𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 𝗔𝗧 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞: Feral Cat Hunts Squirrel on Palisades Park Bluffs

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Thursday morning, June 4, 2026 — A feral cat living along the Palisades Park bluffs was observed hunting and capturing a juvenile ground squirrel near the edge of the coastal bluff overlooking Pacific Coast Highway. The encounter unfolded in an area where dozens of California ground squirrels live among a network of burrows carved into the hillside. After stalking the young squirrel, the cat successfully captured it and carried it away into the vegetation. The sight serves as a reminder of the complex wildlife dynamics taking place within Palisades Park, where an abundant population of ground squirrels coexists with a small colony of feral cats inhabiting the bluff areas overlooking Pacific Coast Highway. Santa Monica has posted signs throughout the park asking visitors not to feed squirrels or birds, warning that feeding wildlife creates an imbalance in the native ecology and increases animals' dependence on people for food. Despite those warnings, many of the park's squirrels have become accustomed to human interaction and frequently approach visitors in search of food. The squirrel population has become a frequent topic of discussion among residents, visitors, and city officials. Wildlife experts have noted that feeding squirrels can contribute to population growth and encourage the animals to congregate in unusually high numbers. Some residents have also expressed concerns that extensive squirrel burrowing may contribute to erosion along portions of the coastal bluff. The feral cats appear to be supported by volunteers who conduct trap-neuter-return efforts aimed at stabilizing the colony population. Several makeshift shelters constructed from large plastic storage totes were visible Thursday morning on the bluff side of the fence, along with food and water bowls placed nearby. The structures appeared to provide refuge for cats living in the area. Residents remain divided over the issue. Some view the cats as a natural predator helping control the squirrel population, while others raise concerns about the impact free-roaming cats can have on local wildlife. Likewise, opinions differ regarding the large squirrel population, with some residents enjoying their presence and others worried about the effects of thousands of burrows throughout the bluff area. Thursday's encounter illustrated a natural predator-prey interaction within an urban coastal environment where wildlife, human activity, and ongoing management efforts continue to intersect. Santa Monica Closeup continues to document the people, wildlife, and changing landscape of Palisades Park.

𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘 𝗦𝗔𝗩𝗘𝗥: Firefighters Teach Hands-Only CPR on Santa Monica Pier

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — On Tuesday, June 2, 2026, Santa Monica firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs gathered at the end of the Santa Monica Pier to teach members of the public how to perform Hands-Only CPR as part of National CPR and AED Awareness Week.

Throughout the day, piergoers stopped to learn the simple lifesaving technique, with emergency personnel providing demonstrations and hands-on practice. Participants were shown how to recognize a sudden cardiac arrest, call 911, and begin chest compressions while awaiting the arrival of first responders.

According to the Santa Monica Fire Department, approximately 350,000 people suffer sudden cardiac arrest outside of hospitals each year in the United States. Officials emphasized that immediate action by bystanders can make a critical difference in survival outcomes.

"Every minute that goes by without CPR or interventions, your chances of survival decrease by 10 percent," said EMS Battalion Chief Patrick Nulty. "It's super important if somebody has a sudden cardiac arrest event or collapses, a bystander, a family member, a loved one, call 911 immediately and then begin hands-only compressions."

The training focused on Hands-Only CPR, which consists of two basic steps: calling 911 and performing chest compressions in the center of the chest at a rate of approximately 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Participants also learned about the importance of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and how emergency dispatchers can provide guidance when an AED is available nearby.

Nulty noted that the simplified approach is designed to encourage more members of the public to take action during emergencies.

"We don't teach mouth-to-mouth anymore, so it's super simple," Nulty said. "Call 911, hands-only CPR, and then if there's an AED nearby, dispatchers will help walk you through how to use it."

Educational displays from the American Heart Association highlighted research showing that immediate bystander CPR can double or even triple a person's chance of survival during cardiac arrest. The materials also noted that many cardiac arrests occur at home, meaning the person needing help is often a family member, friend, or loved one.

