Tech Takes Over: Santa Monica Launches LA Tech Week with Ocean Avenue Street Fair

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Oct. 14, 2024) – LA Tech Week kicked off today, Monday, October 14, 2024, in the heart of Silicon Beach with the Santa Monica Innovation Hub Technology Street Fair. The event closed down a stretch of Ocean Avenue between Broadway and Santa Monica Boulevard, along with a portion of Palisades Park, to create space for startup showcases, live tech activations, and opportunities to network with some of LA’s top investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders.

Hosted by StartupStarter and partially sponsored by the city of Santa Monica, the street fair featured local tech innovations from the city's Information Services, Police, and Fire departments. Free tickets were provided to local student groups, and several school robotics programs participated in the event.

“Santa Monica continues to be a growing hub for innovation, technology, and startups,” said Santa Monica Economic Development Manager Jennifer Taylor. “Our tech community thrives thanks to city support, including strategic investments in CityNet dark fiber and community broadband infrastructure. Companies know this is where their employees want to live, work, and play.”

Beyond the business and networking opportunities, attendees enjoyed VR/AR activations, a co-working lounge, a sound stage, food trucks, live music, and a beer garden. The LA Tech Week Passport, provided by Santa Monica Travel & Tourism, offered special discounts at local bars, restaurants, and shops throughout downtown.

The Santa Monica Innovation Hub Technology Street Fair was one of over 1,000 events hosted during LA Tech Week, presented by venture capital firm a16z, which recently opened a new headquarters in downtown Santa Monica.

Santa Monica, often referred to as “Silicon Beach,” has been a center for innovation for more than 30 years. The technology and creative sectors account for 34% of the city’s total employment, with over 29,000 people working in these industries and an annual payroll of $6.3 billion. Notable companies such as Activision, Hulu, Snap Inc., and Lionsgate Entertainment have made Santa Monica their home.

The Innovation Hub Street Fair ran from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today, with street closures in effect until late this evening. For more information on LA Tech Week, visit tech-week.com.

Police Respond to Assault at Santa Monica College: Student Struck in the Head

Santa Monica Police officers responded to a report of an assault at Santa Monica College on Monday, October 14, 2024. According to witnesses, a student walking near the intersection of Pico Boulevard and 17th Street after class was struck in the head with a skateboard. The victim was able to call 911 for assistance. Santa Monica Firefighters arrived swiftly at the scene, providing immediate medical care before the student was transported in an ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment. Following the incident, firefighters cleaned the blood from the sidewalk using water and bleach. Police are actively interviewing witnesses and searching for the suspect involved in the attack. The investigation is ongoing.

Police Officer Arrests Suspect in Vandalism at Lincoln Boulevard Gas Station

Santa Monica Police officers responded to a vandalism incident at the World Oil gas station located at 1801 Lincoln Boulevard on Monday, October 14, 2024. A suspect had reportedly broken the glass on the front door of the station. 

Officers quickly located the individual behind the building and took them into custody. Santa Monica Firefighters also arrived at the scene to assess if medical assistance was required, though none was needed. 

The gas station was temporarily closed for cleanup following the incident. Authorities are continuing their investigation, including a review of security footage from the site.

Daisy, the Venice Healer, Plans to Adopt Teen Boy After Court Proceedings

On Monday, October 14, 2024, Daisy, known locally as the Venice Healer, updated the community from her Healing Arts Dojo in Venice Beach regarding her ongoing efforts to support a 14-year-old boy currently in her care. According to Daisy, the youth, who has experienced difficulties with the foster care system and recently left a group home, has temporarily found shelter at her temple.

Daisy explained that she has made this arrangement fully transparent to local authorities, ensuring that all parties, including LAPD and other relevant departments, are aware of the situation. Daisy asserts that authorities have acknowledged the close bond that has formed between her and the boy, which, she says, has led her to provide him with daily meals and arrange hygiene care with the help of the community.

According to Daisy, her next step is to address the court with the intention of formalizing her guardianship over the youth. She clarified that this is not an attempt at adoption but rather an effort to pursue emancipation for the boy. Daisy emphasized that this legal process would allow the boy to gain the independence to make decisions for himself, with her serving as his legal guardian to ensure his stability and support during this transition.

Daisy also expressed her hope to facilitate a supportive space for the youth's biological mother, noting that she approaches her caregiving role not as a rescuer, but as someone fostering collaboration for the boy’s well-being.

The community has played an important role in supporting Daisy's efforts, as she highlighted. Reverend White and All Good, who provides a space for the youth's hygiene care, are among those actively involved in his daily life, contributing to a nurturing environment that focuses on both emotional and physical well-being.

Daisy's commitment to the youth, according to her, stands as an example of how community-driven care can help support vulnerable individuals in Venice Beach. As the upcoming court date approaches, Daisy hopes the proceedings will provide greater clarity and structure to both the youth’s care and her role as his guardian.

Save the Pier: Live Play Reenacts Iconic 1972 Fight for Santa Monica's Landmark

Santa Monica, CA – This weekend, the historic Santa Monica Pier will come to life through a live reenactment of the 1972 grassroots battle to save the iconic structure from demolition. Titled *“Save The Pier,”* the play is presented by Playland Arcade and will run from October 17 to 20 at the West End of the Pier.

