The week in picks

Bluetooth speaker bass is mostly marketing below a certain size - physics needs a bigger driver and box.

Replaceable earpads and cables quietly double a headphone's lifespan. Check before you buy.

With its 16GB GDDR6 and $549 price tag, the RX 9070 offers a compelling alternative to the RTX 5070, especially for gamers needing extra memory.

If you're a fan of classic literature with a twist or just looking for a sophisticated night out in New York City this August, The Outsiders at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theater is an unmissable show. With tickets starting from $150, get your tickets early to score seats near the stage-trust me, you won't want to be more than a few rows back.

I've found myself returning to Cryptid again and again-perhaps because it offers an immersive experience that feels both intimate and exciting. Last night, we drew our bird cards, each one with a cryptic clue about our mysterious creature. The tension was palpable as we laid out the tiles, trying to piece together the puzzle while avoiding the eyes of other players. It's not for those who crave constant interaction; the game thrives on introspection and strategic deduction. Cryptid is perfect for evenings where you want a quiet intellectual challenge, away from the buzz of loud party games.

If you're someone looking for a game that rewards careful thought over fast reflexes, Cryptid might just be your new favorite. Grab it tonight if you need a break from the social clamor and are ready to dive into a quieter, more thoughtful board gaming experience.

When a gamer is laid up, they need something to keep them entertained and energized. The Aeropress Coffee Maker offers a quick, convenient way to enjoy rich, smooth coffee from their bed or couch-perfect for those long gaming sessions during recovery. Unlike the bulky, complicated espresso machines, this compact brewer is easy to use and clean.

However, if they're not a coffee lover, then perhaps a different gift might be more fitting.

Make that gamer feel special with a quick brew that keeps them hydrated and alert.

TheDrummer: Cydonia 24B V4.1 excels in generating high-quality drum tracks for large-scale audio projects, such as film scores or background music production. Its extensive context length ensures that the generated sequences are coherent and fit well within complex compositions, making it a valuable tool for professional composers.

However, this model's robust capabilities come with a trade-off: its 131072 context length requires significant computational resources, which might be prohibitive for smaller projects or real-time applications. For these scenarios, alternatives with lower context lengths might offer better performance and cost efficiency.

Always choose the right tool for your project.

The market for predicting future events continues to grow, with Polymarket leading Kalshi by a significant margin in terms of both tracked markets and volume. Notably, the market "Will Donald Trump win the 2028 US Presidential Election?" stands out as the highest-volume longshot bet, attracting over $9 million in trading activity despite its underdog status at just 1 cent. This underscores how investors are willing to back unlikely scenarios when they believe there is potential for significant returns.

The second-highest volume market, "Strait of Hormuz traffic returns to normal by December 31?" shows that geopolitical events can also drive substantial interest. Despite the high volume, the relatively low price indicates that many participants view this outcome as uncertain, suggesting a complex global landscape where stability remains elusive and unpredictable.

These longshot bets highlight the speculative nature of prediction markets but also reveal areas of potential future volatility or change. Investors should consider both the likelihood of an event occurring and the market's perceived risk when making these types of predictions.

Keep an eye on how these longshots evolve over time.

While some California metros like San Jose and Los Angeles continue to struggle with significant price cuts despite high values, other regions are showing resilience or even growth. For instance, Rockford, Illinois, stands out with a notable 8.8% year-over-year gain in housing values amid persistent price reductions. This suggests that local factors such as job markets and demographics can play a crucial role in market dynamics.

In contrast, metros like Austin and North Port are experiencing substantial declines in both prices and value, highlighting the impact of broader economic conditions on specific regions. These metros might be facing headwinds from overheating or external shocks, indicating a need for local policy adjustments or economic support to stabilize these markets.

Will price stabilization efforts show results next month?

This contrast between areas like Rockford and Austin underscores the complexity of the housing market, where trends can vary significantly across different regions.

