𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 𝗖𝗨𝗣 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗬: Fans Flood Venice Beach to Celebrate Spain's Triumph

𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 𝗖𝗨𝗣 𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Spain supporters and soccer fans gathered Sunday at the end of Washington Boulevard near the Venice Beach Fishing Pier to celebrate the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and Spain's World Cup championship victory. The free outdoor block party featured live performances on stage, DJs, dancing, and a festive atmosphere as hundreds of attendees filled the street. Fans waved Spanish flags, sang along with performers, enjoyed food and beer, and celebrated into the evening following the tournament final. The event, presented by Revival, marked the closing celebration of the month-long FIFA World Cup, which brought matches and fan events to Los Angeles and energized communities across Southern California.

𝗞-𝟵 𝗣𝗔𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗟: Santa Monica Police Canine Teams Sweep COAST 2026 Festival Before World Cup Final

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Sunday, July 19, 2026 — Santa Monica Police Department K-9 officers conducted a security sweep along Ocean Avenue Sunday morning ahead of the COAST 2026 open-streets festival, a citywide celebration marking the FIFA World Cup Final.

Santa Monica Closeup accompanied the K-9 teams for approximately 30 minutes as they patrolled the event footprint, moving methodically from booth to booth and through high-traffic gathering areas. The feature video offers viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the important role police canines play in securing large public events before crowds arrive.

The department's K-9 teams, K-9 Jack and K-9 Mylo, worked alongside their handlers, carefully inspecting vendor tents, equipment, staging areas, and other locations throughout the festival route. While the Santa Monica Police Department did not publicly detail the specific purpose of the operation, such pre-event sweeps are commonly conducted to detect explosives and other potential threats before major public gatherings.

The officers and their canine partners continued along Ocean Avenue from the Santa Monica Pier area through the festival grounds, with the dogs using their highly trained sense of smell to examine locations inaccessible to conventional security screening.

The Santa Monica Police Department's K-9 Unit serves as a specialized resource supporting patrol operations, public safety, and critical incident response. Depending on each dog's certification and training, police canines may assist with explosive detection, suspect apprehension, evidence recovery, building searches, area searches, and locating missing persons. Their ability to rapidly screen large areas makes them an important asset during major events attended by thousands of people.

This year's COAST 2026 festival transformed more than a mile of downtown Santa Monica into a car-free pedestrian zone extending from the Third Street Promenade and Metro E Line Station to Ocean Avenue, Colorado Avenue, Arizona Avenue, and the Santa Monica Pier. The free community event featured live entertainment, food vendors, art installations, family activities, and large-screen viewing of the FIFA World Cup Final.

Security planning for events of this size involves coordination among law enforcement, city staff, and event organizers to help provide a safe environment for attendees while minimizing disruptions to the festivities. The K-9 sweep represented one visible component of those preparations before thousands of visitors filled the streets.

Santa Monica Closeup followed K-9 Jack, K-9 Mylo, and their handlers throughout the morning patrol, providing an extended look at the professionalism, discipline, and teamwork involved in preparing one of Santa Monica's largest public events for the day ahead.

Santa Monica Closeup covers public safety, community events, civic life, and breaking news throughout Santa Monica and the surrounding communities.

𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛 𝗕𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗞𝗘𝗧 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗘: Remote Workers Trade Cubicles for Sand and Surf in Venice

VENICE, Calif. — Friday, July 17, 2026 — Remote-work advocate and social media personality Scott Muirhead brought his popular outdoor meetup concept to Venice Beach on Friday, transforming a stretch of sand into an unconventional open-air office.

Muirhead, known online as “The Remote Work Guy,” curates gatherings in scenic locations where participants can work outside traditional offices while connecting with other remote professionals.

Dozens of participants worked from laptops beneath beach umbrellas as sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-70s provided comfortable conditions along the coast.

Some attendees wore bathing suits and bikinis, while others arrived with surfboards or brought their dogs. Makeshift workstations—including portable desks, folding tables and beach chairs—were arranged across the sand, blending a typical workday with the relaxed atmosphere of Venice Beach.

The gathering reflected the continued flexibility of remote employment, allowing participants to conduct business while spending the day beside the Pacific Ocean.

