The week in picks

Soundbar + wireless sub is the best bang-for-buck home-theater upgrade most people never make.

You're probably thinking about this card because you finally decided to build a local AI box after seeing the latest GPU-accelerated model releases, and you don't want to shell out top dollar for a newer CUDA-enabled card that still costs more than it's worth.

If you're a die-hard Flyers fan or just looking for some high-energy action this week, grab your jersey and head to Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philly on October 11th for the thrilling matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes. The electric atmosphere of a live NHL game is always electric, and this one promises to be no exception. Get ready for non-stop hockey action at an affordable price, starting at just $28.

This week, grab The Quacks of Quedlinburg and play it with 2-4 players at your cabin trip, where a 45-minute game session is just right to fill a morning or afternoon break.

When choosing this game for your group, keep in mind that it's not ideal for solo gamers, who may find the repeated push-your-luck decisions too isolating. For those seeking a more collaborative experience, The Quacks of Quedlinburg offers tense and joyful gameplay as players compete to create the highest-scoring potion combinations.

Grab The Quacks of Quedlinburg when you need a game that's just long enough to fill a cabin morning.

The Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Vest has earned its place as a top choice for those who appreciate layering versatility. Unlike the usual default gift of a bulky jacket, this vest packs into its own pocket, making it an ideal solution for guys who are always on the move.

This thoughtful gift is especially well-suited for a housewarming occasion, providing warmth and comfort in a compact form factor that won't take up too much space in his new home. While it may not be the most affordable option at $80, its 650-fill goose down delivers serious warmth without bulk, making it a worthwhile investment.

This $80 buys a practical layering solution for daily use.

This week, we're dealing with a high-volume conversational AI pipeline that requires generating long-form responses to user queries. For this specific use case, I recommend using Qwen: Qwen3.6 35B A3B.

Qwen's large context length of 262144 allows it to maintain contextual coherence and understand nuanced conversations, making it an ideal choice for our pipeline. Its input price is unknown, but the output price is also unknown, which might indicate that this model is free or has a pay-as-you-go pricing structure. Additionally, Qwen: Qwen3.6 35B A3B's vendor, qwen, may offer more flexibility in terms of deployment and customization.

Keep an eye on your pipeline's latency and adjust accordingly, more context often comes at the cost of speed.

The market for "Will the U.S. invade Iran before 2027?" on Polymarket continues to be a behemoth, with over $73 million in volume at a price of 16 cents per share. This has sparked speculation about the likelihood of such an event, and what implications it might have on global politics.

While some might view this market as sensational or speculative, it's worth considering the underlying forces driving these bets. The fact that this is one of the most actively traded markets on both Kalshi and Polymarket suggests a deep-seated concern about the escalating tensions between the US and Iran.

It's also worth noting the contrast with some of the other high-volume markets, such as "Will Jesus Christ return before 2027?" or "Will LeBron James win the 2028 US Presidential Election?", which are largely driven by novelty or entertainment value. These longshots have garnered significant attention, but their prices and volumes should be viewed in context.

Watch for a potential shift in Iran market sentiment following the upcoming OPEC meeting.

The latest data from Zillow Research highlights a nuanced picture of the US housing market. One observation stands out: despite modest price growth in many regions, volatility remains a defining characteristic. Take, for instance, the contrasting experiences of Rockford, Illinois and Los Angeles, California. Rockford's ZHVI (Zillow Home Value Index) has grown by 8.7% year-over-year, with an astonishing $224,246 median home value. In contrast, Los Angeles' growth is a more meager 1.2%, with a $952,601 median home value.

This dichotomy suggests that regional factors are still playing a significant role in shaping local housing markets. While some areas are experiencing modest price growth, others are struggling to maintain pace or even showing signs of decline. This volatility may be attributed to various factors, including changes in local employment patterns, migration trends, and shifts in consumer sentiment.

The data suggests that we should keep a close eye on Austin, Texas next month, which has experienced a notable 4.7% year-over-year decline in ZHVI, with $417,977 median home value. As regional dynamics continue to evolve, it will be essential to monitor these fluctuations and adjust predictions accordingly.

The market is a long-term pendulum that swings unpredictably.

As the crisp air of October sets in, our taste buds crave warmth and texture that's hard to beat. The humble Ugali - Kenyan cornmeal recipe from our archives is a perfect fit for this season. Made with just water and white cornmeal, this simple dish has been a staple breakfast in Kenyan households for generations.

What elevates this recipe above other cornmeal porridges is its technique: cooking the cornmeal to an ideal consistency that's both creamy and firm. This balance of textures is essential to Ugali's appeal. To add some seasonal flavor, try substituting some of the water with warm, spiced milk - a nod to the Kenyan tradition of incorporating spices like cumin and coriander into their breakfasts.

The result is a comforting, if unspectacular, bowl that's perfect for chilly autumn mornings. As you enjoy your Ugali, consider pairing it with a side of stews or roasted vegetables, which are abundant this time of year.

For a burst of flavor, try adding some sautéed onions and tomatoes to your Ugali - it's a simple hack from the Kenyan cooks who've perfected this recipe._ recipe page*

Earbud fit is 90% of the sound: a bad seal robs bass and ANC no matter how good the buds are.

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 is an attractive option for those who prioritize efficiency and DLSS over raw VRAM, especially in the midst of a new game release season. With its 12GB GDDR7 buffer, it's likely to provide solid 1440p performance without breaking the bank on power draw. If you're upgrading your build every couple of generations as planned, this card offers a great balance of features and price.