In the heart of August's heat, a bowl of chicken congee offers a cool respite, its creamy texture and gentle flavors providing relief from the season's warmth. This traditional Chinese dish stands out with its use of ginger cordial-a subtle yet essential ingredient that adds layers of flavor without overpowering. The technique of slow simmering transforms tough chicken into tender pieces, seamlessly blending them with rice to create a comforting yet sophisticated broth.

recipe page: For an even richer experience, consider substituting the chicken for pork or shrimp, both of which pair well with congee and bring their own unique textures.

Did you know that sealing your concrete driveway early in the summer can significantly extend its lifespan and protect it from winter damage? Most homeowners wait until autumn, but experts recommend addressing this now.

Schedule a consultation with a Concrete Contractor to seal your driveway. Ask about using high-quality polyurea or epoxy coatings that provide better protection against cracking and staining. Ensure they use appropriate equipment for a thorough application, which can cost around $0.50 per square foot but is worth the investment in the long run.

Be wary of contractors who offer quick fixes with inferior products. Instead, look for those who have been in business for at least five years and are certified by the American Concrete Institute (ACI).

Today's focus: Avoid common mistakes when choosing a solar installer-make sure to check their credentials thoroughly.

Brown noise (not white) is the one most people find soothing for focus and sleep - it's the deep, soft one.

With the upcoming game releases this season, now is a great time to step up your gaming rig. The RTX 5070 Ti offers top-tier performance at an accessible price, perfect for 1440p high-refresh rates. Plus, if you're into AI tools, you'll get NVIDIA's full feature stack.

If you're a fan of soulful tunes and powerful performances, don't miss Six The Musical at the Lena Horne Theatre on August 28 in New York City. This intimate show, with its gripping narrative and stunning vocals, promises an unforgettable evening that will leave you both moved and inspired.

I've played Ark Nova three times now, and every session felt like a unique adventure. The first time, I was captivated by the tension during the bird-card draw; it’s an exquisite moment where strategy meets chance. This game is perfect for those looking to dive into a deep strategic experience over an epic evening. However, if you're seeking a lighter or faster-paced game, Ark Nova might not be your cup of tea.

For a two-player strategy night or when the whole family wants to stay up late for a challenging board game session, Ark Nova is the perfect choice. Grab it and spend an entire evening building the best zoo-just don’t expect it to be easy!

Dad deserves a thoughtful gift that combines form and function, especially on his special anniversary. The BergHOFF Geminis Teapot isn't just another teapot; its sleek design and built-in infuser make brewing loose leaf tea a joy. It beats the obvious alternative by offering both style and practicality-perfect for those who appreciate quality over quantity.

However, if your dad is more into rapid mornings than sipping tea leisurely, this might not be his cup of tea (pun intended). For those who value the finer things in life, though, it's a standout.

Timing tip: Secure yours now to avoid holiday rush.

OpenAI: o3 shines when handling extensive document analysis and generation tasks requiring a broad context understanding. Its 200,000 token context length makes it ideal for projects involving long-form text like legal documents or comprehensive reports.

However, the trade-off is clear: while this model excels in capturing intricate details across large inputs, its price remains unknown, potentially making it less attractive for cost-sensitive applications.

When the context matters more than everything else, OpenAI: o3 is your go-to model.

The market for predicting the 2028 US Presidential Election, particularly in relation to Donald Trump Jr., has attracted significant attention despite being a longshot. This $9,612,626 volume on "Will Donald Trump Jr. win the 2028 Republican presidential nomination?" [LONGSHOT] underscores a pattern where underdog bets can generate high interest among participants.

This phenomenon is not limited to just one market; it spans across various categories and platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi. For instance, the Strait of Hormuz traffic return scenario shows that even seemingly unlikely events can draw substantial trading volumes, totaling $9,802,157 at 31 cents odds. This suggests a broader interest in geopolitical risks, perhaps driven by the unpredictability of global events.

Given these patterns, it’s clear that prediction markets are not just about betting on certainties but also on the unknown and improbable. As we move forward, tracking such longshot markets can provide valuable insights into public sentiment and investor psychology.

Keep an eye on how these underdog bets evolve.

