𝗦𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗔 𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗔 𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗘 𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗨𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘: New City-Run EMS Unit Hits the Streets

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Tuesday, September 23, 2025 — For the second day in a row, Santa Monica police officers and firefighters responded to a medical call involving a man in a wheelchair at Palisades Park. It appeared to be the same individual transported to a hospital the previous day.

This time, the man was cared for and transported by the Santa Monica Fire Department’s new in-house ambulance service, a pilot effort now in its second day of operation. Firefighters assessed the man’s condition on scene before transferring him to the hospital in the department’s Basic Life Support (BLS) unit.

Santa Monica Fire Battalion Chief-EMS Patrick Nulty explained that the program introduces a city-operated ambulance staffed by emergency medical technicians known as Ambulance Operators. These single-role EMTs drive the vehicle and provide basic life support care while working alongside firefighters and paramedics. Nulty said the initiative offers a valuable entry point for those pursuing careers in public safety and provides a cost-effective way to expand emergency response capabilities.

The new unit is expected to strengthen the city’s ability to handle non-critical medical calls and improve response times for residents and visitors alike.

Santa Monica Closeup continues to follow the rollout of this program and other public safety developments across the city.

𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝗜𝗡 𝗙𝗢𝗖𝗨𝗦: Artist Daniel Alonzo Donates Five-Generation Portrait to Santa Monica’s Mexican Presence Project

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — September 20, 2025 — The Santa Monica Public Library marked the city’s 150th anniversary on Saturday with the debut of the Mexican Presence in Santa Monica Project, a community initiative documenting the history and influence of Mexican American families in the seaside city. The afternoon program, held in the Main Library’s Multipurpose Room at 601 Santa Monica Boulevard, introduced a team of local residents working to preserve family stories through historic images, oral histories, and other primary resources. Attendees viewed highlights from the Library’s Imagine Santa Monica local-history database, explored vintage photographs, and met families contributing to the growing archive. Among the most talked-about displays was a striking family portrait donated by artist and panelist Daniel Alonzo. The oversized image captured a 1980 family reunion picnic at Marine Park, where at least five generations of Alonzo’s relatives gathered for a group photo that resembles a giant class portrait. “It’s not a high school picture—it’s a reunion photo,” Alonzo explained, pointing out his grandmother, great-aunt, mother, sisters, and nieces within the crowd. He recalled organizing similar photos over three consecutive years and tracking down the same Glendale photography studio that once shot his ninth-grade class picture to capture the massive scene. Alonzo described the portrait as a testament to a once-thriving Mexican American community centered around St. Anne’s Church and deeply rooted in Santa Monica’s neighborhoods and canyons. “We always knew our place in Santa Monica, where we were at, but it was a thriving community that was well connected,” he said. The reunion photograph joins more than 2,000 historic images and documents—some dating back to the 1800s—now preserved in the Library’s online Imagine Santa Monica collection. Organizers encouraged residents to explore the digital archive and contribute their own family narratives to help tell the broader story of Santa Monica’s Mexican American heritage. For more information or to share materials, contact the Santa Monica Public Library at (310) 458-8600.

𝗛𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗢𝗨𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛: Santa Monica Police and Salvation Army Move Couple From Sand to Services

SANTA MONICA, CA — Wednesday, September 17, 2025 — Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) officers from the Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) conducted a coordinated outreach operation with the Salvation Army Corps Homeless Outreach Team on Santa Monica Beach Wednesday morning, engaging unhoused individuals in violation of Municipal Code Section 4.08.095, which prohibits camping in public areas.

Officers approached individuals along the shoreline, offering referrals to supportive services and issuing citations for public-camping violations. During the operation, one individual who had previously been advised and cited faced potential arrest. Instead, HLP officers persuaded the person to enter the Salvation Army’s Project Homecoming program, which reconnects participants with family or friends willing to provide permanent housing and support. The officer on scene described the effort as part of the Liaison Program’s partnership with the Salvation Army to help the couple return to their home community, assisting with packing their belongings into a police vehicle for transport to a service facility.

The HLP team—comprising one sergeant and six officers—works in partnership with the City Attorney’s Office, Santa Monica Fire Department, Human Services Division, and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health to connect people experiencing homelessness, substance-use issues, or mental-health crises to appropriate city and county resources.

Members of the Salvation Army outreach team emphasized the value of their ongoing collaboration with SMPD, noting that their crews regularly join officers in early-morning efforts to meet people where they are and offer available services. Team members said the two-year partnership has proven highly effective in reaching individuals who might otherwise go without assistance.

Project Homecoming provides transportation assistance for those willing to reunite with loved ones who can offer stable housing. Individuals seeking help can contact the HLP team at (310) 458-8953 for more information.

