Rodeo Realty

February 6, 2025February 6, 2025

From Claude AI to ESPN and More! | Tech News

Wrap up your week with the latest in tech news. We’re summing up all the headlines you won’t want to miss. From Claude AI to ESPN and more, we’ve got you covered!

Spotify and Warner Music Group Expand Partnership with New Multi-Year Deal

Spotify and Warner Music Group have signed a new multi-year agreement aimed at enhancing audio-visual streaming and introducing new paid subscription tiers. While financial details remain undisclosed, the deal is expected to expand Spotify’s content offerings and may include a premium tier featuring long-awaited HiFi lossless audio. This move follows a similar agreement with Universal Music Group, signaling Spotify’s push for higher-priced subscriptions and deeper engagement with superfans. The deal also includes a direct licensing model with Warner Chappell Music, reinforcing their royalty payment structure amid ongoing criticism of Spotify’s artist payouts. Meanwhile, Warner Music Group has acquired a controlling stake in Tempo Music, further expanding its catalog of major artist rights.

Lyft Partners with Anthropic to Integrate AI-Powered Customer Support

Lyft has teamed up with Anthropic to implement its Claude AI assistant for handling customer service inquiries, beginning with driver support. The AI-powered system has reportedly reduced resolution times by 87%, addressing common questions while redirecting complex issues to human specialists. However, given past concerns about impersonal service, drivers may be wary of further automation. Lyft is also leveraging generative AI for engineering tasks, with AI contributing to 25% of its code. Looking ahead, Lyft and Anthropic plan to expand Claude’s role across more of the platform’s features.

AT&T Introduces Branded Call Messages for Android Users

AT&T has expanded its branded calling feature, allowing businesses to display call reasons—such as “refill reminder” or “delivery service”—directly on the incoming call screen of Android phones. This enhancement, developed in partnership with TransUnion, aims to improve call transparency and is integrated with the STIR/SHAKEN protocol to combat spam. While currently exclusive to Android, industry experts anticipate the feature becoming standard across all mobile devices in the future.

Warner Bros. Adds 30+ Free Movies to YouTube

Warner Bros. has unexpectedly uploaded over 30 full-length films to its official YouTube channel, allowing viewers to watch them for free. The selection includes classics like Michael Collins (1996) and The Mission (1986), alongside infamous flops such as The Adventures of Pluto Nash (2002). Notably, many of these films aren’t available on Warner Bros.’ streaming service, Max, and the company has provided no explanation for the move. This comes after a series of content removals under CEO David Zaslav, making the free offerings feel like a rare—if perplexing—gesture of accessibility.

World’s First Lab-Grown Meat Dog Treats Launch in the UK

UK-based company Meatly has launched Chick Bites, the world’s first dog treats made with lab-grown meat, in a limited release at a single Pets at Home store in Brentford. Produced in collaboration with vegan pet food brand The Pack, the treats combine plant-based ingredients with cultivated chicken grown from a single egg cell. While currently available only in small quantities, Meatly plans to scale production over the next few years. This milestone follows the UK’s approval of lab-grown pet food in July 2024, positioning it as a leader in sustainable pet nutrition.

Disney Expands ESPN Streaming Strategy with Standalone App and Bundles

Disney is pushing to make ESPN available “however and wherever” consumers want, CEO Bob Iger announced during an earnings call. The company plans to offer ESPN through a standalone app launching in fall 2025, traditional linear channels, and rival sports streaming bundles. The new app will feature betting, fantasy sports, and extensive customization while integrating with Disney Plus and Hulu. Disney sees streaming as the future of sports consumption, aiming to grow ESPN’s reach among younger audiences rather than just preserving its traditional TV model.

February 6, 2025February 6, 2025

Mortgage Rate Update | February 6, 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 February 6, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.89%, down from 6.95% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.05%, down from 6.12% 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.

February 5, 2025February 4, 2025

Best Sports Bars to Watch Super Bowl LIX | L.A. Eats

Whether you’re looking for an upscale game-day experience or a laid-back neighborhood spot, there’s a sports bar for every kind of Super Bowl fan. Check out our top picks for the best places to catch the big game, complete with great food, cold drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere!

