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From Uber Eats Robot Delivery to Apple iOS 16 | Tech News

It’s time for the latest round-up of tech news from across the web. From Uber Eats Robot Delivery to Apple iOS 16 and more, read on for the latest news!

Mercedes-Benz partners with Rivian for electric vans

Mercedes-Benz is embarking on a new venture. The automobile company has announced a partnership with Rivian for “bespoke large” commercial electric vans. The company announced the news of the strategic partnership this week. Likewise, Mercedes plans to use its existing Mercedes-Benz site in Central or Eastern Europe to make the vehicles. This marks Rivian’s first foothold in the continent; the automaker only has one manufacturing facility in the US. The company will release to van models that will be built on Mercedes’ Vans Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) platform. The other vehicle model will be built on Rivian’s second-generation electric van platform, called Rivian Light Van (RLV). “We want to retain our position as the only van manufacturer producing large vans in Germany — despite the increasing costs associated with the e-mobility transformation,” said Mercedes-Benz head of vans Mathais Geisen.

Uber Eats Signs 10-Year Deal with Nuro for Robot Food Delivery

Robot food delivery will soon be making its way to California and Texas. Uber Eats has announced that it will partner with Nuro in a 10-yeat deal for autonomous delivery vehicles. The two companies have been in negotiations on a deal for the last four years. Beginning in the fall, Uber Eats and Nuro will deploy a fleet of self-driving delivery vehicles. The deliveries will launch in Mountain View, California, and Houston, Texas. Uber Eats and Nuro have not yet disclosed the number of customers the vehicles will reach. However, they did disclose that they hope to, at some point, expand to the greater Bay Area if testing goes well. 

Apple to Release iOS 16 in the Coming Week to iPhones

After this week’s Apple event, news of new products and updates are here. Likewise, the company has announced its latest software update, iOS 16, which will be released to iPhones on September 12. The software update will bring a variety of improvements to the iPhone, which may have already been seen on iPadOS 16 users who received their update last June. Some of the expected updates include improvements to the lock screen and the ability to edit and recall sent messages. In addition, the update will also roll out the new iCloud Shared Photo Library to share photos with your family and use the Live Text feature to pull text from videos as well as photos, with new abilities added.

Meta to Reveal High-End VR Set this October

For fans of Meta’s VR set, you won’t have to wait much longer for details on its high-end VR set. The social media giant has announced it will release a look at the latest Oculus VR set on October 11. In addition to giving consumers a first-hand look at the product, the company will also offer “a look at what’s to come in the near and far future.” In a blog post to Meta’s site, the company stated that we’ll see information on the Horizon Worlds virtual reality app and hinted that the high-end “Project Cambria” headset will show up as well. According to Zuckerberg, the headset will include eye and facial tracking and color passthrough as just some of the expected features. 

Mullen Automotive acquires EV startup Bollinger, for $148.2 million

Bollinger Motors, an EV startup, has been acquired by Muller Automotive for a grand total of $148.2 million. The controlling stake provides Mullen Automotive with a 60 percent share of the company. Mullen Automotive will add the Bollinger-designed medium-duty trucks and sport utility vehicles to its current inventory. As such, the deal “positions Bollinger to capture the electric sport utility and commercial vehicle markets,” the company added. Those outside Southern California may be unfamiliar with the electric vehicle manufacturer, whose goal is to build “the next-generation of premium electric vehicles that are affordable and built entirely in the United States.” 

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Weekend Events | September 9 – September 11

Make the most out of your September weekend with a range of exciting events in town. From art exhibits to free concerts and more, there are plenty of things to do. Read on for our weekend roundup of fun!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 9 – September 11 

Summer on 7th

When: September 10

Where: DTLA

What: Enjoy music, food, and fantastic architecture, all for a great cause at this Saturday’s Summer on 7th event. The evening under the stars will take place at the Inner-City Arts campus with rooftop sets by  Cordae, plus DJ sets by dublab and La Junta Crew. 

Jazz at LACMA

When: Until September 23

Where: LACMA | Miracle Mile 

What: Considerably one of LA’s best free music offerings, catch Jazz at LACMA before it’s gone. The summer music set runs through the last week of September. Picnic in the museum park while enjoying soulful sounds under the stars.

Chinatown First Fridays

When: Until December 1

Where: Chinatown

What: Enjoy extended hours at a slew of Chinatown galleries, shops, and restaurants as this fun Friday night event series returns! Make your way along Chung King Road and around other businesses in Chinatown Central Plaza.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 9 – September 11 

Bergamot Station Arts Center Fall Open

When: September 10 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Fall will be here soon, so likewise, it is time for Bergamot Station Arts Center to debut its fall exhibit. Stop by this open house and peruse through the artwork of over 20 galleries from artists and curators. 

