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Weekend Events | Thanksgiving Weekend Edition

Looking for fun things to do this Thanksgiving Weekend? We have you covered! Read on for our weekly round-up of activities happening locally from November 25 – November 27. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | Thanksgiving Weekend

Los Angeles Auto Show

When: Until November 27

Where: Convention Center | South Park

What: Shift gears into the final weekend of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Car enthusiasts can test drive cool whips, meet and greet with celebrities and check out manufacturer exhibits. With the world and North American debuts from a slate of manufacturers, rev up for the machines of the future.

Blockbuster Pop-Up Bar

When: Until February 19, 2023

Where: Fairfax District 

What: It’s time for a throwback! Reminisce on the movie rentals days this Thanksgiving Weekend at a limited-time themed Blockbuster speakeasy. Each $45 ticket includes two cocktails (non-alcoholic options available), with a drinks menu that draws names and flavors from the turn of the millennium ( i.e., Gushers and Capri Sun). The pop-up bar will also begin weekend-only brunch on December 10.

LA Zoo Lights

When: Until January 22, 2023 

Where: Griffith Park

What: Head to the L.A. Zoo for Thanksgiving Weekend, as it lights up the night all the way through January. Inspired by the zoo’s wild residents, the light display is pure joy for the whole family!

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | Thanksgiving Weekend

Babies! at the Aquarium of the Pacific

When: Until April 30, 2023 

Where: Long Beach

What: Miniature sea jellies and tiny aquatic cuteness are what you’ll find at the Aquarium of the Pacific’s new “Babies!” exhibition. The small gallery features baby animals as well as the stories behind them and how the institution cares for them. Make sure to head over to the sea otter habitat, too, to coo and the pups.

Joan Didion: What She Means

When: Until Jan 22, 2022

Where: Hammer Museum

What: This November, see more than 200 works of art to sketch a portrait of the late literary icon Joan Didion. The Hammer Museum exhibition represents periods of her life in places like the Central Valley in the postwar period or New York circa 1960. Featured artists include Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Noah Purifoy, Ed Ruscha, Betye Saar, and more than 50 others.

Seaside Cinema Holidays 

When: November 25 – November 26 

Where: Loews Santa Monica Beach

What: Enjoy holiday classics for Thanksgiving Weekend, like ‘A Christmas Story’ and ‘Muppet Christmas Carol’ for this weekend’s Seaside Cinema. Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel hosts its fourth annual holiday program…beachside. Seaside Cinema Holidays features timeless classics, seasonal culinary treats, and more for hotel guests.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | Thanksgiving Weekend

Burbank Community YMCA Turkey Trot

When: November 24 

Where: Burbank

What: Get moving for a good cause this Thanksgiving Weekend. Wake up early (yes, on a holiday) for Burbank YMCA’s (321 E Magnolia Blvd) Turkey Trot, a 5K/10K run/walk.

805 Night Market | Woodland Hills

When: November 26 

Where: 21555 West Oxnard Street | Woodland Hills

What: Enjoy authentic multicultural street foods and many enticing beverages and desserts to please your palette. The Thanksgiving Weekend event features 28 curated, unique food vendors just for you to enjoy.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater: 60 Years of Joy & Wonder

When: Until March 19 

Where: Glendale 

What: The museum atop Forest Lawn’s Glendale cemetery is celebrating 60 years of the beloved Bob Baker Marionette Theater with a display of about 100 historical pieces, including puppets, concept art, archival photos, and an animatronic band.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | Thanksgiving Weekend

Wild Lights and Jungle Nights at America’s Teaching Zoo 

When November 23, 25, 26 and December 2-4, 11, 16-23, 26-30

Where: Moorpark College

What: America’s Teaching Zoo shines bright this holiday season during the holiday light event – WILD LIGHTS & JUNGLE NIGHTS. Take a self-guided 45-minute stroll throughout the zoo, which will be filled with dynamic lights, immersive interactive experiences, photo ops, and seasonal magic. 

Thanksgiving Day 5K in Simi Valley

When: November 24, 8am – 10am

Where:  1765 Royal Ave, Simi Valley

What: Thanksgiving Day 5K takes place at Rancho Simi Community Park, 1765 Royal Avenue, Simi Valley, on Thursday, November 24, 2022. Run along the Arroyo bike path, lined with beautiful trees for shade through the center of Simi Valley and along Arroyo Creek. Aid stations every 1.5 miles. The race starts at 8 am. This event is rain or shine.

