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From PS5 on Amazon to Buick Going Electric and More | Tech News

Curious about the latest buzz in the world of tech? We have you covered! Read on for our bite-sized breakdown of the latest headlines in the tech and science industries. From PS5 on Amazon to Buick Going Electric and more, it’s time for the tech news of the week!!

Amazon Launches PS5 Invite to Ease Purchases

Fans of Playstation can expect some ease in their future product purchases courtesy of Amazon. The e-commerce giant has announced a new “invite” option for users to purchase the PS5. Likewise, the feature will create a more seamless experience where users will be able to make their purchase within 72 hours once they receive their invite via email. In addition, customers will not need to be Prime subscribers to use the feature. Of course, the invite-based system is only currently in place for the higher-end $499.99 version of the PS5. PlayStation users can also take their chances with securing the console via Sony or Walmart during its Walmart Plus Weekend.

Barnes & Noble Unveils New Competitor to Kindle

A newer e-reader option will be hitting the market courtesy of Barnes & Noble! The company has unveiled its Kindle competitor option with a revamped version of the Nook e-reader. The new Nook GlowLight 4e will include zero advertisements and an easy option for sideloading content, In addition, the Nook e-reader uses the USB-C charger and comes with 8GB of built-in storage. The device also has a 6-inch 212 ppi E Ink display with illumination which is an upgrade from Kindle’s 6-inch 167 ppi display. Consumers can pre-order Barnes & Noble’s latest e-reader for a retail price of $119.99 online. 

Scientists Grown Cells on Robot Skeleton

While they haven’t quite established what to do with it yet, scientists have achieved growing cells on a robot skeleton. Tissue engineering has long been in a slow and steady phase with small amounts of lab-grown cells used for experimentation. Researchers announced this week that a new method of tissue engineering will help them to improve the quality of future work in the field. The latest achievement allows scientists to grow cells on a moving robot skeleton. The new method allows for an open-source robot skeleton designed by engineers to withstand a custom growing environment. Likewise, the growing environment allows for the cells to be fitted into the skeleton, bending and flexing as required. This news marks a major milestone in the field of tissue engineering as well as bioengineering.

Twitter to Build Keyword Alert Tool

If you have ever wanted to be notified about news regarding certain keywords on Twitter, the company is heading your calls. Reports indicate that Twitter is developing a “Search Subscribe” feature. The feature will let users opt to receive notifications for tweets matching a certain query. While the feature has only been released in the Twitter Alpha app, there has been no confirmation by the company on if and when the tool will launch. Of course, if the feature proceeds, it will make it easier for users to relevant content. In addition, the news comes as Twitter’s similar tool, Tweetdeck is expected to soon shut down. How this will impact usability has yet to be determined.

Audio Name Pronunciations come to Slack

Slack is seeking to make communicating with co-workers easier. The company has announced a series of new features coming to the app to improve the overall user experience. Likewise, one of the new features will include an option to add name pronunciation guides. This feature will of course make introductions when working remotely a bit smoother for users. The new feature appears on users’ profile cards and began launching this month, This latest tool from Slacks is not the first inclusion-focused feature from the company. Prior updates to user profiles in the past have included the option to add your pronouns to your user card. 

Buick Rebrands itself as Electric-Only Automaker

One of America’s most iconic automakers has announced a major change. Buick, owned by General Motors, will be shifting its entire production line to EV vehicles, the first of which will launch in the US in 2024. The company hopes to be fully electric-only by the end of the decade. In addition, the company’s future EV models will bear the name “Electra” as a node to the company’s past. Buick will also be updating its logo for a body-mounted horizontal display, to emphasize its “brand transformation.” The news should come as no surprise as the rest of GM’s vehicle brands have already announced their own EV plans. The name Electra will be central to Buick’s plans to sell electric-only vehicles bu the end of the decade.