San Francisco continues to lead as a high-value market among major US metros, with its median home value at $1,136,810, despite a year-over-year (YoY) increase of only 1.2%. This modest growth is overshadowed by significant price cuts-20.3%-indicating that sellers are responding to the market dynamics with substantial reductions. Meanwhile, Rockford, Illinois, stands out as an anomaly among smaller metros, boasting a YoY gain of 8.8%, significantly higher than San Francisco's increase. This suggests that while larger markets like San Francisco face challenges in maintaining price levels, more regional hubs are finding ways to grow.

The data points towards a mixed narrative: top-tier cities like San Francisco are seeing stabilization with cuts, whereas smaller metros like Rockford are experiencing robust growth despite initial declines. What this suggests for next month is the importance of tracking regional economic factors that can influence housing markets in both high-value and lower-value areas. Changes in employment rates, local policies, and broader economic conditions will be key indicators to watch.

August, with its warm evenings and vibrant sunlight, calls for dishes that celebrate the bounty of the sea. Garides Saganaki, a Greek classic, is perfect for this time of year. The recipe starts with raw king prawns, which are quickly seared in olive oil until they turn golden and succulent. This technique not only enhances their natural flavor but also locks in their freshness, making each bite a delight. The combination of herbs like parsley and garlic adds a fresh herbal note that balances the rich flavors. A touch of white wine introduces acidity that cuts through the richness of the feta cheese, creating a harmonious balance.

For those looking to enjoy this dish during August, consider pairing it with a crisp Greek salad or some grilled zucchini. If you're feeling adventurous, try substituting the king prawns with calamari for a different texture and flavor profile.

recipe page

Most homeowners wait until they notice an issue with their garage door before taking action. However, experts recommend scheduling a professional inspection now to prevent summer problems. This is because heat can cause metal components to expand and contract, leading to premature wear.

Contact your local Garage Door Repair service provider for a thorough check-up. Ask about the condition of your springs, which are more prone to failure during temperature swings. Request an evaluation of any loose or worn hinges, seals, or tracks that could become problematic as temperatures rise. Additionally, inquire about any potential issues with your opener’s sensors and weatherstripping.

Avoid common pitfalls by ensuring your garage door operates smoothly year-round. Don’t wait until you see a problem; proactive maintenance can save you from costly repairs in the future. Remember to ask for detailed inspection reports and clear explanations of any potential issues.

Tomorrow, we’ll discuss how to vet a solar installer's warranty.

If dialogue in movies is muddy, a soundbar with a center channel fixes it faster than any TV setting.

With a 12GB GDDR6 memory and an MSRP of $249, the Intel Arc B580 shines in mid-range builds. This graphics card is perfectly suited for gamers looking to enjoy titles at 1440p resolution this season.

It offers a compelling balance between performance and price, making it an excellent choice for those who want top-tier gaming without breaking the bank.

If you're a fan of dynamic and raw storytelling in New York City this Friday, August 27th, don't miss Jamie Allan's "Amaze" at New World Stages. With its intimate setting at Stage 5, the show promises an immersive experience that blends captivating performances with cutting-edge technology, making it a must-see for arts enthusiasts looking to explore something fresh and exciting this weekend.

I've played Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion three times now, and it never fails to transport me into its rich narrative. The bird-card draw sets the stage early-when I first see a rare bird appear, my heart races with anticipation for what new challenge lies ahead. But don't be fooled by the allure; this game isn't for those seeking quick resolutions or light-hearted fun. It demands patience and strategic planning, especially during tense auctions and critical tile-laying decisions.

For players who relish deep, immersive storytelling and are willing to spend an evening fully engaged in a complex narrative-driven experience, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is perfect. Dive into this campaign with friends or solo for an epic evening that won't disappoint.

This watch isn't just a timepiece; it's an essential companion that fits any occasion, from your dad’s casual Saturday to his formal holiday gatherings. Unlike the usual, overly formal watch that might seem out of place on a family Christmas dinner, the Timex Weekender Watch stands out with its understated elegance and durable design.

