𝗩𝗜𝗚𝗜𝗟 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗛𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗬: Santa Monica Mayor, Community Gather in Peaceful Tribute for Immigrant Rights and Solidarity

SANTA MONICA, CA — Saturday, June 28, 2025 — Dozens gathered at the St. Monica statue in Palisades Park for a solemn gathering officially titled “Vigil for Humanity.” Organized by the Mexican-American Policy and Political Alliance (MAPPA), the event responded to rising concerns over aggressive immigration enforcement, racial profiling, and growing fear within immigrant and marginalized communities. Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete participated in the vigil and shared deeply personal reflections rooted in her family’s immigrant past. “America is immigration,” she told the crowd. “It’s immigrants. It’s folks who have come here from everywhere to build this rich culture we have,” cautioning against the erosion of dignity and due process under current policies. Former Councilmember Oscar de la Torre, a prominent organizer, described the event as a collective act of prayer and peaceful protest. He criticized the use of “masked men with unmarked cars” to detain people in public spaces, decrying it as “racial profiling at its worst,” and a direct assault on families. State Board of Equalization member Tony Vazquez, Santa Monica’s first Latino mayor, also addressed the crowd, urging California’s leaders to consider economic leverage—suggesting withholding federal funds in response to aggressive raids. “If we don’t flex our muscle, what good is it?” he warned. A powerful land acknowledgment and blessing were led by Lisette, a Maya-Nawat speaker, honoring the Tongva, Chumash, and other indigenous nations whose unceded lands were the site of the vigil. Healings and calls to unity continued with interfaith leader Reverend Kathleen Benjamin, who invited attendees to “be the hands of humanity” in solidarity with those suffering. The vigil included a poignant moment when a homeless attendee voiced frustration over public neglect. Rather than dismiss him, participants granted space, responded with compassion, and offered direct assistance—reinforcing the vigil's message of universal dignity. Artist Daniel Alonzo and activist Maria Loya recounted stories of ancestral struggle and resilience, urging healing through communal grief and positive intent. The evening concluded with a prayer circle beneath Saint Monica’s gaze as the crowd clasped hands in a show of unity. MAPPA and community leaders reiterated that this gathering marked only the beginning. Oscar de la Torre announced plans for a countywide general strike and boycott, calling for continued civic action through prayer, protest, and political engagement. “We must respond with unity, compassion, and strength,” he affirmed

𝗕𝗨𝗦𝗦𝗟𝗢𝗔𝗗 𝗢𝗙 𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗪𝗡: Strongman Martins Licis Pulls 34,680-Pound Electric Bus at Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica, CA — June 26, 2025 — Crowds gathered at the Santa Monica Pier Thursday morning to witness an extraordinary feat of strength as 2019 World’s Strongest Man Martins Licis pulled a 34,680-pound battery electric Big Blue Bus—with a driver onboard—across 30 feet of pavement in the beach parking lot.

The event served as the official kickoff to the upcoming Pier 360 Beach Festival, a two-day celebration of Southern California beach culture set to take place June 28–29. With Santa Monica’s newly branded fleet of zero-emission buses in the spotlight, the pull combined physical might with a message of sustainability.

City leaders including Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete, Santa Monica Pier Historian Jim Harris, and Transportation Director Anuj Gupta delivered remarks before the dramatic pull, adding civic pride to the high-energy spectacle. The event also featured appearances from Romark Weis, coach and co-organizer of the Santa Monica Strongman Classic.

The Big Blue Bus pull was part of a broader morning program featuring music, refreshments, and photo opportunities with the new battery-electric fleet.

This weekend’s Pier 360 Beach Festival will host over 80 strongman competitors alongside paddleboard races, ocean sports, beach games, skating showcases, live music, and food vendors. The festival begins at 9 a.m. each day and is free to attend.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to ride the Big Blue Bus for just $1.10 to help reduce traffic and emissions.

For more information, visit santamonicapier.org.

𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗘𝗥 𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗨𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗗: Police Arrest Suspected Gunman Who Shot Officer Near Santa Monica Place

Santa Monica, CA — June 26, 2025 — A man suspected in a recent downtown shooting that injured two juveniles is now in custody after allegedly ambushing and shooting a Santa Monica Police Department officer during a foot pursuit.

The suspect, identified as David John Hairston II, 31, believed to be homeless, was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon following a coordinated law enforcement response. He is being held at the Santa Monica Jail on $1 million bail and is scheduled to appear in court on June 27.

