𝗣𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗗𝗘𝗦 𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗘: How Rick Caruso Saved His Property While Others Burned

PACIFIC PALISADES, CA – March 16, 2025 – As recovery efforts continue following the devastating Palisades Fire, Santa Monica Closeup toured the fire-ravaged Pacific Palisades to assess the impact on the community, including billionaire developer Rick Caruso’s Palisades Village. While much of the area sustained significant damage, Caruso’s high-end retail and residential complex largely survived—an outcome he attributes to proactive fire mitigation strategies.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, in Pacific Palisades, rapidly expanded due to severe drought conditions and hurricane-force Santa Ana winds reaching up to 100 mph. The wildfire burned approximately 23,448 acres and destroyed 6,837 structures, including homes, businesses, and places of worship. Evacuation orders affected over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and surrounding areas. The fire resulted in 12 fatalities and multiple injuries. High winds initially hindered aerial firefighting efforts, complicating containment operations. The fire was fully contained on January 31, 2025.

In the wake of the wildfire, Caruso reportedly hired private firefighters and deployed water tankers to shield Palisades Village from destruction. Additionally, fire retardants were applied to the property, reinforcing its defenses against the encroaching flames.

Caruso, whose real estate empire includes some of the nation’s most lucrative shopping centers, voiced concerns over the city’s response to the wildfire, citing a lack of adequate resources and preparedness. Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, he criticized what he described as bureaucratic "excuses" and "negligence" that exacerbated the devastation in surrounding areas.

The use of private firefighters has sparked debate over resource accessibility and class disparities in disaster response. While Caruso’s efforts safeguarded his development, many local residents lost homes and businesses, raising questions about the equity of emergency preparedness across different communities.

Despite sustaining some damage, Palisades Village—one of the nation’s top-grossing shopping centers per square foot—remains largely intact, standing in stark contrast to the scorched landscape around it. Meanwhile, Pacific Palisades residents continue to assess losses and push for improved fire prevention measures as rebuilding efforts get underway.

𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗦, 𝗪𝗔𝗩𝗘𝗦, 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗩𝗜𝗕𝗘𝗦: Beyond the Board’s ‘SHRED SLED’ Ignites Santa Monica’s Skate Scene

SANTA MONICA, CA – The Beyond the Board crew rolled into action on Saturday, March 15, 2025, as their “SHRED SLED” made a vibrant appearance during a Vibe Ride LA meet-up. Set against the backdrop of a sunlit beach parking lot, skaters, bikers, and bladers flowed effortlessly around the colorfully painted school bus while a live band performed from its rooftop, blending music and movement into an electrifying display of community energy.

Participants danced on and off their boards, creating a high-energy scene where music, skating, and self-expression collided. The rhythmic clatter of wheels on pavement mixed with the pulse of live beats, offering a unique experience that embodied the essence of Southern California’s skate culture.

The SHRED SLED, a converted school bus, serves as the mobile heart of Beyond the Board, a nonprofit dedicated to unifying and inspiring people through skateboarding and music. Originally painted by San Diego-based Kid Wiseman, the bus features an additional 2023 mural by Singaporean artist and longboarder Tobyato, transforming it into a rolling canvas of creativity. More than just transportation, the bus functions as a hub for skate workshops and community-building efforts, housing team members and carrying around 30 skateboards for outreach events.

Vibe Ride LA, known for its iconic Tuesday night sunset skate sessions in Santa Monica and Venice Beach, has become a cornerstone of the local movement-on-wheels community. Recently featured in the LA Times, the group aims to create inclusive and joyous spaces where people of all backgrounds can experience the transformative power of skating.

As the SHRED SLED continues its journey, its mission remains clear: to foster connection, self-expression, and growth through the universal language of skating. For those eager to experience the magic firsthand, keep an eye out—the bus is always open for a quick hello and a push toward the next great adventure.

📍 Follow Beyond the Board & Vibe Ride LA for updates on upcoming events. #BeyondTheBoard #ShredSled #VibeRideLA #SantaMonicaSkate 

Tesla Boycott Protest in Santa Monica | Demonstrators Rally Against Elon Musk’s Business Practices

A large group of demonstrators gathered at Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade on Saturday, March 15, 2025, to protest against Tesla CEO Elon Musk, accusing him of using his wealth and influence to dismantle the U.S. federal government. The protest, organized under the Tesla Takedown movement, called for a boycott of Tesla, urging people to sell their vehicles, divest from Tesla stock, and join the picket lines.

Throughout the demonstration, protesters chanted slogans condemning Musk’s influence and corporate greed. Their voices rang out with calls of “Stop attacking workers now,” “Up, up, up with the workers! Down, down, down with the billionaires,” and “No justice, no peace.” Others shouted, “Elon Musk is a thief,” “Money for jobs and education, not for greedy corporations,” and “All power to the people.” Protesters also decried systemic exploitation, chanting, “No more greedy exploitation” and “No ICE, no KKK, no fascist USA.”