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Economic update for the week ending May 28, 2022

Stock markets snapped one of the longest weekly losing streaks on record with their best week since November 2020– Stock markets rallied after a core inflation report showed consumer personal consumption expenditures prices rose 4.9% in April, down from 5.2% in March. Bond yields and mortgage rates have dropped as well over the past couple of weeks as recent reports suggest inflation peaked in March and seems to be moderating. Retail sales also took an unexpected jump showing that the strength of the economy has not subsided. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 33,212.60, up 6.2% from 31,261.90 last week. It is down 8.6% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,158.25, up 6.6% from 3,901.36 last week. The S&P is down 12.8% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 12,131.13, up 6.9% from 11,352.62 last week. It is down 22.5% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 2.74% down from 2.78% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 2.97%, down from 2.99% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Home mortgage rates appear to be stabilizing. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates as of May 19, 2022 for the most popular loan products were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 5.10%, down from 5.25% last week. The 15-year fixed was 4.31%, down from 4.43% last week. The 5-year ARM was 4.20%, up from 4.08% last week.

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Weekend Events: Memorial Day Weekend 2022 Edition

Memorial Day weekend 2022 is here, and so is a bounty of local fun! Enjoy all that your local community has to offer with exciting happenings around town. From food to music, festivals, and more, we have you covered with our roundup of weekend events.

LOS ANGELES MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND EVENTS

 

AAPI Heritage Month Movie Night

When: Until May 27

Where: DTLA

What: Make your way to the Grand Central Market hosted screening of Parasite in honor of APAHM month. The screening will take place at Million Dollar Theater, with tickets available for $5 and craft cocktails courtesy of Vervet. There will also be concessions available from Asian-owned food businesses.

Witch Hunt

When: May 28

Where: Silverlake

What: Don’t miss this bicoastal stand-up show from Merril Davis, featuring a predominantly female lineup. Taking place at the Lyric Hyperion, this weekend’s show will include levity from the likes of Alice Wetterlund, Chelsea Devantez, Nori Reed, and more. 

LA County Fair

When: May 5 – May 30

Where: Pomona

What: It is the final weekend of the LA County Fair! Spend your Memorial Day weekend 2022 at the Pomona fairgrounds for what has been a local tradition since 1921. While there won’t be much livestock at the former agricultural fair, there will be plenty of fun, rides, performances, and more!

 

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES MEMORIAL DAY 2022 WEEKEND EVENTS

Fiesta Hermosa

When: May 28 – May 30 

Where: Hermosa Beach

What: What better way to spend Memorial Day weekend 2022 than at Fiesta Hermosa?! Enjoy this annual art festival of fine foods, music, and of course, art. Bonus: You’ll enjoy all of this oceanside, plus there are fun carnival activities the entire family can enjoy.

Babies! at the Aquarium of the Pacific

When: May 27, 2022 – April 30, 2023

Where: Long Beach

What: Cute baby sea otters? Yes, please! Miniature sea jellies? Say less. The Aquarium of the Pacific invites you to view their latest exhibit, “Babies.” The gallery features baby animals as well as the stories behind them and how they are cared for.

Poolside Cinema at the Fairmont Miramar

When: until September 4

Where: Santa Monica

What: Enjoy a seaside flick at the Fairmont Miramar in Santa Monica. Just in time for Memorial Day weekend 2022, fun film flicks are back at the Santa Monica hotel’s luxurious pool. Every Saturday night during the summer, you can catch a film while enjoying the sunset and delicious bites. 

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY MEMORIAL DAY 2022 WEEKEND EVENTS

Simi Summer Days Festival and Carnival

When: May 27 – May 30 

Where: Simi Valley Town Center

What: Make your way over to Simi Summer Days Festival for Memorial Day weekend 2022! The Simi Valley Town Center hosted event will feature a carnival, rides for all ages, a food court, live entertainment, and more!

The 818 Night Market

When: May 28 

Where: 14941 Devonshire St

What: Head over to the 818 Night Market this Saturday! This fun community special event will have plenty of vendors, art, music, games, collectibles, and more for non-stop Saturday night fun!