The original shooting occurred late Sunday night, June 22, around 11:38 p.m. near 2nd Street and Broadway, where two juveniles seated inside an autonomous rideshare vehicle were shot by a suspect on foot following a verbal altercation. Both victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at a local hospital.

Detectives launched an immediate investigation, distributing a departmental bulletin the next day in an effort to locate the suspect.

On June 25 at approximately 1:00 p.m., an SMPD officer spotted an individual matching the description near 2nd Street and Colorado Avenue. As the officer attempted contact, the suspect fled on foot. During the brief pursuit, the suspect allegedly ambushed the officer, opening fire and striking him multiple times. The officer sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and remains hospitalized in stable condition.

Roughly three hours later, at 4:20 p.m., a community member reported seeing someone matching the suspect’s description near Palisades Park. Officers quickly responded and apprehended Hairston following another short chase. A firearm believed to be used in the shooting was recovered at the scene.

The case will be submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Anticipated charges include:

• Attempted murder of a peace officer

• Assault with a deadly weapon

• Two counts of attempted murder (related to the June 22 incident)

• Firearms violations

The Santa Monica Police Department expressed gratitude to vigilant residents and the multiple law enforcement agencies that supported the operation, including LAPD, CHP, LA County Sheriff’s Department, Beverly Hills PD, El Segundo PD, and others.

Authorities are asking anyone with further information to contact Det. Reyes, Det. Kayondo, or Sgt. Lozano at (310) 458-8774, or the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.

𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗢 𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗠𝗘: Pacific Palisades’ First Home Rises from Ashes After Devastating Blaze

Pacific Palisades, CA — Tuesday, June 24, 2025 — Nearly six months after the catastrophic Palisades Fire scorched over 23,000 acres and destroyed thousands of structures, visible signs of recovery have begun to emerge. On Embury Street in Pacific Palisades, a home that was among the first to be demolished after the disaster is now rising again—possibly the first to enter the active rebuilding phase in the hard-hit neighborhood.

On Tuesday, Jorge Gurrola, CEO of JG Demolition & Construction Cleanup Inc., and Ram Miller, founder of Miller Construction and Development Inc., were on-site overseeing construction progress. Gurrola’s team completed the initial demolition and debris removal at the site back in February, following required clearances from the Environmental Protection Agency and successful asbestos and lead testing.

“This was one of the first projects we took on after the fire,” said Gurrola. “We hauled out eight truckloads of fire debris to Calabasas Landfill and cleared another 20 loads of concrete, delivered to certified facilities like Vulcan and AMH. All permits were secured through the City and County, and we made sure everything was done to code.”

Miller, who is rebuilding his own home after living there for 27 years, praised the speed and coordination of the rebuilding effort so far. “We got our permits approved in about three weeks,” he said. “JG Demo did a fantastic job on demolition and excavation. We started in May, and now we’re framing the second story. We should be done with all framing in about 60 days and hope to move back in within eight months.”

Founded over 16 years ago, Miller Construction and Development is known locally for its integrity, transparency, and craftsmanship in custom homebuilding. The company is now helping lead the charge in post-fire reconstruction.

JG Demolition, a Los Angeles-certified waste hauler and EPA lead-certified contractor, continues to support recovery efforts throughout the burn zone. With strict adherence to environmental protocols, the company ensures that debris is processed through approved channels in compliance with local and federal regulations.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, was fueled by intense drought and hurricane-force Santa Ana winds. The fire destroyed 6,837 structures and claimed 12 lives before being fully contained on January 31. In the months since, cleanup crews, contractors, and public agencies have worked to stabilize terrain, restore utilities, and clear debris.

The rebuild underway on Embury Street stands as a milestone—one of the clearest signs yet that the long road to recovery is finally taking shape.

𝗦𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗟𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘: Drag Queens Read to Children During Santa Monica’s Pride Event

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (June 21, 2025) – On Saturday morning, families gathered inside the historic Merry‑Go‑Round building at Santa Monica Pier for Fabulous Fables: Drag Queen Pride Family‑Edition, a free event crafted for children ages 10 and under. The three‑hour celebration featured drag queen storytelling by Pickle and Lil Miss Hot Mess, a musical performance by Queen Angelina, plus a host of community activities . Organized in partnership with The Crow Comedy Club and supporting SaMo Pride programming, the event included face painting, poetry by Santa Monica Poet Laureate Anne Carmack, a barnyard play from Santa Monica Playhouse titled Barnyard Madness, and a “Books & Cookies” musical storytime. A “pint‑sized Pride parade” accompanied the morning’s festivities. Event coordinator Jim Harris, Executive Director and Historian at Santa Monica Pier, noted, “Fabulous Fables continues [the Pier’s] tradition by creating a space where every family feels seen, celebrated, and connected through the power of storytelling,” as reported in a community announcement. Generous support came from sponsors including Pacific Park, The Crow, and Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath. As part of a city‑wide SaMo Pride takeover on June 21, Fabulous Fables served as an early highlight, preceding additional programming such as Pride Beach sporting activities, a silent disco and Kid Zone at Santa Monica Place, and live entertainment along the Third Street Promenade into the evening.