The Santa Monica Fire Department scheduled additional community outreach during CPR Week, including a Hands-Only CPR training event at the Santa Monica Farmers Market at Second Street and Arizona Avenue on Wednesday.

More information about Hands-Only CPR and cardiac arrest response is available through the American Heart Association.

Santa Monica Closeup continues to document public safety, community outreach, and emergency preparedness efforts throughout Santa Monica.

𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗧 𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗧: SMPD Opens New Downtown Substation at Santa Monica Place

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Thursday, May 28, 2026 — The Santa Monica Police Department officially opened its new Downtown Substation at Santa Monica Place during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by city officials, police personnel, business leaders, downtown stakeholders, and community members. Located at 395 Santa Monica Place, Suite 122, the new facility will serve as a public safety command center and community engagement hub, supporting faster coordination with downtown partners, enhanced foot and bike patrol deployment, and direct access for residents, visitors, and businesses. The substation will serve the Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica Pier, and surrounding transit and pedestrian corridors. Speaking during the ceremony, Police Chief Darrick Jacob said the project is part of the city's ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety and support downtown revitalization. "We're bringing the police to the place where our business owners need it, where our residents shop, and where our visitors come right here in Santa Monica," Jacob said. He described the opening as a visible sign of what city leaders have called a "rebirth" and "renaissance" for Santa Monica's downtown district. Jacob credited the City Council, city staff, Santa Monica Place, and downtown stakeholders for helping bring the project to fruition. He also recognized the work of the department's officers, Public Services Officers, Community Service Officers, communications personnel, and other staff who support public safety efforts throughout the city. Mayor Caroline Torosis praised the new substation and its role in supporting economic recovery and public safety in Downtown Santa Monica. "If we are going to have economic recovery that works for all of us, we absolutely have to have a presence downtown," Torosis said. She added that the facility demonstrates the city's commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for businesses, residents, and visitors. Torosis described the substation as a "force multiplier" for the downtown area and expressed support for increased police visibility as part of the city's ongoing revitalization efforts. Following the ribbon cutting, Chief Jacob explained that officers assigned to the downtown area will be able to work directly from the substation rather than returning to police headquarters to complete reports, allowing for greater efficiency and a more visible police presence. He said the facility will support rapid responses to incidents, including retail thefts and other quality-of-life concerns, while helping reduce the fear of crime that can discourage people from visiting downtown. The Downtown Substation serves as the operational home of SMPD's Downtown Services Unit and is intended to provide a visible and accessible location for officers, public safety personnel, residents, visitors, and business partners in the heart of Santa Monica's downtown corridor. According to the department, the facility supports the city's broader Realignment Plan, which focuses on four public safety priorities: crime suppression, homelessness response, traffic safety, and community and youth engagement. In a statement released following the ceremony, Chief Jacob said the substation represents "presence, partnership, and accountability," adding that it gives officers and public safety personnel a stronger foothold in one of the city's busiest districts while providing another place for community members to connect directly with the department. The department said the project was made possible through collaboration with PRISM Places, DTSM, Inc., city leadership, and community partners. The Downtown Substation is open daily from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., and community members are encouraged to stop by, meet department personnel, and learn more about SMPD's ongoing work downtown. Attendees at the event were also able to view department assets, including police bicycles and drone technology used to support daily operations. Santa Monica Closeup will continue documenting public safety initiatives and developments impacting Downtown Santa Monica.