For those who need DLSS but also care about future-proofing, consider waiting for reviews and benchmarks before making a decision.

Head to Brooklyn Bowl in Brooklyn on October 10th for a wildly entertaining night of drag and rock fusion with Bertha's Grateful Drag. This unique show brings together the best of San Francisco's Pride scene with a special tribute to the Grateful Dead's psychedelic vibes. Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, dance, and self-expression.

When playing with a friend who loves light strategy and puzzle games, pick up The Blood of an Englishman.

This game is perfect for players like me who enjoy the back-and-forth of competitive board games. In just 20 minutes, you can experience the thrill of pushing your luck as either Jack or the Giant in this nursery rhyme-based duel. A key moment that sets The Blood of an Englishman apart is when you play a card or tile to build a path up the beanstalk, every move opens opportunities for your opponent while creating threats they must address.

Bring it out on Halloween night, with friends who appreciate a quick puzzle challenge.

As a proud owner of two feline companions, I can attest that finding a reliable and comfortable window perch can be a daunting task. That's why I'm excited to recommend the K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Cat Window Perch as the perfect gift for new grads who share their lives with cats.

What sets this product apart from the usual default gift is its sturdy construction, which allows two cats to share it comfortably without any worries of collapse. Unlike other window perches that can be a hassle to assemble and install, the EZ Mount attaches easily to any window or glass patio door without the need for tools. The soft fleece sleeping surface is also machine washable, making maintenance a breeze.

For $36.98, this gift provides years of feline-friendly companionship and entertainment.

Arcee AI: Trinity Large Thinking excels in handling long-form conversations with multiple context switches, making it a top pick for large-scale enterprise customer support systems.

In particular, Arcee AI: Trinity Large Thinking is well-suited for supporting complex technical issues that require follow-up questions and clarifications. However, its high input price may deter smaller companies from adopting it, and the trade-off to consider is the balance between context length (262144) and output quality, a higher context length does not always translate to better results.

The model's vendor lock-in should also be taken into account when planning for future-proofing. If you're building an enterprise-scale customer support system with complex technical issues, Arcee AI: Trinity Large Thinking is worth considering despite its high price tag.

Context is king in conversational AI, but so are your costs.

The recent surge in trading volume for various prediction markets, particularly those related to geopolitics and culture, is noteworthy. The market "Will the U.S. invade Iran before 2027?" (Polymarket) has seen an astonishing $73 million in volume, with odds currently standing at 15 cents against such an event. This intense focus on a potentially catastrophic scenario raises questions about investor priorities.

While some may attribute this volume to speculation or entertainment, it's essential to consider the implications of such high-stakes betting. If investors are willing to put substantial sums on the table for a specific outcome, their conviction in that prediction can have significant effects on public opinion and market dynamics.

In contrast, markets related to temperature forecasts, like "Will the maximum temperature be >82° on Oct 10, 2026: 83° or above" (Kalshi), demonstrate a more nuanced understanding of probability. These markets showcase a clear understanding of edge and odds, with the current NOAA model indicating a 50% chance for temperatures to exceed 82 degrees.

The market's focus will shift tomorrow as new data on U.S.-Iran diplomatic talks becomes available.

The current US housing market shows a bifurcated trend, with certain markets experiencing notable price cuts while others continue to see value appreciation. In the western states, Colorado Springs and Raleigh are leading the pack in terms of price reductions, with 37.9% and 36.3% cuts respectively. This suggests that buyers may be gaining more negotiating power in these regions.

In contrast, some markets in California and other parts of the country continue to see value growth, albeit at a slower pace than in previous years. The high-end metros like San Jose and Santa Cruz still hold strong values, but with fewer price cuts compared to their lower-priced counterparts.

The data suggests that buyers may want to focus on regions experiencing significant price cuts, such as Colorado Springs and Raleigh, while also keeping an eye on the continued growth in value-heavy markets like Los Angeles. As we head into November, the next key indicator will be whether these market shifts continue to hold steady or start to slow down.*

As the crisp air of October settles over our kitchens, it's a perfect time to revisit hearty, warming dishes like the Jamaican Instant Pot Rice and Beans. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of Caribbean cuisine, where humble ingredients like rice and beans are elevated by bold flavors and spices.

Notice how the coconut milk adds a rich creaminess to this dish? It's a clever substitution that not only deepens the flavor profile but also nods to the cultural exchange that has shaped Jamaican cuisine. And with the Instant Pot doing all the work, we can focus on letting the aromas of cumin and thyme transport us to the island.

For a side dish, try pairing it with some steamed callaloo, a classic Jamaican combination that's sure to please. To explore more about the history and cultural context behind this recipe, check out our accompanying article on the evolution of Caribbean cuisine.

Consider serving the rice and beans alongside some roasted sweet potatoes for an autumnal twist

As a homeowner, you're likely aware that the best time for outdoor family portraits is during the golden hour in early morning or late afternoon. However, when it comes to indoor photoshoots with young children, most people assume that natural light is less important and schedule sessions during their child's naptime. But this can actually make a big difference in the quality of your photos.

In reality, natural light can make a huge impact on indoor portraits, especially when working with young children who can be difficult to pose. If possible, plan your indoor photo shoot for a time when the sun is shining through a window or a skylight, providing soft and warm natural light. This will help reduce harsh shadows and create a more flattering atmosphere. To make the most of this opportunity, choose a location with plenty of windows and consider scheduling the session during your child's morning wake-up time.