Plant Identification Walk at Brand Park Motorway

When: May 29 

Where: Brand Park Motorway, Glendale

What: Enjoy a family-friendly sunset hike, and learn about native plants through the seasons! In this class, you’ll learn ways to use community science applications to identify and track plants as we approach the end of the spring season.

CONEJO VALLEY MEMORIAL DAY 2022 WEEKEND EVENTS

Topanga Days Country Fair

When: May 29 – May 30

Where: Topanga Canyon

What: Enjoy this Memorial Day weekend festival surrounded by nature in Topanga Canyon. A local tradition, this Bohemian-Esq fest features music, food, arts, and of course, the joy of your natural surroundings. 

45th Annual Ojai Art in the Park

When: May 28 

Where: Libbey Park, Ojai

What: Ojai’s beloved art festival returns this weekend. Don’t miss the 45th Annual Art in the Park taking place this Saturday and Sunday. Started in 1977 by local artists at the Ojai Art Center, the festival gives artists a place to sell their work during Memorial Day weekend.

Food Truck Festival at Community Center Park in Camarillo

When: May 28

Where: 1605 Burnley St, Camarillo

What: What is better than one food truck? A festival of them, of course! Bring your friends and fam to Camarillo’s Food Truck Festival for the ultimate dining out experience. In addition to food trucks, there will be live music, lawn games, an inflatable obstacle course, and more. The best part? Admission is free!!

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From the Oura Gucci Collab to the Amazon Style store and more | Tech News

What’s the buzz in the world of tech? Don’t worry; we’ve saved you from a deep dive into the net with this week’s tech news roundup. From Oura’s Gucci Collab to the Amazon Style store and more, stay connected with the top tech news to know!

Oura and Gucci Collab on Luxury Wellness Ring

The popular health tracking ring Oura has released a new collab with luxury fashion house Gucci. Of course, the premium version of Oura Ring Gen 3 brings a high-end touch to the wearable health tracker. The Gucci version is made from black-coated titanium and features an interlocking G logo finished in 18-karat gold for a price tag of $950. Likewise, the ring comes equipped with Oura’s standard features and sensors as other Gen 3 rings have. In addition to being stylish, the ring also includes a lifetime Oura membership to access all the health metrics from the Gen 3. The ring can be worn all day and even at night to track sleeping patterns. The Oura x Gucci ring is available today for purchase online at Gucci.com and in Gucci stores.

NFL to Launch its Own Streaming Service this Summer

Another media giant is getting in on the streaming trend. The NFL has announced its plans to launch its own streaming service for phones and tablets in July. NFL Plus will carry games available on a subscriber’s local TV stations along with out-of-market games available on DirecTV’s Sunday Ticket. Previously such local games were offered through Yahoo and different carriers, but these deals have expired. Likewise, the previous deals coming to an end have opened up a window of opportunity for the NFL to launch NFL Plus. Fans will be able to utilize the service for $5 per month, which will also include podcast, radio, and other team-related content.

Amazon Opens Doors for Its First Clothing Store

E-commerce giant Amazon’s first brick-and-mortar has opened up shop in Los Angeles. Amazon Style debuted this week at The Americana at Brand mall and was announced on May 25 along with a video profiling some of its employees. Of course, the store comes as a new addition to Amazon’s lineup of physical stores like Whole Foods, Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh. The new storefront will carry clothing from brands such as Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, Champion, and more. Wall Street Journal was the first outlet to report Amazon’s department store plans last September. The report suggested the store would use tech solutions to focus on customer convenience. Likewise, Amazon hopes the Amazon Style store will minimize the hassle of trying on clothing. 

Dyson Looking into Robots that Can Do Household Chores

After leading the industry in household tech goods, Dyson is looking to one-up itself with its latest news. The company has released early prototypes of robots in development capable of completing household chores. In addition, the company will hire hundreds of engineers in the next five years to aid in the project. Dyson aims to develop “an autonomous device capable of household chores and other tasks.” The company hopes the devices can be released to the public by 2030. Likewise, the news comes a half-decade after the release of Dyson’s first robotic device, the Dyson 360 Eye robot vacuum cleaner. Of course, the company has long shared its long-term goals of becoming the leader in AI and robotics to underpin future household products.