72nd Annual Santa Paula Christmas Parade

When: November 26 | 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Where: Santa Paula

What: The 72nd Annual Santa Paula Christmas Parade returns Saturday, November 26, 2022, at 6:30 pm. The family-friendly parade will feature marching bands, toy soldiers, floats, automobiles, equestrians, and community groups, and Santa Claus will be part of the festivities. The 72nd running of the Santa Paula Holiday Parade will be headlined by Deaf Santa Claus, who is traveling directly from the North Pole to participate in the holiday festivities. This year’s parade theme is “A Celebration for All.” 

 

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From Bob Iger’s Disney Return to Domino’s EV Move and More! | Tech News

Keep up with the latest buzz in the world of tech! We’ve rounded up the leading news stories happening this week so you can stay informed. From Bob Iger’s Disney Return to Domino’s EV Move and more, check out our weekly tech news round-up!

Bob Iger Returns as CEO of Disney as Bob Chapek Steps Down

It’s the return of…Bob Iger. The former Disney CEO will once again take on the helm of leading the media and consumer entertainment giant Disney. Bob Iger will serve a two-year term as CEO, during which he will pick and groom a long-term successor. Disney’s board chair Susan Arnold said in a statement, “We thank Bob Chapek for his service to Disney over his long career, including navigating the company through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic. The Board has concluded that as Disney embarks on an increasingly complex period of industry transformation, Bob Iger is uniquely situated to lead the Company through this pivotal period.” Bob Chapek was not quoted in the press release.

Elon Musk to Make Twitter DMs Encrypted and Add Video and Voice Calling

In a recent presentation, new Twitter owner Elon Musk revealed to employees that the company would encrypt DMs. In addition, the company will also begin working to add encrypted video and voice calling between accounts. “We want to enable users to be able to communicate without being concerned about their privacy, [or] without being concerned about a data breach at Twitter causing all of their DMs to hit the web, or think that maybe someone at Twitter could be spying on their DMs,” Musk said. “That’s obviously not going to be cool, and it has happened a few times before.” Musk also stated that the company is in talks to work with Signal, the encrypted chat app, on achieving this latest venture for the app.

Domino’s to Build Electric Pizza delivery fleet with Chevy Bolts

Delivery that’s fast and eco-friendly? That’s what Domino’s is looking to achieve with its new EV vehicle initiative. The company is gearing up to put more than 800 all-electric pizza delivery vehicles into service in the coming months. Likewise, it will be starting out with a lower number of 100 vehicles, rolling out in November. The company went with the compact Chevy Bolt EV and is wrapping the vehicles with custom branding. For the new Bolts, drivers will not be equipped with the built-in pizza warming oven that the DOmino’s XP came with in 2015. Domino’s Bolts will be delivering from select franchise and corporate stores throughout the US. “Electric delivery cars make sense as vehicle technology continues to evolve,” reads a statement from Domino’s CEO Russell Weiner.

Facebook to Make Teen Accounts More Private by Default

New privacy settings are underway for Facebook users under the age of 16. The company has stated it will enable more private settings by default in announcements made in the past week. The default settings will go into effect for new accounts with a display prompt, encouraging activation of the privacy setting for accounts that are already active. The settings restrict details on an account so that only a teen’s friends can view the posts they’re tagged in, their friend list, and the pages, people, and lists they follow. They also require users to review the posts they’re tagged in and allow only friends to comment on their public posts. Instagram already rolled out similar overarching privacy features for teens in August. The changes come as the company works to make its platforms a safer space for all users.

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From the Launch of Artemis 1 to the Future of AR Glasses and More | Tech News

This week, we are talking about all things tech and zero things crypto or Twitter related (you’re welcome). From the successful launch of Artemis 1 to major changes in the AR world and more, we have you covered on major tech headlines. Read on below and stay connected!

Amazon Launches Virtual Care Center

In conjunction with One Medical, Amazon has officially launched its virtual care clinic. The clinic is available in 32 states and provides a message-based service for care. The services provided are for more than 20 everyday medical issues, as per Amazon’s announcement this week. Those seeking care can do so by visiting the Amazon Clinic site, selecting your ailment, and filling out an intake form. While the service does not take insurance, it is FSA- and HSA-eligible. The Amazon Clinic telehealth physicians will be able to treat and prescribe medication for acne, asthma refills, birth control, cold sores, and more. Amazon hopes to expand to additional states within the next couple of months.