When hiring a photographer for indoor family portraits, ask about their experience working with young children in bright lighting conditions. Also, don't be afraid to request a consultation before booking to discuss your specific needs and preferences.

Tomorrow: Don't Get Shocked - The One Crucial Question to Ask When Hiring an Electrician

Skip 'hi-res' upsampling gimmicks - clean DAC + well-mastered files beats fake resolution every time.

It's October, the fall release slate is stacking up, and your current card is starting to wheeze at 4K. That's usually when the RTX 5080 tab gets opened. Fair enough: it's strong at 4K and sits where a reasonable gaming build should probably top out, well short of the $2,000 tier. The catch is the 16GB of VRAM. That's plenty for today's games, but it's the same amount you get on cards costing half as much, and if you're also eyeing local AI models, that ceiling arrives fast. Launch MSRP was $999. If you find one near that, buy it and enjoy your backlog. If it's priced well above MSRP, the 9070 XT starts to look like the smarter call.

Buy it for games at a fair price, and skip it for AI.

If you only see one big touring musical this fall, make it The Outsiders at the Hollywood Pantages on Friday, October 9. The 2024 Tony winner for Best Musical turns S.E. Hinton's greasers-vs-Socs story into something raw and gorgeous, with a folk-rock score by Jamestown Revival and a rain-soaked rumble that genuinely leaves people breathless. Seats start at $74, and in that gilded Art Deco room on Hollywood Boulevard, even the balcony feels like a splurge worth making.

Klask is for two players who want a real contest in 10-15 minutes without opening a rulebook. Couples on a weeknight, a parent and a kid after homework, or two friends waiting on a third will all get it within seconds. Both of you move at once, so nobody sits waiting for a turn. You hunch over the board, steering your metal wand from underneath, and the magnetic puck ricochets toward your goal hole before you have finished your last shot. Then a blocker drifts off the center line, nudged by a stray strike, and suddenly the whole match is about not dragging it into your own goal.

It is not for anyone who wants planning, combos, or a quiet table. Klask is light, loud, and pure reflex, and at $80 it is a lot to spend if you want depth. Strategy fans will shrug after a round.

Pick Klask this week for two restless players and a short evening, because three goals arrive faster than any argument about rules.

A bridal shower registry for a foodie fills up fast with boards, knives and pretty serving bowls, and the cat in the house usually gets nothing. The Suck UK Cat Scratcher DJ Decks fixes that. It does the same job as any cardboard scratcher, giving claws a target that is not the new sofa, but the deck actually spins and the tone arm moves, so the cat looks like it is dropping a set. A plain scratching pad earns zero photos. This one earns a post every time the cat steps up, and a couple sharing their dinners online will happily share their resident DJ too.

The honest caveat: it is corrugated cardboard, so scratching wears it down. Treat it as a fun, temporary piece rather than furniture. It also only suits a household that already has a cat. Skip it for anyone without one, however much they love a joke.

Your $31.94 buys a spinning cardboard turntable that keeps claws off the couch and puts the cat in the wedding photo feed.

If you run a pipeline that tags support tickets, extracts fields from short documents, or routes requests before they hit an expensive model, LiquidAI: LFM2.5-2.6B (free) is worth a test run this week. At 2.6B parameters with a 65,536-token context window and no listed price, it fits the narrow, repetitive work where a larger model wastes money. Give it a tight schema, a few examples, and validation on the output, then measure accuracy against your current model before switching anything over.

The trade-off is capability versus cost. A 2.6B model will not match larger models on multi-step reasoning, nuanced writing, or long agentic chains, and the 65K window does not guarantee strong recall across that whole span. Free tiers also tend to come with rate limits or uptime you cannot negotiate. Use it for classification, extraction, and routing behind a fallback. Do not make it the only model in a customer-facing path.

A free small model pays off when it keeps routine calls away from your expensive one.

The highest-volume market we track today is "Will the U.S. invade Iran before 2027?" on Polymarket, with $72.9 million traded at 16¢. That price isn't a forecast of war; traders put the odds at roughly one in six. With under three months left in the year, though, it is a meaningful number, and among the five highest-volume markets it is the only one priced above a few cents.

The other four are longshots. Jesus Christ returning before 2027, LeBron James winning the 2028 presidency, and Oprah Winfrey winning the 2028 Democratic nomination all sit at 1¢. Bernie Sanders' nomination trades at 2¢. Together they account for more than $228 million in volume, yet the market treats each as close to impossible. Volume measures attention and liquidity, not conviction; a crowded 1¢ market is still a 1¢ market.

That gap matters for anyone reading these boards as signal. Of the 298 markets we track, split almost evenly between Kalshi and Polymarket, crypto and economy contracts make up 160. None of them crack the volume leaders, which are all Polymarket listings driven by geopolitics and novelty.

Watch whether the Iran contract holds near 16¢ tomorrow; a move either way would be one of the few volume-heavy prices worth reading as news.

The price-cut list and the decline list are telling different stories right now. Colorado Springs leads the tracked metros with 37.9% of listings taking a cut, and Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Provo all sit just behind at roughly 36%. Yet all three Utah metros still show positive annual change, ranging from +1.3% in Salt Lake City to +2.1% in Ogden.

