🌕 This morning, August 19, 2024, the Blue Full Moon, a magnificent Supermoon, set over Santa Monica Pier, creating a mesmerizing scene.
A Blue Moon refers to the rare occurrence of a second full moon within a single calendar month. Despite its name, the moon doesn’t actually appear blue. The term "Blue Moon" is more of a figure of speech, signifying something that happens infrequently.
This particular Blue Moon is also a Supermoon, which means it’s closer to Earth in its orbit, making it appear larger and brighter in the sky. This celestial event is especially captivating, as it combines both the rarity of a Blue Moon and the enhanced visibility of a Supermoon.
On Sunday, August 18, 2024, Crescent Bay Park in Santa Monica became the gathering spot for several pole fitness enthusiasts from across Southern California. The event, organized by BELLA ROSE POLE FITNESS, brought together friends and instructors to share techniques, build bonds, and enjoy a day of camaraderie within this unique fitness community.
The meetup emphasized the sense of community and empowerment central to pole fitness, with participants exchanging tips and supporting one another in their fitness journeys. Among the attendees was DESTINY HOLLAND, the owner and founder of BELLA ROSE POLE FITNESS LLC, who has been dedicated to pole fitness for over a decade. DESTINY, a civil engineer by day and certified pole fitness instructor by night, is passionate about creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where students can discover their strength and confidence.
BELLA ROSE POLE FITNESS, based in San Diego, offers a range of classes designed to help individuals unleash their inner beauty and build both physical and mental strength. With a focus on convenience, all sessions are conducted via Zoom, making it accessible for anyone looking to start a new healthy journey from the comfort of their own home.
For more information or to join the community, BELLA ROSE POLE FITNESS LLC can be contacted via email at BELLAROSEPOLEFITNESS@GMAIL.COM or by phone at 727-260-0901.
On Sunday, August 18, 2024, Santa Monica Police Officers on routine patrol at Palisades Park encountered an individual smoking, highlighting the city’s strict enforcement of smoking regulations. When officers requested identification, the individual refused to comply and fled the scene. A brief pursuit ensued, with the suspect being apprehended on Colorado Avenue near the Santa Monica Place Mall.
The individual was arrested and taken into custody. Following the arrest, Santa Monica Firefighter Paramedics were called to the scene to evaluate the man’s condition after the chase. He was deemed fit for transport and was subsequently taken to jail.
This incident underscores the importance of adhering to local laws, particularly those regarding public health and safety.
According to Santa Monica's Smoking Ordinance, Section 4.44.020(a) of the Municipal Code, smoking in public parks and other areas is prohibited, with fines ranging from $100 to $500 for violations. These regulations also apply to vaping and marijuana use, with penalties increasing under certain conditions. Exceptions are made for designated smoking areas and certain residences. For more information on the ordinance, residents can refer to Section 4.44.020(a) of the Santa Monica Municipal Code or contact the City Attorney's Office at (310) 458-8336. Additional details are available at smconsumer.org.
On Sunday, August 18, 2024, Santa Monica Police Officers, while conducting a routine patrol at Palisades Park, encountered an individual in possession of open alcoholic beverages. When asked for identification, the individual refused to comply and failed to cooperate with the officers. As a result, the officers placed the man in handcuffs, arrested him, and took him into custody.
In line with Santa Monica Municipal Code 4.08.200, which prohibits the consumption and possession of open alcohol on public properties, including parks and beaches, the officers acted to enforce the law and maintain public safety. The officers' decision to arrest the individual was part of a community caretaking approach aimed at ensuring the well-being of all park visitors and upholding the city’s regulations. The man was subsequently processed according to standard procedures.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to local regulations while enjoying public spaces.
On Saturday, August 17, 2024, Crescent Bay Park in Santa Monica was the lively setting for the Annual Twerk Cardio Fitness Beach Day, an event that continues to grow in popularity year after year. Fitness enthusiasts of all shapes, sizes, and experience levels gathered under the sunny skies to participate in this energetic and inclusive event.
The organizers emphasize that you don’t need to know how to twerk to join the movement—just be ready to shake whatever your mama gave ya! The event, which promotes both fun and fitness, utilizes the SHAKE-TWERK-SWEAT-REPEAT method, allowing participants to burn calories while incorporating their arms for an added cardio workout. The focus is on positivity and fostering a team environment, making it a welcoming space for everyone.
With vibrant banners, themed tents, and an upbeat atmosphere, attendees danced and moved to the rhythm, led by enthusiastic instructors who guided them through routines designed to promote both fun and physical activity. This annual event continues to attract a diverse crowd, offering a unique opportunity to combine fitness with the scenic beauty of Santa Monica.
To learn more about this movement and future events, visit their website at www.twerkcardiollc.com.
Venice Beach, Saturday, August 17, 2024: In an exclusive interview with Santa Monica Closeup, Daisy, famously known as the Venice Healer, discussed her recent arrest and subsequent release on bail. Daisy, who was arrested on Thursday for allegedly threatening to blow up the court, was released on bail Friday.
Daisy explained the circumstances leading to her arrest, noting it stemmed from a misunderstanding during a stressful telephone call about her court appearance. “I told her it’s going to be a love atomic bomb... it’s going to open everyone’s hearts,” Daisy recounted, emphasizing that her words were metaphorical and intended to express frustration, not actual threat.
She described her time in custody as an eye-opening experience that deepened her spiritual connection and reinforced her commitment to advocacy work. “The deputies were so cool, seriously," Daisy said, praising the compassion shown by the officers during her processing. "I got treated really well for some reason, and in jail, I got treated well, really well for some reason."