Several speakers took the microphone, delivering impassioned speeches about the economic and political consequences of Musk’s actions. A representative from the ANSWER Coalition (Act Now to Stop War and End Racism) addressed the crowd, warning against corporate and government corruption. “Are we going to stand by while Musk and his gang steal our jobs, abandon our children, and leave workers living paycheck to paycheck? No! The politicians have left us behind—we have to fight for ourselves, and we will win because the vast majority of people are with us,” the speaker declared.

The demonstration remained peaceful, with organizers emphasizing their commitment to nonviolent resistance and exercising their First Amendment right to protest. Authorities monitored the event, but no major incidents were reported.

The Santa Monica protest was part of a larger nationwide movement, with similar demonstrations occurring in other cities. Protesters aim to disrupt Tesla’s financial standing as a means of countering Musk’s growing political influence. Neither Elon Musk nor Tesla representatives have issued a formal response to the protest. However, recent statements from Musk and President Donald Trump have characterized the demonstrations as an attack on corporate innovation.

The Tesla Takedown movement remains steadfast in its calls for continued action, urging supporters to boycott Tesla, demand corporate accountability, and challenge economic inequality. Organizers say more demonstrations are planned in the coming weeks as the movement continues to grow.

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗞𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗟𝗘? Field Biologists Conduct Necropsy on Pygmy Sperm Whale & Sea Lion in Venice

On a rainy Friday, March 14, 2025, field biologists from The Ocean Animal Response and Research Alliance (OARRA), with assistance from volunteers, conducted two necropsies on Venice Beach. The examinations, overseen by OARRA Founder and CEO Keith Matassa, were performed on a male Pygmy sperm whale and a male sea lion, with the team working from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. despite challenging weather conditions.

Necropsies, the animal equivalent of autopsies, are post-mortem examinations used to determine the cause of death and identify underlying medical conditions. These procedures provide crucial insights into marine health, environmental threats, and potential disease outbreaks affecting ocean life. The growing number of marine mammal mortalities along the Southern California coast has prompted increased research efforts by organizations like OARRA, which aim to uncover possible causes behind these fatalities and assess their impact on local ecosystems.

While the official results are still pending, researchers suspect that the sea lion may have been affected by domoic acid toxicosis, a condition linked to harmful algal blooms off the California coast. These blooms, triggered by the microscopic algae Pseudo-nitzschia australis, produce a neurotoxin that accumulates in small fish such as sardines and anchovies, a primary food source for sea lions. When consumed in large quantities, domoic acid may cause neurological and cardiac issues, including seizures and disorientation. However, further analysis is needed to confirm whether this condition played a role in the animal’s death.

The rise in toxic algal blooms has become a major concern for marine conservationists, as the frequency of sea lion strandings and marine mammal deaths continues to escalate. Scientists warn that these blooms may be exacerbated by rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and other environmental stressors. OARRA’s ongoing research and necropsy investigations play a critical role in identifying potential threats to marine life, as well as informing conservation strategies aimed at mitigating the impact of human activity on ocean ecosystems.

Founded in 2020, The Ocean Animal Response and Research Alliance (OARRA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to monitoring marine mammal populations, responding to stranded and deceased marine animals, and conducting research to better understand environmental changes affecting marine life. Through partnerships with state, national, and international researchers, OARRA works to consolidate data and provide a comprehensive view of the health of ocean animals and their habitats. The organization’s mission is to raise awareness, advocate for conservation, and inspire personal and global change to protect marine environments for future generations.

As marine mammal mortality rates increase, experts emphasize the importance of public awareness and scientific research in addressing this growing crisis. OARRA remains committed to expanding its response and research programs, ensuring that each marine animal’s death contributes to a broader understanding of ocean health and conservation efforts. The organization encourages the public to support their work by contributing to ongoing research and response initiatives. Donations to OARRA can be made at OARRA's official website to aid in their critical efforts.

⚠️ VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISED ⚠️

This video contains graphic scientific content, including a full necropsy (animal autopsy) of a Pygmy sperm whale and a sea lion. The footage is presented solely for educational and research purposes as part of marine conservation efforts.

🔬 This content is not intended to shock or disturb viewers but to contribute to the scientific understanding of marine mammal health and environmental threats.

📢 If you are sensitive to medical or dissection footage, please proceed with caution or choose to exit the video.

𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗘 𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗖𝗨𝗘: Wildlife Team Rescues Ailing Sea Lion Amid Toxic Algae Crisis

Two sea lions in distress were rescued from Venice Beach on Friday, March 14, 2025, after being found along the shoreline exhibiting symptoms of illness. Personnel from the Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) responded to the scene, securing the animals and transporting them for urgent treatment. A Los Angeles County Department of Beaches & Harbors employee assisted in loading one of the sick sea lions onto the rescue truck, ensuring its safe transport to MMCC’s rehabilitation facility. According to rescue personnel, the sea lions were likely suffering from domoic acid toxicosis, a condition caused by harmful algal blooms off the California coast. These blooms, triggered by the microscopic algae Pseudo-nitzschia australis, produce the neurotoxin domoic acid, which accumulates in small fish like sardines and anchovies—a primary food source for sea lions. When consumed in large quantities, this toxin attacks the brain and heart, leading to seizures, neurological impairment, and heart failure. If left untreated, domoic acid poisoning can result in permanent brain damage, and repeated exposure can lead to long-term neurological issues. While there is no direct cure, MMCC veterinarians employ supportive treatments to help affected sea lions recover. Because the toxin is water-soluble, hydration therapy is used to flush it from their system. The animals are also provided with fish that is free of domoic acid, while veterinarians administer anti-seizure medications, similar to those used for humans, to control symptoms. MMCC’s veterinary team is actively researching new therapies aimed at reducing brain inflammation and minimizing long-term damage. Recovery time varies based on the severity of exposure, but if treated early, the sea lions have a strong chance of rehabilitation and eventual release back into the wild. Authorities have reported a sharp increase in sick and stranded sea lions along Los Angeles County’s coastline, raising concerns among marine conservationists and beachgoers. The public is urged to report any sightings of distressed marine mammals to MMCC’s hotline at 1-800-39-WHALE and to keep a safe distance of at least 50 feet from the animals. Experts warn that approaching, touching, or feeding affected sea lions can be dangerous, as the animals may be disoriented or aggressive due to neurological distress. Keeping pets leashed and notifying lifeguards about stranded marine life can also help ensure the safety of both the animals and the community. The increase in sea lion strandings highlights a growing environmental crisis affecting marine life along the West Coast. Toxic algal blooms are becoming more frequent, with domoic acid poisoning now considered a significant threat to California’s marine mammal population. MMCC continues to lead the response to this crisis, working year-round to rescue, rehabilitate, and release affected animals. Since its establishment in 1992, the center has cared for over 8,000 stranded marine mammals and remains one of the busiest marine mammal rehabilitation facilities in the country. The Venice Beach sea lion rescue serves as yet another reminder of the environmental challenges facing marine wildlife. As toxic algal blooms continue to impact coastal ecosystems, public awareness, conservation efforts, and support for rehabilitation programs like MMCC remain essential to protecting California’s vulnerable marine species.

𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗡 𝗢𝗥 𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗘: Army Corps Clears Fire-Damaged Homes Along PCH in Malibu

On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) continued Phase Two of the Palisades Fire recovery along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu. Crews focused on clearing fire-damaged properties, removing hazardous ash, structural remains, and other debris to prepare sites for rebuilding.​ Earlier in the week, USACE installed K-rails—concrete barriers commonly known as Jersey barriers—along PCH to create safe work zones for contractors operating heavy equipment. These measures aim to protect workers and facilitate reconstruction efforts.​ Property owners are required to submit Right of Entry forms to authorize debris removal. USACE estimates that approximately 4.5 million tons of debris will be cleared in the coming months, ensuring environmental compliance and safe rebuilding conditions.​ Due to rain and potential mudslides, PCH was closed to residents on Wednesday. Strict access controls remain in place, with National Guard troops, Los Angeles Police Department officers, Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputies, and California Highway Patrol (CHP) personnel manning checkpoints. CHP officers are enforcing a temporary 25-mph speed limit to accommodate ongoing cleanup and reconstruction efforts.​ The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, in Pacific Palisades, rapidly expanded due to severe drought conditions and hurricane-force Santa Ana winds reaching 100 mph. The wildfire scorched 23,448 acres, destroyed 6,837 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and surrounding areas. The fire resulted in 12 fatalities and multiple injuries before being fully contained on January 31, 2025.​ Recovery efforts remain ongoing as authorities work to rebuild and restore the affected communities.

𝗔 𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗧𝗟𝗘 𝗢𝗙𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗧𝗢𝗣: Santa Monica’s Coastal Canopy Gets a Trim

SANTA MONICA, CA – On Monday, March 10, 2025, United Pacific Services, Inc., a City of Santa Monica urban forestry contractor, conducted scheduled maintenance along Santa Monica Beach, focusing on the iconic palm trees that define the coastline. This routine upkeep is essential to ensure the health and safety of these towering trees, which are susceptible to the region's coastal winds and seasonal weather variations.​ Crews utilized high-reaching bucket trucks to meticulously prune overgrown fronds, thereby reducing potential hazards and enhancing the beachfront's visual appeal. This effort aligns with the city's ongoing commitment to preserving its urban forest while maintaining a safe and inviting environment for both visitors and residents.​ The freshly manicured palms continue to frame the Pacific Ocean, maintaining the signature scenic views of Santa Monica's coastline.​ In related news, maintenance crews recently removed a dead palm tree from Crescent Bay Park as part of routine upkeep. Additionally, the city is actively engaging the community in environmental initiatives, such as the Landback & Reparations Task Force, with applications open through March 21. ​ These combined efforts underscore Santa Monica's dedication to environmental stewardship and community involvement.