Compare that with Austin, which has the steepest decline in the dataset at -4.7%. Its price-cut share is 30.2%, about six points lower than Utah's. Las Vegas looks similar, at -2.7% with 29.7% of listings cut. In the markets where values have actually fallen, the share of reduced listings is lower than in the Utah metros, where values are still rising. One reasonable reading is that Utah sellers are still listing at aspirational prices and negotiating down from there. The cuts are narrowing the gap between asking prices and what buyers will pay, but they have not yet pulled down the value index.

Next month, watch whether Ogden and Provo's annual gains shrink toward zero. If cut shares stay near 36% and the gains fade, Utah could follow Colorado Springs into negative territory.

Tomorrow we look at whether Boise is tracking the same pattern.

There is a particular kind of October afternoon that still carries summer's heat, and these Vietnamese prawn spiralized rolls belong to it. Rice paper sheets, softened in water just long enough to turn pliable, wrap around ribbons of vegetables, sweet prawns, and handfuls of mint and coriander. The herbs are not garnish here. They are the point.

The real lesson lives in the dipping sauce. Lime, rice vinegar, palm sugar, fish sauce, and birds-eye chillies are a study in balance, the Vietnamese instinct for setting sour, sweet, salty, and hot against one another until none of them shouts. Palm sugar matters: it brings a rounder, faintly caramel sweetness that white sugar can't fake. Taste as you stir, and adjust until it makes you want another bite. Full details are on the recipe page.

If the evening turns cool, pour a pot of jasmine tea alongside.

Most homeowners assume pressure washing is a spring chore, but early fall is often the better window for patios, walkways, and pavers. The catch is timing: concrete and pavers absorb water during washing, and if an overnight freeze hits before they dry, that trapped moisture expands and can flake the surface, a condition Concrete Contractors call spalling.

Aim for a day with a 48-hour forecast above 40 degrees, including overnight lows. Ask for a morning appointment so surfaces get a full afternoon of sun. If you plan to seal pavers afterward, most sealers need the surface fully dry, often a day or more, and air above 50 degrees to cure, so in October the wash and seal may need to happen within the same week.

Ask the crew what pressure and tip they use on pavers; a surface cleaner attachment beats a narrow wand that can blast out joint sand. Confirm whether re-sanding joints is included.

Tomorrow: Photographers.

Higher sensitivity (dB/W) speakers play louder on less power - easy to drive, easy to live with.

If you're looking to upgrade your gaming rig or build a new system for local AI projects during the upcoming holiday season, now's the time to keep an eye on used-market prices for the AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT. With its proven drivers and generous 16GB of VRAM, this card is still a solid choice for 1440p builds at the right discount. As retailers continue to clear stock from last year's launch, expect significant price drops that make it an even more attractive option for builders who prioritize performance over generational labels.

Keep an eye on those discounts, they're coming.

Head to the iconic Metro in Chicago this Friday and get ready to rock out with Pinhead Gunpowder's high-energy show on October 8th. This punk-influenced quartet has been shredding stages for decades, and their live performance is always a treat. If you're a fan of The Misfits or Green Day, don't miss your chance to see them at the Metro this week.

If you're planning a cooperative gaming session with 5+ players and have 3-4 hours to spare, consider taking on the challenges of Vantage this week. The game's unique blend of exploration and cooperation makes it an excellent fit for groups that enjoy collaborating to achieve common goals.

One moment that showcases Vantage's potential is when a player discovers a location with a hidden resource, such as a water source or a shelter, which can be used to help other players in dire need. This decision requires strategic thinking and a willingness to invest time and resources to aid your fellow survivors. With its vast world, numerous action results, and emphasis on cooperation, Vantage is sure to keep you and your friends engaged for an epic evening.

The longer you survive the crash, the more fascinating it becomes.

For Father's Day, consider gifting your loved ones with a classic pair of Levi's 501 Original Fit Jeans. As a staple in any wardrobe, these jeans offer comfort and support during difficult times, making them an excellent choice for both fathers who appreciate timeless style and dog owners who value durability.

What sets the 501 apart from more obvious alternatives is its ability to be dressed up or down, making it suitable for everyday wear as well as special occasions. However, I must note that these jeans may not fit all body types, particularly those with larger waists, due to their classic straight-leg design. At $74.99, this gift buys a pair of high-quality denim pants that will last for years to come.

*_

As we continue to see advancements in transformer-based architectures, it's interesting to examine where they excel and falter. In this week's rankings, Z.ai: GLM 5.3 Flash has taken the top spot for dialogue generation tasks that require a high degree of coherence and context awareness.

For those working on large-scale chatbot development or customer service platforms, Z.ai: GLM 5.3 Flash is an excellent choice due to its impressive performance in sustaining coherent conversations. Its ability to learn from long input sequences (up to 1048576 tokens) makes it particularly well-suited for applications where users may provide lengthy input.

The best model often comes with a hefty price tag - one that's hard to justify unless you're willing to sacrifice vendor flexibility.

The market for "Will the U.S. invade Iran before 2027?" (Polymarket) has seen substantial trading volume, with $72 million wagered at a price of 15 cents. This high volume doesn't necessarily indicate the probability of an event occurring; it can simply be a result of investors betting on both sides of a market to exploit potential asymmetries.

A similar pattern is observed in other markets, such as "Will Jesus Christ return before 2027?" and "Will LeBron James win the 2028 US Presidential Election?", which have seen high volumes despite their low prices. These cases illustrate that volume alone doesn't translate to probability or a strong indicator of an event's likelihood.