However, if he already has a collection of luxury watches or prefers something more overtly fancy for such special occasions, this isn't your best pick.

Get it now while it’s still in stock; at $39, it’s the perfect gift that won’t break the bank.

GPT-5.4 Pro from OpenAI excels in handling extensive text inputs, making it an ideal choice for applications requiring long-form content creation or analysis. Its 1 million context length allows processing entire documents without truncation issues, which is crucial for tasks like generating summaries of lengthy articles or creating detailed narratives.

However, this model's strength in context handling comes at a cost-it requires significant computational resources, making it more expensive to run compared to alternatives with shorter context lengths. For budget-conscious projects where cost efficiency is paramount, other models might be a better fit despite having slightly lower performance on long-form tasks.

Given the trade-offs, GPT-5.4 Pro shines when you need unwavering fidelity in handling large texts.

The market for predicting Donald Trump's 2028 US Presidential Election win stands out with a remarkable $9.9 million traded volume. Despite the long odds-traded at just 1 cent-the sheer volume suggests strong interest or perhaps even bettors banking on his continued relevance in politics. This underscores how markets can still capture significant trading activity without immediate outcomes.

In contrast, the Strait of Hormuz traffic returning to normal by December 31 is another high-volume market with $9.7 million traded. The relatively lower price tag (33 cents) indicates a more moderate belief in this outcome, reflecting perhaps geopolitical stability or confidence in international cooperation efforts.

The focus on longshots and underdogs like Trump Jr., Shapiro, Cotton, and even Trump himself highlights the appeal of betting against the odds. These markets not only reflect the complex nature of political predictions but also demonstrate investor interest in low-probability events.

Keep an eye on how these longshot markets evolve as we approach 2028.

The US housing market continues to exhibit significant regional differences, as evidenced by the price trends and adjustments across various metros. In California's tech hub, San Jose, despite a slight year-over-year decline of 0.2%, the market has seen substantial price cuts of 23.4%. This suggests that buyers in this highly competitive market are driving down asking prices to close deals. Conversely, Rockford, Illinois, stands out as a bright spot with an impressive YoY gain of 8.8% and only minor price reductions of 17.6%, indicating strong buyer interest despite some supply issues. These two metros highlight the stark contrasts within the housing market: while tech giants in California face buyer-driven corrections, more affordable regions like Illinois are experiencing robust growth.

Looking ahead, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends evolve. Specifically, the price cuts observed in San Jose and other metros with high inventory levels could indicate a potential easing of demand, whereas cities showing significant gains like Rockford might see increased competition among buyers. The coming month's data will offer valuable insights into whether these patterns are temporary adjustments or longer-term shifts in market dynamics.

August, with its warm afternoons and lingering heat, calls for hearty meals that can stand up to the day’s warmth yet offer comfort in cooler evenings. The Minced Beef Pie from PicksByRecipe is a perfect choice for such weather. It's both substantial and satisfying, thanks to its rich, savory ingredients like vegetable oil and Worcestershire sauce.

One technique that adds depth is the use of beef stock. This not only enhances the meat’s flavor but also provides a liquid base that keeps the pie moist as it cooks. The combination of minced beef with mushrooms and onions creates layers of complexity, making each bite a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Try pairing this pie with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Did you know that waiting until summer to replace your fence can backfire? Most homeowners underestimate the importance of having a solid, secure barrier during the peak of outdoor living.

With summer temperatures soaring and more people spending time in their yards, now is the best time to schedule your fence installation. By July or August, you'll benefit from enhanced privacy, improved security, and a chance to enjoy cooler breezes through strategically placed screens or landscaping. Make sure to book your appointment before the end of June; many contractors get booked solid by mid-summer.

When hiring your Fence Contractor, ask about their process for handling weather conditions during installation. Avoid contractors who can’t provide specific dates or who seem rushed. A reliable contractor will ensure that your fence is installed safely and securely, ready to withstand the summer heat and potential storms.

One-line kicker: Tomorrow, we’ll discuss why timing matters for avoiding summer's hidden AC costs.