NASA Begins Historic Return to the Moon with Artemis 1 Launch

A return to the moon is one step closer for NASA with this week’s launch of the most powerful rocket built to date. Artemis 1 launched this past Wednesday, lifting off from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center. “We are all part of something incredibly special,” launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson said just before getting her tie cut — a lovely NASA tradition that humbly marks the first solo flight of a deserving team member. “The first launch of Artemis. The first step in returning our country to the moon — and on [to] Mars.” The launch of Artemis 1 comes after years of delays and setbacks. With the success of the mission would come the groundwork to place astronauts back on the rocky surface and, eventually, one day, on the red sand of Mars. 

Qualcomm’s AR Chips Point to a Next Generation of Smart Glasses

With VR headset demand on the rise, Qualcomm has hinted that the next big product wave may be AR glasses. The company’s recent event was focused on chips. Introduced the newest Snapdragon phone processors and a new line of AR-optimized eyewear. The next generation of smart glasses will likely arrive between 2023 and 2025. Likewise, features for the tech-forward spectacles include eye tracking, hand tracking, and wireless streaming to phones or from the cloud. Qualcomm’s shared a vast list of big tech companies who will be on board to utilize the AR2 chip. These companies include Lenovo, LG, Niantic, NReal, Oppo, Pico, NTT Qonoq, Rokid, Sharp, TCL, Vuzix, and Mi.

10-Minute Flights to the Airport Are the Way Forward with Archer Air Taxi

Imagine breezing over traffic, above the clouds, and arriving right o time for your flight. Archer Aviation is seeking to make this a reality, starting off in New York. The company has unveiled its electric aircraft that would take passengers from downtown Manhattan to Newark, New Jersey’s Liberty International Airport. The company aims to launch the service by 2025 with 10-minute flights starting at $100 each way. The San Jose-based Archer is among several companies building a new type of aircraft called an EVTOL. The acronym is short for electric vertical takeoff and landing. The company hopes to change urban travel while reducing emissions. “Over time, as we scale urban air mobility and you see lots of these planes out there, we can have a significant impact on reducing emissions,” CEO Adam Goldstein.

Airbnb Anti-Party Technology Goes Live

Consider party-going at Airbnb a thing of the past. The vacation rental platform has officially launched its reservation screening technology this week. The new system has already been put into place in the US, Canada, and Australia, and the company plans to expand the technology worldwide in spring 2023. The “proprietary reservation screening technology” works by evaluating a number of factors, such as the history of positive reviews and the length of time a guest has been on the platform. In addition, it also checks the length of stay, distance to listing, and whether the guest made a booking for a weekend or weekday, an Airbnb spokesperson said. Airbnb has also expanded its guest identity verification. It may request a customer’s legal name, address, phone number, government ID, or selfie, Airbnb said. This applies to booking guests traveling to the top 35 countries and regions on the app, and it will expand worldwide in the spring as well.

Lab-Grown Meat Gets FDA Approval 

The future of lab-grown meat is progressing forward. The FDA has given the green light to Upside Food and its production of chicken made from real animal cells grown in bioreactors. The approval marks a major milestone for the cultivated meat industry after years of venture capital funding and small-scale efforts. Upside’s production facilities still require a grant of inspection from the United States Department of Agriculture. In addition, the food itself will need a mark of inspection before it can enter the US market. These two steps are likely to be completed much more quickly. “It’s the moment we’ve been working toward for the past, almost seven years now,” says Uma Valeti, Upside’s CEO. “Opening up the US market is what every company in the world is trying to do.”

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November 18 – November 20 | Weekend Events

The weekend has arrived, and there is plenty of fun to be had. From holiday craft fairs to fun film screenings and more, we have you covered this November 18 through November 20. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | November 18 – November 20 

Renegade Craft Fair

When: November 19 – November 20, 2022

Where: Chinatown

What: Don’t miss the craft fair of all craft fairs! Renegade is a locally-focused marketplace that brings together hundreds of contemporary indie craft artists. Check out DIY fun like classes and demos, free photo booths, and tons of tasty food trucks.

LA Zoo Lights

When: Until January 22, 2023 

Where: Griffith Park

What: Head to the L.A. Zoo as it lights up the night all the way through January. Inspired by the zoo’s wild residents, the light display is pure joy for the whole family!

Elton John

When: November 17 – November 20 

Where: Echo Park

What: Bid your goodbyes to live shows from Sir Elton John as the Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour makes its last LA stop. The iconic performer takes his bow on touring life while taking the audience on a massive visual journey spanning his entire 50-year career. 