It's essential for investors and market observers alike to keep in mind that trading volume can be driven by various factors, including speculation, misinformed betting, or even attempts to manipulate the market. To draw meaningful conclusions from these markets, one must consider multiple perspectives and avoid overemphasizing volume as a proxy for probability.

Tomorrow's market to watch: "Will Elon Musk announce plans for Mars colonization before 2027?" will likely see increased attention following recent NASA announcements.

The current US housing market data reveals distinct regional trends, with some metros continuing to experience YoY price growth while others struggle with declining values. Notably, cities in the Midwest, such as Rockford, IL, and Utica, NY, are driving the year-over-year gains, with significant price cuts still present in these markets.

In contrast, popular Southern and Western destinations like Austin, TX, and Las Vegas, NV, have seen their value decline over the past 12 months. However, even among the declining metros, some areas remain relatively buyer-friendly due to high price cut rates.

Given this mixed picture, it will be essential for investors and homeowners to closely monitor regional trends going forward. One aspect to watch next month is how the current fluctuations in supply and demand affect prices in cities like Nashville, TN, which has seen a moderate decline in values over the past year but still exhibits relatively high price cut rates.

Next week's data will likely provide further insights into whether these regional patterns persist or shift.

As the leaves begin to fall from the trees, our cooking repertoires often turn towards heartier, warming dishes that make the most of the season's bounty. This Rice and Beans recipe from our archives is an excellent choice for chilly October evenings, with its rich coconut milk and spicy Scotch Bonnet adding depth to what might otherwise be a humble combination.

The use of kidney beans here is particularly noteworthy, their mild flavor and firm texture hold up beautifully to the bold flavors in this dish. It's also worth noting that the technique of cooking the rice separately from the bean mixture allows for a lovely textural contrast between the fluffy grains and the slightly firmer beans.

A side of sautéed greens or roasted root vegetables pairs nicely with Rice and Beans, but feel free to experiment with other seasonal additions to keep things interesting. recipe page

As a homeowner, you might think that the off-season is the perfect time to schedule maintenance with your pool company. However, this could be a costly mistake. Many homeowners assume that since they're not using their pools as frequently during the fall months, it's okay to put off routine maintenance until spring.

But what many people don't know is that fall is actually an ideal time for pool companies to inspect and repair equipment before the winter freeze sets in. If you wait until spring to address issues like loose connections or corroded parts, you may end up paying more to fix them after they've been damaged by ice and snow.

So, when should you hire a pool company? Schedule your appointment now, ideally within the next few weeks, to take advantage of mild weather and avoid costly repairs later. Be sure to ask your pool technician about any preventative measures they can take to protect your equipment from winter damage.

Tomorrow: Pressure Washing Companies Won't Tell You This About Your Home's Exterior Walls.

Closed-back headphones isolate and keep bass in; open-back trade isolation for air and a bigger stage.

With the recent release of the highly anticipated game "Eternal Realms" and its demanding graphics requirements, I've seen several builders in our community scrambling to upgrade their machines without breaking the bank. If you're one of them, you might be considering the Intel Arc B570 as a viable option for 1080p gaming on a strict budget.

Its 10GB GDDR6 VRAM is a notable advantage over other 8GB cards in its class, but it's not without competition: the B580 is only $30 more at MSRP and clearly outperforms it. However, given the B580's tendency to be marked up or sold out during peak demand periods, the B570 remains a solid choice for those who can't afford the premium.

This card exists as a budget safeguard against price gouging.

This week is your chance to experience the unbridled energy of & Juliet at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre in New York's West Village on October 7th. With its creative twist on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, this innovative musical will keep you hooked from start to finish - think bold choreography, catchy pop tunes, and an all-star cast delivering a truly unforgettable performance.

Root offers a unique experience that rewards players who dive head-first into its complexities. If you're a strategic player looking to mix things up this week, consider gathering three or four of your closest friends for an evening of woodland warfare.

As the Marquise de Cat builds her wooden structures, the Woodland Alliance spreads sympathy tokens, and the Vagabond completes quests, each player's turn feels like a distinct game. Root isn't for the casual board gamer, however, its steep learning curve and asymmetric gameplay require a certain level of strategic depth.

Bring your A-game to the table if you dare: three players who can handle asymmetry, this Saturday night.

As a new parent, it's easy to get overwhelmed with notes, lists, and reminders. That's why I recommend the Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook, Letter Size. This notebook is a game-changer for keeping track of everything from baby's feeding schedule to upcoming milestones.

Unlike the usual paper notebooks that get filled up and forgotten by spring, the Rocketbook Core lets you scan pages to the cloud with the app, making it easy to keep important notes organized and accessible. It also wipes clean with a damp cloth, making it a great choice for parents who like to jot down quick reminders on-the-go. One thing to note is that the letter size may not be ideal for smaller bags or purses, but overall, this notebook is a thoughtful gift for new parents.

This thoughtful $26.99 investment gives a new parent a year's worth of space to write and organize.

If you're tackling a large-scale text generation task that requires processing up to 1048576 context characters, Meta: Muse Spark 1.2 Contributor is worth considering.

In this scenario, its high input capacity and corresponding output quality make it a solid choice over other models with lower context lengths. For instance, if you're building a knowledge graph summarization system where each node has a substantial amount of metadata associated with it, Meta: Muse Spark 1.2 Contributor's ability to handle the context length makes it an attractive option.