Santa Monica Closeup covers news, community events and coastal lifestyle throughout Santa Monica, Venice and surrounding communities.

𝗦𝗞𝗜𝗣 𝗟𝗔𝗫: JSX Makes Flying Into Santa Monica Fast, Easy and Surprisingly Affordable

 

One of the best parts of my recent trip wasn't just Cozumel—it was flying home from Scottsdale directly into Santa Monica Airport.

After spending a couple of days in Arizona following my trip to Cozumel, I headed to Scottsdale Airport and boarded a JSX flight to Santa Monica. The convenience was remarkable. Instead of flying into LAX, waiting for a shuttle, and then catching an Uber from the rideshare lot, I was home in about 10 minutes. It was one of the smoothest and most enjoyable travel experiences I've had.

One thing that surprised me was the cost. Once I factored in the value of free checked baggage, arriving only about 20 minutes before departure, the ability to bring my own beverages onboard, and not having to worry about the typical TSA liquid restrictions, the overall cost was about the same as flying through a major commercial airport. You don't have to be a celebrity or a business executive to fly JSX. For anyone who lives near Santa Monica or on Los Angeles' Westside, it can be a convenient, cost-effective, and low-stress alternative to LAX.

The experience also served as a reminder that Santa Monica Airport is currently scheduled to close on December 31, 2028, with the 227-acre property planned for redevelopment as a public park.

Beyond passenger convenience, the airport serves several other important functions. It supports aircraft maintenance, fueling, charter operations, flight instruction, and other aviation-related businesses that provide local jobs. It also serves as a training airport for student pilots and flight schools, and its closure would shift more training activity to surrounding airports. Visitors arriving by private aircraft also contribute to the local economy by staying in local hotels and patronizing restaurants and businesses.

The airport also plays a role in regional emergency preparedness. Located on the Westside, it provides an aviation resource that could be valuable if a major earthquake or other disaster were to limit access to LAX or make road travel difficult.

Since the airport opened in 1919, aircraft accidents have occurred, but there have been no reported fatalities involving a person on the ground struck by an aircraft.

Have you ever flown into or out of Santa Monica Airport? What was your experience?

𝗣𝗜𝗘𝗥 𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗜𝗦𝗣𝗨𝗧𝗘: California Roadhouse Founder Publishes Open Letter Urging Resolution of Vacant Restaurant Space

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Sean Ahaus, founder of California Roadhouse, Inc., has released an open letter calling on Santa Monica city leaders to resolve the long-running lease dispute over the former Rusty's Surf Ranch restaurant space on the Santa Monica Pier.

In the letter, Ahaus says the restaurant group remains prepared to move forward with a California-themed restaurant and live music venue but contends that negotiations have stalled over labor-related provisions included in the City's proposed lease. He writes that California Roadhouse has agreed to the commercial terms of the lease and believes the remaining dispute involves issues governed by state and federal labor law rather than the City's role as landlord.

Ahaus also states that his company has repeatedly sought meetings with members of the City Council, the City Manager, and the City Attorney in an effort to resolve the matter. He acknowledges Councilmember Lana Negrete for meeting with the company to discuss its concerns.

According to the letter, the prolonged vacancy has delayed job creation, reduced potential tax revenue, and left a prominent commercial space on the Pier unused while also limiting opportunities for local musicians and neighboring businesses that could benefit from increased visitor activity.

Ahaus calls for renewed good-faith negotiations and greater transparency regarding the lease provisions, stating that California Roadhouse remains prepared to sign a lawful lease and begin construction and hiring.

Santa Monica Closeup has not independently verified the legal claims contained in the letter. The City of Santa Monica has not responded publicly to the issues raised by the author.

Photo Caption: The former Rusty's Surf Ranch building on the Santa Monica Pier, shown before its closure. The property has been proposed as the future home of California Roadhouse.

Editor's Note

The following open letter was submitted by Sean Ahaus, founder of California Roadhouse, Inc. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Santa Monica Closeup. The letter is published in the interest of informing readers about a matter of public interest concerning the Santa Monica Pier. The letter has been edited only for formatting.