Wireless will never beat a good wired IEM at the same price - you pay for the radio, not the sound.

If you're a 1440p gamer on the lookout for a solid, budget-friendly option that won't break the bank-especially with used-market deals offering real discounts-this card is worth considering.

It’s a smart buy for those who want top-tier performance without overspending.

If you're in the mood for a classic with a twist this Friday, August 26th, head over to the Bernard B. Jacobs Theater in New York City for "The Outsiders." This gritty, contemporary take on S.E. Hinton’s novel promises raw performances and a thrilling atmosphere, making it a must-see for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Don't miss out on this electrifying show!

Terraforming Mars offers a deep dive into engine-building strategy for those who relish nuanced decision-making over multiple turns. The game's standout moment comes during the bird-card draw, where strategic players race to unlock new technologies just as the cards are about to run out-creating intense tension and rewarding foresight. However, it may overwhelm casual gamers or those seeking a light-hearted evening of social interaction.

For serious strategy enthusiasts looking for an epic evening with friends, or even solo play that tests your mettle, this game is perfect. Dive into Terraforming Mars when you're ready to explore the vast possibilities offered by its expansive card deck and complex systems.

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller isn't just a game-changer; it's an upgrade that any tech-savvy minimalist will appreciate. Unlike bulky wired controllers, this wireless model snaps onto a charging dock and seamlessly works across PC, Steam, Apple, and Android-making it versatile for both casual and hardcore gamers. It offers TMR joysticks that never drift and boasts a 1000Hz polling rate, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay.

However, if the recipient is someone who prefers traditional gaming controllers or simply isn’t into wireless devices, this might not be the best fit. For those looking to gift something thoughtful and functional for an anniversary, this controller checks all the boxes with its sleek design and superior performance.

Timing is perfect as it supports multi-device compatibility, making it a year-round companion.

Anthropic: Claude Haiku 4.5 excels in generating concise and evocative haikus, a skill that requires a nuanced understanding of rhythm, imagery, and emotional content. In scenarios where poets or writers need quick, high-quality poetic input for projects such as magazine features or social media posts, Claude Haiku 4.5 is the clear choice.

However, it’s important to note that its context length limit of 200,000 tokens might be a significant trade-off, especially for complex narrative tasks where deep contextual understanding is required. For simpler, more focused prompts, this limitation isn't an issue; yet for projects requiring extensive backstory or character development, another model with longer context handling might be more appropriate.

Choose wisely-sometimes the best tool depends on your specific creative journey.

The market for "Will Donald Trump win the 2028 US Presidential Election?" stands out as a prime example of a longshot that continues to attract significant volume. At just 1 cent per share, this Polymarket bet has seen $9,950,344 in trading activity, underscoring persistent interest and speculation surrounding Trump's potential return to the political arena.

While such high-volume bets might seem surprising given their low odds, they reflect broader trends of longshot markets. These underdog stories capture the imagination of many investors, driving substantial trading even when the probability seems remote. The sheer volume suggests a deep-seated curiosity or investment in the unpredictable nature of politics and elections.

Moreover, this market mirrors a pattern seen across other longshots in various categories-from sports to international politics. It highlights how markets can thrive on doubt and uncertainty, keeping longshot bets relevant and active.

Keep an eye on how Trump's name continues to resonate in speculative markets.

San Jose and Santa Cruz, California continue to dominate the high-value housing market despite recent price cuts. Both metros show significant declines from their peak values-San Jose has seen a 23.4% reduction in prices compared to its Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) top, while Santa Cruz's prices have dropped by 22.9%. Yet, these markets still hold the highest median home values among the tracked metros, indicating strong initial demand and wealth concentration.

Meanwhile, Rockford, Illinois stands out as a metro with substantial year-over-year gains in housing value, up 8.8% from last year. However, it faces buyer resistance, with price cuts of 17.6%. This suggests that while some areas are experiencing robust growth, they may also be encountering challenges in sustaining the pace of appreciation due to market saturation or economic factors.