One size does not fit all in AI; don't get fooled by specs without understanding your use case.

The markets are abuzz with speculation about global events, and some of the most intriguing bets involve longshot scenarios that defy conventional wisdom. Take, for instance, the "Will Jesus Christ return before 2027?" market on Polymarket, where an astonishing $66 million in volume has been placed at a price of 1¢. This is a quintessential example of a longshot story, the odds are extremely low, but the potential payout is enormous.

this level of interest in such a far-fetched scenario is not unique to Kalshi and Polymarket. Other longshots, like "Will LeBron James win the 2028 US Presidential Election?" or "Will Oprah Winfrey win the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination?", have also attracted significant attention, with volumes reaching $54 million and $53 million respectively.

While it's unclear what drives this fascination with improbable events, one possible explanation is that these markets provide a unique outlet for speculative capital to flow into areas where traditional betting platforms are less willing to take on risk. Whatever the reason, it's clear that some traders are willing to put their money where their mouths are, or rather, where their imaginations roam free.

Tomorrow, keep an eye on the "Will the U.S. invade Iran before 2027?" market, which has already seen a staggering $72 million in volume at a price of 15¢.

The current US housing market data paints a mixed picture, with some regions experiencing significant price declines, while others exhibit remarkable stability and even growth. Take Rockford, Illinois, for instance, where the median home value has surged by 8.7% year-over-year (YoY) to $224,246, making it one of the top-performing metros in the country. Meanwhile, nearby cities like Austin, Texas, and Cape Coral, Florida, are feeling the pinch, with respective YoY declines of -4.7% and -4.4%.

These contrasting trends suggest that regional economic fundamentals continue to play a significant role in shaping local housing markets. The Midwest's steady growth is likely driven by its relatively affordable prices and stable job market, whereas areas like Austin and Cape Coral are facing headwinds from oversaturation and cooling demand.

Looking ahead, it will be essential to monitor the performance of smaller markets within these regional hubs. For instance, will Knoxville, Tennessee, continue its YoY growth of 2.0% as it expands its job market and attracts new residents? Will Boise City, Idaho, maintain its relatively slow but steady pace of +1.4% YoY despite increasing competition from nearby metros?

As we await October's data release, keep an eye on the Midwest's smaller markets for signs of emerging growth or stability.

As the leaves begin to fall and the air grows crisp, there's no better time to revisit this classic Chinese recipe. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender snow peas, and aromatic ginger is a harmonious reflection of autumn's fleeting yet vibrant beauty. I'm particularly fond of how the dish relies on quick stir-frying techniques to balance the delicate flavors.

The use of dry sherry in place of traditional soy sauce adds an interesting depth to this recipe, evoking the subtle nuances found in Sichuan cuisine. It's a masterful move that rewards experimentation and invites us to reconsider our expectations. Give it a try, especially during these autumnal months when seasonal ingredients shine.

As the fall season sets in, homeowners often overlook a crucial aspect of their property maintenance: inspecting and addressing any damage to their home's structural elements. In fact, many assume that hiring a general contractor is only necessary when a major renovation or repair project is underway.

However, a savvy homeowner knows that scheduling a thorough inspection with a general contractor can prevent small issues from escalating into costly problems down the line. This is particularly true for homes with aging foundations, walls, or roofs. By hiring a reputable general contractor in the fall, homeowners can catch any potential damage before winter weather sets in and exacerbates existing issues.

When selecting a general contractor for this type of inspection, be sure to ask about their experience with preventative maintenance and their process for identifying potential problem areas. Avoid contractors who focus solely on performing repairs, as they may overlook important preventive measures. Make sure to also request references from previous clients who have undergone similar inspections.

Tomorrow: Evaluating a Deck Builder's Warranty vs the Component Manufacturers' Guarantees.

Multipoint Bluetooth (two devices at once) is the feature you'll miss most once you've had it.

If you're building a local AI system and need maximum VRAM without breaking the bank, the used NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 is worth considering. Its $1499 launch MSRP may seem steep, but it's now two generations old, making it a more affordable option for those who don't need bleeding-edge gaming performance. With its 24GB of GDDR6X VRAM and CUDA compatibility, this card remains a top choice for AI hobbyists looking to squeeze every last bit of performance out of their model inference workloads.

This is why you buy a used RTX 3090: the numbers make sense.

Hit up the Prudential Center in Newark on October 6th to catch some high-flying hockey action as the New Jersey Devils take on the Utah Mammoth. You can snag a ticket for under ten bucks - yes, you read that right! Get there early and soak up the electric atmosphere of this N.J. classic venue.

If you're a fan of immersive strategy and complex mechanics, this week is your chance to revisit or try Agricola for the first time. This classic heavy eurogame excels at providing depth and challenge with every play.

A key aspect that sets Agricola apart from other games is its resource management and worker placement system, where you'll have to balance between feeding your family, expanding your farm, and keeping up with the changing seasons. The pressure of meeting your family's needs while juggling multiple tasks will keep you engaged throughout the 90-120 minute game.

Not for beginners or those who prefer light games. Solitaries and strategy night enthusiasts will appreciate the challenge Agricola offers.

When your farm is thriving but your pantry is empty, remember that every decision counts.

When it comes to anniversary gifts, it's easy to default to something flashy or extravagant. But for those who appreciate simplicity and practicality, I highly recommend the Yeti Rambler 26oz Stackable Cup with Magslider Lid.