𝗝𝗨𝗡𝗘𝗧𝗘𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥: Black Lives Matter Fills Santa Monica Pier in Massive Celebration of Freedom and Culture

SANTA MONICA, CA – June 19, 2025 — Thousands of people packed the Santa Monica Pier on Thursday for a historic Juneteenth celebration hosted by the Ebony Beach Club and Black Lives Matter. The all-day event transformed the iconic pier into a vibrant stage for culture, community, and remembrance—drawing such an overwhelming turnout that crowds spilled over onto the sand and surrounding boardwalk.

Festivities began in the morning with free surf lessons, encouraging participants to reconnect with the ocean as a symbol of liberation and joy. By the afternoon, the pier was at capacity. The evening portion—headlined by a sold-out lineup of DJs including BRICK! & Dirty Dell, B4BYL3XIGIRL & Faucet, and WaveIQ—turned the waterfront into a powerful gathering of sound, movement, and solidarity.

This year’s Juneteenth on the Pier was more than a celebration; it was a cultural reclamation. Organizers spotlighted the story of the original Ebony Beach Club, founded in 1957 by Silas White at 1811 Ocean Avenue. Intended as an exclusive Black-owned social club offering leisure and elegance in the face of segregation, the club never opened—its building seized by the City of Santa Monica under eminent domain for a “civic parking lot” that was never built.

Thursday’s turnout marked a symbolic return to those shores, fulfilling the promise of a space that once was denied.

“Ebony Beach Club on the Santa Monica Pier is more than a Juneteenth celebration,” organizers stated. “It is a rejoice, restoration, and reclamation of space rooted in real Los Angeles history.”

With thousands in attendance and the pier pulsing with energy, this year’s Juneteenth event marked one of the largest cultural gatherings on Santa Monica’s coast in recent memory—serving as both a tribute to the past and a powerful step forward in reclaiming place and presence.

𝗦𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗗 𝗢𝗨𝗧: Driver Arrested on Suspicion of DUI After High-Speed Crash in West LA

WEST LOS ANGELES — On Thursday, June 19, 2025, Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to a traffic collision in the 11000 block of La Grange Avenue after reports of a vehicle traveling at high speed through a residential neighborhood. According to eyewitnesses, the driver was swerving and narrowly avoided multiple vehicles before crashing into a parked car. Despite the impact, the suspect reportedly continued driving for several blocks before stopping and exiting the vehicle. Witnesses described the driver as carrying a beer in his back pocket as he walked away from the scene. Both the suspect’s vehicle and the parked car sustained significant damage and are believed to be total losses. Responding LAPD officers detained the driver and conducted a series of field sobriety tests, including a breathalyzer. The driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). His vehicle was subsequently impounded and towed. No injuries or additional incidents were reported. The investigation remains ongoing.

𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗠𝗔𝗗𝗘: Man Accused of Attempting to Sexually Assault 84-Year-Old Woman in Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA – A 39-year-old Long Beach man is in custody following an attempted sexual assault involving an elderly woman in Santa Monica earlier this month, according to police.

The incident occurred on the night of Thursday, June 5, 2025, around 9:30 p.m., near 6th Street and Wilshire Boulevard. Officers responded to reports of a woman screaming for help and located an 84-year-old Santa Monica resident who was visibly distressed. She told officers that she had been grabbed from behind by a man who dragged her into a nearby alley and attempted to sexually assault her.

Multiple witnesses corroborated the woman’s account and directed officers to the suspect, who was spotted fleeing northbound from the scene. Santa Monica Police located and detained the man near 5th Street and California Avenue shortly after.

The suspect, identified as Pape Tall, 39, of Long Beach, was arrested at the scene. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has since filed felony charges, including kidnapping with intent to commit rape, assault with intent to commit rape, and violation of probation. Tall remains in custody at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department without bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 9, 2025.