City officials say the joint effort highlights Santa Monica’s approach of balancing public-safety enforcement with compassionate outreach, aiming to uphold municipal regulations while linking vulnerable individuals to care. The Salvation Army continues to offer a range of services—including food, shelter, addiction treatment, counseling, and job training—through its local programs and wider Los Angeles network.

Santa Monica Closeup will continue monitoring city outreach efforts as part of the ongoing dialogue on homelessness and public safety along the coast.

𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗗𝗢𝗪𝗡: Crews Remove Red Ironbark Eucalyptus in California Avenue Street Upgrade

SANTA MONICA — Monday, September 15, 2025 — The westbound lane of California Avenue between 7th and 5th Streets was closed today as crews from V&E Tree Service, Inc. began cutting down Red Ironbark (Eucalyptus sideroxylon) trees from the center median. Tree work is expected to continue through Thursday, with intermittent lane closures as the operation moves block by block.

The removals mark the opening phase of the City of Santa Monica’s California Avenue Street Reconstruction project, a six-block initiative stretching from Ocean Avenue to 7th Street. City engineers say the work will repair pavement buckled by invasive tree roots, upgrade storm-drain systems, and improve overall roadway safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

According to city documents, nineteen of the forty mature eucalyptus trees along the median will be taken down and ultimately replaced with a diverse mix of species—Silk-Floss, Arbutus Marina, and Chinese Flame—selected in consultation with the Urban Forest Task Force. The remaining trees will be pruned and maintained until the new plantings are established. Long-term plans call for a complete replacement of all forty median trees to reduce root intrusion and enhance species diversity.

In addition to tree work, the project includes new drainage improvements at 4th and 5th Streets, where frequent flooding has been a problem during heavy rains. Construction is expected to continue in stages through the summer of 2026, with periodic lane closures and parking restrictions as crews progress.

For project updates and background information, residents can visit santamonica.gov/california-ave-street-reconstruction.

𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗞 𝗪𝗔𝗩𝗘𝗦: Researchers Dye Santa Monica Bay to Track Ocean Currents

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Monday, September 15, 2025 — Visitors to the Santa Monica Pier were greeted by an unexpected sight this morning as ocean waves near the breakwater glowed bright pink. The striking color is part of a scientific experiment led by researchers from the UCLA Samueli School of Engineering in partnership with The Bay Foundation. The team released a temporary, non-toxic fluorescent dye known as Rhodamine Water Tracer into the water to study how currents circulate around the Santa Monica Pier and its historic breakwater. The dye, long used in oceanographic research, disperses naturally and poses no risk to people, marine life, or the environment. Additional releases are scheduled for September 22–24 and September 30. The project builds on a 2024 study by the UCLA Coastal Flood Lab and The Bay Foundation that examined how the breakwater affects water quality. Although storms in the 1980s reduced the 1934 structure to its current height, scientists say the remnants still influence coastal circulation, contributing to persistent water-quality concerns near the pier. By tracking the dye’s movement with drones and monitoring equipment, researchers hope to better understand how pollutants, nutrients, and sediments travel through the bay. “Even though the breakwater no longer functions as a marina, it continues to shape water flow and the health of the surrounding ecosystem,” said Professor Timu Gallien, the study’s lead investigator. Funded by The Bay Foundation and supported by the City of Santa Monica, the California Coastal Commission, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the experiment aims to inform future strategies for protecting Santa Monica Bay. Visitors can expect to see the pink plumes on upcoming release days, a vivid reminder of science at work in one of Southern California’s most iconic coastal settings. Santa Monica Closeup will continue to monitor the experiment and provide updates as researchers track the dye’s journey and its impact on understanding ocean circulation.

𝗟𝗢𝗪𝗥𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗟𝗘𝗚𝗔𝗖𝗬: Hundreds of Classics Roll on the Santa Monica Pier

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — September 13, 2025 — More than 200 gleaming classics, from pre-war cruisers to chrome-laden lowriders, lined the historic wooden planks of the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday for the 5th Annual Santa Monica Classic Car Show. Hosted by the Pico Youth & Family Center (PYFC), the free, family-friendly event transformed the pier into a rolling museum of automotive history and Westside culture.

The all-day showcase invited solo drivers and car clubs to display meticulously restored Chevrolets, Buicks, Fords, Cadillacs, Corvettes, and more—some dating back to the 1930s. Spectators strolled past candy-paint finishes, wire-rim wheels, and hydraulics demonstrations while the Pacific Ocean provided a dramatic backdrop. Organizers said the gathering drew thousands of visitors, echoing last year’s turnout of more than 3,000.