The free, one-hour performance tells the dramatic story of how two groups of dedicated citizens fought the Santa Monica City Council’s controversial plan to replace the pier with a 35-acre artificial island. Their efforts prevented the destruction of the Pier and preserved it for future generations.

Written by James Harris and directed by Tony Award-winner Paul Sand, *“Save the Pier”* pays tribute to the individuals who bravely stood against City Hall. Their tireless efforts kept the beloved landmark intact, ensuring it would continue to bring joy to millions each year.

Showtimes are set for October 17, 18, 19, and 20. The production is supported by the LA County Department of Arts and Culture as part of Creative Recovery LA, an initiative funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This video features the 2022 performance of “Save the Pier!” showcasing the powerful retelling of this historic fight. The 2024 production, written by James Harris and directed by Tony Award-winner Paul Sand, promises another immersive experience.

Don't miss this celebration of community spirit and history at the Santa Monica Pier this weekend!

Whales, Dragons, and Cats Take Flight: Kite Extravaganza at Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica, CA– More than a dozen colorful kites soared over Santa Monica Beach on Sunday afternoon, October 13, 2024, transforming the coastal skies into a vibrant spectacle. Organized by the LA Kite group, this monthly event drew local kite enthusiasts and visitors alike, offering a mesmerizing view for beachgoers. The sky was dotted with an eclectic mix of kites, ranging from playful octopus-shaped designs to elaborate whale and fish figures. Among the standout designs were bright pink sea creatures, vivid rainbow patterns, and whimsical teddy bears floating alongside sleek, black-and-white orca kites. The diversity of the designs added a fun and artistic touch to the serene blue backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. LA Kite, a community for kite fliers in the Los Angeles area, organizes these events every third Sunday of the month, providing a space for kite lovers to connect and enjoy the shared joy of kiting.

Tensions Flare: Vendor Arrested in Alleged Assault Attempt on Venice Beach Boardwalk

On Sunday, October 13, 2024, Los Angeles Police officers responded to a reported altercation on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. According to witnesses, a dispute between a vendor and a local man escalated when the vendor allegedly stole a cane from the man's car, which was parked in the Venice Beach parking lot. When the man confronted the vendor, the suspect reportedly raised the cane as if to strike the man. In self-defense, the victim used pepper spray on the suspect. Following this, the suspect returned to his van in the parking lot and allegedly drove toward the victim, swerving as though attempting to hit him. The suspect then called the police to report being pepper sprayed. Los Angeles Fire Department personnel arrived to offer medical assistance, though the suspect declined treatment. LAPD officers conducted interviews with several witnesses and reviewed video footage showing the suspect's alleged attempt to run over the victim. The suspect was arrested and taken in for further questioning. Additionally, the suspect's dog was taken to a local shelter, where it can be picked up at a later date.

Santa Monica Police Arrest Man Suspected of Arson in Downtown

Santa Monica Police responded to a fire call on the 400 block of Broadway Avenue on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Santa Monica Firefighters swiftly extinguished a blaze in a trash can near the intersection of Broadway Avenue and Fourth Street. Shortly after, officers apprehended a man walking away from the scene along Broadway Avenue, just a block from the fire. The individual was arrested on suspicion of arson and taken into custody. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident.

Beachside Injury: Emergency Responders Aid Man Hurt on Santa Monica Bike Path

Santa Monica Firefighters, Police Officers, and Los Angeles County Lifeguards responded to an incident on the Santa Monica Beach Bike Path on Saturday, October 12, 2024, where a man was injured. The individual, who appeared to have stepped on a piece of glass while walking barefoot near the beach restrooms, was bleeding from his foot. Firefighters provided treatment on the scene before the man was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for further care. After the victim was taken away, Santa Monica Fire Department personnel washed the blood from the concrete using water and bleach to clean the area.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look: Santa Monica Fire Station Open House Welcomes Families for a Day of Exploration

Santa Monica Fire Station No. 1 hosted an open house on Saturday, October 12, 2024, drawing in families and children for a hands-on experience with the fire department. Visitors were given the opportunity to meet with firefighters, explore the inside of fire trucks, and get a close look at the equipment used in everyday fire and rescue operations. Children excitedly climbed aboard the fire trucks, while firefighters explained the critical tools they use during emergencies. The event allowed attendees to ask questions and learn more about the vital role the fire department plays in community safety. The open house was part of Santa Monica’s Fire Prevention Week, which emphasized the importance of working smoke alarms in saving lives. The initiative highlighted the necessity of functioning smoke alarms in homes, as they reduce the risk of death in home fires by 54%, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It was noted that three out of five fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms. “Working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, giving people the time to get out safely,” said Santa Monica Fire Marshal Joe Cavin. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign was a great way to remind everyone about these messages and to act on them.” During the event, the Santa Monica Fire Department also provided key smoke alarm safety tips. These included installing smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on each level of the home. They stressed the importance of testing alarms monthly and replacing them after 10 years. Smoke alarms should also be chosen to meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities. Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of outreach and advocacy, underscored the significance of this message: “Smoke alarms serve as the first line of defense in a home fire, but they need to be working in order to protect people.” In addition to fire safety education, residents were encouraged to sign up for the American Red Cross’s "Sound the Alarm" program, offering free smoke alarm installations. The open house was an engaging and educational event, helping the community understand both the work of the fire department and the simple steps that can prevent fire-related tragedies.