𝗦𝗢𝗖𝗖𝗘𝗥 𝗚𝗜𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗦: Messi, Pulisic and Yamal Tower Over Santa Monica Pier

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Thursday, May 28, 2026 — Three towering inflatable soccer stars drew crowds to the Santa Monica Pier as part of a FOX promotional activation ahead of this summer’s FIFA tournament coverage. The 32-foot-tall inflatables featured some of the sport’s most recognizable names: Christian Pulisic wearing the No. 10 jersey for the United States, Lionel Messi wearing Argentina’s iconic No. 10, and Lamine Yamal wearing Spain’s No. 19 jersey. Positioned on elevated platforms near the pier entrance, the oversized displays could be seen from a distance and quickly became a popular photo backdrop for visitors. Throughout the day, passersby stopped to snap selfies, pose with friends and family, and take in the larger-than-life soccer installation. Branding around the display identified FOX as the official broadcaster, with signage promoting live tournament coverage running from June 11 through July 19. The activation added a World Cup-style atmosphere to the historic landmark, blending international soccer fandom with one of Southern California’s most visited waterfront destinations. Santa Monica Closeup continues to document public events, attractions, and community happenings along the Santa Monica waterfront.

𝗦𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗧 𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Pacific Park Launches Sweet Rose Creamery During 30th Anniversary Kickoff

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Thursday, May 21, 2026 — Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier celebrated the grand opening of Sweet Rose Creamery on Thursday evening during a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the beginning of the amusement park’s 30th anniversary celebration.

The ceremony, held during the Santa Monica Pier’s season finale of “Locals’ Night,” featured members of the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, Santa Monica City Councilmember Dan Hall, Pacific Park representatives, and community guests gathered near the new ice cream shop inside the amusement park. According to event organizers, Hall presented Pacific Park with a proclamation recognizing the park’s 30th anniversary milestone.

Guests attending the event were offered complimentary Sweet Rose Creamery ice cream scoops throughout the evening as part of the celebration.

The anniversary kickoff was woven into the larger Locals’ Night festivities across the Pier, which included live music performances, classic car displays, community storytelling events, and the annual Rick Crocker 5K Run honoring the fallen Santa Monica police officer and Marine Corps veteran.

As part of the celebration, Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel displayed a special nighttime lighting tribute reading “Thank You Santa Monica” from sunset through midnight.

Pacific Park opened on the Santa Monica Pier in 1996 and has become one of the Pier’s most recognizable attractions, drawing millions of visitors annually with its rides, midway games, oceanfront views, and iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel.

Organizers described the evening as both a community celebration and a reflection on the Pier’s longstanding role as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

Santa Monica Closeup documented the ribbon-cutting ceremony, anniversary festivities, and activity across the Pier as crowds gathered to celebrate Pacific Park’s 30-year milestone and the opening of Sweet Rose Creamery.

𝗥𝗨𝗡 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗥𝗜𝗖𝗞: Santa Monica Officers and PAL Youth Take Part in Annual Community Challenge

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Thursday, May 21, 2026 — Santa Monica police officers teamed up with members of the Santa Monica Police Activities League (PAL) on Thursday afternoon as participants ran along Ocean Front Walk during the “6th Annual Rick Crocker 5K” Run-Walk Challenge honoring fallen Santa Monica Police Officer Ricardo “Rick” Crocker. The annual community challenge was held in partnership with the Santa Monica Pier’s final “Locals’ Night” of the season and benefited PAL youth programs throughout the city. Participants gathered behind the historic Santa Monica Pier Merry Go-Round before beginning the 5K route, which traveled south along Ocean Front Walk to the Bay Street loop before heading north toward the Montana Avenue stairs parking area and returning to the Pier This year’s event also coincided with the start of LA Fleet Week festivities, with Sailors and Marines from the USS Essex and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton participating in recognition of Officer Crocker’s military service and dedication to the community. The event featured a musical performance by the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band, along with displays from Santa Monica police and fire personnel, including patrol vehicles and emergency apparatus. Officer Ricardo “Rick” Crocker was a 10-year veteran of the Santa Monica Police Department and a Marine Corps Reserve Major who was killed in Iraq on May 26, 2005, after being struck by a rocket-propelled grenade while serving his country. His final assignment with the department was with the Santa Monica Police Activities League, where he mentored vulnerable youth in the community. The Santa Monica Police Activities League provides free after-school enrichment programs, educational activities, leadership development, and recreational opportunities for youth ages 6 to 17, with a mission focused on fostering positive relationships between young people and law enforcement. Santa Monica Closeup documented portions of the event as officers, PAL youth members, military participants, and community supporters moved along the beachfront route during the afternoon run.