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Open Letter to Santa Monica City Leaders: It's Time to Resolve the California Roadhouse Lease

By Sean Ahaus

For nearly two years, one of the Santa Monica Pier's most visible restaurant spaces has remained vacant.

That vacancy represents more than an empty building. It represents delayed jobs, unrealized tax revenue, lost opportunities for local musicians and performers, and another missed opportunity to strengthen one of Santa Monica's most recognizable public destinations.

My name is Sean Ahaus, founder of California Roadhouse, Inc. Our vision is to create a California-themed restaurant and live music venue celebrating the culture, music, and hospitality that have made Southern California famous around the world. We remain ready to move forward immediately.

Many people assume this project has stalled because of financing, construction, or permitting. It has not.

California Roadhouse has agreed to the commercial terms of the City's proposed lease. The remaining disagreement concerns labor-related provisions that we believe improperly extend beyond the City's role as a landlord and into matters governed by state and federal labor law.

Reasonable people may disagree with our legal position. That is exactly why these issues deserve open discussion rather than prolonged silence.

For months, we have repeatedly requested meetings with members of the City Council, the City Manager, and the City Attorney to explain our concerns and discuss a path toward resolution. Those requests have produced very little meaningful dialogue.

I want to acknowledge Councilmember Lana Negrete, who took the time to meet with us and hear our concerns directly. Whether or not elected officials ultimately agree with us, the willingness to listen is an important part of public service.

This issue is about more than one lease. It raises larger questions about how Santa Monica works with businesses that want to invest in the community. How should public property be managed? When should government act as a landlord, and when does it risk becoming a regulator? How do we encourage economic investment while respecting the legal rights of employers and employees alike?

The public also deserves transparency. Residents should understand how the disputed lease provisions were developed, who participated in those discussions, and why they remain necessary. When significant policy questions affect a publicly owned property and the future of dozens of jobs, transparency is fundamental to public trust.

Meanwhile, the consequences continue to grow. A public restaurant space remains vacant. Prospective employees continue waiting for work. Local musicians lose another potential stage. Visitors lose another destination on the Pier. Nearby businesses lose the additional activity that a successful restaurant could generate.

California Roadhouse remains prepared to sign a lawful lease and begin hiring immediately. We continue to believe this project can become a positive addition to the Santa Monica Pier while creating jobs, supporting local artists, attracting visitors, and contributing to the City's economic recovery.

My hope is simple: that City leaders return to good-faith negotiations, openly address the remaining issues, and allow this project to move forward.

The Santa Monica Pier deserves to be known for opportunity, not prolonged vacancies. Most importantly, the residents of Santa Monica deserve a transparent government that welcomes dialogue, encourages investment, and works to put people back to work.

Respectfully,

Sean Ahaus

Founder

California Roadhouse, Inc..

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Santa Monica Closeup has not independently verified the legal claims contained in the letter. The City of Santa Monica had not provided comment to Santa Monica Closeup at the time of publication.

𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗢𝗡 𝗪𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗥: First-Ever Slackline Stretches Across Santa Monica Pier

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Saturday, June 27, 2026 — Spectators looked on in amazement as members of Slackademic walked a 200-foot slackline suspended above the Pacific Ocean during the Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival.

The installation marked the first time a slackline has been rigged across the Santa Monica Pier, allowing athletes to carefully traverse from one side of the pier to the other high above the crashing waves. The exhibition drew steady crowds throughout the day as participants demonstrated remarkable balance, focus and control.

Leading the effort was Los Angeles-based slackliner Jim Galli, founder of Slackademic. Galli began slacklining in Santa Monica in 2016 after backgrounds in skateboarding, soccer, water polo and other sports. Within months, he advanced to highlining and went on to set and break records, pioneer new lines and develop new tricks while teaching the sport to others. He is an International Slackline Association (ISA) certified rigger, an IRATA Level 3 Rope Access Technician and SPRAT Level 2 certified.

According to Galli, Slackademic was created to share the physical and mental benefits of slacklining with others. He says the sport teaches patience, focus, determination and confidence while emphasizing the importance of breathing and remaining calm under pressure. Galli believes those same skills can help people navigate everyday challenges beyond the slackline itself.

The slackline demonstration was one of many attractions featured during the Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival, a free, all-ages celebration of Southern California beach culture featuring ocean sports competitions, live entertainment, food, interactive activities and family-friendly programming.

