Boyle Heights.

Cinespia Cemetery Screenings

October 31

When: Until October 31 

Where: Hollywood Forever Cemetery

What: The renowned cemetery screening series in Los Angeles concludes its season with a lineup of eerie selections. This includes a screening of “Halloween” on October 14 and “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” on October 21 at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Additionally, there will be an off-site showing of “The Ring” on October 20 at L.A. State Historic Park.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events |  October 13 – October 15 

Made in L.A.

October 31

When: September 30 – December 31

Where: Westwood

What: The Hammer Museum’s impressive series of biennial exhibitions continually raises the bar by shining a spotlight on emerging and often overlooked Los Angeles artists, and the sixth installment appears to be no different. Titled “Acts of Living,” this year’s exhibition centers around the idea that art is an integral part of our everyday lives. It presents a diverse collection of works, blending new commissions with historical pieces from 39 talented and prolific artists such as Marcel Alcalá, Sula Bermúdez-Silverman, Jibz Cameron, and many more.

Oogie Boogie Bash

October 31

When: Until October 31 

Where: Anaheim 

What: Look who’s back! The “Nightmare Before Christmas” infamous bug-filled sack is reprising its role for the Oogie Boogie Bash at Disneyland. Join this exclusive after-hours event with special tickets at Disney California Adventure Park this Halloween season.

OCMA Anniversary Party

When: October 14 

Where: Costa Mesa

What: The Orange County Museum of Art celebrates a year since the opening of its bright new Costa Mesa building with a full day of programming, including a sound bath (11am), pancake brunch (11am–2pm), art activities and live music (1–3pm), a dance performance (5pm), happy hour (5pm) and outdoor dance party (5–9pm).

San Fernando Valley Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 13 – October 15 

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 7 – October 31

Where: Universal Studios

What: Spooky season is creeping in, whether we’re ready for it or not. The most evident indicator? Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights has arrived, featuring haunted houses inspired by titles like The Last of Us, Stranger Things, Evil Dead Rise, The Purge, The Exorcist: Believer, and beyond.

CicLAmini: North Hollywood

When: September 17 – December 3

Where: North Hollywood

What: Cycle through a mile of Lankershim Boulevard during this compact version of the vehicle-free, bicycle-centric festival.

Urban Death

When: Until October 31

Where: North Hollywood

What: Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group hosts a chilling series of vignettes. Armed with a shoddy flashlight to illuminate their path, guests navigate a labyrinth of terror before enduring a series of shocking scenes (over the course of roughly 35 minutes) that will unsettle even the most stoic of horror fans..

Conejo Valley Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 13 – October 15 

Nights of the Jack

When: September 29 – October 31

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Stroll through the picturesque King Gillette Ranch as this hidden gem in the Santa Monica Mountains comes alive with the warm glow of thousands of intricately hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns. Nights of the Jack is back for another year, offering a one-mile walking trail experience, complete with delicious food trucks and a “Spookeasy” for added excitement. In 2023, Nights of the Jack has introduced new features to enhance the experience, including an augmented reality scavenger hunt along the trail, a captivating Día de Los Muertos display, stunning lantern art, and a special section known as “the Enchanted Forest.”

Reign of Terror Haunted House

When: September 29 – November 4 

Where: Janss Marketplace

What: Janss Marketplace has revealed the dates and ticket sales launch for the 17-night Reign of Terror Haunted House, a highly acclaimed immersive haunt experience in the U.S. Celebrating its 24th season, Reign of Terror opens its doors on September 24th at Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks, offering 138 unique rooms and 10 interconnected, spine-chilling attractions, spanning over 28,000 sq ft of floor space, all revamped and improved for 2023.

Halloween CineMalibu Outdoor Movie Night

When: October 13 | 5:30pm – 9:30pm

Where: Malibu Bluffs Park

What: Head to Malibu Bluffs Park for a family-friendly movie screening of 2019’s animated ‘The Addams Family’ feature. This evening of fun includes pre-film giveaways with D’Amore’s Pizza Truck and Kona Ice to be on hand. Just be sure to B.Y.O.B – Bring Your Own Blanket and leave the sips at home, as alcohol will not be permitted.

 

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