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From Bang and Olufson to Instagram and More! | Tech News

As the week comes to a close, it’s time to wrap up the leading headlines from across the tech world. From Bang & Olufson to Instagram and more, we have you covered! Check out your tech news read below!

Bang & Olufsen Unveils $1,549 Beoplay H100 Headphones

Bang & Olufsen has introduced its new Beoplay H100 headphones, priced at $1,549. The new Bang & Olufsen headphones surpass the cost of the H95 model. Justifying the premium, the H100 features improved noise-cancellation, enhanced repairability, and luxurious materials like lambskin leather and scratch-resistant glass. With easily replaceable components, including ear pads, batteries, and drivers, the Bang & Olufsen H100 aims for longevity. Equipped with 40mm titanium drivers, Dolby Atmos support, and 10 microphones for superior noise-cancellation, they offer 32 hours of battery life. Available in three colors, the Bang & Olufsen H100 delivers high-resolution sound and premium craftsmanship.

Instagram Adds Comments to Stories Feature

Instagram now allows users to leave public comments on Stories, a shift from the previous private message-only replies. Comments will be visible to anyone who can view the Story, with privacy settings in place—only followed accounts can comment on private Stories, and for public accounts, comments are limited to followed users. Comments, like Stories, will disappear after 24 hours unless saved as a highlight. This addition is part of Instagram’s broader push to increase engagement, alongside other recent features like disappearing Notes and more prominent floating hearts on posts.

Microsoft to Host “Wave 2” Copilot Event in September

Microsoft will hold a special “Wave 2” Copilot event on September 16th, led by CEO Satya Nadella and VP Jared Spataro, to showcase the next phase of Copilot innovation. Focused on the business side of its AI offerings, the event will introduce new features for Microsoft 365 Copilot and potentially unveil updates for Copilot Pro, its consumer subscription. In addition to rebranding efforts, Microsoft aims to attract more businesses to its $30 per user per month Copilot subscription by enhancing AI tools across Office apps.

WPC Unveils Wireless Power Standard for Kitchen Appliances

The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has finalized the specifications for the Ki wireless power transfer standard, allowing smaller kitchen appliances like toasters and blenders to operate cord-free. Using electromagnetic induction, Ki can transmit up to 2,200W of power, far more than Qi chargers used for phones. Ki transmitters can be integrated into countertops and cooktops, offering a seamless, clutter-free kitchen experience. While consumer products are not available yet, appliance makers can begin submitting Ki-compatible devices for certification by year-end.

The Jevons Paradox and the Future of Autonomous Vehicles

The future of self-driving cars is looking brighter as industry leaders like Cruise, Waymo, and Tesla push forward with advancements. Cruise has rebooted under new management. Waymo is expanding across the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Tesla promises an upcoming robotaxi service. Advocates highlight the potential for autonomous vehicles to make roads safer and reduce emissions. Likewise, this presents an exciting opportunity for cleaner, more efficient transportation in the future.

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The Top Pasta Spots | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles is home to some of the best Italian dining spots, offering authentic pasta dishes that transport you straight to Italy. Whether you crave classic spaghetti or something more adventurous, these restaurants deliver delicious, memorable meals. Explore this guide to find your next favorite pasta eatery in LA.

Sirena

Location: 1415 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90401

Nestled on a bougainvillea-draped terrace just steps from the shimmering Pacific, Sirena offers a memorable dining experience with some of LA’s finest pasta dishes, crafted under the expertise of former Mozza chef David Almany. Indulge in dishes like linguine vongole, bucatini all’amatriciana, or pappardelle ragu Bolognese. Enhance your meal with pastry chef Thessa Diadem’s hot focaccia, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce. Be sure to leave room for an array of delectable desserts.

La Dolce Vita

Location: 9785 Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Though LA isn’t typically known for its red sauce joints, the revived La Dolce Vita in Beverly Hills is here to challenge that notion. The menu showcases five distinct pastas, including a classic spaghetti and meatballs, a delightful tagliatelle vongole bursting with clams and parsley, and a creamy bucatini al limoni. Complement your pasta with a chilled seafood salad and a crisp martini for an unforgettable dining experience.