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | November 18 – November 20

Designer Con

When: November 18 – November 20 

Where: Anaheim

What: Calling all toy geeks, illustrators, and underground-art lovers, you won’t want to miss the annual DesignerCon. Bringing together more than 700 vendors and artists, the weekend fest will showcase toys, art, design, and collectibles at the Anaheim Convention Center. 

Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories

When: Until March 12, 2023

Where: Westside

What: See how American quilters have knitted together stories since the 1600s at the Skirball’s celebration of quilt makers. The exhibit will be on display until March and features over 40 artists.

Melrose Rooftop Theater

When: On-going

Where: E.P. & L.P. | West Hollywood

What: It’s a weekend of iconic cinema at Melrose Rooftop Theatre! Slide on through on Friday for Risky Business, head to detention on Saturday with The Breakfast Club, or prep your best bend and snap for Sunday’s screening of Legally Blonde.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | November 18 – November 20

805 Night Market | Woodland Hills

When: November 19 – November 20 

Where: 21555 West Oxnard Street | Woodland Hills

What: Enjoy authentic multicultural street foods and many enticing beverages and desserts to please your palette. The weekend event features 28 curated, unique food vendors just for you to enjoy.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater: 60 Years of Joy & Wonder

When: Until March 19 

Where: Glendale 

What: The museum atop Forest Lawn’s Glendale cemetery is celebrating 60 years of the beloved Bob Baker Marionette Theater with a display of about 100 historical pieces, including puppets, concept art, archival photos, and an animatronic band.

Electric Dusk Drive-In Presents: Double Feature Night

When: November 19 

Where: Glendale

What: Action-packed and family-friendly, there is a film for everyone at this weekend’s Electric Dusk Drive-In Double Feature. See the Oscar-winning feature CoCo and this summer’s blockbuster smash hit Top Gun: Maverick for this weekends November approved features! Electric Dusk Drive-In is LA’s longest-running pop-up drive-in and invites you to Glendale to enjoy film, food, and fun!

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | November 18 – November 20 

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting

When: November 18

Where: The Promenade at Westlake | Westlake Village

What: Join the Promenade at Westlake for their annual Tree Lighting ceremony and community celebration. Enjoy a whimsical holiday show featuring a variety of musical entertainment, the arrival of Santa, and a fireworks finale. Pre-show festivities include strolling entertainment, kids’ activities, and a curated Holiday Market featuring a variety of treats from your favorite restaurants and retailers.

Holiday Vendor Faire at Cat + Raven Collective 

When: November 19

Where: Thousand Oaks

What: It’s a holiday vendor fair, and you’re invited! Enjoy this Saturday’s Holiday Vendor Faire as it brings together local vendors and artists peddling their wares and goods. Light refreshments will also be offered.

Walk 3to9 5th Annual Walk for Breast Cancer Research 

When: November 20 

Where: Memorial Field, Thousand Oaks

What: On November 20th, Walk 3to9 is asking walkers, crewmembers, survivors, and sponsors from around the country to join in person OR virtually. Walk, run, hike, or bike to help end breast cancer! As a participant, you’ll receive a Walk 3to9 bundle, which includes a limited-edition bandana, swag bag, custom walker bib, and social media toolkit to help you share your experience with the Walk 3to9 online community.

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Where to Dine for Thanksgiving 2022 | L.A. Eats

If you waited until the week before Thanksgiving to lock in your plans, you have come to the right place. From traditional Turkey to fine dining dishes with a Turkey Day twist, we have rounded up the best that Thanksgiving 2022 has to offer. Read on below for our list of the top places to dine for Thanksgiving in your local neighborhood!

Los Angeles Thanksgiving 2022

H&H Brazilian Steakhouse

Location: Downtown Financial District

For a Brazilian take on Thanksgiving 2022, H&H Brazilian Steakhouse will offer an all-you-can-eat spread. The $65 pre-fixe menu will feature over a dozen types of meat, as well as roasted turkey, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, and other traditional fixings. The mini-chain’s normal dinner sides will also be available. The pre-fx menu for children ages 7-12 years of age is $32.50 for kids, and children under age 6 eat for free. 

 

Tam O’Shanter

Location: Atwater Village 

Make your way to the beloved Scottish pub Tam O’Shanter in Atwater Village. The pub rang in its 100th anniversary, and it’s celebrating Thanksgiving with one of the best à la carte holiday dinner menus in town. For $34, you will get a traditional turkey dinner plate, or you can upgrade for a bit more for their standard cuts of tender prime rib. 