Santa Monica Police urge anyone with further information related to the case to contact Detective Maricela Orta at (310) 458-2293 or by email at maricela.orta@santamonica.gov. Tips can also be submitted via the SMPD Watch Commander’s desk at (310) 458-8427, available 24/7.

𝗔𝗟𝗖𝗢𝗛𝗢𝗟 𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗢𝗪𝗘𝗗: Santa Monica Launches Open-Container Zone Downtown

SANTA MONICA, CA – The City of Santa Monica has unveiled a new initiative aimed at revitalizing its downtown corridor with the soft launch of an "Entertainment Zone" on the Third Street Promenade, marking the first of its kind in Southern California.

Mayor Lana Negrete, speaking from the Promenade in a city-produced video, announced that the zone allows patrons 21 and older to carry alcoholic beverages outdoors within a designated area stretching from Broadway to Wilshire Boulevard. The program operates Fridays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., overlapping with peak police and private security staffing.

“This is a unique opportunity for businesses to extend their hospitality,” said Mayor Negrete. “We see this as an outdoor patio experience—an extension of the outdoor dining that already exists on the Promenade.”

Santa Monica Police Sergeant Rick Verbeck emphasized the department’s visible presence during operational hours. “You’re going to see us on foot, on bike, and in cars,” he said, noting that safety for visitors and residents remains the department’s top priority.

Officials say the pilot zone is designed to encourage local shopping, dining, and tourism while offering a safer, more vibrant downtown experience. Participating establishments will provide special wristbands to patrons over 21, and full guidelines are available at santamonica.gov.

The Entertainment Zone soft launch is part of a broader effort by the city to reenergize the Third Street Promenade and support local businesses with creative economic strategies.

𝗡𝗢 𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦 𝗗𝗔𝗬: Thousands Rally in Santa Monica for Nationwide Day of Protest

Thousands of demonstrators gathered at Palisades Park in Santa Monica on Saturday, June 14, 2025, joining a nationwide protest known as “No Kings Day.” The local event, held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. near Ocean and Montana avenues, echoed similar demonstrations across the country calling attention to concerns over growing authoritarianism. In Washington, D.C., the protest coincided with a military parade marking the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. Organizers of the “No Kings” campaign—coordinated by the 50501 Movement and supported by groups such as the ACLU and Indivisible—framed the protests as a contrast to what they described as increasing consolidation of political and economic power. Locally, Santa Monica officials implemented temporary street closures and deployed law enforcement to ensure the event remained peaceful. Authorities reported no major incidents, and traffic had returned to normal by early afternoon. Nationwide, protests were held in more than 2,000 U.S. cities, including large turnouts in Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, San Diego, and Chicago. In San Diego alone, organizers estimated a crowd of 60,000. Demonstrators carried American flags and signs reading “Democracy, Not Dynasty,” voicing opposition to what they described as threats to free speech, civil rights, and judicial independence. While the majority of protests remained nonviolent, some cities saw heightened security. In Los Angeles, National Guard and U.S. Marines were deployed following a federal ruling blocking the federalization of California’s guard units. Organizers emphasized peaceful demonstration and urged participants to de-escalate any potential conflicts. In Santa Monica, the tone remained civil throughout the day. Many participants echoed a recurring slogan heard across the event: “The flag doesn’t belong to Donald Trump. It belongs to us. We’re not watching history happen. We’re making it.”

𝗖𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗥𝗬 𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: June Peralta Marks 100 Years of Life and 24 Years of Volunteer Service at Santa Monica's Assistance League

SANTA MONICA, CA – Thursday, June 12, 2025 – June Peralta, beloved greeter and longtime volunteer at the Assistance League of Santa Monica, turned 100 and was celebrated with a heartfelt surprise party organized by her coworkers and friends at the resale shop she’s served for 24 years.

Clad in a white blouse, pearls, and a sash that read "100 Years Loved," Peralta stood at her usual post by the front counter—still doing what she’s known best for: warmly greeting customers and sharing sale information. As the festivities unfolded, guests sang “Happy Birthday,” sipped champagne, and toasted a century of resilience, humor, and service. Balloons, cupcakes, chocolate, and flowers completed the jubilant scene.

During an exclusive interview with Santa Monica Closeup, Peralta reflected on her extraordinary life, her longevity, and her enduring love for the community.

“I thank all of you so much,” she told the crowd. “It’s just unreal—all of this—and I appreciate it so much. I hope you get the same celebration when you reach 100.”

Peralta, who still drives herself to work from her longtime Mar Vista home, credits her active lifestyle, healthy diet, and sense of humor for her vitality. Her routine includes Zumba on Mondays, balance class on Tuesdays, and regular treadmill walks at home. She also enjoys Jeopardy, fiction novels, and a glass of wine with dinner.