LOS ANGELES SPORTS BARS

33 Taps

Location: Silver Lake, DTLA, West Hollywood and Culver City

When it comes to catching a game in Silver Lake, 33 Taps on Sunset Boulevard has you covered. The menu is packed with bar food favorites like crispy chicken tenders, loaded Buffalo tots, and a churro waffle for those with a sweet tooth. With more TVs than empty wall space, this spot ensures you won’t miss a second of the action. You can also find 33 Taps in Culver City, Downtown LA, and West Hollywood, making it easy to get your sports fix across the city.

3rd Base LA

Location: Los Angeles

Who doesn’t love an old-fashioned neighborhood bar? Catch your favorite LA team’s this season on the big screens at 3rd Base LA. Cuisine options at this LA sports bar include flatbread pizza, grilled cheese sliders, or steak and fries.

Pijja Palace

Location: Los Angeles

If you happen to be in Silverlake, you’ll want to stop at Pijja Palace. At this pizza parlor/sports bar, you can enjoy the big game on 12 screens and one of LA’s most inventive menus with Desi pizza, pasta, and wings.

WESTSIDE & BEACH COMMUNITIES SPORTS BARS

Firestone Walker Brewing Company – The Propagator

Location: Venice

Get to Firestone Walker early on game day and enjoy a buzzing atmosphere in the heart of Venice. For tasty bites, this westside sports bar has items like baby back ribs, fish and chips, and pizza. In addition to the food, Firestone Walker Brewing Company offers what its name suggests – beer! Try one of the brewery’s signature brews alongside your game-day meal.

The Wood Urban Kitchen

Location: Inglewood

With indoor and outdoor seating, Wood Urban Kitchen BBQ’s vibes are always ready for LA’s sports teams. Head over to Inglewood’s ideal spot to get a drink, eat killer brisket, and enjoy the day in the home of the 2022 Super Bowl Champs.

The Firkin Pub & Grill

Location: Long Beach

Gather ‘round sports fans. The Firkin has three big-screen TVs dedicated to game day action on its private patio. Likewise, the pub and grill offer beer, wine, and great bar bites like chicken tenders.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY SPORTS BARS

The Woodman

Location: Sherman Oaks

Pull up a stool and dig into a bacon burger with a cold craft beer at The Woodman, a top-tier sports bar in the Valley. Located in Sherman Oaks, this spot delivers everything you want in a game-day hangout—plenty of seating, a strong menu, and screens visible from just about every angle. Its prime location makes it easy to turn your outing into a full day of good eats, with seafood favorite The Joint and beloved French bistro Petit Trois just a short drive away.

Idle Hour

Location: North Hollywood

At this barrel-shaped whiskey bar, enjoy simple eats like all-day wings and beer specials. Likewise, the sports bar also has whiskey, beer, and other great food options for game day!

Blue Dog Beer Tavern

Location: Sherman Oaks

If you prefer to catch the game with your furry friend, Blue Dog Tavern is the ideal sports bar for you. As one of the few dog-friendly bars in town, Blue Dog has a patio, a central indoor area to watch a match, and a great happy hour.

CONEJO VALLEY SPORTS BARS

Finney’s Crafthouse

Location: Westlake Village

At Finney’s Crafthouse, take in the brick and wood-accented ambiance for an enhanced sports viewing experience. This Westlake Village spot offers global and American pub grub and craft beer to enjoy the game alongside.

HQ Gastropub

Location: Woodland Hills

At HQ Gastropub, expect a buzzy environment with a fantastic range of beet and cocktail options. Equally great are the comfort eats in a polished, lofty setup with music & TVs to enjoy the game on.

King’s Fish House

Location: Calabasas

At King’s Fish House, you can go for seaside far with the restaurant’s extensive menu of fish and seafood options. In addition, the restaurant offers a great range of beer, wine, and cocktails to choose from.

February 4, 2025February 4, 2025

The Best Romantic Getaways Nearby | Out & About

Southern California is famous for its romantic getaway destinations that range from dreamy beaches to island escapes and the high mountains. With exciting locations to choose from, you get the opportunity to show your partner that you care, uniquely and thoughtfully.

So, in the spirit of expressing your love in the loudest way, choose the best romantic destinations. Here is a list of destinations that promise to impress you and your partner.