 

San Laurel at the Conrad

Location: DTLA

Internationally acclaimed chef José Andrés’s new fine dining restaurant at the Conrad in Downtown L.A. ushers in its first Thanksgiving. San Laurel’s prix-fixe menu incorporates Spanish influences into a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Enjoy dishes like persimmons with creamy stracciatella cheese, Marcona almonds, and pomegranate seeds. Of course, there will be traditional roast turkey with stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and gravy on the menu. Guests can make a reservation for $140 per person.

Westside and Beach Communities Thanksgiving 2022

Playa Provisions

Location: Playa del Rey

Head to Brooke Williamson’s beachside eatery, Playa Provisions, for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner. The Top Chef alum’s Turkey Day spread this year includes a beer-brined turkey with all the fixings and a slice of pumpkin pie. The bonus? Guests can cozy up to the outdoor fir pit for pre or post-meal casual seating. Reservations for Playa Provisions are available for $68 per person.

 

FIG

Location: Santa Monica

Stroll over to Santa Monica this year for a Thanksgiving 2022 feast at FIG, the Fairmont Miramar’s lobby restaurant. Specializing in seasonal Californian cuisine, new head chef Damon Gordon is offering a traditional four-course Thanksgiving menu. Start with roasted chestnut and apple soup before the main course of a traditional Turkey with spiced citrus cranberry compote. Lastly, finish off with fig tart with local honey and yogurt sorbet in lieu of your usual pie, all for the ore-fixe price of $89 per person.

 

Etta

Location: Culver City

This upscale Culver City restaurant is offering a generous holiday spread complete with Etta’s signature “picnic” take on roast turkey and a champagne toast to kick off your meal. Start with roasted brussels sprouts, bubbling shrimp, and ragu pasta before the turkeys even roll out. This year, the $95 per person meal includes confit turkey breast and thighs, melted leek and mushroom stuffing, potato purée, charred sweet potatoes, and black truffle dinner rolls. After all, that, enjoy pear and cranberry cobbler or dessert.

San Fernando Valley Thanksgiving 2022

Wood & Water

Location: Sherman Oaks

Indulgence is the norm at Wood & Water, so there should be no surprise that the Thanksgiving 2022 selection is just as decadent. Start off with a hearty and delicious Butternut Squash soup before taking your pick of entrees like traditional Turkey, Panko, and Dijon Crusted Rack of Lamb or Rosemary Roasted Prime Rib. 

 

Castaway

Location: Burbank

This special occasion go-to in the Valley will offer a four-course Thanksgiving brunch this year—think lobster eggs Benedict, chicken, and waffles and $30 bottomless mimosas. Castaway will also be open for dinner when the restaurant’s usual à la carte menu is offered. Those seeking to stop by for brunch can enjoy Castaway’s offering for $92 per adult and $35 per child. 

 

Bourbon Steak

Location: Glendale

A dine-in meal at celebrity chef Michael Mina’s Glendale steakhouse is always a sure bet at the holidays. This Thanksgiving, you’ll find an elegant $125 per person three-course dinner. The menu features the traditional—roasted turkey with cornbread and chestnut stuffing, and cranberry mostarda. For something less traditional, the salmon Wellington with sake beurre blanc and Mina’s signature lobster pot pie is equally superb. Each entrée comes with a choice of one side, with additional sides going for $14 apiece. Want to make it even classier? There are a number of high-ticket add-ons available, including caviar and a chilled seafood sampler.

Conejo Valley Thanksgiving 2022

 

Geoffrey’s Malibu

Location: Malibu

Spend this Turkey Day taking in breathtaking views of the Pacific at Geoffrey’s, one of the best outdoor restaurants in Los Angeles. For lunch, the Malibu eatery will offer a three-course prix-fixe meal priced at $89 per adult with your choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert. Highlights include an oven-roasted boneless quail and a crab cake with cranberry beurre blanc to start, as well as mains like pan-seared scallops and grilled filet mignon. Choose from pumpkin cheesecake, chocolate crunch bars, or a fruit tart to finish.

 

The Draycott

Location: Pacific Palisades

London-meets-California brasserie, The Draycott is offering a seasonally appropriate prix fixe menu. For $95 per person, enjoy pumpkin soup, sweet potato ravioli, and both pumpkin and pecan pie. In addition to the special menu, the Draycott is also shaking up a couple of fall cocktails, including a tasty-sounding apple cider mule.