Americana in the Park

When: September 4 – September 25 

Where: Gandara Park | Santa Monica

What: Enjoy music in the park at this Sunday afternoon concert for the community. All through September, Gandara Park will explore the roots of Americana via tunes.

D23 Expo

When: September 9 – September 11

Where: Anaheim 

What: Calling all Disney fans! The return of D23 is here!! Make your way over to the Anaheim Convention Center for the best fan weekend around. Find out about upcoming releases and get a peek at some of the latest Imagineer-designed rides. 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 9 – September 11 

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 8 – October 31 

Where: Universal Studios | Universal City

What: There’s no running or hiding because Halloween Horror Nights is back and haunting now through October 31. Get your spook on with haunted houses and mazes inspired by the Weekend, Halloween, The Black Phone, Freak, and the classic Universal Monsters.

Valley Relics Museum Experience

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum 

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.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 9 – September 11

Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival 

When: September 10 & September 11 

Where: Ventura Habor Village | Ventura

What: The Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival kicks off this Saturday and Sunday at Ventura Habor Village. This waterfront juried art festival features more than over 40 talented street chalk artists creating colorful murals along the Village promenade overlooking the boats.

Chinese Cultural Day

When: September 10 

Where: Civic Arts Plaza | Thousand Oaks

What: Don’t miss the 5th Chinese Cultural Day at Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza Park. The festival will feature performances, exhibits, games, food, and more. Likewise, the event will be celebrating the Moon Festival and showcase traditional Chinese music and dance performances.

Tiny Porch Concerts

When: September 10

Where: Peter Strauss Ranch | Agoura Hills

What: In cooperation with the National Park Service, Tiny Porch Concerts presents its 2022 Summer Series. These concerts are open to the public and to all ages. Admission is FREE, although VIP Tickets are available for purchase. VIP tickets include a beer, wine, and cheese reception an hour before the music begins and a chair waiting for you in the theater!

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Economic update for the month ending August 31, 2022

Stock markets dropped about 4% in August – To say that the markets don’t know what to do is an understatement. The first half of 2022 marked the worst first half of a year for the S&P 500 since 1939. The Dow and Nasdaq also had their worst half of a year since 1970. In July, inflation seemed to be moderating, corporate profits were higher than expected, consumer spending was strong and July marked the best July in 50 years for the major stock markets. They made up over half of the losses suffered in the first six months. In August markets reversed after the July jobs report. It shocked experts because employers had hired over double the number of new employees that analysts had estimated and the unemployment rate dropped to 3.5%, a 52-year low. Stocks began to rally again after the July CPI report was released in the second week of the month. It showed that consumer prices, a key indicator of inflation, rose 8.5% year-over-year in July, down from 9.1% in June. With inflation moderating investors felt that the Fed would be less aggressive with future interest rate hikes. On the third week of August, the Fed minutes from the July meeting were released. The minutes showed that the Fed did not intend to slow the pace of rate hikes and was concerned with the overheated jobs market and consumer spending which they have been trying to slow and stocks began to drop. On August 26 Federal Reserve Chairman, Jarome Powell gave a major policy speech. He said that the Fed intended to act “quickly and swiftly for a long prolong period of time” to get inflation down to the Fed target range of 2%. He said to “expect pain!” He cited the overheated jobs market, which is causing a labor shortage and leading to wage gains that are fueling inflation. He spoke about the rate of consumer spending. His frustration that all the rate hikes and other measures to slow the economy was not having an effect on the pace of hiring and spending was evident. Stock markets sold off in the hours that followed his speech. For example, the Dow dropped over 1,000 points. To put it in perspective, that was a 3% drop. The S&P dropped 3.4% and the Nasdaq dropped 3.9% on the 26th. It was a tough speech and a tough day! In September we will be looking at the jobs report which will be released tomorrow. If the pace of hiring continues to be brisk, we expect stocks to continue to drop. If hiring is strong but not above expectations stocks should stabilize. If the pace of hiring is weak and the unemployment rate begins to rise stocks should rise as well. We will look at the August CPI report the second week of the month to see what the inflation rate is. If it looks like inflation is continuing to moderate, so below 8.5%, stocks will do well, but if the CPI rate is higher stocks will get hit hard. On the third week of the month, the Fed will raise their key interest rates. A .75% rise is expected. I would not expect that rise to cause stocks to drop. It’s already built into the current market levels. Should they do a full 1% increase, that’s a different story, but it is not expected. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 31,510.43, down 4.1% from 32,845.13 on June 30. It’s down 13.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 3,955.29, down 4.2% from 4,130.29 last month. The S&P is down 17% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 11,816.20, down 4.6% from 12,390.69 last month. It is down 24.4%, year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 3.15%, up from 2.67% last month. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 3.27%, up from 3.00% last month. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates as of September 1, 2022 for the most popular loan products were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 5.66%, up from 5.30% at the end of July. The 15-year fixed was 4.98% up from 4.58% last month. The 5-year ARM was 4.51% up from 4.29% last month. Rates topped out in the middle of June when the 30-year hit over 6%. It dropped to 4.99% the first week of August, but have worked their way back up over ½% since then. The jobs report and the CPI report will have a big impact on rates. If hiring slows and unemployment increases, rates will drop. If hiring remains strong rates will remain at these levels or rise slightly. If the CPI rate shows inflation is dropping, rates will drop. If the CPI increases mortgage rates will increase as well. These are long term rates. They are tied to longer term inflation expectations, not short term. When the Fed raises rates, it may actually lower mortgage rates.