Harley Davidson Releases Limited Edition Electric Mountain Bike

E-bike riders have a new option for the ultimate bike retailer, of a different kind of course. Harley Davidson has unveiled its latest e-bike to hit the road on. The new Bash/Mtn premium model is made for some serious off-road biking and comes with a serious price tag too. For a retail price of $3,999, the single-speed eMTB (electric mountain bike) from Harley Davidson can be yours. Promising to require less maintenance, its simplified design makes the bike tough terrain perfect and comes equipped with Michelin tires. In addition, the e-bike includes a Gates Carbon Drive belt, Brose S Mag mid-drive motor, and integrated LED lighting. Likewise, the bike also has additional tech specs similar to previous Serial 1 models.

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Best Rooftop Bars in Town | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles has no shortage of great cocktails and stellar views. With so many places to choose from, we thought to narrow down the results! Read on for our favorite rooftop bars to try this month!

Desert 5 Spot

Location: 6516 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028

The laid-back lounge provides a serene environment for relaxing in the evening. You can get colorful drinks such as Ancho Reyes Verde liqueur.

Mama Shelter

Location: 6500 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028

An iconic rooftop bar offering a play to snack and have drinks. The bar offers an unobstructed view of the city.

Grandmaster Recorders

Location: 1518 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

The bar is a 4,000-square-foot deck offering ample space for large groups. There is an elevator leading to the rooftop adding to the experience. The bar has signature cocktails and snacks you can try.

Harriet’s

Location: 8490 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Harriet’s rooftop bar is famous because of its colorful decorations. The creative use of lighting and decorations creates the ambiance.

The Rooftop by JG

Location: 9850 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

If you fancy a rooftop bar that serves food throughout the day, the Rooftop by JG is the place to be. The bar offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin

Location: 1697 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291

The bar is a great spot for evening snacks and meals. Because the bar is a popular joint, try to get there early before it fills up.

The Front Yard

Location: 4222 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91602

The bar has a spacious patio for family and friends to hang out. The special feature of the rooftop bar is a fireplace which sets it apart from the competition. You can have your favorite cocktails as you enjoy the influence.

Bar Lis

Location: 1541 Wilcox Ave Los Angeles, CA 90028

The bar offers you the chance to explore cultures. It presents a mix of classic South France exploration together with the ease of South California. The rooftop is a capture of this spirit and style.

FIVE on the Hill

Location: 555 Universal Hollywood Dr North Hollywood, CA 91608

The bar is famous for its small plates and craft cocktails. Like other rooftop bars, you get a view of the sky as well as a great view of the city.

The Surfrider Malibu

Location: 23033 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265

The Surfrider is a luxury rooftop bar. It is in the midst of the historic beach-town community. It incorporates the surf culture of the California culture.

The Bungalow Santa Monica

Location: 101 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90401

With bright lights and clever decorations, the Bungalow Santa Monica presents a fancy yet elegant look. It has an indoor space you might enjoy if you would rather not stay out in the open.

The Malibu Café

Location: 327 Latigo Canyon Rd Calamigos Ranch Malibu, CA 90265

The bar attracts numerous visitors because of its county kitchen cuisine. The bar sits on the mountainside, offering a great view for everyone.

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Staycation in Anaheim | Out & About

Southern California’s city of Anaheim lies just outside Los Angeles. Famous for being home to the enormous Disneyland Resort, it’s an especially popular staycation destination for families. There are many reasons beyond Disneyland, however, to book a staycation in SoCal’s exciting Anaheim. Looking for inspiration? Here are our top recommendations on where to stay, where to dine, and what to do in Anaheim!