 

Saddle Peak Lodge

Location: Santa Monica Mountains

This upscale lodge was once a celeb favorite in the 1920s, and it’s still got that Old Hollywood magic today. Saddle Peak’s rustic setting and array of game is the perfect backdrop for a hearty four-course Thanksgiving meal, priced at $130 per adult and $65 per child. Choose from highlights like a grilled pheasant Caesar salad, bison tartare, and seared New Zealand elk—though the restaurant also offers vegan and vegetarian options. 

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Economic update for the week ending November 12, 2022

Stock markets surged as key report revealed that inflation moderated in October – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 7.7% year-over-year in October, it’s lowest year-over-year increase since January. The CPI peaked at 9.1% in June, but had remained in the mid 8% level until last month. The Core inflation level, which excludes food and energy costs, was 6.3%, also lower than expected. While still a long way from the 2% Fed target, this was a step in the right direction. Mortgage rates dropped over 1/2% on Thursday after the CPI rate was reported and stocks surged. The Dow jumped 1,200 points on Thursday alone. All indexes had steep gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 33,747.86, up 4.1% from 32,404.22 last week. It is down 7.1% year-to-date.  The S&P 500 closed the week at 3,992.93, up 5.9% from 3,770.55 last week. The S&P is down 16.2% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 11,323.33, up 8.1% from 10,475.26 last week. It is down 27.6% year-to-date. 

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week, yielding 3.82%, down from 4.17% last week.  The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.03%, down from 4.27% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields. 

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of November 10, 2022, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.08%, up from 6.95% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.38%, up from 6.29% last week. The 5-year ARM was 6.06%, up from 5.95% last week. Interest rates dropped sharply on Thursday after the October CPI report showed that inflation dropped to its lowest level since January. Next week’s rates will be lower. The 30-year fixed mortgages was 6.5% by the end of the day on Thursday. Lenders were closed Friday due to Veteran’s Day. 

Real estate sales figures for October will be released next week by the California Association of Realtor’s and the National Association of Realtor’s. You can get a market report with October sales figures for your city or zip code now at RodeoRe.com. 

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From Zoom rooms at AMC to big Wordle changes and more! | Tech News

With another week in November gone, it’s time to connect with the tech news you missed. From Zoom rooms at AMC to big Wordle changes and more, we have you covered for this week’s tech news. 

Zoom Rooms at AMC Aims to Offer a Movie Theater Experience

If you have ever wondered how your Zoom meeting would look on the big screen, you’ll soon be able to find out. AMC Theaters has partnered with Zoom to transform select movie theaters into enormous videoconferencing Zoom Rooms. The service will offer companies with decentralized workforces and customers a way to bring people from different markets together. AMC said the venture will be “for cohesive virtual and in-person events and meeting experiences,” as noted in a release. A company looking to book a movie theater can do so online for three-hour blocks of time with capacity ranges between 75 and 150 seats. The Zoom Rooms at AMC will offer traditional movie theater food and beverage options.

NASA and Northrop Grumman Pull off the Space Station Arrival of a Space Freighter

The Northrop Gruman NG-18 Cygnus space freighter has arrived successfully at the International Space Station after a minor glitch. During the launch, one of the spacecraft’s two solar arrays unfurled, but the craft still managed to dock this past week. Cygnus is loaded with 4 tons of hardware, crew supplies, and research equipment. It launched from Virginia on Monday morning. The ISS crew captured the spacecraft using a robotic arm and installed Cygnus on an available port. This particular Cygnus spacecraft is named the S.S. Sally Ride in honor of the first American woman in space.

Musk Outlines Payment System for Twitter 

As the Elon Musks Twitter takeover continues, many users have been left wondering how the new owner’s proposed payment system will continue. According to the New York Times, the company filed the paperwork to bring payment processing to the platform this past week. The move was also acknowledged by Musk in a Livestream with advertisers on Wednesday morning. Musk “discussed a vision for Twitter to process payments, complete with connected debit cards and bank accounts.” Musk, who is also the co-founder of PayPal, stated that Twitter’s new $8 monthly charge for a Twitter Blue subscription will set up users to segue into using the platform for payments and sending money between accounts.