Mazariner tartlets are a delightful nod to Norway’s rich baking traditions, showcasing a blend of simplicity and sophistication. The key ingredient here is almond flour, which adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the sweet filling perfectly. The technique of using double-layered egg yolks for both the dough and the filling ensures a luscious texture-each bite melts in your mouth with an almost mousse-like consistency.

For those looking to embrace Scandinavian flavors this August, these tartlets are perfect paired with a light fruit compote or a fresh berry salad. The recipe’s emphasis on quality ingredients like vanilla extract elevates every bite. Try substituting almond flour with hazelnut meal for a unique twist that still honors the Nordic spirit of this dessert.

recipe page

Pressure washing is a crucial task for keeping your home’s exterior looking pristine. Most homeowners wait until fall to tackle this job, thinking they can avoid it during summer's heat. However, timing is key-by August 26, you should have already scheduled your pressure wash.

Summer’s end sees the return of falling leaves and accumulating debris from outdoor activities. By scheduling your pressure washing in late summer or early fall, you ensure that your siding remains free from algae growth, mold, and dirt buildup throughout the winter months. This not only enhances curb appeal but also protects your home’s exterior from premature wear.

Ask your pressure washing service about their cleaning techniques for different types of surfaces to avoid damage. Also, inquire about any maintenance tips they can provide to keep your home looking its best during the transition into fall. Tomorrow: Explore how to properly vet a solar installer.

Always check with local PicksByTown directories for recommended services in your area!

Battery 'up to' numbers assume ~50% volume with ANC off. Halve them for real-world loud listening.

With the upcoming release of several highly anticipated 4K games this season, the RTX 5080 offers strong performance at a more accessible price point. However, AI enthusiasts might want to wait.

If you're jazzed about live music and can swing by Dizzys Club Coca-Cola in New York City on August 25, 2026, Sexmob is a must-see show that promises to deliver raw talent and soulful performances right into the night. With tickets starting at $92, it's an investment in some top-notch blues and jazz that won't leave you feeling empty-handed.

If you're hosting a strategy night with friends, or looking for an engaging game that can handle both family and adults, give Wingspan a try this week. The game's distinctive moment comes during tile-laying, where players must balance their bird collection against new habitat opportunities. It’s light enough to keep younger players engaged but deep enough for seasoned gamers. However, if you prefer games with quick rounds and minimal downtime between turns, Wingspan might not be the best fit.

For those seeking a nuanced experience that unfolds over multiple sessions, grab your feathered friends this week.

This Mother's Day, a gift for new parents that’s not just about checking on baby-it’s about ensuring both mom and dad have peace of mind from anywhere. The Nanit Pro Camera with Sound + Movement Alerts beats the usual baby monitor because it lets you stay connected without tiptoeing into dark rooms at 2 AM; you can simply check in via your phone.

However, if you’re looking for a gift that’s more about physical presence rather than remote monitoring, this might not be the best fit.

Invest in the Nanit Pro Camera with Sound + Movement Alerts now to ensure smooth transitions and peace of mind all year round.

The OpenAI: GPT-5.6 Luna Pro (batch) excels in handling large-scale text generation tasks with its 1 million context length, making it a robust choice for applications like content creation and translation services. However, for real-time chatbot integrations where quick responses are critical, this model might be overkill due to potential latency issues.

One key trade-off is the balance between context length and performance efficiency; while the increased context length enhances understanding in complex scenarios, it comes at the cost of higher computational demands. For teams already heavily invested in the OpenAI ecosystem, this model offers seamless integration but may not justify the costs for those seeking a more flexible solution.

While powerful, GPT-5.6 Luna Pro (batch) shines best when context and scale are critical.

The Clarity Act market on Polymarket is a force to be reckoned with, commanding nearly $10 million in volume as of today. This suggests that despite its low probability, investors are betting heavily on this policy being signed into law by 2026. The significant interest indicates a broader economic uncertainty and the desire for regulatory clarity.