Born in Stockton in 1925, Peralta moved to Southern California during childhood and has lived in the same home for 76 years. She began her volunteer work after retiring from a 23-year career as Director of Human Relations for an industrial lubricant firm. A chance modeling gig for the Goodwill introduced her to the Assistance League, where she’s remained a fixture ever since.

“All the money we raise here goes toward scholarships,” she explained. “We send about 70 kids to camp each summer with sleeping bags and backpacks full of school supplies.”

With two Emmy-winning sons in the entertainment industry and a passion for cruise travel—34 Princess Cruises and counting—Peralta’s life is as vibrant as ever. Asked about her plans for the future, she smiled and declared, “I hope to work until I’m 102.”

As one colleague noted, “She’s still working, still cracking jokes, and still everyone’s favorite part of this store.”

𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗘 𝗖𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗦: Tenants Rally to Save Rent-Controlled Homes in Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA, CA — June 10, 2025 — More than a dozen tenants rallied outside Santa Monica City Hall on Tuesday evening ahead of the City Council meeting, urging local officials to prevent the potential demolition of their rent-controlled apartment building on Virginia Avenue. Carrying signs that read “Rehab, Not Demo,” “Rent Control Saves Lives,” and “Keep Families Together,” the residents expressed concern over the fate of their homes. The group said that Community Corporation of Santa Monica (CCSM), which purchased the building in January 2020, had initially promised to rehabilitate the aging property while allowing all current tenants to stay. Now, after years of failed efforts to secure funding for those improvements, tenants fear demolition is back on the table — a move that would displace more than 100 residents, many of whom have lived there for generations. “This isn’t just about a building — it’s about preserving a community,” said a spokesperson for Keep Santa Monica Local, the grassroots coalition supporting the tenants. “We’re workers, seniors, students. We’ve built our lives here.” The Virginia Avenue complex houses 103 residents across 36 units, with 34 designated as low-income housing. The community includes senior citizens, people with disabilities, and families with children — 85% of whom work in Santa Monica. On February 25, 2025, the group requested a $10 million loan from the City Council to fund the rehabilitation. Councilmembers expressed interest but said a review of the city’s budget was necessary. With the budget process now underway, tenants are renewing their call for the city to follow through on its commitment. Supporters are encouraged to sign the petition, follow the campaign on social media, and write letters to the City Council in support of preserving the Virginia Avenue community. More information is available at www.keepsmlocal.org.

𝗕𝗨𝗥𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦: LAFD & SMFD Knock Down RV Fire Before It Jumps the Block in Venice

VENICE, CA — Saturday, June 8, 2025 — Firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department and Santa Monica Fire Department worked in coordination early Saturday morning to extinguish a burning Jamboree motorhome on the 100 block of Pacific Avenue in Venice. The incident was reported at approximately 8:30 a.m. Responding units quickly arrived to find the RV fully engulfed in flames near a commercial building. The primary concern, officials said, was preventing the fire from spreading to nearby structures. Several adjacent palm trees were scorched, but firefighters successfully contained the flames before the commercial property sustained damage. The owner of the RV was not present at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Traffic control officers from both jurisdictions coordinated closures around the incident. Santa Monica personnel closed the north side of Pacific Avenue at Marine Street, while Los Angeles crews shut down access from the south at Navy Street. Santa Monica Fire Department’s Truck 2 and Los Angeles Fire Department’s Truck 63 worked side-by-side to suppress the fire. After the incident was brought under control, firefighters from both departments took a moment to exchange tactics and discuss equipment—highlighting the strong inter-agency bond between crews. The scene was declared clear by 9:24 a.m.

𝗙𝗨𝗥-𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥 𝗛𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗦: Santa Monica Shelter Throws a Paw-ty for Adoptions and Support

𝗣𝗘𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗔𝗪𝗧𝗬: Santa Monica Animal Shelter Hosts Fourth Annual Open House Fundraiser with Raffle, Silent Auction, and Adoptions

SANTA MONICA, CA — Saturday, June 7, 2025 — The Santa Monica Animal Shelter welcomed the public for its fourth annual Open House Fundraiser on Saturday, turning a sunny afternoon into a celebration of community, compassion, and animal care. From 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., guests toured the shelter, met adoptable pets, and enjoyed an array of family-friendly activities—while raising critical funds for the animals in the city’s care.