Santa Barbara

Undeniably, Santa Barbara is one of California’s most beautiful cities, making it an excellent destination to visit and have your romantic getaway. With its pristine beaches and endless recreational opportunities, Santa Barbara is a treat for adventurous couples.

There are also over 200 wineries stretching across the downtown neighborhoods, and following the trail, you can take a romantic stroll wine tasting at each location.
The local cuisine is also an incredible pull factor for foodies, after which you can relax at the tranquil beaches on the coast. An excellent hotel to stay at in Santa Barbara is the Harbor View Inn.

Napa Valley

The one thing romantic movies do not lie about is that Napa Valley is truly one of America’s most romantic getaways. If you’re looking for truly personal time with your mate, this is the perfect destination. This town has a combination of beautiful views, wineries, and high-end restaurants that should perfectly augment your quality time.

You could even hire out a hot balloon and float around the Valley, taking in the beautiful sceneries. After this, get a full spa treatment or take a stroll through the little towns. The Auberge du Soleil would be the perfect hotel for your stay at the Valley.

Temecula

We added Temecula to the list because it is a lovers’ paradise and a haven for all romantic adventures. Temecula has a serene, perfect climate that allows you to engage in all kinds of outdoor activities, including golf, hiking, horse riding, and hot-air balloons. You could also watch some of the most breathtaking sunsets, sitting on hilltops, overlooking the vibrant colors from the plant life surrounding.

The high-end restaurants and wineries are an excellent addition to an already perfect package. During your stay, the best hotel for you would be the Ponte Vineyard Inn.

Paso Robles

Paso Robles is very laid back. Likewise, this makes it the ideal destination for a couple looking to relax and enjoy each other’s company. But, this is not to say that there are no adventurous things to do here. You could visit the wineries and take a self-guided tour of the vineyards on bicycles. As you watch the incredible sunsets, consider a picnic. It can serve as an excellent way to soak in nature’s beauty and enjoy a good meal.

Relaxation at the natural hot springs at The River Oaks Hot Springs Spa or the Paso Robles Inn will also do you good. Either of these hotels is an excellent place to spend your nights.

February 3, 2025February 4, 2025

Keeping Your Lawn in Check | Home Tips

Keeping your lawn looking healthy and beautiful requires a lot of effort and attention, and one of the most important tasks in lawn maintenance is mowing. Mowing not only helps to keep your grass looking neat and tidy, but it also promotes growth and discourages weeds. In this blog post, we will discuss some lawn mowing tips that can help you achieve the best results.

Set the Right Mowing Height

One of the most important factors to consider when mowing your lawn is the height of your mower blades. Different grass species have different ideal mowing heights, so it is important to research what the recommended mowing height is for your particular type of grass. Generally, it is recommended to never cut more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing. Cutting more than that can lead to scalping and damage to the grass.

Sharpen Your Mower Blades Regularly

Dull mower blades can tear and damage the grass rather than cutting it cleanly. This can lead to brown spots and an uneven-looking lawn. To avoid this, make sure to sharpen your mower blades regularly. It is recommended to sharpen them at least once a year or more often if you have a large yard.

Mow When the Grass is Dry

Mowing wet grass can lead to clumps of grass clippings that can suffocate the grass underneath, as well as clog your mower. It is best to wait until the grass is dry to mow. Additionally, mowing a wet lawn can be dangerous as the wet grass can make the surface slippery, increasing the risk of injury.

Change Your Mowing Pattern

Changing your mowing pattern each time you mow your lawn can help prevent the grass from developing ruts or becoming flattened in one direction. It is recommended to mow your lawn in a different direction each time you mow. For example, if you mowed in a north-south direction one week, mow in an east-west direction next week.

Don’t Overwater Your Yard

Overwatering your lawn can promote weed growth and lead to a shallow root system. Make sure to water your lawn deeply and infrequently rather than frequently and shallowly. Most lawns require around 1 inch of water per week. Likewise, this can be achieved through a combination of rain and watering.

In conclusion, mowing is an essential part of lawn maintenance, and following these tips can help you achieve the best results. Setting the right mowing height, sharpening your mower blades, mowing when the grass is dry, changing your mowing pattern, and not overwatering your yard can help keep your lawn looking healthy and beautiful. Happy mowing!