Conversely, longshot markets like "Will Donald Trump Jr. win the 2028 Republican presidential nomination?" or "Will Josh Shapiro win the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination?" also draw substantial volume, albeit priced under 15 cents. These markets, while unlikely, highlight the enduring interest in the political landscape and its potential for unexpected outcomes.

These high-volume longshots remind us that prediction markets are not just about identifying clear winners; they capture the broader sentiment of uncertainty and surprise that defines politics and policy-making alike.

Watch how these longshot markets evolve as we approach key election cycles.

San Jose and Los Angeles, both California hubs, are experiencing contrasting dynamics in their housing markets. While San Jose's Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) has shown a 0.2% year-over-year decline with significant price cuts of 23.4%, Los Angeles is showing resilience with only a slight 0.9% increase but still facing substantial price reductions of 22.8%. This suggests that while San Jose's market is adjusting more dramatically, Los Angeles is maintaining a slightly stronger position despite overall downturns.

Meanwhile, the biggest year-over-year gainers like Rockford and Utica in Illinois and New York are posting impressive increases in ZHVI values but with significant price cuts. These metros have managed to see their housing values rise strongly, indicating strong local demand or supply constraints, but also reflect that buyers remain cautious, leading to more flexible pricing.

For next month, it will be crucial to watch the metros experiencing the most aggressive price cuts. Cities like Colorado Springs and Raleigh, which are already showing substantial ZHVI declines, may continue their downward trajectory as buyer sentiment and market adjustments play out. These metros could see further price reductions if supply increases or buyer confidence remains low.

Tomorrow’s data will reveal whether these trends continue or start to shift.

Cucumber and fennel salad brings a refreshing touch to your August table. The combination of cucumbers and fennel offers a play of textures-crisp and delicate-and flavors that are both familiar and intriguing. The addition of sour cream, a dairy staple in many Central European cuisines, adds a creamy richness without overwhelming the fresh herbs like dill and lemon zest.

This Polish salad showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Fennel’s anise-like essence complements the cucumber's freshness perfectly, while the tang of sour cream balances the overall dish. The use of white wine vinegar adds a subtle complexity that ties everything neatly together.

Pair this with a light pasta or some grilled fish for a perfect summer meal.

Most homeowners think they should wait until spring to hire a landscaper for the year. However, summer is actually the best time to lock in services.

By hiring your landscaper now, you can ensure they have enough work to offer competitive rates and avoid last-minute scheduling chaos as the weather heats up. This gives them ample time to plan and execute tasks like lawn maintenance, irrigation systems, and flower bed planting without rushing through the hot summer months.

Ask about their availability for summer projects and how they handle unexpected maintenance during the high season. Also, inquire if they offer any promotions or discounts for booking ahead of the summer rush.

Next, we’ll explore why you should plan your roof inspection before autumn rains.

A cheap audio interface with clean preamps will out-record a pricey USB mic every time.

With its robust 16GB GDDR6 and a competitive $599 price tag, the RX 9070 XT shines for gamers targeting 1440p and 4K. FSR 4 ensures it's not lagging in upscaled visuals.

If you're in the mood to get swept away by a theatrical experience that's part spectacle and part musical odyssey, don't miss Titanique at St. James Theatre on August 24 in New York City. With its lavish sets and soaring score, this event promises to transport you across the Atlantic in more ways than one-plus, with tickets starting at $137, it’s a splurge worth making for any Broadway aficionado or curious audience member looking for something truly memorable this week.

Pandemic has that rare quality of making every player feel integral to the game's fate-each decision feels like it could be your last. Last week, during a quiet evening at home with two friends, we found ourselves face-to-face with a bird card, knowing full well it meant an outbreak was coming. The tension as we laid down our cards, hoping to contain the spread, was palpable. It's not for those who prefer solo endeavors; it demands teamwork and quick thinking.

If you're looking for a game where every player feels their actions matter and where success is sweeter because of the shared struggle, give Pandemic a try this week. Whether you’re playing with your family or a group of friends, this cooperative experience will leave you wanting to save the world again and again.