The August jobs report will be released tomorrow. That will be a good indicator of whether the fed rate hikes are causing employers to slow the pace of hiring. So far that has not happened. With unemployment at a 52-year low and wages increasing due to a shortage of labor. The tight labor market is one of the conditions that is fueling inflation.

U.S. existing-home sales – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.81 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in July, down 5.9% month-over-month from the annualized number of sales in June. Year-over-year sales were down 20.2% from an annualized rate of 6.03 million in July 2021. The median price paid for a home in the U.S. in July was $403,800, up 10.8% from $364,600 one year ago. July marked a record 125 consecutive months of year-over-year increases in the median price. There was a 3.3-month supply of homes for sale in July, up from a 2.6-month supply last July. First-time buyers accounted for 29% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 15% of all sales. All-cash purchases accounted for 24% of all sales. Foreclosure and short-sales accounted for less than 1% of all sales, remaining at a historic low.

California existing-home sales – The number of single family homes sold in July declined 31% year-over-year – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 295,460 on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in July, down 14.4% from June, and down 31.1% from July 2021 when 428,980 homes sold on an annualized basis. Year-to-date, California existing-home sales were down 13.6% in July. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $833,910, up 2.8% from $811,170 in July 2021. There was a 3.2-month supply of homes for sale in July, up from a 1.9-month supply in July 2021. A normal market has a 5-6 month supply of homes on the market.

My take – We have been shocked by such a sudden slowing in the number of sales. The number of homes sold is a number that we have not seen in July since the financial crisis. From the closings I have seen, August may be even worse with fewer closings. Fortunately, I we have had a pick up in openings. I expect September sales to be higher than July and August. Prices are another story. The market got so crazy due to bidding wars in the first quarter of the year that we saw sales that shocked us. Many homes had dozens of offers. Most offers were at or a little over the asking price. One or two buyers went tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars over the asking price. It seemed that people were so tired of losing out on homes that they would pay anything to get the one they were bidding on. We all scratched our heads in amazement with how much over full price the successful buyer was willing to pay. We are not seeing that now. We are seeing the market normalize. Prices are back to the level they began the year. If you look just at the highest price ever reached in March, April or May we are probably about 10% below that highest ever sale where the buyer bid tens or hundreds of thousands over full price to get it! We are not scratching our head in amazement with that panic buying when someone will pay anything now. Without those outlier overbids, the sales we see are the second or third highest price ever for a similar home in the neighborhood. That’s not so bad!

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

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Weekend Events | September 2 – September 4

It’s the “unofficial” end of summer, and there are plenty of weekend fun activities to do. To make the most of your Labor Day weekend, check out our list of happenings around town this September 2 – September 4!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 2 – September 4

Chinatown First Fridays

When: September 2 – December 1

Where: Chinatown

What: Enjoy extended hours at a slew of Chinatown galleries, shops, and restaurants as this fun Friday night event series returns! Make your way along Chung King Road and around other businesses in Chinatown Central Plaza.

Maestro of the Movies: The Music of John Williams

When: September 2 – September 4 

Where: Hollywood Bowl

What: From E.T. to Jurassic Park, the music of John Williams is as legendary as the films he has contributed sound to. This weekend enjoy a David Newman and John Williams composed production at the Hollywood Bowl as the pair conduct the LA Phil. 