February 1, 2025

Economic Update | Week Ending February 1, 2025

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 44,544.66, up 0.3% from 44,424.25 last week. It is up 4.7% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 6,040.53, down 1% from 6,101.24 last week. The S&P is up 2.7% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,627.44 down 1.6% from 19,954.39 last week. It is up 1.6% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.58% down from 4.63% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.83%, down slightly from 4.85% 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 January 30, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.95%, down from 6.96% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.12%, down from 6.16% last week.

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

Economic update for the month ending January 31, 2025

Data released in January showed that inflation continued to rise in December – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer prices increased 2.9% year-over-year December, its third straight month of year-over-year increases, and its highest level in five months. The CPI peaked at 9.1% in June 2022 and worked its way down to a 2.4% year-over-year increase in September but has increased every month since September. Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy costs,rose 3.2% year-over-year in December, down from 3.3% in November. The Produce Price Index (PPI) showed that wholesale prices increased 3.3% year-over-year in December, up from a 3% year-over-year increase in November. Core PPI increased 3.5% year-over-year in December, up from 3.3% in November. The Personal-Consumption Expenditures Index (PCE), the Fed’s favorite gauge of inflation rose 2.6% year-over-year in December, up from a 2.4% year-over-year increase in November. U.S. Hiring Surged in December. The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 256,000 new jobs were added in December. It blew away economists who were surveyed by Dow Jones who forecasted 155,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate remained at 4.1%. Average hourly wages increased 3.9% year-over-year in December, over one percent above the current rate of inflation. More people working and higher wages fuels consumer spending which causes prices to rise. As inflation moves higher ot pushes up long-term interest rates like mortgage rates.

Below is a chart of the CPI rate from 2021

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the month at 44,544.66, up 4.7% from 42,544.72 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the month at 6,040.53, up 2.7% from 5,881.63 on December 31, 2024. The NASDAQ closed at 19,627.44, up 1.6% from 19,310.79 on December 31, 2024

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields increased in 2024 – The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the year at 4.58%, unchanged from 4.58% On December 31, 2024. The 30-year treasury yield ended the year at 4.83%, up from 4.78% on Dec. 31, 2024. 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 January 30, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.95%, up from 6.85% last month. The 15-year fixed was 6.12%, up from 6.% last month.

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 December’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales December 2024 – T he National Association of Realtorsreported that existing-home sales totaled 4.24-million units on a seasonal annualized rate in December, up 9.3% from an annualized rate of 3.88-million units last December. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in November was $404,400, up 6% from $387,800 one year ago. There was a 3.3-month supply of homes for sale in December, up from a 3.1-month supply in December 2023. F irst-time buyers accounted for 31% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 13% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 28% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 268,180 on an annualized basis in December, up 19.8%from a revised 223,900 homes sold on an annualized basis last December. The statewide median price paid for a home in was $861,020 in December, up 5% from $819,820 one year ago. There was a 2.7-month supply of homes for sale in December, up slightly from a 2.6-month supply in December 2023.

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

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February 1, 2025February 1, 2025

Economic Update | Month Ending January 31, 2025

Data released in January showed that inflation continued to rise in December – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer prices increased 2.9% year-over-year December, its third straight month of year-over-year increases, and its highest level in five months. The CPI peaked at 9.1% in June 2022 and worked its way down to a 2.4% year-over-year increase in September but has increased every month since September. Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy costs, rose 3.2%year-over-year in December, down from 3.3% in November. The Produce Price Index (PPI) showed that wholesale prices increased 3.3% year-over-year in December, up from a 3% year-over-year increase in November. Core PPI increased 3.5% year-over-year in December, up from 3.3% in November. The Personal-Consumption Expenditures Index (PCE), the Fed’s favorite gauge of inflation rose 2.6% year-over-year in December, up from a 2.4% year-over-year increase in November. U.S. Hiring Surged in December. The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 256,000 new jobs were added in December. It blew away economists who were surveyed by Dow Jones who forecasted 155,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate remained at 4.1%. Average hourly wages increased 3.9% year-over-year in December, over one percent above the current rate of inflation. More people working and higher wages fuels consumer spending which causes prices to rise. As inflation moves higher it pushes up long-term interest rates like mortgage rates.