𝗗𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗗𝗨𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Santa Monica Celebrates One Year of SaMo Bridge Alternative-to-Jail Program

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Thursday, May 14, 2026 — Santa Monica officials, law enforcement representatives, service providers, and program graduates gathered Thursday morning at City Hall to celebrate the first full year of the SaMo Bridge diversion program, highlighting its role in connecting vulnerable individuals to housing, treatment, and long-term support instead of jail. Chief Deputy City Attorney Jenna Grigsby opened the ceremony by describing SaMo Bridge as a collaborative effort built to address the gaps between police contact and long-term recovery for people experiencing homelessness, substance abuse, and behavioral health challenges. “A year and a half ago, these groups came together and asked the hard questions,” Grigsby said. “Where are the gaps? How can we try to help those experiencing homelessness, substance abuse disorder, mental health struggles early before they got lost in the cycle of police contact and jail?” She explained that the city recognized the need for “a place for individuals to go at 2 in the morning that wasn’t jail,” leading to the creation of SaMo Bridge’s 24/7 respite hub located at the Civic Auditorium. The program operates from two trailers and allows Santa Monica police officers to directly refer individuals who have committed low-level offenses and are facing homelessness, substance abuse, or mental health challenges. Participants arriving at the respite hub are offered immediate access to basic needs including food, rest, showers, and direct connection to case managers from Exodus Recovery, Inc.. Many are connected to housing or treatment immediately, while others work through a 90-day care plan. Upon successful completion, the City Attorney’s Office declines to file qualifying misdemeanor charges. Grigsby said the city originally projected 260 referrals during the first year, but the program recorded 462 individuals—nearly double expectations. Of those, 233 participants were directly connected to services, with 81% placed into housing or treatment quickly. Fifty-eight participants completed the full program and graduated, meeting the city’s target graduation rate. “That’s 58 people thanks to their own hard work and the opportunity that SaMo Bridge afforded them that are no longer on the streets of Santa Monica,” she said. Santa Monica Police Captain Francisco Franco, speaking on behalf of Santa Monica Police Department and Police Chief Derrick Jacob, praised graduates for their resilience and described the program as a vital alternative for first responders. “Today’s not about hardship,” Franco said. “Today’s about success, resiliency, being that conduit of change.” Referencing Rocky Balboa, Franco added: “It’s not how hard you get hit, it’s how hard you get hit and keep moving forward. And that’s what you guys did during this program.” Raymond Moreno, program director of SaMo Bridge with Exodus Recovery, Inc., described the mission of the program as helping bridge the gap between crisis and stability. “At SaMo Bridge, our mission is simple — to meet people where they are and to help bridge the gap between crisis and stability,” Moreno said. “At the heart of everything we do is dignity, compassion, and accountability.” He said staff work daily to connect participants to shelter, healthcare, treatment, housing, and long-term support, often helping reunify individuals with family or secure immediate placement into programs. Following the speeches, graduates were presented with certificates recognizing their completion of the program. Several participants shared emotional testimony about how the diversion program changed their lives. One graduate said, “I would still be unhoused if it weren’t for the city and council members at SaMo Bridge and SMPD.” Another participant said police officers introduced him to the program and helped get him off the streets, adding that he is now preparing to move into his own place. The ceremony concluded with city officials emphasizing that SaMo Bridge’s success depends on continued collaboration between law enforcement, housing services, behavioral health providers, and the community. Santa Monica Closeup continues to document public programs and community efforts shaping the city’s response to homelessness, public safety, and long-term recovery solutions.

𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗨𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗔𝗖𝗔𝗗𝗘𝗠𝗬: Santa Monica Fire Trains New Ambulance Operators for Emergency Response

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Tuesday morning, May 12, 2026 — Santa Monica Fire Department personnel conducted ambulance driver training exercises in a public beach parking lot Tuesday morning, using cone courses and maneuvering drills to evaluate new employees preparing for ambulance duty.

The training focused on precision driving, backing, and vehicle handling skills required for emergency medical transport operations. Fire personnel were observed guiding ambulance operators through controlled cone patterns designed to simulate real-world maneuvering challenges while maintaining safety and operational readiness.

According to a Santa Monica Fire captain, this type of driver/operator training begins with new hires during their academy and continues throughout their careers as part of ongoing professional development.

“This specific training ensures that we have eyes on each new employee and that they have passed the driver portion of their academy so that when they work on the ambulance they are well versed,” the captain explained.

The exercise is part of the department’s broader Ambulance Operator (AO) Program, which officially transitioned in-house on February 1, 2026, ending the city’s previous reliance on third-party providers for emergency medical transport.

Under the AO Program, city-employed Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), known as Ambulance Operators, operate city-owned ambulances and provide Basic Life Support (BLS) services alongside firefighter-paramedics. Their responsibilities include responding to medical emergencies, assisting with patient assessment and treatment support, and safely transporting patients from the scene to local medical facilities.

The program is designed both to strengthen emergency response capabilities and to serve as a training ground for future firefighters and paramedics, allowing firefighter-paramedics to focus on higher-level advanced care while Ambulance Operators manage transport and support functions. The program operates under the supervision of a Fire Captain.

The Santa Monica Fire Department states that the Ambulance Transportation Program is intended to improve continuity of care, reduce response times, and ensure professional patient transport from the moment crews arrive on scene through hospital transfer.

Emergency Medical Services operations are also supported by McCormick Ambulance, a contracted private ambulance provider that continues to assist with Basic Life Support transport services. This dual-response model helps maintain emergency readiness while keeping fire department resources available for additional urgent calls.

Tuesday’s training reflected that continued emphasis on preparedness, ensuring that new personnel are fully qualified before entering the field and responding to emergencies across Santa Monica.

𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Meals on Wheels West Joins National Initiative to Address Senior Isolation in Santa Monica

Meals on Wheels West volunteers and participating artist Tiger La Flor depart from headquarters in Santa Monica, carrying insulated meal bags for delivery to homebound residents.

Photo credit: Foundation for Social Connection ACTION NETWORK

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Meals on Wheels West partnered with national organizations on Friday, May 1, 2026, to highlight the growing issue of social isolation among seniors through a community-based meal delivery initiative in Santa Monica.

The activation began at Meals on Wheels West headquarters on Michigan Avenue, where organizers from the Foundation for Social Connection ACTION NETWORK and Artist for Action gathered alongside Executive Director Kaylee Hawkins. Artist Tiger La Flor joined volunteers for the afternoon deliveries, participating in outreach aimed at connecting with homebound residents.

Andrew MacPherson, founder and executive chair of the Foundation for Social Connection ACTION NETWORK, said home-delivered meal programs play a critical role beyond nutrition.

“Home-delivered meals are such an important part of addressing social isolation and loneliness, especially amongst our seniors in America,” MacPherson said. He noted that nearly half of Americans report experiencing loneliness, with rates among seniors approaching 48 percent, and that isolation is linked to increased risks of serious health conditions.

Following brief remarks, volunteers loaded insulated meal carriers and departed to nearby residences.

During one stop, the group delivered a meal to Paul, a Santa Monica native who has participated in the program for approximately a decade. Paul said the service has been a consistent source of support during periods of declining health.

Artist Tiger La Flor greets Paul, a Santa Monica native and former vocalist, during a home delivery visit that included time for conversation beyond the meal drop-off.
Photo credit: Foundation for Social Connection ACTION NETWORK

“They’ve been there through thick and thin,” he said. “The meals are part of my life—they really help out a lot.”