Vegan Ice Cream Showdown

When: September 5

Where: Café Gratitude | Larchmont Village

What: Cool off this Labor Day at Café Gratitude! The Larchmont location will be hosting a vegan ice cream showdown that you won’t want to miss. Vote for your favorite treats, snap some selfies, and indulge in the last “unofficial” weekend of summer.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 2 – September 4

Fiesta Hermosa

When: September 3 – September 5

Where: Hermosa Beach

What: Make your way over to Hermosa Beach for the return of Fiesta Hermosa. This seaside art festival features art (of course), fine foods, and music. There is also a fun carnival to check out at the Hermosa Beach Community Center.

Americana in the Park

When: September 4 – September 25 

Where: Gandara Park | Santa Monica

What: Enjoy music in the park at this Sunday afternoon concert for the community. All through September, Gandara Park will explore the roots of Americana via tunes.

Long Beach Walls

When: Until September 4 

Where: Various Locations | Long Beach

What: Check out murals and installations across Long Beach at this citywide art festival. For this year’s event, you will find the return of Art Renzei, a multimedia art showcase along the coast.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 2 – September 4

Back to the Valley

When: September 3

Where: Van Nuys

What: Head Back to the Future at the Van Nuys Civic Center. This Saturday, catch a screening of the hit film along with performances by the Flux Capacitors, Viva La Bamba Band, and DJ Jerome. In addition, there will be plus break dancers, slot car racing, and a photo booth, as well as a display of movie cars (including, yes, a DeLorean).

Yoga in the Park

When: September 3 

Where: Verdugo Park | Glendale 

What: Get fit and find your inner zen at this Saturday’s community Yoga in the Park. “Soulful Saturdays” returns to Verdugo Park the first weekend of every month for one hour of yoga followed by after-class refreshments.

Valley Relics Museum Experience

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum features neon signs, classic cars, a playable retro arcade, and more! Tickets for Valley Relics Museum can be purchased on Eventbrite.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 2 – September 4

Screening of “Duck Soup” and Dinner 

When: September 2 

Where: Stagecoach Inn | Newbury Park

What: Saddle up, bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and family, and settle in for a relaxing, fun, family evening on the Conejo. Settle in under the stars for this 1933 Marx Brothers classic comedy. Gates open at 6:00 for lawn chair set up, with a Chinese Dinner from Pick-Up Stix that will be served to attendees.

40th Annual Malibu Chili Cook-Off and Carnival

When: September 2 – September 5 

Where: 23575 Civic Center Way

What: The 40th Annual Malibu Chili Cook-Off will take place on Labor Day weekend, September 2-5. Hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, admission is $15 per day, with carnival tickets sold separately.

Aloha Beach Festival in Ventura

When: September 4 

Where: Promenade Park/Surfer’s Point | Ventura

What: The Aloha Beach Festival is BACK at Promenade Park/Surfer’s Point! The festival features music, frisbee dogs, Hawaiian dancing, vendors, food, and more.

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From AI-Generated Art to a 20M Pledge from Google and More! | Tech News

A week goes by, and with it comes a plethora of tech news headlines. Rather than sorting through the world wide web, we are breaking down the biggest news you should know. From AI-Generated art to a 20M pledge from Google and more, read on for the latest tech news headlines!

AI-Generated Artwork Wins First Place in Art Competition

A game designer won first place in the  “Digital Arts / Digitally-Manipulated Photography” category of the Colorado State Fair fine arts competition after submitting an AI-generated piece. The win has sparked some controversy among those who believe that using AI does not fit the contest rules. The artwork titled “Theatre d’Opera Spatial” used a popular text-to-image AI generator named Mid journey to be created. In response to his win, the artist Jason Allen said the following, “I wanted to make a statement using artificial intelligence artwork,” to The Pueblo Chieftain. 

New Smart Scale from ‘Withings’ Measures Nerve and Artery Health

When it comes to measuring nerve and artery health, there is a new gadget in town. Withings has announced the Body Comp, which can assess the health of your arteries and nerves. Likewise, the scale can also measure “normal” body composition. Along with the scale, Withings is also introducing a new Health Plus coaching service to help users meet their goals. The scale will allow users to assess their vascular age, visceral fat, and nerve health from a single device. 

Google to Pledge $20 million to Expand Computer Science Education US

Computer Science Education in the United States will be getting a major boost from Google. The company has announced that $20 million in new commitments will be used to expand computer science education among communities that are underrepresented in the field. As a result, Google sees the funds as a way to improve educational access for more than 11 million American students. “If we don’t get this right, the gaps that exist today will be exacerbated,” Google CEO Sundar Pichai said on Wednesday. “Technology will end up playing such a big role in the future. That’s the fundamental reason we do it.” The funds will go to a mix of newer organizations and longtime Google partners. 