Where to Stay in Anaheim

Westin Anaheim Resort

Part of the Marriot group, the Westin Anaheim Resort is a luxurious modern hotel that boasts signature amenities and a peaceful ambiance. Relax in the sunshine at the outdoor swimming pool for a sunny pool day. Onsite dining options include delectable Mexican fare and sumptuous steaks. In addition, the Westin has a great rooftop bar that overlooks Disney’s California Adventure. Located next to the Convention Center, it’s within easy reach of the city’s varied attractions.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa

A perfect treat for kids and adults alike, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa is luxury the Disney way. Start your day with a magical twist at the enchanting Napa Rose or Storytellers Café. The high-class resort features three inviting pools and a blissful spa with top-of-the-range treatments. There’s also a well-equipped fitness center, gift shop, laundry room, and free Wi-Fi. The beautiful guest rooms feature stunning artwork and murals, and each combines lashings of luxury with modern conveniences. A range of rooms and suites are available to accommodate between five and 13 guests.

Where to Eat

Enjoy a helping of nostalgia alongside tasty American fare at Ruby’s Diner, a retro diner that takes you back in time. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu includes quick and easy favorites to enjoy. Younger members of the family can enjoy the smaller plates on the kids’ menu.

For hearty comfort food after a fun-filled day out and about, there are few better places to unwind than The Kroft. With the rustic appeal, the gastropub offers a selection of homemade dishes. Likewise, this includes sandwiches and poutines, as well as a range of refreshing draught beers.

Where to Sip

Anaheim’s Uva Bar and Café boast a breezy patio and a Mediterranean ambiance. Located in Downtown Disney, the bar provides a great viewing point from which to watch the famous fireworks shows. Happy hour promotions keep the customers happy, and there’s a range of bar snacks to satisfy your hunger.

A fantastic place for a romantic night out with that special someone, The Blind Rabbit is a cool and intimate speakeasy-inspired bar. The décor, lighting, and ambiance transport visitors back to the times of prohibition. This of course includes a tempting food menu and extensive drinks list. Dare a shot of absinthe, sip a sumptuous cocktail, enjoy whiskies from around the world or keep it simple with a glass of beer.

What to See and Do in Anaheim

If you’re looking for a family-friendly affordable alternative to Disneyland (or, if you’re simply Disney-ed-out), Adventure City is home to an array of rides and activities. Baseball lovers can soak up the energy of a game at Angel Stadium, while hockey enthusiasts should head to the Honda Center.

If outdoor recreation is more appealing, the riverside Yorba Regional Park is a terrific place for strolling, biking, and picnicking, while the 58-acre Oak Canyon Nature Center is home to a diverse array of interesting flora and fauna.

Medieval Times makes for an exciting evening out for people of all ages, or adults can check out the live music at House of Blues.

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Celebrating Memorial Day Weekend | Home Tips

With Memorial Day Weekend approaching, you may already be thinking of ways to celebrate. As we gather to honor U.S. military heroes, marking the occasion can happen at home or out and about. From stay home celebrations to things to do in town, we’ve got plenty of ideas to inspire you.

Activities at Home

Set up classic yard games to enjoy over Memorial Day Weekend, great old-fashioned fun for people of all ages. You could even get some patriotic trinkets — think almost anything decorated with the American flag — as prizes for the winners. Fun garden games include horse shows, ring toss, cornhole, lawn darts, and bocce ball. You could also invest in a large set of Connect 4, chess, or a tumble tower to bring added fun to your outdoor party.

For a group that loves music and singing, karaoke can be a fun activity to get everyone in a celebratory mood. For Memorial Day Weekend, stick to singing patriotic songs over the mic. There’s a long list to choose from, with something to suit most musical tastes, with songs from, for example, Bruce Springsteen, Dolly Parton, Billy Ray Cyrus, Lee Greenwood, Alan Jackson, and Faith Hill. Karaoke is a great activity for indoor parties, though you can certainly take the singing outdoors too!

Memorial Day Weekend Recipes

There are many delicious Memorial Day meals to look forward to, from an array of grilled meats with a huge assortment of side salads to veggie kebabs, pizza, dips, and fajitas.