Paul, who said he has managed epilepsy since birth, described the challenges of maintaining stability with his health and daily routine. He said Meals on Wheels has helped him stay consistent with nutrition while also providing regular interaction with volunteers.

“I look forward to seeing them,” he said, adding that the visits offer both familiarity and connection throughout the week.

The delivery extended beyond a brief drop-off, with participants spending time speaking with Paul at his home. He noted that some volunteers have maintained relationships with him over the years, occasionally offering additional support outside of standard deliveries.

“Some of these volunteers really go beyond,” Paul said, recalling instances where volunteers provided extra assistance, including food items and small personal support.

Paul, a former musician and vocalist who has performed in bands since childhood, said creative outlets and social interaction remain important to his well-being.

“Music is a great connector,” he said, describing how performing and engaging with others has helped him maintain a sense of purpose.

Volunteers coordinate meal distribution on-site before heading out to deliver food to residents across Santa Monica.
Photo credit: Foundation for Social Connection ACTION NETWORK

Meals on Wheels West reports that more than 80 percent of its clients live alone, making regular contact with volunteers an important part of the program. In addition to meal delivery, the organization offers services such as a friendly caller program to provide additional social engagement.

Matthew Reich, co-founder of Artist for Action, said the initiative aims to bring awareness to isolation through community presence and creative engagement.

“Social isolation has become a major issue,” Reich said. “What we’re doing here today is connecting with people.”

Meals on Wheels West has served the Santa Monica and Westside community for more than five decades, delivering meals to homebound residents across Santa Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu.

Organizers said efforts like this are intended to highlight the importance of community-based support systems as demand for services continues to grow.

Santa Monica Closeup continues to document public events and community programs that impact residents across Santa Monica and the Westside.

𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗘𝗟 𝗠𝗔𝗚𝗜𝗖: Traci Park Spins Up Family Fun at Centennial Park

VENICE, Calif. — Saturday, May 2, 2026 — Families and community members gathered at Centennial Park on Saturday for a day of free activities and entertainment as the Venice Flying Carousel hosted a community celebration alongside the recently reopened Abbot Kinney Venice Public Library. The event took place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Centennial Park, located next to the library at 501 Venice Blvd., drawing children and adults for a full day of art, recreation, and neighborhood connection centered around one of Venice’s longtime community spaces. Free rides on the Venice Flying Carousel served as the centerpiece of the event, while visitors also took part in hands-on art-making, do-it-yourself carousel T-shirt printing, oversized bubble-making stations, and oceanarium-themed activities for children. A Naam yoga session and storybook reading time added to the family-friendly programming throughout the day. Artist Robin Murez, creator of the Venice Flying Carousel, described the project as a community-driven effort built with the help of friends, neighbors, and local experts. “It’s a fabulous community project,” Murez said. “Everybody can come print their own T-shirts and take them home. They’re free and permanent. We’re here celebrating the reopening of the Venice Public Library, and all of the animals of the carousel bring out stories of the history of Venice.” Murez said the carousel and the library share a connection through storytelling, noting that the carousel’s animal figures reflect pieces of Venice history that visitors can further explore inside the library. Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park also attended the event and highlighted the transformation of Centennial Park, which she noted had previously been the site of a large encampment several years ago. “We are actively working on this park, and we are excited to see it activated today,” Park said. “It’s wonderful to see so many families out here enjoying it. We have big plans in store for revitalizing Centennial Park.” Park encouraged residents to visit the newly renovated Venice Public Library and emphasized the importance of restoring public spaces for families and neighborhood use. The gathering served both as a celebration of the library’s reopening and as a public showcase for ongoing efforts to reactivate Centennial Park as a family-friendly destination in the heart of Venice. Santa Monica Closeup continues documenting public events and community gatherings across Venice and the Westside.