Former Santa Monica Mayor Gleam Davis helped kick off the adoption festivities by sponsoring the first adopted dog and cat. With many animals available at reduced fees, several found new homes by the day’s end.

The event featured an impressive slate of raffle prizes available in exchange for donation tickets. Prizes included:

• Four Knott’s Berry Farm tickets (valued at $399.96)

• Two LA Opera orchestra-level tickets for Rigoletto (6/21/25)

• Two unlimited ride passes to Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier

• A $300 gift certificate to BOA or Sushi Roku

• Dance lessons, grooming packages, fitness memberships, and more

• Gift baskets from businesses including Starbucks, Bodega Wine Bar, and the Santa Monica Police Chief’s office

• A luxury Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat (valued at over $600)

Raffle winners not present at the drawing will be contacted, with items to be claimed by June 28, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

The silent auction offered equally exclusive experiences. Highlights included:

• A ride-along on the Santa Monica Harbor Patrol boat for up to 10 guests

• A half-day hands-on forensics lab experience with SMPD’s forensic science team

Children and families enjoyed face painting from The Magical Atelier, balloon animals by Wild About Balloons LA, music from a live DJ, and photo ops with the Santa Monica Police Department’s Mounted Unit. Attendees were also treated to food and drink from local supporters, including burgers by Troop 2 Santa Monica and refreshments donated by the Starbucks at 2200 Colorado Avenue.

All auction and raffle items were generously donated, with proceeds directly benefiting the shelter’s ongoing work. Organizers expressed deep gratitude to community sponsors and participants for making the event a success and reinforcing the city’s commitment to animal welfare.

𝗣𝗔𝗪𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗛𝗢𝗣𝗘: Santa Monica Police and Animal Control Team Up to Save Stray Dog at the Pier

SANTA MONICA, CA — Saturday, June 7, 2025 — A lost puppy found wandering Santa Monica Beach was safely rescued today thanks to quick action by beachgoers and officers at the Santa Monica Police substation on the pier. Witnesses say the young dog was seen roaming unattended near the shoreline. Concerned members of the public gently brought the dog to the pier’s police substation, where officers secured the animal and contacted Santa Monica Animal Control. The handoff, captured at the substation, shows a Santa Monica Police officer transferring the playful pup to an Animal Control officer. During their brief exchange, officers noted the dog’s unique features—including a minor condition known as "cherry eye," which is common and treatable. “We’re going to check to see if he has a microchip,” said the responding Animal Control officer. “If not, he’ll be available for adoption in about five business days.” The dog, currently being held at the Santa Monica Animal Shelter located near 9th Street and Olympic Boulevard, will undergo standard intake procedures. If an owner cannot be identified, the dog will be placed for adoption—likely quickly, according to officers who praised the pup's friendly demeanor and charming appearance. Jokes about potential names were exchanged during the transfer, with one officer suggesting “Pick-Up” in honor of the dog’s dramatic beach rescue. Officials encourage pet owners to ensure their animals are microchipped and tagged, and anyone who recognizes the dog is urged to contact the Santa Monica Animal Shelter promptly.

𝗖𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗖 𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗥𝗜𝗧: Mayor Lana Negrete Joins Pali High Students for Downtown Santa Monica Cleanup

SANTA MONICA, CA — Saturday, June 7, 2025 — In a display of gratitude and community service, students from Palisades Charter High School’s Ambassador Program joined Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete and local organizers for a volunteer cleanup in downtown Santa Monica. The initiative, spearheaded by ninth-grade student Aaron and fellow Ambassador Ocean Silkman, was inspired by a desire to give back to a city that welcomed them following wildfire displacement. “We thought the most efficient way to show our appreciation was by cleaning up the city,” said Aaron, adding that the effort symbolized their thanks for Santa Monica serving as a temporary home. More than 30 Pali High students turned out early Saturday morning to collect litter, clear sidewalks, and engage directly with community members experiencing homelessness. Mayor Negrete personally assisted with trash collection and spoke with passersby and unhoused individuals while encouraging youth involvement in civic life. “These students are an outstanding representation of what it means to serve,” said Mayor Negrete. “They chose to turn their hardship into action, and that speaks volumes about their character.” The effort was made possible through collaboration with the Pico Neighborhood Association and Volunteers Cleaning Communities, a San Fernando Valley-based nonprofit that provided support and supplies for the event. Tony Huizar, representing the Pico Neighborhood Association, noted that the cleanup marked a broader push to involve all Santa Monica neighborhoods in environmental stewardship. After several hours of hands-on work, students were treated to free access to Two Bit Circus and the Santa Monica Art Museum, including a special exhibition on David Bowie. The day concluded with opportunities to explore local attractions supported by Santa Monica Travel & Tourism and Outlandish Media. The collaboration exemplified a shared commitment to civic responsibility, environmental care, and intergenerational cooperation in shaping a cleaner, more unified community.

𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛 𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗜𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: Mounted Officers Provide Visible Deterrence on Santa Monica’s Ocean Front Walk

SANTA MONICA, CA — Friday, June 6, 2025 — The Santa Monica Police Department’s Mounted Unit made a visible impact along Ocean Front Walk this week, as officers on horseback patrolled the bustling coastal promenade. The presence of mounted officers not only bolstered public safety but also invited frequent engagement with community members and tourists. The patrol drew attention from passersby, many of whom paused to greet the officers, pet the horses, and snap photos. This familiar sight has become a staple of beachfront policing in Santa Monica, where mounted units offer a combination of mobility, approachability, and high visibility. The Mounted Unit is especially effective in managing crowd-heavy environments such as the beach and Palisades Park. From deterring unlawful behavior to responding quickly in emergencies, the mounted patrol offers an elevated vantage point and a calming presence amid the weekend foot traffic. More than just law enforcement, the unit serves as a community bridge—offering positive interactions between police officers and the public. The strong bond between officer and horse is apparent, and their coordinated presence continues to reassure both residents and visitors. By maintaining a regular patrol schedule in high-traffic areas, the Santa Monica Police Department reaffirms its commitment to safety, accessibility, and public trust. The mounted officers are not just guardians of the path—they are a celebrated part of Santa Monica’s coastal character.

𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗢𝗘𝗦 𝗜𝗡 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Firefighters Teach Lifesaving CPR at Santa Monica Farmers Market

SANTA MONICA, CA — As part of National CPR and AED Awareness Week, the Santa Monica Fire Department offered free Hands-Only CPR training at the Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market, inviting residents to learn a critical, lifesaving skill in a matter of minutes. Santa Monica Fire Battalion Chief Patrick Nulty was on site with firefighters and a nurse educator, guiding community members through the basics of Hands-Only CPR. “We’re out here at the Third Street Farmers Market during CPR Week, showing the public a very simple technique that could help save a life,” said Nulty. “If someone collapses and you’re not sure if they’re breathing, the first thing to do is call 911. Make sure paramedics are on the way.” The next step, Nulty explained, is to begin immediate chest compressions. “We’re no longer teaching mouth-to-mouth—it’s all hands-only and continuous,” he said. “Find the center of the chest, place one hand over the other, and push hard and fast—about 100 beats per minute. Think of the rhythm from Stayin’ Alive by the Bee Gees. For younger kids, we use Baby Shark—same tempo.” Participants took turns practicing on CPR mannequins laid out on mats, receiving guidance and encouragement from the fire crew. The goal: empower bystanders to take action during a cardiac emergency without hesitation. According to the American Heart Association, effective bystander CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival following sudden cardiac arrest. Hands-Only CPR is intended for use on teens and adults who collapse unexpectedly, but not on infants, children, or individuals who experience cardiac arrest due to drowning or respiratory failure, where full CPR is still required. By meeting the public in an everyday setting like the farmers market, Santa Monica firefighters underscored their commitment to proactive community education and public safety preparedness.

𝗥𝗘𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗡 𝗧𝗢 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗔: Four Rehabilitated Sea Lions Released Following Recovery at Marine Mammal Center

SANTA MONICA, CA — June 4, 2025 — In a heartwarming scene along the shoreline, four rehabilitated California sea lion pups—Peachick, Spiderling, Sprinkles, and Brownie—were returned to the ocean on Tuesday morning following weeks of treatment at the Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC).

The public release, held in front of a cheering crowd, followed a press conference highlighting the challenges faced by marine wildlife in Southern California, particularly during this year’s historic spike in strandings linked to domoic acid toxicosis, a condition caused by harmful algal blooms.

“This toxin has sickened and sadly claimed the lives of way too many of our marine mammals—sea lions, dolphins, and even whales,” said MMCC Executive Director John Warner. “Today’s release is particularly meaningful. It follows a very difficult chapter in our history.”

Warner also praised the vital role of partners in the rescue efforts. “We couldn’t have done this without the incredible support of Los Angeles County Beaches and Harbors,” he said. “They were on the front lines with us and helped a lot throughout this crisis.”