Below is a chart of the CPI rate from 2021

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the month at 44,544.66, up 4.7% from 42,544.72 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the month at 6,040.53, up 2.7% from 5,881.63 on December 31, 2024. The NASDAQ closed at 19,627.44, up 1.6% from 19,310.79 on December 31, 2024. U.S. Treasury Bond Yields increased in 2024 – The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the year at 4.58%, unchanged from 4.58% On December 31, 2024. The 30-year treasury yield ended the year at 4.83%, up from 4.78% on Dec. 31, 2024. 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 January 30, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.95%, up from 6.85% last month. The 15-year fixed was 6.12%, up from 6% last month.

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

U.S. existing-home sales December 2024 – The National Association of Realtorsreported that existing-home sales totaled 4.24-million units on a seasonal annualized rate in December, up 9.3% from an annualized rate of 3.88-million units last December. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in November was $404,400, up 6% from $387,800 one year ago. There was a 3.3-month supply of homes for sale in December, up from a 3.1-month supply in December 2023. First-time buyers accounted for 31% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 13% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 28% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 268,180 on an annualized basis in December, up 19.8% from a revised 223,900 homes sold on an annualized basis last December. The statewide median price paid for a home in was $861,020 in December, up 5% from $819,820 one year ago. There was a 2.7-month supply of homes for sale in December, up slightly from a 2.6-month supply in December 2023.

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

January 30, 2025January 30, 2025

From Apple Sports to Waymo and More! | Tech News

Round out the week with the top tech headlines from around the globe! From Apple Sports to Waymo and more, we have you covered with this week’s major news in the world of tech. Stay connected and read this week’s blog!

Bookshop.org Expands into Ebooks to Challenge Amazon

Launched in early 2020 as a way to support independent bookstores, Bookshop.org is now expanding into ebooks with a new app for Android, iOS, and the web. The app follows the same model as its physical book sales: customers choose a local bookstore to support, and that store earns a share of the profits. Founder and CEO Andy Hunter sees this as a necessary step in the digital age, challenging Amazon’s dominance over the ebook market, which accounts for 75% of sales. Bookshop.org has secured deals with major publishers and will launch with around a million titles, with plans to support self-published authors soon. A standout feature allows users to share quotes from ebooks directly to social media, making books more discoverable. While a Kindle competitor isn’t on the immediate horizon, Bookshop.org’s entry into ebooks could disrupt the status quo and provide indie bookstores with a much-needed foothold in the digital market.

Vodafone Tests Satellite Video Calls for Standard Smartphones

Vodafone has successfully conducted what it claims is the world’s first satellite video call using a standard smartphone, leveraging AST SpaceMobile’s satellite network to enable 4G and 5G connectivity without specialized hardware. The call, made from a remote mountain region in Wales with no prior mobile coverage, showcased stable—though slightly lagging—video quality. AST SpaceMobile, which has partnerships with Vodafone, AT&T, and Verizon, plans to roll out the service in Europe by late 2025 and in the U.S. thereafter. Unlike existing satellite services on iPhones and Google Pixel devices, which are limited to emergency messaging, Vodafone promises a full mobile broadband experience with speeds up to 120 Mbps. The technology aims to eliminate coverage gaps, offering connectivity even in remote areas and at sea. While SpaceX’s Starlink has also demonstrated satellite video calls, Vodafone’s test highlights its potential for widespread consumer use. Pricing details for the service remain undisclosed, but Vodafone sees it as a major step toward closing the digital divide across Europe.

NASA Finds Building Blocks of Life in Bennu Asteroid Sample

Scientists analyzing the Bennu asteroid sample, which returned to Earth in September 2023, have discovered amino acids and other molecules essential for life. Research published in Nature and Nature Astronomy suggests that conditions necessary for life’s emergence were widespread in the early solar system, supporting theories that key organic compounds may have originated in space. The sample contained 14 of the 20 amino acids used in Earthly proteins, nucleobases for DNA and RNA, and minerals indicating a history of saltwater, which could have facilitated complex chemical reactions. These findings stem from NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission, which launched in 2016, collected the sample in 2020, and successfully returned it in 2023. While not proof of extraterrestrial life, the discovery strengthens the possibility that life’s ingredients may have formed elsewhere in the cosmos.