Funke

Location: 9388 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Chef Evan Funke’s namesake restaurant in Beverly Hills has quickly become the epicenter of pasta in Los Angeles. This two-story glass-and-steel establishment churns out a dozen different pasta shapes, with six formed by hand and six extruded. Alongside beloved dishes from Funke’s other ventures (Mother Wolf and Felix), the restaurant introduces new favorites like the Piemontese classic, agnolotti del plin, ensuring every pasta lover leaves satisfied.

Pasta Sisters

Location: 3280 Helms Ave, Culver City, CA 90232

Pasta Sisters is a haven for pasta aficionados, offering both freshly made pasta to take home and composed plates ready to enjoy. Choose from an array of options like spaghetti, tagliatelle, pappardelle, and lasagna sheets. The menu also features specialty dishes, including pasta with bottarga or porcini mushrooms, satisfying every craving for authentic Italian flavors.

Crossroads

Location: 8284 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 | 4776 Commons Way Suite A, Calabasas, CA 91302

Chef Tal Ronnen’s Crossroads continues to impress a decade after opening in WeHo, offering a refined dining experience without overt vegan cues. Settle into a cozy, candle-lit booth, sip on a carefully crafted cocktail, and savor the restaurant’s signature pastas. Highlights include the Impossible “meat” Bolognese with house-made tagliatelle and a seasonal ravioli filled with summer corn, all complemented by a slightly spicy tomato “butter” sauce.

Angelini Osteria

Location: 7313 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Angelini Osteria on Beverly Boulevard is a legendary destination for pasta lovers, thanks to chef Gino Angelini’s masterful creations. The menu features standout dishes like the signature lemon cream pasta, linguine with sea urchin, and lasagna topped with fried basil. This cozy osteria is a must-visit for those seeking authentic, expertly crafted Italian cuisine.

Antico Nuovo

Location: 4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

At chef Chad Colby’s Antico Nuovo, an ideal meal begins with piping hot focaccia and continues with as many pasta dishes as your table can manage. The menu, which changes with the seasons, features delicate rabbit-filled parcels (plin dell’ alta langa) and the classic pappardelle with beef cheek and veal tongue ragu. For a truly immersive experience, snag a seat along the open kitchen and watch the magic unfold.

Spina

Location: 3193 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90039

Spina in Atwater Village is a pasta lover’s paradise, with chef Pablo Cruz crafting dishes using noodles from Mani In Pasta, a renowned handmade pasta company. The menu includes a half-dozen primi, ranging from classics like cacio e pepe to ricotta-stuffed ravioli with butter and sage. For those seeking indulgence, the tonnarelli al tartufo e salsiccia, priced at nearly $40, is a must-try.

La Cava

Location: 13565 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

La Cava is celebrated for its impeccable Italian cuisine, making it one of the top Italian restaurants not just in the San Fernando Valley, but in all of Southern California. The pasta, described as “better than homemade,” and the delicately flavored pizza receive high praise from patrons. With its authentic Tuscan atmosphere, enhanced by warm, crispy bread drizzled with olive oil and herbs, La Cava offers an experience that transports diners straight to Italy. The owner’s Italian heritage and commitment to excellence ensure that every dish is prepared with the utmost care.

Gravina Malibu

Location: 28925 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

Gravina Malibu is a culinary gem offering authentic Italian cuisine in a picturesque setting near Point Dume. This family-run restaurant is lauded for its flavorful, homemade pastas and expertly prepared dishes like sea bass and lobster ravioli. The intimate ambiance, coupled with outstanding service, makes it a favorite for date nights and post-beach dinners alike. Patrons frequently return for the delicious food and the genuine Italian hospitality.

Spruzzo

Location: 538 Palisades Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90272-2844

Spruzzo in Pacific Palisades stands out in a neighborhood filled with Italian eateries, going beyond traditional fare. The menu features highly praised dishes like Vodka Rigatoni and seafood pasta. With its comfortable patio and well-crafted cocktails, Spruzzo, owned by the team behind the successful Malibu location, offers a high standard of dining at reasonable prices, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

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Your CA National Park Guide | Out & About

Los Angeles is known for its bustling city life, but just a few hours away, nature enthusiasts can find some of the most stunning national parks in the country. These parks offer a perfect escape from the urban sprawl, each with unique landscapes, rich histories, and opportunities for adventure. Here’s a national park guide to the best parks within driving distance from Los Angeles.

1. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Los Angeles: 2 hours

Fun Fact: Joshua Tree is home to the unique Joshua Tree plant, which isn’t a tree at all but a type of yucca.

Joshua Tree National Park is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, creating a surreal landscape dotted with the park’s namesake Joshua Trees, rugged rock formations, and stark desert scenery. The park is a paradise for rock climbers, stargazers, and hikers alike. Popular spots include Hidden Valley, a haven for climbers, and Keys View, where visitors can take in panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and even spot Mount San Jacinto on a clear day. Don’t miss the Cholla Cactus Garden, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the cacti seem to glow with the changing light.

2. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Distance from Los Angeles: 4 hours

Fun Fact: Sequoia National Park is home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume.

These two adjacent parks offer a combined experience of towering sequoias, deep canyons, and rugged mountains. Sequoia National Park is famous for its giant sequoia trees. This includes the General Sherman Tree, which stands over 275 feet tall and is estimated to be around 2,200 years old. Kings Canyon, often less crowded, boasts one of the deepest canyons in North America, with depths plunging up to 8,200 feet. The parks also offer scenic drives, including the Generals Highway, and beautiful hiking trails like the Congress Trail, which winds through some of the largest trees in the world.

3. Channel Islands National Park

Distance from Los Angeles: 2 hours (plus a ferry ride)

Fun Fact: The Channel Islands are often called the “Galapagos of North America” due to their unique species.

Accessible by ferry from Ventura, Channel Islands National Park is a collection of five islands. The national park islands each offer a unique slice of untouched California beauty. The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, including the island fox, a species found only here. Visitors can explore sea caves by kayak, hike to breathtaking viewpoints, and more. The isolation of the islands has led to a high level of endemism, with many species found nowhere else on Earth.

4. Death Valley National Park

Distance from Los Angeles: 3.5 hours

Fun Fact: Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth, with a record temperature of 134°F (56.7°C) recorded in 1913.

Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes. The national park features the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, at 282 feet below sea level. Despite its name, Death Valley is teeming with life, especially after rare desert rains that bring wildflower blooms. Must-see spots include the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, the colorful Artist’s Palette, and more. The park is also a designated Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.

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September Home Maintenance | Home Tips

As we enter September, the vibrant days of summer gradually give way to the cooler months. Likewise, it’s crucial for homeowners to take proactive steps in preparing their homes for the seasonal shift. Proper maintenance not only ensures your luxury home remains in pristine condition but also helps avoid costly repairs down the line. Here, we’ll delve into essential preventative September maintenance tasks that should be on your checklist as you get ready for the cooler months.

1. September HVAC System Checks: Keep Your Home Warm and Cozy

Your HVAC system is the heart of your home’s comfort during the colder months. To ensure it operates efficiently and reliably, schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service before the temperatures drop. A certified technician will check for any issues, clean the system, and replace filters, ensuring your home stays warm without sudden breakdowns. Additionally, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which can optimize energy use and maintain your desired temperature settings, keeping your luxury home comfortable and energy-efficient all season long.

2. September Insulation Improvements: Enhance Energy Efficiency

High-end properties often boast extensive square footage, which can lead to higher energy consumption during the fall and winter. To keep your home both warm and energy-efficient, assess your insulation. Proper insulation in attics, walls, and floors can significantly reduce heat loss, leading to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment. Pay particular attention to areas where drafts are common, such as windows, doors, and basements. Upgrading to double-glazed windows or adding weatherstripping to doors can also help in sealing warmth inside your home.

3. September Roof and Gutter Maintenance: Protect Against the Elements

The roof of your home is its first line of defense against the elements. As the cooler months approach, ensure your roof is in top condition by having it inspected for any signs of wear, such as loose or missing shingles, cracks, or leaks. Addressing these issues early can prevent water damage and structural problems during the rainy and snowy months. Additionally, clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which can damage your home’s exterior and foundation.

4. September Landscaping Tips: Preserve Curb Appeal Through Fall and Winter

Your property’s exterior is just as important as its interior, and maintaining curb appeal during the cooler months requires some thoughtful landscaping. Start by trimming back trees and shrubs to prevent any damage from falling branches during storms. Consider planting cold-resistant flowers and shrubs to keep your garden vibrant throughout the fall. Also, don’t forget to winterize your irrigation system by draining and shutting it off to prevent freezing and bursting pipes.