In just the first four and a half months of 2025, MMCC fielded over 8,000 hotline calls, responded to more than 1,000 animals on beaches, and treated more than 500 patients—surpassing annual projections by a wide margin.

While recent water tests show no signs of the toxin-producing Pseudo-nitzschia, officials cautioned that blooms are likely to return. “You don’t build a fire station after a fire has started,” Warner said, emphasizing the need for proactive infrastructure and emergency readiness.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, who recently helped secure emergency funding for the center, praised the public-private partnership model that made such rescue efforts possible. “You have done nothing short of a miracle this year,” Horvath told MMCC staff and volunteers. “This is truly a moment of joy. To see these animals return to the ocean is proof that your efforts are not only saving wildlife, but giving us hope.”

Chief Anthony C. Marrone of the LA County Fire Department also commended the work of local lifeguards. “They were the ones on the front lines—getting these animals out of the water and making the calls that led to their rescue,” he said.

Tuesday’s release was a visual affirmation of that collective effort. As volunteers opened transport crates, the four sea lion pups scrambled eagerly toward the surf, healthy and free.

“Thanks to you,” Warner told the crowd, “these animals are getting their second chance.”

𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘 𝗖𝗔𝗣𝗦𝗨𝗟𝗘 𝗨𝗡𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗗: Half Century Later, SAMOHI Opens 50-Year-Old Capsule from Class of 1975

SANTA MONICA, CA — In a ceremony rich with nostalgia, unity, and generational pride, Santa Monica High School (SAMOHI) unearthed a 50-year-old time capsule on Monday, June 2, 2025. The capsule, buried in 1975, was revealed in a heartfelt gathering held in the school’s main quad, reconnecting past and present Vikings through artifacts, speeches, and song.

The event began at 3:45 p.m. with live music from the era performed by the FUD Band, followed by the formal program at 4:00 p.m. ASB President Ethan Fitzgerald opened the ceremony, welcoming alumni, students, staff, and viewers tuning in via livestream. “Today we gather not just to open a time capsule, but to open a window to 1975,” Fitzgerald said, noting the historic backdrop of the U.S. Bicentennial and Santa Monica’s Centennial year.

Principal Marae Cruce reflected on the moment as a bridge across generations, emphasizing how the fundamental spirit of SAMOHI students has remained constant, despite the march of technology and change. Former Principal Terry Pearson, who served from 1971 to 1988 and oversaw the original capsule’s creation, shared a proud recollection of SAMOHI’s legacy. “You can sum up those 17 years with one word—proud,” Pearson said, crediting the school’s enduring excellence to its student body and faculty.

Board of Education President Jen Smith framed the capsule as a symbol of enduring educational values. “This isn’t just about digging up objects—it’s about uncovering stories, memories, and a shared purpose that still connects us across five decades,” she said.

Ben Komlos, the Class of 2025 President, emphasized continuity. “We are the future they imagined,” he said, standing beside 1975 class representative Lisa Lenes, who served as class reporter during the capsule’s original burial. Lenes offered a deeply personal reflection, recognizing classmates, educators, and her late mentor Dr. Rita Esveld. “This school inspired me to pursue my dreams,” she said. “It’s an honor to return to where it all began.”

Superintendent Dr. Antonio Shelton shared memories of his own tenure as SAMOHI principal, joining Cruce and Pearson in representing a continuum of school leadership. “The heart of a school is its students,” he remarked, adding that the capsule serves as a reminder of the dreams and curiosity that define every generation.

The program also honored Nat Travis, a former Santa Monica mayor and 1952 SAMOHI student body president, who helped bury the original capsule. Though unable to attend, Travis offered remarks through Santa Monica College Dean Dr. Kirsten Elliott, calling the event “a beacon as we look to the future with hope, unity, and pride.” Now 90, Travis celebrated 70 years of marriage this July.

As the capsule was physically unearthed—with some difficulty and a dose of humor—students and staff revealed weathered documents, letters, and memorabilia from 1975. Items included the original dedication program, a letter from then-Mayor Nat Travis, a SAMOHI Rotary Club newsletter, and personal notes from students. Some documents bore signs of water damage, yet their message endured: a deep pride in the school and a hope for continued excellence.

The ceremony concluded with the SAMOHI Choir performing the “Hymn of Praise” under the direction of Mr. Jeffe Huls. Attendees were then invited to view the contents of the capsule, now carefully laid out on tables under the sun—a vivid reminder that history, once buried, still breathes in the present.

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📍 Santa Monica Closeup was on scene to document the historic moment and reflect on the enduring spirit of SAMOHI’s community.