This cup is a game-changer because of its stackable design - it's perfect for minimalist couples who value efficiency and space-saving. It also keeps drinks at the right temperature for hours, which is a thoughtful touch that shows you care about their daily routines. My only caveat is that this cup might be a bit large for some cabinets or dishwashers, so it's worth considering storage before gifting.

For $32, you get years of reliable and leak-proof hot and cold beverage service.

This week, we're seeing a surge in demand for conversational dialogue evaluation models that can accurately assess nuanced and context-dependent interactions. In this space, Qwen: Qwen3.5-35B-A3B stands out as a top choice for evaluating high-stakes conversations.

Qwen3.5-35B-A3B's strength lies in its ability to capture subtle contextual cues and respond accordingly, making it an excellent fit for use cases such as customer service chatbots or therapy conversation evaluators. However, its high input price (due to its large context length of 262144) may make it less suitable for applications where real-time feedback is crucial.

The current market landscape on Kalshi and Polymarket reveals an intriguing trend: underdog stories are dominating the conversation. Take, for instance, the "Will Bernie Sanders win the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination?" market at 1¢, with a volume of $52,864,322. This is not a surprising or attention-grabbing outcome, but rather a reflection of the high volume on longshot candidates.

The same can be said for the "Will Oprah Winfrey win the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination?" market, also at 1¢ and with a similar volume. these markets are not outliers; in fact, they're part of a larger pattern where several underdog stories are drawing significant attention.

While it's possible that some of these candidates may have a legitimate shot at the nomination, the current market data suggests that investors are taking a long-term view and hedging their bets. This is likely due to the uncertainty surrounding the 2028 election, with many factors still up in the air.

The 2027 U.S. invasion of Iran market may be worth monitoring tomorrow as it approaches its price floor.

The current data from PicksByProperty reveals a mix of buyer-friendly price cuts and areas with significant year-over-year appreciation. Notably, Colorado Springs, CO, and Raleigh, NC, lead the pack in terms of price cuts, with both metros reporting over 36% reductions. This trend is consistent with other markets like Ogden, UT, which has seen a YoY increase of 2.1%. However, these price cuts coexist with areas experiencing significant appreciation, such as Rockford, IL, and Norwich, CT, where prices have risen by 8.7% and 6.8%, respectively.

The juxtaposition of these trends highlights the complex regional dynamics at play in the US housing market. While some metros are adjusting to changing market conditions through price cuts, others continue to attract buyers and see significant appreciation. This nuanced picture suggests that local factors, such as supply and demand imbalances, remain crucial drivers of housing market trends.

As we move into November, the data will likely reflect ongoing adjustments in the market. The next month's data may shed more light on how these regional dynamics play out, particularly in areas like Los Angeles, CA, where prices have seen a relatively modest 1.2% YoY increase, but with a notable 23.5% price cut.

A closer look at regional supply and demand patterns is likely to provide valuable insights into the market's trajectory.

In the midst of autumn's cooler temperatures, our attention often turns to rich and comforting dishes that warm the soul. However, this season also brings an opportunity to revisit lighter fare from the summer archives, like the Summer Pistou recipe. This French classic, featuring rapeseed oil as its base, is a masterclass in layering flavors without overburdening the palate.

A standout element of this recipe is its use of vegetable stock, which adds depth and body without the heaviness often associated with stocks made from bones or meat. The delicate balance of flavors allows each component to shine, from the tender courgettes to the pungency of garlic.

For a truly autumnal presentation, serve the Summer Pistou as a side dish to complement hearty roasted vegetables or grilled meats. recipe page

As the weather cools down in October, many homeowners assume it's time to focus on planting new flowers and shrubs. However, most landscapers will tell you that fall is actually an ideal time for soil amendments, not just planting.

When hiring a landscaper, consider requesting a soil test before the project begins. This may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it can save you money in the long run by identifying potential issues with your lawn's soil pH or nutrient levels. Landscapers who work with clients to improve their soil health often recommend incorporating organic matter, such as compost or manure, into the existing soil. This helps to aerate the soil and promote healthy drainage, reducing the need for costly fertilizers and pesticides down the line.

When selecting a landscaper, ask about their approach to soil amendments and whether they conduct regular soil tests as part of their services. Avoid working with contractors who focus solely on planting new flowers and shrubs without considering the underlying soil conditions.

Tomorrow: When to Ask Your General Contractor About Permits

Match cartridge to tonearm, not to ego - an expensive cart on a budget table is wasted money.

As we're in the midst of a major game release season, with titles like "Eternal Realms" and "Quantum Rift" pushing graphics performance to new heights, gamers are eyeing up mid-range options that can handle 1440p high-refresh rates without breaking the bank. If you're building or upgrading a gaming PC for this wave of releases, and don't want to compromise on features like DLSS or CUDA support, the RTX 5070 Ti is worth considering.

With its blend of performance and affordability, it's no wonder the RTX 5070 Ti is one of the most talked-about cards in the enthusiast community right now.

If you're a fan of indie-pop with an edge, don't miss Julia Wolf at the iconic House of Blues in Boston on October 5th. This intimate venue is perfect for experiencing the raw energy and emotional lyrics that have made Wolf's music a staple in local circles. Grab your tickets for under $20 and get ready to be swept up in her catchy melodies and haunting vocals.

If you're looking to spend an afternoon with friends, I recommend breaking out Qwirkle this week. Its straightforward rules and tile-laying gameplay make it easy to teach to new players, allowing everyone to jump in and start competing within 30-45 minutes.