Disney Explores ‘Disney Prime’ Membership Program 

With Disney expanding its portfolio, the media giant is exploring ways to combine its programming and services. In the style of Amazon Prime, Disney is seeking to create a program that would offer various exclusive perks, discounts, and other enticements. At this time, the membership program is in its early stages. In a statement to the WSJ, Disney’s chief communications officer Kristina Schake confirmed the news. “Technology is giving us new ways to customize and personalize the consumer experience so that we are delivering entertainment, experiences, and products that are most relevant to each of our guests,” said Schake. “A membership program is just one of the exciting ideas that are being explored.”

Instagram tests More Ways to Flag Posts You Don’t Like

Tired of seeing posts you don’t care about on Instagram? The popular social media app is hearing you out and working on it. Meta, Instagram’s parent company, shared in a blog post that the company is conducting a test to clean up your feed. The tests include the ability to select multiple posts and mark them using the “not interested” button. As a result, this feature would flag the posts to the app and work to not showcase similar content. As for when these tests will become live features, no confirmed date has been set.

LG Debut’s New Sneaker Boxes to Papmer Your Shoes

For true sneakerheads, this news is major. Tech giant LG has debuted a new way to showcase your collection. LG unveiled its new Styler ShoeCase — a shoebox with a window that’s currently being displayed at IFA. The latest product by LG keeps your shoes safe from moisture and has filters to protect them from UV light. In addition, the cases are stackable and come with a built-in Lazy Susan that rotates to show off your shoe’s best angles. The company has also dropped its new Styler ShoeCare appliance with TrueSteam cleaning technology. The devices Zeo-Dry filters will make your shoes “more pleasant to wear and to have around,” as LG states.

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Your Labor Day 2022 Weekend Guide | Out & About

Now that Labor Day weekend is officially here, so comes the unofficial end of the summer. Whether you spend time with your family at home or decide to take advantage of one of Southern California’s many attractions, you will absolutely have a joyful experience. That’s why it’s vital that you make the most of this celebratory weekend in a luxurious manner. With so many ways to celebrate, we’re giving you our top options for LDW! Read on for our guide on how to celebrate your Labor Day 2022 weekend in SoCal!!

Cruise to the beach for Labor Day 2022!

Likewise, if taking a trip away from home is more your style, take a day trip to Malibu’s Zuma Beach. The seaside escape offers the perfect setting to wave goodbye to summer. From Santa Monica to Malibu and Newport to Laguna, there is a bounty of beaches to choose from. Since it will likely be a busy Labor Day Weekend, we recommend planning before you go. Check out our blog for the best beaches LA has to offer!

Watch a family flick!

With fall soon on its way, you can enjoy the last days of summer with an outdoor movie theater. Like any other movie setting, all you need is popcorn, a cozy chair, and your loved ones. Or skip the hassle and visit one of the many outdoor movie options LA and the valley have to offer this Labor Day 2022.

Take in the thrills for Labor Day 2022!

If thrills are more your style, Universal Studios includes all of the rides you could possibly ask for. Of course, even if you do not enjoy amusement rides, there are plenty of shops to see and bites to grab. Looking for the happiest place on earth? Disneyland is only an hour away from LA! Enjoy Mickey and the gang this Labor Day weekend at the Magic Kingdom or California Adventures. 

 

Finally, a stop at one of the city’s top restaurants will definitely hit the spot after a fun day out. For this, we recommend our list of LA Eats for a curated selection of dining spots.

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Weekend Events | August 26 – August 28

With August soon coming to a close, the time to enjoy the last few weeks of summer is now. This August 26 through August 28, enjoy all that your local community has to offer. We’ve rounded up all the best community fun to explore this weekend, so read on below!

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS | AUGUST 26 – AUGUST 28

DTLA Proud Festival

When: August 27 – August 28 

Where: DTLA

What: Downtown’s annual Pride fest returns to celebrate the local LGBTQ community. The weekend-long festival will include food trucks, bars, and local vendors, along with music and a pop-up water park!

Summer Happenings at the Broad

When: August 27 – September 24th 

Where: The Broad

What: The Broad’s after-hours programming series returns this August 27. Enjoy music, dancers, poetry, and more at DTLA’s modern art museum. Tickets to the month-long series provide full access to the museum and concurrent exhibitions. 

CicLAvia: Meet the Hollywoods

When: August 21 – December 4 

Where: Hollywood

What: Put the pedal to the metal of your bike for CicLAvia! The pedestrian and boke-friendly event will make its way through East, West, and central Hollywood starting this Sunday. The 6.6-mile car-free route invites locals to take a ride through town at their own leisure.