The high-flying exhibition added a dramatic new element to this year's festival, giving visitors a rare opportunity to witness athletes balancing hundreds of feet across open water against the backdrop of one of Southern California's most recognizable landmarks.

Santa Monica Closeup remains committed to documenting the people, places and events that shape the Santa Monica community—one story at a time. 

𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 𝗖𝗨𝗣 𝗞𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗢𝗙𝗙: 2,500 Drones Light Up Santa Monica Beach

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — On Thursday evening, June 11, 2026, 2,500 drones illuminated the skies above Santa Monica Beach in a spectacular drone light show celebrating the arrival of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the opening of the Michelob ULTRA Pitchside Club at the Santa Monica Pier. Hundreds of spectators gathered along the beach, Pier, and surrounding areas to watch the synchronized aerial display as the drones performed a series of animated formations above the Pacific coastline. The show was produced by Pixis Drones, a leading U.S.-based drone light show company known for creating large-scale aerial displays for major brands, professional sports teams, entertainment companies, and high-profile events. The company has produced shows for organizations including the NFL, NASCAR, the Los Angeles Dodgers, Netflix, Disney, and Warner Bros., and specializes in using coordinated drone swarms to create large-scale visual storytelling in the sky. The drone show was part of an invite-only kickoff event launching the Michelob ULTRA Pitchside Club, a temporary fan destination created in conjunction with the FIFA World Cup. The opening-night celebration featured appearances and performances by comedian Kevin Hart, rapper Snoop Dogg, DJ Pee .Wee, Disco Lines, soccer legends, and celebrity guests. Following the private launch event, the 21-and-over Pitchside Club will open to the public from June 12 through June 25. The activation will feature live World Cup match broadcasts, DJs, freestyle soccer demonstrations, interactive games, jersey customization stations, soccer-themed challenges, and special appearances tied to tournament events. The Santa Monica Pier activation is one of several World Cup-related events taking place throughout Southern California as the region hosts matches during FIFA World Cup 2026. Organizers selected the iconic Santa Monica Pier as a gathering place for soccer fans from around the world during the tournament. Santa Monica Closeup documented the drone show and the crowds that gathered along Santa Monica Beach to witness the spectacle.

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.

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧’𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗘𝗘𝗙: Police Officers Meet the Community Over Burgers at Santa Monica Pier

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Thursday, April 30, 2026 — The Santa Monica Police Department hosted its “Burgers with Police” community outreach event Thursday afternoon at Pier Burger on the Santa Monica Pier, inviting residents and visitors to share a meal and informal conversation with officers in a relaxed setting.

The event, promoted by the department as a casual variation of the nationally recognized “Coffee with a Cop” program, offered free hamburgers to attendees while giving the public an opportunity to meet and speak directly with Santa Monica police officers outside of a traditional enforcement setting.

Originally launched in 2011, “Coffee with a Cop” has since expanded to all 50 states and internationally to countries including Canada, Australia, and regions across Europe, Africa, and Latin America. The concept is built on simplicity: creating a comfortable, informal environment where officers and residents can connect without the pressure of an emergency call or enforcement contact.

According to the event description shared by the Santa Monica Police Department, the goal was straightforward: “No speeches. No agenda. Just good food and real conversation.” These gatherings are designed to give community members a chance to ask questions, raise concerns, and build familiarity with the officers serving their neighborhoods.

Traditionally, many law enforcement interactions occur during high-stress moments such as emergencies, investigations, or enforcement actions, making it difficult to establish personal trust. Programs like “Coffee with a Cop”—and in this case, “Burgers with Police”—aim to bridge that gap by encouraging conversation in a more approachable setting.

A yellow SMPD outreach tent marked with “Join SMPD” branding was set up nearby, where visitors could pick up department swag, recruitment materials, and information about public safety programs. Families, tourists, and local residents stopped by throughout the midday event, with many taking the opportunity to ask questions, introduce themselves, and engage with officers in a more personal setting.

Inside Pier Burger, officers and guests shared tables over burgers and fries, while outside, police personnel mingled with the public under clear skies and steady foot traffic on the pier.