Reflecting on the broader implications of her arrest, Daisy shared insights about the challenges of navigating the judicial system and the importance of clear communication. "It's all about that superhero lifestyle," she mused, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding within the system.
Daisy also discussed the personal toll the incident took, mentioning her trauma and the support she received from her partner, John All Good, who bailed her out using their rent money. “John built me out; that’s the dude with the motorcycle cross tattoo. I told him, 'Don’t worry, she’s all fluff,'" she recalled, highlighting the strong bond between them despite the ordeal.
Moving forward, Daisy expressed a renewed commitment to her community work, emphasizing the importance of love and unity in her advocacy. “We're about to awaken this beach and we've got all this kind of cool stuff going right now," she stated, underscoring her plans to continue making a positive impact despite her recent challenges.
Venice Beach, CA — Athletes from across the country gathered at the iconic Muscle Beach on Saturday, August 17, 2024, to compete in the PAINKLLR fitness competition. The event, which featured a variety of strength and endurance challenges, attracted fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes alike, creating a lively spectacle by the shores of Southern California.
This year’s flagship competition took place in a vast, 160,000 square-foot venue adjacent to the beach, offering participants an unparalleled West Coast fitness experience. Spanning multiple floors, the event catered to competitors of all backgrounds, from functional fitness and obstacle course racing to avid runners and fitness newcomers looking for a challenge.
Competitors were put through a grueling series of events testing their strength, speed, and agility. With exercises ranging from intense weightlifting to endurance challenges, the PAINKLLR competition pushed athletes to their limits. Friends, family, and spectators cheered from the sidelines, contributing to the energetic atmosphere as participants powered through each demanding event.
The PAINKLLR competition has quickly gained popularity, providing a unique platform for athletes to test their physical abilities while fostering a sense of community. Organizers hope the event will continue to inspire individuals to pursue fitness and wellness goals in the years to come.
"Challenges often appear when we least expect them, but it's how we rise to meet them that defines us," the PAINKLLR team shared, reflecting on the spirit of the competition. "Through the process, we cultivate strength—both physical and mental—and build resilience to face whatever storms may come."
Congratulations to all the competitors who participated in this year’s PAINKLLR competition at Venice Beach.
This morning, the L.A. Leggers (@laleggers) hit the pavement for a 5K distance run along Ocean Front Walk. Since 1989, this running and walking club has been guiding everyone from recovering couch potatoes to Boston qualifiers through half and full marathon preparations. With a focus on training, education, and community building, L.A. Leggers continues to help recreational athletes achieve their goals while fostering deep friendships along the way.
On Friday, August 16, 2024, Los Angeles Police Officers were stationed along the Venice Beach Boardwalk as part of a newly formed task force aimed at educating the public and enforcing the no biking rule on the boardwalk. The initiative comes in response to a recent severe electric bike accident that left a child unconscious after being struck by a youth rider.
Around a dozen LAPD officers, including two sergeants, were strategically positioned across the boardwalk to maximize visibility and ensure compliance. The task force's primary focus was on preventing accidents and promoting safety by redirecting cyclists and pedicab operators to the designated bike path.
Speaking to Santa Monica Closeup during the enforcement, LAPD Sergeant Decoite explained, "We're out here today doing some education to keep bikes and pedicabs off the boardwalk for safety reasons. It's all about community safety."
He further added, "We're redirecting all bicycles and similar vehicles onto the bike path where they belong. We're focusing on education today, with the hope that we can limit citations and just inform the public."
The enforcement aligns with Los Angeles Municipal Code section 63.44 B16, which states, “No person shall drive or ride any cycle or vehicle, whether powered by a motor or human power, except on paths, roads or drives designed and provided for such purposes.
Venice, Los Angeles - June 16, 2024: During a weekly multi-department homeless encampment cleanup operation at Venice Beach, Los Angeles Park Rangers arrested a homeless woman for assault. The woman, well-known to the Park Rangers from previous operations, has a history of being aggressive, loud, and uncooperative. As the rangers asked her to move her belongings to facilitate the cleanup, the situation escalated when she began shouting and punched one of the rangers in the torso. The rangers quickly handcuffed her and took her into custody.
Following her arrest, the woman requested medical attention, stating that she needed an ambulance. Los Angeles firefighters were promptly called to the scene, and after evaluating her condition, they placed her in an ambulance for transport to the hospital. A Park Ranger accompanied her in the ambulance for later booking.
Meanwhile, sanitation workers gathered the belongings she left behind, which were taken to a storage facility where she can retrieve them at a future date. Clinicians from the Department of Mental Health, who were familiar with the woman, also responded to the incident.
This event occurred during a significant cleanup operation targeting a local homeless encampment at Venice Beach. The operation involved a multi-agency task force that included the Los Angeles Park Rangers, the Los Angeles Police Department, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and representatives from Councilwoman Traci Park's office.
The operation was managed safely and efficiently, with Los Angeles Police Officers and Park Rangers providing security. Team members, equipped with protective gear, sorted and appropriately disposed of both hazardous and non-hazardous waste. LAHSA played a crucial role by providing support services, including food, water, and hygiene kits, reflecting the city’s compassionate approach to the crisis.
This cleanup is part of the City of Los Angeles' broader strategy to address homelessness while improving public health and sanitation. It underscores the city’s commitment to addressing these pressing urban challenges. Notably, no citations for public camping violations were issued during this cleanup, highlighting the city’s preference for supportive measures over punitive actions.
Regular Friday cleanups along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, supervised by Los Angeles Park Rangers, are a key component of the city’s comprehensive strategy to maintain cleanliness and safety while addressing the root causes of homelessness. The continued coordination by Councilwoman Traci Park plays a vital role in ensuring a balanced and humane approach to these complex issues.