 

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS | AUGUST 26 – AUGUST 28

The Actors’ Gang Free Shakespeare in the Park

When: August 5 – August 28 

Where: Culver City Media Park

What: The Actors Gang brings a fresh take on the Bard’s greatest works. Join the Culver City theatre for its unique take on Shakespeare at this family-friendly, high-energy production. This summer will feature a Halloween-inspired adaption of ‘As You Like It’, dubbed ‘As BOO like it’, so you get the jest.

KCRW Summer Nights

When: Until September 29 

Where: Westwood

What: Summer is better with KCRW Summer Nights. Enjoy open-air tunes on select nights from July through September at various locations. Some of the spots for sounds include the Hammer Museum, CAAM, and more!

Rooftop Cinema Club

When: Until September 5 

Where: El Segundo 

What: This weekend’s Rooftop Cinema Club brings you a range of blockbusters to enjoy. Catch showings of Dark Knight, Belly, and the Bad Guys at South Bays’ beloved rooftop cinema experience. 

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | AUGUST 26 – AUGUST 28

Movies on the Roof

When: until August 27

Where: Fashion Square Mall | Sherman Oaks

What: Westfield Fashion Square invites you to a joy-filled alfresco film series this summer. Catch flicks like Crazy Rich Asians and The Princess Bride for this final weekend of Movies on the Roof. Ticket sales support Hope of the Valley.

Moonlit Saturdays

When: August 27 

Where: The Nitecap | Burbank

What: Treat yourself to some comedy and laughs this weekend. Head to The Nitecap for Moonlit Saturdays. The comedy show features LA’s best comedians, many of whom have appeared on HBO, Netflix, and Showtime. Don’t miss out!

Valley Relics Museum Experience

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum features neon signs, classic cars, a playable retro arcade, and more! Tickets for Valley Relics Museum can be purchased on Eventbrite.

 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | AUGUST 26 – AUGUST 28

Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Cruise Night

When: August 26 

Where: Studio Channel Islands Art Studio | Camarillo

What: Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Cruises are back this year. Free and open to the public, come on down to Camarillo Old Town in your classic or collector car. Gather with other car enthusiasts, listen to some live music, and enjoy some good eats from one of Old Town’s beloved restaurants!

Hueneme Beach Festival

When: August 27 

Where: Port Hueneme

What: REACH Foundation and the City of Port Hueneme and REACH Foundation present the Hueneme Beach Festival. Enjoy live music on two stages, great food, children’s activities, carnival rides, vendors, and more at this weekend-long festival of fun! 

Sun Sets Summer Concert Series | Surf City All Stars

When: August 28 

Where: Calabasas Lake

What: Enjoy great music this summer at the 2022 Summer Sun Sets Concert Series at Calabasas Lake. Traditionally private, Calabasas opens its doors for concertgoers to enjoy tunes along with a scenic background. 

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From the iPhone 14 to Major Moves in the Metaverse and More! | TECH NEWS

No time to read extensive articles on the latest tech news? No worries! From the iPhone 14 to Major Moves in the Metaverse and more, we have you covered! Read on for a bite-sized version of the biggest headlines happening in the world of technology, media, and science.

Apple to Release iPhone 14 this September

Apple announced this week that its next product launch will take place on September 7. Likewise, the company is likely to introduce a slew of new products and features. The most highly anticipated news from the event will be about the upcoming iPhones and Apple Watches. Apple will hold the event in the Steve Jobs Theater at the company’s Cupertino campus, making it the first event held in the venue since pre-pandemic. Of course, the iPhone 14 will be the main attraction of the event, with four rumored models. The model types that may be introduced include the following: a 6.1-inch iPhone 14; a new 6.7-inch iPhone 14 (possibly with the “Plus” or “Max” tag); a 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro; and a 6.7 iPhone 14 Pro Max. 

iHeartRadio Creating Metaverse Concert Venue on Fortnite

Another media giant is entering the Metaverse. iHeartMedia has announced its own dedicated space on Fortnite for events and concerts. The radio giant will launch iHeartland, a virtual park that is currently being developed by the game’s creative mode. The virtual venue will include different areas, with the main stage called State Farm Park and a digital “headquarters.” In addition, the venue will also have mini-games and signature features from the company’s NY headquarters, like its LED tunnel. The Metaverse venue will also have a virtual broadcast recording studio, although no details on how the studio will be used have been disclosed. A pre-recorded performance from Charlie Puth will kick off iHeartMedia’s Fortnite venture on September 9th. There are twenty varying events set to take place in the virtual park over the next 12 months.