The continued success of these events reflects a broader community-policing effort focused on strengthening trust, improving communication, and allowing residents to see the officers behind the badge in everyday settings rather than only during moments of crisis.

Santa Monica Closeup continues documenting public events of local significance across the city, including the everyday moments where community connection takes place beyond the headlines.

𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘: Three Rehabilitated Pups Return to the Ocean at Venice Beach

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Tuesday morning, April 28, 2026 — Three rehabilitated California sea lion pups were released back into the Pacific Ocean at Venice Beach after several weeks of treatment and recovery through the Marine Mammal Care Center. The public release event drew a crowd of beachgoers, volunteers, photographers, wildlife supporters, and local officials as staff carefully transported the young sea lions from their carriers to the sand before guiding them back toward the shoreline. The Marine Mammal Care Center, based in San Pedro, is the only NOAA-authorized year-round marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation facility serving Los Angeles County, covering more than 70 miles of coastline from Malibu to Long Beach, including Catalina Island. Since opening in 1992, the nonprofit has treated thousands of stranded sea lions, seals, and other marine mammals, focusing on rescue, rehabilitation, education, and returning healthy animals to the wild. John Warner, CEO of the Marine Mammal Care Center, said the event represented more than a simple animal release. “Today is about more than just a patient release,” Warner told the crowd. “It’s a reminder of what can happen when we all come together on behalf of something bigger than ourselves—when care and science and compassion all intersect to give these animals a second chance at life.” Warner described each release as a symbol of resilience for both the animals and the coastline they depend on, adding that “our ocean needs advocates” and thanking supporters, volunteers, lifeguard partners, and community members for helping protect marine life. Los Angeles City Councilmember Traci Park also attended the event and highlighted the broader environmental issues affecting marine life along the coast, including pollution, runoff, domoic acid exposure, and offshore drilling concerns. “We’re not simply releasing three sea lion pups, but we’re witnessing the full arc of rescue, rehabilitation, and return to the wild,” Park said. She noted that many animals treated by the center suffer from toxic algae blooms, pollution, entanglement, and the long-term effects of human activity on coastal waters. Park also referenced the impact of the recent Palisades Fire, noting that ash, debris, and runoff entered storm drains and eventually reached the ocean. “That pollution doesn’t simply vanish,” she said. “It shows up in the ecosystem and often in the animals the Marine Mammal Care Center is working to save.” The three patients—Mogul, Bronze, and Missouri—had each been rescued earlier this spring after being found malnourished, underweight, and too young to survive on their own. Mogul, a male California sea lion pup rescued near the Windward Yacht Center in Marina del Rey on March 14, had been repeatedly pushed off a dock and was observed without his mother. Marine Mammal Care Center volunteers noted he was underweight and too young to survive independently. After six weeks of care, including tube feeding and nutritional rehabilitation, Mogul regained strength and was cleared for release. Bronze, rescued near the King Harbor Yacht Club in Redondo Beach on March 15, was also found severely underweight and too young to be without maternal care. Initially tube-fed a fish mixture, Bronze later transitioned to whole fish and more than doubled in size during rehabilitation before being approved for release. Missouri, rescued from a jetty in Marina del Rey on March 24, was described as severely emaciated, with ribs and shoulder blades visibly pronounced beneath his fur. Following weeks of treatment and feeding support, Missouri regained his strength and was deemed healthy enough to return to the wild. Dr. Michelle Ravard, Director of Animal Health and Conservation at the center, said the pups were all less than 30 pounds when they were rescued and had each more than doubled their body weight during rehabilitation. “They were separated from their moms a little bit too early before they knew how to forage on their own,” she explained. “They’ve easily doubled their body weight and are ready to get released back into the ocean.” Marine Mammal Care Center staff coordinated the release with volunteers and safety personnel, creating a protected viewing area for the public while ensuring the animals had a clear path back to the ocean. As the gates opened and the pups made their way across the sand, spectators watched quietly as the three sea lions returned to the water—marking the final step in their rehabilitation journey. Park closed her remarks with a simple message to the returning animals: “To these three sea lions—welcome home.” Santa Monica Closeup continues to document public events of local significance across the Westside, including wildlife conservation efforts along the Southern California coastline.