Waymo Expands Autonomous Vehicle Testing to 10 New Cities in 2025

Waymo is set to expand its autonomous vehicle testing to 10 new cities in 2025, beginning with Las Vegas and San Diego, as part of an effort to assess how its self-driving system adapts to different environments. While these manually driven test runs won’t necessarily lead to immediate robotaxi launches, they will help refine Waymo’s ability to operate in diverse urban conditions. Las Vegas presents challenges like dense traffic and unconventional road layouts, while San Diego serves as a benchmark for how Waymo’s system performs with minimal prior data. The Alphabet-owned company is focused on “generalizability,” aiming to streamline the process of deploying robotaxis in new cities with minimal testing. Waymo will send fewer than 10 vehicles to each city for a few months, primarily in commercial districts, and will work closely with local officials. With plans for future launches in Austin, Atlanta, and Miami, this expansion signals Waymo’s ambition to scale its autonomous technology nationwide.

Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 Breaks Sound Barrier in Historic Test Flight

Boom Supersonic’s prototype test plane, the XB-1, successfully broke the sound barrier three times during its 12th flight. Likewise, this marks a major milestone for the private aviation company. The 63-foot-long demonstrator aircraft, designed to pave the way for Boom’s planned Overture supersonic airliner, reached Mach 1.1. This achievement makes it the first civil aircraft to go supersonic. This of course distinguishes it from the government-backed Concorde, which last flew in 2003. The flight, lasting 34 minutes, took place in the Bell X-1 Supersonic Corridor, named after the first aircraft to break the sound barrier. Powered by three General Electric J85-15 turbojet engines, the XB-1 serves as a testbed for the Overture. Boom aims to launch the Overture by 2030. The company has already secured over $700 million in funding and orders for a combined 35 aircraft. Overall, this signals growing confidence in the return of commercial supersonic travel.

Apple Sports App Update Adds Faster Navigation, More Soccer Coverage, and TV Listings

Apple has updated its iOS Sports app with improved navigation, expanded soccer coverage, and new broadcast information for games in the U.S. Users can now swipe left or right to quickly browse their followed leagues and teams. In addition, game pages will display details on where to watch live broadcasts, such as NHL Network or TNT. The update also adds coverage for the UK’s FA Cup, EFL Championship, and League Cup. Since its launch in February, Apple Sports has steadily expanded. The app has added NFL and college football tracking, live scores, play-by-play updates, and Key Plays summaries. The latest enhancements continue Apple’s push to make the app a comprehensive hub for sports fans.

January 30, 2025January 30, 2025

Mortgage Rate Update | January 30, 2025

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.95%, down from 6.96% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.12%, down from 6.16% last week.

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

January 30, 2025January 30, 2025

Weekend Events | January 31 – February 2

As January comes to a close, we are rounding up the top weekend events happening in your neighborhood. From January 31 through February 2, there are plenty of local activities to discover.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | January 31 – February 2

Griffith Park Run

When: February 2

Where: Griffith Park

What: Race through the northeast corner of Griffith Park in these two scenic runs. The 5K follows a flat loop around the eastern half of the Wilson and Harding Golf Courses, while the half marathon adds some elevation with a challenging hilly stretch in the middle. Proceeds support the Los Angeles Parks Foundation.

Beyond the Streets Art Bazaar: Honoring L.A.’s Creative Spirit

When: February 1 – February 2

Where: La Brea

What: Browse an eclectic mix of clothing, books, ceramics, fine art, zines, prints, and more at this free market hosted by Beyond the Streets, the street art exhibition-turned-permanent gallery. With over 30 local creatives—including Alex Pardee, Blue Hill Studios, Born X Raised, John Doe Gallery, Juice Magazine, Kill Your Idols, Trust Records, Under The Radar Records, and Big Bell Ceramics—you’ll find one-of-a-kind and exclusive pieces for sale. Plus, a portion of gift shop proceeds will go toward fire relief efforts.