These preventative measures will keep your luxury home in pristine condition, allowing you to enjoy the comfort and elegance it offers, no matter the weather outside.

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Economic Update | Week Ending August 31, 2024

August marked an official change in policy for the Federal Reserve as Fed Chairman Jerome Powell stated, “The time to cut rates has come,” following the Fed’s annual conference in Jackson Hole. The first-rate cut is expected in September. this month every inflation indicator showed that inflation was taming. July’s inflation reports came in as follows: The Consumer Price Index showed consumer prices rose 2.9% from one year ago. The Producer Price Index showed that wholesale prices rose 2.2% from one year ago. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, a favorite of the Fed showed a 2.5% year-over-year increase. The second quarter Gross Domestic Product, the broadest measure of the strength of the economy was revised upward from an initial estimate of 2.8% to a 3% increase. The August jobs report will be released next Friday. The Fed is watching employment closely in determining how much and how far to cut rates. They have indicated that the first cut will be in September.

Stock Markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 41,563.08, up 1.8% from 40,842.79, on July 31, 2024. It is up 10.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 5,648.40, up 2.3% from 5,522.30 last month. It is up 18.4% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 17,713.63, up 0.1% from 17,599.40 last month. It is up 18% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 3.91%, down from 4.09% last month. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.20%, down from 4.35% last month. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of August 29th, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, down from 6.46% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.51%, down from 5.62% last week.

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

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. These are July’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales July 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.95 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in July, down 2.5% from an annualized rate of 4.05 million last July. The median price for a home in the U.S. in June was $422,600, up 4.2% from $410,109 one year ago. There was a 4-month supply of homes for sale in June, up from a 3.3-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 29% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 13% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

July California existing-home sales report – Prices down slightly from June, but up 6.5% from one year ago – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 278,810 on an annualized rate in July, up 4.7% from a revised 268,840 homes sold on an annualized basis last July. There was a 2.9-month supply of homes for sale, up from a 2.5-month supply one year ago. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $886,560, down 1.6% from $900,720 in June and, up 6.5% from $832,530 one year ago.

Have a great weekend!
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Economic Update | Month Ending August 31, 2024

August marked an official change in policy for the Federal Reserve as Fed Chairman Jerome Powell stated, “The time to cut rates has come,” following the Fed’s annual conference in Jackson Hole. The first-rate cut is expected in September. This month every inflation indicator showed that inflation was taming. July’s inflation reports came in as follows: The Consumer Price Index showed consumer prices rose 2.9% from one year ago. The Producer Price Index showed that wholesale prices rose 2.2% from one year ago. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, a favorite of the Fed showed a 2.5% year-over-year increase. The second quarter Gross Domestic Product, the broadest measure of the strength of the economy was revised upward from an initial estimate of 2.8% to a 3% increase. The August jobs report will be released next Friday. The Fed is watching employment closely in determining how much and how far to cut rates. They have indicated that the first cut will be in September.

The graph below shows the CPI rate from 2021 to now.

Stock Markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 41,563.08, up 1.8% from 40,842.79, on July 31, 2024. It is up 10.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 5,648.40, up 2.3% from 5,522.30 last month. It is up 18.4% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 17,713.63, up 0.1% from 17,599.40 last month. It is up 18% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 3.91%, down from 4.09% last month. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.20%, down from 4.35% last month. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates reached their lowest levels in over a year – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of August 19, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, down from 6.78% at the end of May. The 15-year fixed was 5.51%, down from 6.07% last month.

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

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. These are July’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales July 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.95 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in July, down 2.5% from an annualized rate of 4.05 million last July. The median price for a home in the U.S. in June was $422,600, up 4.2% from $410,109 one year ago. There was a 4-month supply of homes for sale in June, up from a 3.3-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 29% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 13% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

July California existing-home sales report – Prices down slightly from June, but up 6.5% from one year ago – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 278,810 on an annualized rate in July, up 4.7% from a revised 268,840 homes sold on an annualized basis last July. There was a 2.9-month supply of homes for sale, up from a 2.5-month supply one year ago. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $886,560, down 1.6% from $900,720 in June and, up 6.5% from $832,530 one year ago.
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Mortgage Rate Update | August 29, 2024

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of August 29th, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, down from 6.46% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.51%, down from 5.62% last week.