Microsoft Flight Simulator for Helicopters and Gliders to Arrive on November 11

Fans of Microsoft’s flight simulator program will have new aviation options hitting the platform. On November 11, the company will be adding helicopters and gliders to its Microsoft Flight Simulator. As the 40th Anniversary Edition of the game, the new features will be available free to existing owners or Xbox Game Pass members. The addition of helicopters and gliders is making a comeback to the game for the first time since 2006. In addition, the company announced that it “will introduce another highly-requested community feature: a true-to-life airliner, the sophisticated Airbus A-310 where nearly every single button works just as expected,” explains Jorg Neumann, head of Microsoft Flight Simulator. 

myQ Smart Garage Takes Home Delivery a Step Further with Walmart Partnership

Chamberlain’s myQ smart garage door will be partnering with the Walmart Plus InHome program to bring home delivery — home. The new partnership will be an expansion of the program Walmart already had in place but with a more secure way to deliver. Beginning this September, Walmart Plus inHome delivery customers can have groceries securely delivered to their garage. Likewise, this expansion applies specifically to customers with a myQ smart garage door controller. Customers who do not have the myQ smart garage door controller can have one installed by the company for free. Currently, Walmart’s in-home delivery service works with Level Lock, Aladdin Connect Genie smart garage door opener, as well as any keypad-controlled lock or garage door. 

Heads Up! — Popular gaming app to land on Netflix

We’ve all, at one point or another, played this popular app-based game. Well, now, Heads Up!, the fun mobile app from Ellen Degeneres, will be heading to a Netflix account near you. The charades game will hit Netflix as an exclusive version of the game, set to feature 28 new card decks from popular series like Stranger Things, Bridgerton, and Squid Game. Likewise, more general entertainment decks are also available for genres like anime, true crime, and baking shows. In addition, the game will be available to play in 13 new languages on both Android and iOS devices. “With the addition of Netflix Heads Up! our catalog of games rounds out to 27 mobile games — doubling our catalog to over 50 games by the end of the year,” says Netflix in the announcement.

Google Brings Back Timer Feature

If you have ever been in need of a timer on your desktop, Google is bringing back its Timer and stopwatch feature. The company has added back the timer tool to its search bar. To use the timer, just type “set a timer for [however long you need].” The top result will be a timer that automatically starts to count down. The features were first introduced by Google in 2013, but reports indicated they disappeared from search results sometime in mid-July. The company confirmed earlier in the month that features had been removed in order to fix an issue. With the timer’s return, you can count on Google again for almost every solution. 

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Top Sandwich Shops to Check Out | L.A. Eats

Sandwiches are one of the most versatile meals in the world. They are self-containing, and you can fill them with almost anything your want. One of the greatest things about sandwiches is that you can eat them for dinner or lunch, at your desk, or while taking a breath of fresh air at the park. On white or on rye, with all the fixings or without, sandwiches are an edible statement of who you are. But, not all sandwiches are created alike, which is why we are giving you our list of the best sandwich shops in the Los Angeles area.

1. Cavaretta’s Italian Deli

Location: 22045 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA

If you’re in the mood for an epic Italian sandwich for lunch, this is the place to be. Located only 27 miles from the heart of Los Angeles, their Italian combo is definitely worth a try. To top things off, go for a delicious cannoli to satisfy your sweet tooth.

2. Jeff’s Table

Location: 5900 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA

Jeff’s Table is another great place to grab an epic sandwich for lunch. The menu is varied and carries a good selection of soups and salads to add zest to your meal. The store’s most popular item is the Kold Kim Cheezy, which features a sizeable portion of homemade kimchi, together with melted cheese, smoked pork ham, and much more. The servings are generous enough to share with a friend.

3. Delicias Bakery And Some

Location: 5567 N Figueroa St, Highland Park, CA

Serving delicious vegan options, the signature sandwich of this wonderful panadería is an open-faced mollete, which features artisanal vegan cheese, a generous layer of beans, and a delicious serving of soyrizo, bringing the flavor of Mexico to even the most demanding palate.

4. Breadblok

Location: 1529 Griffith Park Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

For those living the gluten-free lifestyle, this is the best place to get an epic sandwich! Their artisan bread and pastries are a wonderfully healthy option. Don’t forget to try their delicious signature sandwich, the prosciutto and gruyere baguette with garlic aioli. Top off your meal with a blueberry scone or another one of their amazing sweets.

5. Banh Mi My Tho

Location: 304 W Valley Blvd, Alhambra, CA 91801

Vietnamese sandwiches make wonderful lunch items for people on the go. With an amazing selection of sandwiches and many other options, the charbroiled pork banh mi is the one visitors order the most. Remember, Bahn Mi My Tho gets very busy during lunchtime, so plan ahead in order to enjoy their fantastic cuisine.