For a reader celebrating their pet's big day, the Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test stands out as a thoughtful and scientifically advanced gift. Unlike the usual name-brand treats or toys, this test offers deeper insights into your furry friend’s ancestry and potential health concerns, making every birthday more meaningful.

However, it might not be ideal for those who prefer simpler pleasures like classic pet toys or snacks-this is more suited to readers who appreciate science and want to unlock their dog's unique story. At $129, it fits well within the budget for a special occasion, ensuring your canine companion gets something truly personal.

Unwrap gifts that tell a story.

MoonshotAI: Kimi K2.6 excels in handling extensive text inputs, making it a standout choice for applications requiring deep analysis of large documents or repositories. Its 256K context length ensures seamless processing even when dealing with lengthy historical records or complex narrative texts, which is crucial for tasks like comprehensive document summarization.

However, this strength comes at the cost of higher computational resources and potentially increased latency during inference. For scenarios where real-time responses are critical, Kimi K2.6 might not be the optimal pick compared to models optimized for faster processing times.

Always choose the right tool for the job.

The markets are abuzz with speculation surrounding a potential 2028 US presidential run by Donald Trump; his name graces two of the top five most voluminous bets on Polymarket, indicating significant interest in a repeat bid. The "Will Donald Trump win the 2028 US Presidential Election?" market has generated $9,923,292 in volume at just 2 cents, revealing that investors are betting heavily despite the long odds. This underscores the enduring fascination and polarizing nature of Mr. Trump, even as the probability remains low.

This high-volume bet is joined by another longshot: "Will Donald Trump Jr. win the 2028 Republican presidential nomination?" with $9,602,940 in volume at a mere 1 cent per share. While both bets are seen as underdogs, they reflect the broader context of political uncertainty and the perennial interest in a Trump candidacy.

These markets not only highlight the ongoing relevance of Trump’s name in US politics but also suggest that there might be significant betting opportunities or risks for investors who follow such trends closely.

Keep an eye on the volatility around these bets as we approach 2028.

The current US housing market reveals a nuanced picture with varying trends across different regions. While some metros like Colorado Springs and Raleigh are experiencing significant price cuts-reflective of buyer-friendly conditions-the overall Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) shows that markets such as San Jose and Santa Cruz have seen YoY declines in home values, albeit accompanied by substantial price reductions. These metros face ongoing challenges despite efforts to attract buyers through lower prices.

The data suggests a strategic focus for market watchers next month should be on the trends within metros experiencing both high ZHVI and significant price cuts. For instance, San Jose and Santa Cruz offer insights into how seller expectations can influence home value adjustments. Observing whether these metros see continued declines or stabilization will provide critical signals about broader market sentiment and potential shifts in buyer behavior.

Tomorrow's updates may hold further clarity on these dynamics.

In the heat of August, a dish like grilled aubergines with spicy chickpeas and walnut sauce feels both timely and timeless. The Turkish recipe offers a perfect balance between smokiness from grilling and freshness from the lemony walnut sauce. A key technique here is how the aubergines are brushed with olive oil before being grilled, ensuring they retain their shape and absorb flavor evenly.

The combination of red chilli, ginger, and ground cumin in the sauce adds layers of heat and earthiness that complement rather than overwhelm the other flavors. This vegetarian option is not just a meal but a cultural journey, introducing diners to the rich tapestry of Turkish cuisine without the need for complex preparation or ingredients.

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Most homeowners wait until summer’s heatwave to realize their appliances are struggling. Surprisingly, this is the worst time to discover an issue with your HVAC or refrigerator.

To avoid being caught off guard by a malfunctioning air conditioner in August or a broken fridge when you’re hosting summer barbecues, schedule an appliance check-up now. A professional from PicksByTown’s Appliance Repair service can inspect key components and ensure everything is running smoothly before the heat hits. This proactive step not only saves money on emergency repairs but also keeps your home cool and comfortable.

Be sure to ask for a detailed report of any necessary maintenance or replacements, and confirm that the repair technician is certified and bonded. Avoid hiring anyone who offers discounts without providing a service agreement or warranty.

Today’s focus is on timing your solar installer before summer's peak energy needs.