Alt Comedy All-Stars: A Benefit Show for Comedy Gives Back

When: January 31

Where: Hollywood

What: A powerhouse lineup of alt-comedy legends is coming together for a Comedy Gives Back benefit at the intimate Fonda Theatre. Expect a stellar roster of stand-ups and improvisers, including Patton Oswalt, Zach Galifianakis, Bob Odenkirk, and the cast of Mr. Show—featuring Brian Posehn, Doug Benson, Laura Kightlinger, and Mary Lynn Rajskub—along with special guest Jon Hamm and more surprise appearances. All ticket proceeds support Comedy Gives Back, a nonprofit offering mental health resources and financial aid to comedians, including grants for those affected by recent fires.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | January 31 – February 2

Roots and Renewal: Honoring the New Year of the Trees

When: February 2

Where: Westside

What: After weeks of closure due to the fires, the Skirball—once in the Palisades Fire evacuation zone—joyfully reopens with a free community day focused on gratitude, healing, learning, and appreciation for nature. Celebrate Tu B’Shevat, the Jewish New Year of the Trees, with artist-led talks, guided campus walks, panel discussions, hands-on art activities, live music, and a TreePeople workshop where you can plant a tree to take home. Plus, enjoy free admission to all exhibitions (except for the separately ticketed Noah’s Ark), including Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion.

Lunar New Year Celebration at South Coast Botanic Garden

When: February 1 – February 23

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes

What: Celebrate the Year of the Snake in the lush surroundings of South Coast Botanic Garden every weekend this February. Immerse yourself in vibrant Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean traditions with interactive activities like kite-making, puppet-making, and a Zodiac Stroll through the gardens. Enjoy storytelling, a wishing tree, live music, a 360-degree photo booth, and festive food and cocktails available for purchase. General admission is $15, but for an additional $8, you can experience dynamic performances featuring lion dancers, martial artists, drummers, and folk dancers (Saturday and Sunday at 9:30am, 12:30pm, and 3:30pm).

Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure

When: Until February 16
Where: Anaheim
What: Celebrate the Lunar New Year at “the happiest place on earth”! Disney California Adventure rings in the Year of the Snake with vibrant multicultural festivities. Kids will love meeting Mulan, Mushu, Mickey, Minnie, and characters from Turning Red, while adults can indulge in delicious bites inspired by Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cuisines. By day, Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession fills the park with dancers, a dazzling dragon puppet, and lively characters. In the evening, catch “Hurry Home – A Lunar New Year Celebration,” a special pre-show leading into the spectacular World of Color.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | January 31 – February 2

Skate Oddity: Bowie’s Rock N Rollerdisco Birthday

When: February 1

Where: LA Kings Burbank Sports Center

What: Join the celebration of David Bowie’s life and legacy with a day of skating, picnicking, shopping, and pure glam! Embrace the themed fun—whether you’re channeling your inner Glam Skater, Skate Goblin, or Vamp Skater—and roll into an unforgettable tribute.

Propagating California Native Plants

When: February 1

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation

What: Start 2025 with our first propagation class of the year! Dive into the world of California native plant vegetative propagation using a selection of specimens from the TPF gardens. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to successfully grow plants from cuttings and expand your gardening skills.

Dean Friedman’s ‘Groundhog’s Day Concert

When: February 1

Where: Kulak’s Woodshed | 5230 Laurel Canyon Boulevard

What: Celebrated by critics and fans as one of the greatest songwriters of his generation, Dean Friedman has earned pop-icon status with chart-topping hits like Ariel, Lucky Stars, Lydia, and McDonald’s Girl. Returning to the stage, Friedman brings a captivating collection of his signature ‘story songs’—insightful, heartfelt, and often humorous reflections on family, friendships, work, and the everyday moments that make life extraordinary.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | January 31 – February 2

Lunar New Year Celebration at Westfield Topanga

When: February 1

Where: Westfield Topanga

What: Westfield Topanga is ringing in the Year of the Snake with festive flair. The Valley shopping destination is adorned with vibrant Lunar New Year decorations and will feature a lively lion dance performance starting near the Topanga Social food hall this Saturday. Guests can also receive lucky red envelopes, while retailers like Sandro, Maje, and Lego will offer special Lunar New Year-themed merchandise.

Moorpark Groundhog Day 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run

When: February 1

Where: 4500 Tierra Rejada, Moorpark, CA

What: Join the fun at the Moorpark Groundhog Day 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run on Saturday, February 1, 2025! Open to all ages and abilities, this community event supports Moorpark High School’s cross-country and track programs. Young runners (11 and under) who complete the 5K or participate in the Catch the Groundhog 1-Mile Fun Run will receive finisher medals. After the race, enjoy an awards ceremony, refreshments, local vendors, and a raffle filled with great prizes!