6. Village Mart & Deli

Location: 2200 N Soto St, Los Angeles, CA

Located near Lincoln Park, this family shop serves a wonderful selection of sandwiches, of which the Cali and the chicken bacon avocado sandwiches are the most memorable. Accompany your selection with a tasty bowl of soup or a delightfully fresh salad, and enjoy an amazing lunch by yourself or with a friend.

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August 19 – August 21 | Weekend Events

It’s time for weekend fun! We’ve got you covered with the best events happening around town this August 19 through August 21. Read our blog for all of the top things to do in your neighborhood.

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS | AUGUST 19 – AUGUST 21

Hollyhock House Lawn Party

When: August 20 

Where: Los Feliz

What: The Hollyhock House reopens this weekend after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. In celebration of its reopening, the famed Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home will throw a free lawn party. The event will include free performances from the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, music, crafts, and 100 free hot dogs on a first-come, first-served basis.

CicLAvia: Meet the Hollywoods

When: August 21 – December 4 

Where: Hollywood

What: Put the pedal to the metal of your bike for CicLAvia! The pedestrian and boke-friendly event will make its way through East, West, and central Hollywood starting this Sunday. The 6.6-mile car-free route invites locals to take a ride through town at their own leisure.

Griffith Park Summer Celebration

When: August 19 

Where: Griffith Park

What: Enjoy a communal hike, old-timey trains, music, and more at Griffith Park this Friday. In addition, the free event will also include extended hours, equestrian rides, and delicious food.

WESTSIDE & BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS | AUGUST 19 – AUGUST 21

DOGust Birthday Celebration

When: August 20 

Where: Playa Vista

What: It’s time to celebrate your adopted pup’s birthday at DOGust. The universal birthday for shelter dogs is this Saturday at the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace. Likewise, the special occasion will include dog-friendly activities, like a splash pad and photo ops. Vendors include Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co., Kono’s Kitchen, Shop Sunny Tails, and more!

Tender Fest: Part II

When: August 20

Where: Beverly Hills

What: The second iteration of h.wood group and Off the Menu’s Tenderfest returns. Enjoy this daylong food festival that brings together chefs from the best friend chicken restaurants in town. Each ticket allows unlimited samples of every chef’s chicken tender entry, along with unlimited fries, dessert, and two drink tickets.

Outdoor Movie Night

When: August 21 

Where: Jamaica Bay Inn

What: Head over to Marina del Rey for a free movie night under the stars. Jamaica Bay Inn continues its summer movie series with this weekend’s outdoor screening of Freaky Friday. 

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | AUGUST 19 – AUGUST 21

818 Day: A San Fernando Valley Celebration

When: Until August 21 

Where: Woodland Hills

What: Celebrate San Fernando Valley this weekend at Westfield Topanga and the Village. Enjoy vintage arcade games, live music, a beer garden, and more at this SFV party for the community.

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness @ Electric Dusk Drive-In

When: August 20

Where: Glendale

What: Enter the multiverse with this weekend’s screening of ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.’ LA’s longest-running pop-up drive-in invites you to Glendale for Electric Dusk Drive-In. Enjoy film, food, and fun at this beloved summer series.

Elevate Burbank Multicultural Arts Festival

When: August 20 

Where: Burbank High School | Burbank

What: Enjoy this free event featuring an afternoon of diverse entertainment with musicians, dancers, poets, and other artists

 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | AUGUST 19 – AUGUST 21

41st Annual Wings Over Camarillo Airshow

When: August 20 and August 21 

Where: Camarillo Airport

What: The Camarillo Wings Association hosts the 2022 Wings Over Camarillo Air Show this Saturday and Sunday. The airshow includes aerobatic performances from classic warbirds, classic/exotic cars and motorcycles, a VIP Chalet tent, and more. Likewise, there will be a variety of food and street vendors. This year’s theme of the 2022 event is “Women in Aviation.”

Wild and Scenic Film Festival in Ventura

When: August 20 

Where: 575 Vista Del Mar Dr | Ventura

What: The 13th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival returns this Saturday. This signature event raises funds each year to support Ventura Land Trust. The Film Festival is available to enjoy in person or virtually.

CINEMALIBU Presents Sing 2

When: August 20 

Where: Malibu Bluffs Park | Malibu,

What: Enjoy a family movie under the stars at this Saturday’s Cinemalibu screening of Sing 2. The event will include food trucks, special guests, raffles, an activity, and more. In addition, this week’s screening will also feature Apollo’s Expresso and Shaved Ice and cartooning with Larry Scott and an art activity with Create Art.

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