Whether you’re having a sit-down meal indoors, a picnic, or a BBQ bonanza, these two suggested recipes are great for bringing a little more patriotism to the table.

People of all ages love cupcakes. So, what could be better than a red, white, and blue cupcake? The swirl-topped vanilla cupcakes are tasty and look fantastic.

Patriotic sugared cherries are so quick and easy to make, yet look so elegant and tempting set out on a platter. The fun delicious treats need just three ingredients: cherries, white chocolate, and blue sugar.

Memorial Day Home Décor

Add a patriotic American flag banner to your home for Memorial Day Weekend, similar to this one from Pottery Barn. Made from Burlap, it’s strong and sturdy enough to survive the elements outside for some time. Hang from your fence, decorate your porch or take it indoors to adorn a wall, mantel, or staircase. If you’re feeling creative, you could also create your own flag-themed bunting from fabric or card.

It’s quick and easy to add splashes of patriotism to the dinner table with stylish fabric napkins in shades of red, white, and blue. They look especially classy when rolled within a complementary napkin ring. You could purchase napkin rings decorated with the classic stars and stripes to take it up another notch. Alternatively, buy paper flag napkins for outdoor dining.

Local Events around LA

If you want to get out and about over Memorial Day Weekend, there are plenty of terrific options around Los Angeles for the whole family.

Head to Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro to visit the awe-inspiring Battleship Iowa. While an amazing attraction at any time of the year, there’s an exciting lineup of free events along with the per on Memorial Day. Live music, face painting, displays of military vehicles, and a remembrance ceremony are just a few things to look forward to.

Honor military men and women at Santa Monica Pier, host to the moving Arlington West, the area’s largest military ceremony. You can also pay your respects at the patriotic ceremony at Forest Lawn cemetery.

Topanga Days, between May 28th and 30th, features a laid-back vibe, music, food, and crafts, and Happy Face Music Festival, on May 28th, has Cajon-Creole music and food, as well as a large area for kids’ fun.

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Economic update for the week ending May 21, 2022

Stock markets dropped again this week – The Dow suffered its eighth consecutive weekly loss which marks its longest weekly losing streak since 1923. The S&P and Nasdaq suffered their seventh weekly loss, their longest losing streak since 2001. It is a strange time.

First-quarter corporate profits were much stronger than expected, and the economy and job market are showing very strong numbers; however, investors fear that inflation, higher interest rates, war, supply chain shortages, and a China lockdown will soon lead to a drop in profits, and possibly a recession.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 31,261.90, down 2.1% from 32,196.66 last week. It is down 11.4% year-to-date.  The S&P 500 closed the week at 3,901.36, down 2.4% from 4,023.89 last week. The S&P is down 15.6% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 11,354.62, down 2.8% from 11,805.00 last week. It is down 24.5% year-to-date. 

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 2.78%, down from 2.93% last week.  The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 2.99%, down from 3.10% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields. 

Mortgage rates – Home mortgage rates appear to be stabilizing. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates as of May 19, 2022 for the most popular loan products were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 5.25%, down from 5.30% last week. The 15-year fixed was 4.43%, down from 4.48% last week. The 5-year ARM was 4.08%, up from 3.98% last week. 

U.S. existing-home sales – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 5.61 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in April, down 2.4% month-over-month from the annualized number of sales in March. Year-over-year sales were down 5.9% from the annualized rate of 5.96 million in April 2021.  The median price of a home in the U.S. in April was $391,200, up 14.8% from $340,700 one year ago. April marked a record 122 consecutive months of year-over-year increases in the median price. Inventory levels ticked up slightly from March but remained near record lows. There was a 2.2-month supply of homes for sale in April, down from a 2.3 month supply one year ago.  First-time buyers accounted for 28% of all sales.  Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 17% of all sales.  All-cash purchases accounted for 26% of all sales.  Foreclosure and short-sales accounted for less than 1% of all sales remaining at a historic low. 