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

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

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Weekend Events | Labor Day Weekend Edition

Labor Day weekend is here and so is the unofficial end of summer. Wrap things up this season in style with local events happening around town. From the Cinecon Classic Film Festival to the Malibu Chili Cook-Off and more, there is plenty of fun this weekend! 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | Labor Day Weekend

Friday Night Wine Tastings

When: Until August 30

Where: Hollyhock House

What: End summer with an L.A. tradition! Barnsdall Park’s wine tastings have made a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus. Located atop Olive Hill on the west lawn of the historic Hollyhock House, these Friday evening fundraisers offer attendees the chance to enjoy fine boutique wines provided by Silverlake Wine. For an additional $25, you can also tour the iconic Hollyhock House during the event. The experience is enhanced by a spectacular sunset and stunning 360-degree views of the city, making it a perfect summer evening outing.

ED RUSCHA / NOW THEN

When: Until October 6, 2024 

Where: Miracle Mile

What: This comprehensive retrospective of Ed Ruscha showcases his detailed photographs of Los Angeles streets alongside a recreated Chocolate Room. The unique installation is composed entirely of layered chocolate sheets.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: The Afterlife Experience

When: Until October 6 

Where: Hollywood 

What: Tim Burton fans are in for a treat: Warner Bros. and Fever have joined forces to present Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: The Afterlife Experience, an immersive activation launching on August 23. This unique experience celebrates the upcoming September release of the highly anticipated sequel to the classic 1988 horror-comedy. Set to take over suite 201 of Ovation Hollywood, the 70-minute event is designed to be fun for all ages.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events  | Labor Day Weekend

Cinecon Classic Film Festival

When: August 29 – September 2 

Where: Writers Guild of America Headquarters | Beverly Hills

What: Attention film enthusiasts! This hidden gem of a festival has been delighting cinephiles for over fifty years with its classic film showcase. Over five days, immerse yourself in a curated selection of rare and obscure silent films and shorts, all screened at the Writers Guild of America Theatre in Beverly Hills.

Poolside Cinema at the Fairmont Miramar

When: Until September 1

Where: Fairmont Miramar | Santa Monica

What: Every Sunday during the summer at sunset, both hotel guests and visitors at the Fairmont Miramar can enjoy a movie by the luxurious pool. The Hulu-curated schedule features a mix of nostalgic favorites and recent releases. Food and drinks can be purchased from the FIG Restaurant menu, and while seating is free for hotel guests, visitors need a reservation. Tickets cost about $60 with tax, tip, and fees, but include a $45 food and drink credit plus complimentary popcorn.

Roll @ Santa Monica

When: Until October 14 

Where: Huntington Beach 

What: Ahead of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenues icy winter transformation, the location will feature a roller rink. From August 10 to October 14, Roll @ Santa Monica invites you to enjoy two-hour skating sessions with rental skates available.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events  |  Labor Day Weekend

Eco-Friendly Foraging – Plants Walk / Wild Food Tasting & Drinks

When: September 1 

Where: Ventura County Credit Union | 2575 Vista Del Mar Drive Ventura

What: The session includes a leisurely 1 1/2-hour walk through a private property in the Angeles Forest, where attendees will identify and discuss the culinary and medicinal uses of these plants. The walk features frequent stops to collect and examine plants, with additional insights into native species and suggestions on which ones to cultivate at home.

Intro to California Native Plant Garden Design with Tim Becker

When: August 30 

Where: Liberate Yourself | 13323 Ventura Boulevard

What: Prepare to landscape with native plants in this special introductory class! This session offers a foundation for assessing, mapping, and designing your home or community garden, with a focus on factors like light, irrigation, and space. It’s the perfect class for anyone eager to get started with native plant landscaping.