For a group of three or four, Qwirkle offers the perfect blend of competition and camaraderie, as players draw tiles bearing one of six colors and six shapes and try to create lines on the shared grid. This is especially true when someone places a tile that disrupts an opponent's carefully laid plans, it's not uncommon for the table to erupt in a burst of strategic thinking and debate about which line to prioritize.

Whoever plays Qwirkle first will likely be the one planning their next move after dinner.

The Levoit Core 300 Air Purifier is a surprisingly thoughtful gift for your foodie sweetheart on Valentine's Day. Unlike the usual default of gourmet spices or cooking classes, this air purifier actually improves their living space, allowing them to focus on what they love, cooking and sharing meals.

One reason it stands out from the crowd is that it doesn't just clean the air, but does so quietly, ensuring your foodie can cook and sleep peacefully without distraction. While some may find its compact size a limitation in larger kitchens or shared spaces, this product excels for solo cooks or small couples. For $84.99, you're getting a year's worth of hospital-grade HEPA filtration.

A breath of fresh air is the best Valentine's gift of all.

The need to handle long conversations and vast knowledge bases has grown significantly this year, especially in areas like customer service chatbots and virtual assistants. However, not all models are suited to these complex scenarios.

In use cases where context length is crucial and models need to maintain quality under 1000000 token limitations, Qwen: Qwen3.7 Flash stands out due to its high context length of 1 million tokens. While it may be more expensive than smaller models with similar capabilities, the trade-off lies in latency, Qwen's high performance often comes at a cost of increased latency compared to lighter alternatives.

When building ultra-long context AI assistants or chatbots, pick Qwen: Qwen3.7 Flash for its sheer capacity; just beware of the potential latency impact on your application.

The market's current obsession with the 2028 US Presidential Election is striking, with four out of the top five most traded markets focusing on Democratic primaries. The high volume and low prices (all under $1) indicate that the market is essentially betting against these candidates, treating them as longshots. A notable exception is the "Will Bernie Sanders win the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination?" market at 1¢, with a substantial volume of $52,864,201.

The dominance of these low-priced markets highlights the market's skepticism about the viability of certain candidates. In contrast, the top market by volume is the "Will the U.S. invade Iran before 2027?" market on Polymarket, at 15¢ and with a massive $71,651,682 in volume. This stark difference in price and volume suggests that the market is much more uncertain about international relations than domestic politics.

The fact that four out of five of these markets are longshots raises questions about what factors contribute to their popularity. Is it genuine interest in the candidates' prospects or simply speculation driven by low prices? The data doesn't provide clear answers, but it does suggest a fascinating dynamic at play in these prediction markets.

One to watch tomorrow: how the "Will Oprah Winfrey win the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination?" market reacts to the impending anniversary of her last public endorsement.

The recent decline in home values across several major metros has been a dominant trend this year. Among them, Austin and Cape Coral have seen significant year-over-year drops of 4.7% and 4.4%, respectively. However, looking beyond the top performers, other markets are offering more nuanced insights.

Colorado Springs stands out as one of the cities with the highest percentage of price cuts (37.9%), but its YoY decline is relatively modest at -1.4%. This suggests that while prices may be decreasing, they're not plummeting. In contrast, Asheville has seen a more substantial YoY drop (-3.3%) and still boasts a considerable 26.3% in price cuts.

These variations in price performance across the country hint at shifting market dynamics. The data suggests that next month we should keep an eye on how these regional differences continue to play out, particularly as Colorado Springs' relatively stable prices may be indicative of a more resilient market.

As always, October's data will paint a clearer picture of the market's trajectory.

As October's crisp air settles over the Spanish countryside, our taste buds crave warm, comforting dishes that evoke the rich flavors of autumn. The ham croquetas recipe from our archives perfectly captures this seasonal essence.

The use of jamón ibérico in these croquetas adds a depth of flavor and texture that is quintessentially Spanish. This cured ham dominates the dish with its bold, savory taste, which is expertly balanced by the subtle sweetness of the leek. The technique of coating the croquettes with breadcrumbs provides a satisfying crunch that complements the tender interior.

This recipe is a masterclass in the art of Spanish tapas-making, and as we approach the holidays, it's an ideal dish to serve at gatherings and parties. Pair the ham croquetas with a side of tangy alioli or a simple green salad for a truly authentic taste of Spain.

For a delightful accompaniment, try serving the ham croquetas with a drizzle of smoked paprika-infused aioli.

As the fall season sets in, many homeowners assume that scheduling an HVAC contractor's maintenance visit is a task for spring or early summer. However, this assumption can lead to costly repairs and reduced efficiency when winter arrives. In fact, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends performing seasonal maintenance in the fall, before the heating system is needed.

To ensure your HVAC system is ready for winter, schedule a maintenance visit with your contractor between September 15th and November 1st. This allows them to inspect and clean the system, replace worn parts, and make any necessary adjustments before the cold weather sets in. Additionally, many contractors offer package deals or discounts for fall maintenance visits, which can save you money.

When scheduling your appointment, be sure to ask about their inspection checklist and what services are included. Some important questions to ask include: What is the expected lifespan of my current HVAC system? Are there any signs of wear or damage that I should be aware of? What steps can I take to maintain my system between maintenance visits?

TOMORROW: Landscapers - Timing Matters for Fall Cleanup and Yard Preparation.