California existing-home sales –  Lower inventory has led to a drop in the number of sales and a rise in prices – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 419,040 on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in April, which marked an 8.5% year-over-year drop from the number of homes sold in April 2021. Existing-home sales in the first quarter of 2022 are down 7.0% from the number of homes sold in the first quarter of 2021, which pretty closely matches the drop in the number of new listings. The median price paid for a home in March was $884,890, up 4.2% from March’s 2021 median price of $849,080. Year-over-year prices are up 8.5%. There was a 1.8-month supply of homes for sale in April, up slightly from a 1.6-month supply of homes in April 2021. 

The graph below shows regional figures by county in Southern California.

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From BeReal to ‘Netflix & Livestream’ and More! | Tech News

It’s time for another round-up of the latest tech headlines. We’re sharing bit-size versions of the leading news in the world of tech. From BeReal to Netflix & Livestream and more, we have you covered!

Robinhood Working on non-custodial Crypto Wallet

With the release of Robinhood’s first crypto wallet this year, the company has announced a second one. The company’s latest product will be a non-custodial. This gives users sole custody over the private keys necessary to control their money on the blockchain. In addition, Robinhood has also stated that the new wallet will be offered as a standalone app. Likewise, the company hopes that it will “feature the same simple and accessible design” as its main service. Robinhood’s new wallet will also offer the ability to store and trade cryptocurrencies. This will include many cryptocurrencies not available through the main Robinhood app with no network fees. In addition, the wallet will support NFTs and DeFi (decentralized finance) protocols.

Apple to Introduce New Accessibility Features like Live Caption

This week Apple announced the addition of several new accessibility features. The features are for its various computing platforms, debuting this year in software updates for iOS devices. One of the features, Live Captions, will be able to transcribe any audio content. This will include content for FaceTime calls video conferencing apps (with auto attribution to identify the speaker), streaming video, or in-person conversations. Apple is, of course, not the first tech giant to offer similar features on its devices. Google has been working on its Live Caption since the release of Android 10. Likewise, similar features are also available on a select number of other Android phones as well.

FDA Digital Health Leader Joins Google Team

Google has found its new senior director of global digital health strategy in Bakul Patel, the former FDA leader. The news comes as Google works to push further into its health and healthcare initiatives. Likewise, these ambitions have ranged from mining big data for algorithms to developing disease-detecting tools and more. Regarding the opportunity, Bakul Patel shared the following: “I am looking forward to learning from the teams in health across Google and Alphabet and helping build a unified digital health and regulatory strategy.”  

Netflix May Move Into the World of Livestreaming

As first reported by Deadline, Netflix is hoping to move into the world of live streaming. As far as what type of content, the company is looking to live stream for stand-up specials and various live events. Netflix seeking to expand on its featured content could, in turn, allow it to air live reunions, as noted by Deadline. Likewise, the live streaming feature would also be of use for competition shows and other types of content. The news comes after the streaming giant held its first-ever live and in-person comedy festival in Los Angeles, ‘Netflix is a Joke.’ While specials from the festival have not yet aired, the event proved to be a success. If the company is to move forward on the feature, they’ll join the likes of Disney + and more who have shown success in live streaming. 

BeReal, the Anti-Instagram App Grows In Popularity as Fun Alternative

An app that bills itself as the “anti-Instagram”, Beetle has become a popular favorite among Gen Zs and beyond. Although the app debuted in 2019, BeReal has seen a recent surge in users looking for something real. The app offers “a new and unique way to discover who your friends really are in their daily life,” according to the company. Users for the app receive a push notification, letting them know it’s time to “BeReal” during a two-minute window each day. Being that posting windows are at random, the app takes away the planned content option; in addition, users are required to take a photo simultaneously using both their front and back camera and post it to the feed. User’s that post late or takes multiple photos will be unable to see their friend’s feed. BeReal provides a gamification version of daily photo sharing without filters and content pillars. Those seeking to give the BeReal app a try can do so from their app store.

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Weekend Events: May 20 – May 22

The weekend has almost arrived, and so has our weekly round-up of local fun. For all the best happenings this May 20 through May 22, read on!