Movies on the Roof

When: Until August 31 

Where: Sherman Oaks

What: Grab a seat on the rooftop of Westfield Fashion Square’s parking garage for this outdoor film series. Every Friday and Saturday throughout the summer, enjoy a variety of classic movies like Top Gun, La La Land, The Sandlot, Clueless, and more.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events  | Labor Day Weekend

 

Malibu Chili Cook-Off and Carnival

When: August 30 

Where: Civic Center Way | Malibu

What: The 2024 Annual Malibu Chili Cook-Off, hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, will take place on Labor Day weekend, August 30 to September 2, at 23575 Civic Center Way. This family-friendly event features a chili contest, carnival, skate contest, live entertainment, and more. Tickets must be purchased in advance at malibuchilicookoff.org, as they will not be sold onsite.

Movies in the Park

When: Until September 14 

Where: 4550 Tierra Rejada Rd, Moorpark

What: The City of Moorpark presents Movies in the Park at Arroyo Vista Community Park, 4550 Tierra Rejada Road. Movies start at dusk, with gates opening an hour earlier. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the show. Vendors will be available, or you can bring your own snacks. No animals allowed, except service animals. 

Aloha Beach Festival 

When: August 31 

Where: Promenade Park | Ventura 

What: The Aloha Beach Festival is BACK after a year off in 2023 at Promenade Park/Surfer’s Point, west of the Ventura Pier, the weekend of August 31 and September 1, 2024.   The festival features frisbee dogs, C Street Surf Contest, Hawaiian dancing, live bands, vendors, food, beer garden and more. Event proceeds to benefit Ventura-based non-profit Merito Foundation.

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From LG’s ThinQ ON to Plaud AI Pin and More! | Tech News

Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech with the latest headlines. From LG’s ThinQ ON to Plaud AI Pin and more, we have you covered on the top tech news. Read on for this week’s wrap-up!

Tumblr Blogs to Migrate to WordPress Backend

Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com and Tumblr, has announced that all Tumblr blogs will soon be hosted on WordPress’s infrastructure. This migration aims to enhance stability and streamline feature updates across both platforms. While users are unlikely to notice any changes, Automattic acknowledges that the transition will be challenging and has not provided a timeline for completion. Since acquiring Tumblr in 2019, Automattic has been working to revitalize the platform with varying success, now focusing on running it more efficiently.

LG Unveils ThinQ ON: It’s First Dedicated Smart Home Hub

LG has announced the ThinQ ON, its first dedicated smart home hub, set to debut at IFA 2024 in Berlin. This AI-powered hub connects and controls LG appliances and other smart devices via Thread, Matter, and Wi-Fi, operating on LG’s ThinQ platform. With voice control capabilities and natural language processing, the ThinQ ON is designed to learn user preferences and automate smart home routines. This move marks LG’s expansion into a more comprehensive smart home ecosystem, although pricing and availability details are yet to be revealed.

 

Plaud Launches NotePin: A Wearable AI Device for Productivity

Plaud, known for its AI-powered voice recorder, has introduced the NotePin. The Plaud NotePin is a wearable gadget designed to help users capture notes and meetings on the go. Resembling early Fitbits, the Plaud NotePin can be worn as a pendant, pinned to clothing, or strapped to the wrist. Positioned as a productivity tool, it transcribes, summarizes, and extracts action items from recorded content. With a 20-hour battery life and manual recording activation for privacy, the Plaud NotePin is priced at $169, with advanced AI features available for an annual subscription of $79.

Apple Music Playlists Can Now Be Transferred to YouTube Music

Apple Music subscribers can now transfer their playlists to YouTube Music. This update marks the first time Apple has allowed native playlist migration to a rival service. However, only songs available on YouTube Music can be transferred. Likewise, this excludes podcasts, audiobooks, and curated or non-collaborative playlists. Users need active subscriptions to both Apple Music and YouTube Music to initiate the transfer via Apple’s Data and Privacy page. Despite this update, Apple still requires third-party tools for playlist transfers to other services like Spotify or Amazon Music.

Meta Developing Lightweight Mixed-Reality Glasses for 2027

Meta is reportedly working on a smaller mixed-reality device, codenamed Puffin, that resembles a large pair of glasses. According to The Information, these glasses could weigh around 110 grams. In addition, the device might feature an external battery and processor pack, similar to the Apple Vision Pro. Expected to arrive by 2027, if the project proceeds, the glasses may include pancake lenses for a slimmer design. Likewise, they will offer video passthrough with hand- and eye-tracking controls. This development suggests Meta is aiming to create more user-friendly alternatives to bulkier headsets.

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