IBM Quantum Computing Progress Closer to Eventual Utility

The future of quantum computing is moving forward with the recent news that bodes well for long-term prospects. IBM stated this past week that its new machine called Osprey with 433 qubits is closer to eventual utility. The company has been working steadily for years to make quantum computing a commercial success. Quantum computing promises to conquer challenges out of reach of the conventional technology that powers smartwatches and supercomputers. While it will take years before quantum computing delivers on its progress, this news is still a major step forward.

Wordle’s Daily Answer will be Chosen from “a Times-curated word list.”

Fans of Wordle can expect a slight change in the game’s daily answer. The New York Times has announced the appointment of an editor to oversee the puzzle game with a specially curated list. “It will finally be our fault if Wordle is harder,” the Times said in a post on Monday. The publication also added that Wordle’s gameplay won’t change and that its answers will come from the same basic dictionary of answer words, “with some editorial adjustments” to keep the game focused on “vocabulary that’s fun, accessible, lively and varied.”

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Weekend Events | November 11 – November 13, 2022

November is breezing on by like fall wind, and we are here for it. For a round-up of fun things to do locally, we have compiled our weekly list of weekend happenings. Read on and explore all that your neighborhood has to offer this November 11 through November 13!

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS | November 11 through November 13 

Vulture Festival

When: November 12 – November 13 

Where: Hollywood

What: Check out Q&As, sneak peeks, and table reads at the celeb-filled pop culture fest presented by New York Magazine’s Vulture. The festival returns to the Hollywood Roosevelt and brings a slew of big surprises and fun.

Chinatown First Fridays

When: Until December 2

Where: Chinatown

What: Enjoy extended hours at various galleries, shops, and restaurants during Chinatown’s First Fridays. Most of the galleries are along Chung King Road, with other businesses in Chinatown Central Plaza and Far East Plaza. Find the full list of spots here.

‘Encanto’ Live-to-Film Concert Experience

When: November 11 – November 12 

Where: Hollywood

What: This weekend, you can talk about Bruno at the ‘Encanto’ concert experience. Enjoy a concert and screening of the hit Disney film at the Hollywood Bowl. The concert will bring together special appearances from Encanto’s cast.

WESTSIDE & BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS | November 11 through November 13 

Melrose Rooftop Theater

When: On-going

Where: E.P. & L.P. | West Hollywood

What: Catch Hollywood’s favorite duo on the screen this weekend with two Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling features. Melrose Rooftop Theater will be showing ‘Crazy Stupid Love’ and ‘LaLaLand’ for an al fresco film experience.

Harry Styles

When: Until November 15 

Where: Inglewood

What: Welcome to Harry’s House! The One Direction breakout star takes over the Kia Forum for 15 nights of music in support of his new album Harry’s House. The show will be opened by Ben Harper. 

Joan Didion: What She Means

When: Until Jan 22, 2022

Where: Hammer Museum

What: This November, see more than 200 works of art to sketch a portrait of the late literary icon Joan Didion. The Hammer Museum exhibition represents periods of her life in places like the Central Valley in the postwar period or New York circa 1960. Featured artists include Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Noah Purifoy, Ed Ruscha, Betye Saar, and more than 50 others.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | November 11 through November 13 

All-Age Skate Night

When: November 12 

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

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

Bob Baker Marionette Theater: 60 Years of Joy & Wonder

When: Until March 19 

Where: Glendale 

What: The museum atop Forest Lawn’s Glendale cemetery is celebrating 60 years of the beloved Bob Baker Marionette Theater with a display of about 100 historical pieces, including puppets, concept art, archival photos, and an animatronic band.

Electric Dusk Drive-In Presents: Double Feature Night

When: November 12 

Where: Glendale

What: Is there a better era of Horror flicks than the 1980s? We’ll let you be the judge with this weekend’s double showing of cult classic hits. Check into Hotel Transylvania or take a trip to Egypt with The Mummy for this weekends November approved features! Electric Dusk Drive-In is LA’s longest-running pop-up drive-in and invites you to Glendale to enjoy film, food, and fun!

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | November 4 through November 6

Veterans Day Ceremony in Oxnard

When: November 11

Where: Plaza Park | Oxnard 

What: On Friday, Nov. 11, 2022, an outdoor ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. next to the Veterans Memorial at Plaza Park. Featured speakers include Captain Jason G. Kranz, Chief Staff Officer, Naval Base Ventura County; Mayor John C. Zaragoza; Jess Herrera, Commissioner, Port of Hueneme Oxnard Harbor District; and Sal Gonzales, first lieutenant, US Army Veteran.