Los Angeles Weekend Events for May 20 – May 22

Jazz @ LACMA

When: Until June 24

Where: LACMA | Mid-Wilshire

What: Music returns to the serene outdoor space of the Los Angeles Contemporary Museum of Art. The mid-city museum is bringing back its annual summer series on Friday evenings underneath the stars. The best part? It’s free! 

90’s Skate Night

When: Until May 22 

Where: Wisdom | Arts District DTLA

What: If you dig 90’s aesthetic AND rollerskating, you’re in luck! Bucketlisters and Wisdome are taking it back a couple of decades to give you the 90’s roller night of your dreams. Glide over to their projection-filled dome and skate beneath the ultimate throwback.

LA County Fair

When: May 5 – May 30

Where: Pomona

What: There are only a couple of weekends left for you to make your way to the LA County Fair! Visit the Pomona fairgrounds for what has been a local tradition since 1921. While there won’t be much livestock at the former agricultural fair, there will be plenty of fun, rides, performances, and more!

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events for May 20 – May 22

Create to Distress Workshop

When: May 20

Where: Virginia Avenue Park | Santa Monica

What: Join this Friday’s Canvas Bag workshop ‘Create to Distress’ with Artist Carmela Morales. In this class, you’ll learn how to personalize a canvas bag while learning how to work on your mental well-being.

Rooftop Cinema Club

When: through July 4 

Where: El Segundo

What: This Friday, May 20, and Saturday, May 21, catch a screening of ‘Legally Blonde,’ ‘Coco’ or ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ at El Segundo’s Rooftop Cinema Club series. The masters of alfresco rooftop movies provide the perfect setting for warm May weekend weather and an evening of fun under the stars.

Flamboyance: A Topiary Menagerie

When: Until July 31 

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills Estates

What: Over 100 topiary animals will be on view at the South Coast Botanic Garden now through July 31. The colorful installation, ‘Flamboyance’ includes 70 pink flamingos filled with begonias, as well as floral recreations of dogs, rabbits, monkeys, butterflies, and dolphins.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events for May 20 – May 22

7th Annual Subaru’s Great Big Family Play Day

When: May 22

Where: Griffith Park

What: LA’s most popular family festival returns this weekend for the 7th Annual Subaru Great Big Family Play Day. Head to Griffith Park this Sunday, May 22, for a day full of entertainment, special guests, giveaways, and of course, fun! 

All-Age Skate Night

When: Every Saturday

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.

Sundays at The Gentle Barn

When: February 27

Where: 15825 Sierra Highway | Santa Clarita

What: Connect with nature this weekend at The Gentle Barn. Stop by on Sunday from 10 am-2 pm to hug the cows, cuddle the turkeys, and enjoy a beautiful day at the barn.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events for May 20 – May 22

Greater Conejo Valley Chamber 2022 Recognition Gala

When: May 20, 2022

Where: Hyatt Regency Westlake | Westlake Village

What: The Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce will host their Recognition Gala, celebrating the Art of Excellence, on Friday, May 20, 2022, from 6:30 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Westlake, honoring a number of winners in different award categories. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate with your local community members!

43rd Annual Young Authors Fair & Family Literacy Celebration

When: May 21 

Where: kidSTREAM Children’s Museum | Camarillo

What: Support the young local writers in your community at the 43rd Annual Young Authors Fair & Family Literacy Celebration. Young authors will have a chance to participate in fun book-related STREAM activities while reading the works of other writers. In addition, there will be an engaging presentation by Kirsten Larson, author of Wood, Wire, Wings: Lilian Todd Invents an Airplane.

Children to Love Fundraiser 

When: May 22

Where: Prospector Ranch | Thousand Oaks

What: Enjoy live music, food, wine, and more at the Children to Love Fundraiser: Benefiting Children in Ukraine and Uganda. In addition, the event will also feature local artists selling their trades. All funds will benefit children at Future for Children in Ukraine and Mercy Childcare Village in Uganda.

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