Barnes & Noble Book Reading of “The Boy From Mexico” 

When: November 12

Where: 160 S Westlake Blvd, Thousand Oaks

What: Edward Dennis is a Chicano Author/Illustrator who is proud to be reading his debut Children’s book at Barnes & Noble. The event will start with a panel discussion between Edward and several special guests hosted by the media.

27th Annual Salmon Run 5K at Patagonia Ventura

When: November 13 

Where: 259 W. Santa Clara Street, Ventura

What: The 27th Annual Salmon Run at Patagonia takes place this Sunday, November 13. This is a certified 5K course featuring Patagonia® gear awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in each age category. There will also be a silent auction, raffle, and refreshments. Limited to 400 runners/walkers! This event usually sells out! No race day signups!

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Fall Home Decor Ideas We Love | Home Tips

Give your home a chic touch of fall flare with a range of fall home decor ideas. Nothing says autumn like warm earth tones that add just the right amount of spice to your home design. For the fall home decor ideas we love, read on below.

Lamp Chimneys Make for Ideal Fall Decor

Prep your holiday table with an easy yet eye-catching centerpiece. Incorporate the lamp chimneys at varying heights for a high-low look and better ease for guests to converse across the table.

Fall Decor to Love: Lined Cornucopia

Is Thanksgiving complete without a cornucopia somewhere in your home? The universal symbol of bounty, upgrade your cornucopia by lining the inside with velvet and filling the center with gold-painted nuts and pomegranates.

Say Welcome with a Pear Fall Decor Motif

Forelles and Anjours pears make for a fragrant greeting. Simply arrange seven pears on a mantel. Then, with a fine-tipped washable marker, write letters on the front of each pear. Press whole cloves into the flesh along the lines, and the sweet aroma will be as welcoming as the message itself.

You’re so Golden Arrangement

Fall leaves with a Midas touch! Pluck some transitional branches before they change from gold to brown and use them in a delightful fall arrangement. Pair your bouquet with dahlias, which are the floral jewels of the season.

Wheat is the Centerpiece of Attention

Perfect as fall decor or even a year-round display, a wheat centerpiece is both chic and simple. Boding with the essence of fall, this neutral statement piece makes for an ideal centerpiece.

Gourd-gous Fall Decor Pumpkin Vases

If you didn’t turn your pumpkins into jack-o-lanterns, you could still put them to good use for November. Carve out the top of your pumpkin or gourd and turn it into an elegant vase for a floral arrangement.

Lovely Leaves as Gift Tags and Name Cards

Go organic with your name placards this thanksgiving. Use leaves of varying sizes as name cards on your Thanksgiving table in a contrasting color.

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Economic update for the week ending November 5, 2022

The U.S. economy added 261,000 new jobs in October – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 261,000 new jobs were added in October. The unemployment rate inched up to 3.7%, just off the 60-year low of 3.5% last month, and back to its 3.7% rate in August. The labor-force participation rate (the share of workers with a job or actively looking for a job) dropped slightly to 62.2% from 62.3% in September. Average hourly wages increased 4.7% from one year ago. The number of new jobs created was above what experts had expected, and about the same as the initial report of 263,000 new jobs created in August that was revised to 315,000 today. The Federal Reserve has stated that they intend to keep increasing rates until the overheated jobs market cools. This is a report we will be looking closely at to determine the course of the Fed.

Stock markets down for the week – The Fed led the week with its 4th consecutive .75% interest rate hike, as well as comments which frightened investors who felt that future rate hikes would be moderating. When speaking about inflation Chairman Powell pointed to the labor market as a key contributor. He said “the labor market continues to be out of balance, with demand substantially exceeding the the supply of available workers.” With consumer spending accounting for nearly 70% of the U.S. economy, the Fed has focused on cooling the labor market with the hopes consumers pull back on their spending. While it seems like a historically low unemployment rate is a good thing, as long as workers have no fear of not finding employment, they will keep spending which will continue to fuel inflation. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 32,403.22, down 1.4% from 32,861.80 last week. It is down 10.8% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 3,770.55, down 3.4% from 3,901.06 last week. The S&P is down 20.9% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 10,475.26, down 5.6% from 11,102.45 last week. It is down 32.1% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week, yielding 4.17%, up from 4.02% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.27%, up from 4.15% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of November 3, 2022, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.95%, down from 7.08% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.29%, down from 6.36% last week. The 5-year ARM was 5.95%, unchanged from 5.96% last week.

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