Beyond the polished chrome, the event carried a deeper mission. All proceeds support youth services and after-school programs for underserved families in Santa Monica and Los Angeles County. The show benefits the Pico Youth & Family Center (PYFC), a Santa Monica–based non-profit dedicated to empowering at-risk youth ages 16–24. Serving hundreds of young people each year, PYFC provides case management, counseling, tutoring, job readiness training, leadership development, and creative outlets such as music, art, and computer training. Through these proven services and the dedication of a caring staff, the organization brings hope and opportunity to the lives of Santa Monica’s less fortunate youth while working to prevent violence and create lasting community connections.

“At a time when low-income residents, especially Latino and African American communities, are being displaced, unity and visibility are needed more than ever,” said Santa Monica City Councilman Oscar de la Torre. “This car show celebrates cultural diversity and keeps Westside lowrider traditions alive.”

The show continues until 4 p.m., with on-site registration available for late-arriving exhibitors. For details, visit picoyouth.org or email carshow@picoyouth.org.

Santa Monica Closeup will continue to document the day’s sights and sounds as the Pier celebrates the enduring artistry of lowrider culture and classic automotive design.

𝗖𝗟𝗢𝗪𝗡 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗢𝗦: Sprinkles the Clown Leads Spooky Debut at Pacific Park

 

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — September 10, 2025 — Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier unveiled its all-new haunted Funhouse on Wednesday morning, reviving a piece of the city’s eerie amusement history with a seaside spectacle led by Sprinkles the Clown. The debut began at 8:15 a.m. when Sprinkles’ ice cream truck rolled up to the Funhouse entrance. From its doors, a colorful troupe of clowns spilled out, filling the boardwalk with laughter, antics, and photo opportunities. Sprinkles the Clown emerged last in dramatic fashion, greeted by an eerie Fortuneteller who joined him in officially opening the Funhouse. Together, the characters set the stage for a day of mayhem and mystery. The 2,800-square-foot attraction drew inspiration from the legendary “Toonerville Funhouse,” which entertained guests at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Ocean Park in 1958. The reimagined Funhouse now offered nine disorienting rooms filled with optical illusions, tricky layouts, and surprising encounters designed to amuse and unsettle visitors. Among the highlights was the coin-operated Fortuneteller, who lured guests into a labyrinth of curiosities, and the ominous finale featuring Sprinkles’ ice cream truck freezer — a chilling twist that left many wondering if they would escape unscathed. The attraction was previewed for media on Wednesday morning, ahead of its official public opening this weekend, marking a new chapter for Pacific Park, which continues to combine modern thrills with nods to Santa Monica’s storied amusement past. Santa Monica Closeup documented the debut of the Funhouse, capturing the spectacle as clowns, performers, and guests alike brought the Pier’s newest attraction to life. #SantaMonica #PacificPark #SantaMonicaPier #Funhouse #Clowns #hauntedattractions

𝗔 𝗣𝗜𝗘𝗥𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁: Santa Monica Pier Hosts Inaugural Fundraising Gala

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Saturday, September 6, 2025 — The Santa Monica Pier Corporation (SMPC) hosted its inaugural fundraising gala, “A PIERfect Benefit,” at the historic Merry Go-Round Building on the Santa Monica Pier. From 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., guests gathered for an evening of connection, cocktails, and purpose as the sun set over the Pacific.

The event featured golden-hour drinks, savory bites, live music, and a spirited auction, creating a festive atmosphere in support of one of California’s most cherished landmarks. More than just a fundraiser, A PIERfect Benefit marked the first official benefit event produced by SMPC and coincided with the Pier’s 116th birthday on September 9, underscoring the Pier’s legacy as a cultural and community hub.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Santa Monica Pier Award to Judy Abdo and Larry Barber, both recognized for their exceptional dedication to the Pier and their longtime support of SMPC.

The event drew a distinguished crowd of civic leaders, including California State Senator Ben Allen, Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete, former mayors Phil Brock and Mike Feinstein, and Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista, among many other prominent figures. Guests were entertained with a live musical performance by The Botanical Pursuit, while impersonators of Marilyn Monroe and Charlie Chaplin added a touch of Hollywood nostalgia to the evening.

Funds raised at the event will help sustain year-round free programming at the Pier. In addition, 10% of all ticket sales were donated to the Pali Strong Foundation, a community-led initiative providing direct relief to those affected by the recent Palisades Fires.

Santa Monica Closeup documents public events of local significance, preserving moments that connect community, culture, and history.

𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗔 𝗖𝗢𝗣: LAPD Connects With Community Along Venice Boardwalk

VENICE, Calif. — Thursday, September 4, 2025 — Residents and visitors in Venice joined the Los Angeles Police Department’s Pacific Division for its latest Walk With a Cop event, offering the public a chance to meet newly appointed Captain III Eric Eppolito and his team.

Captain Eppolito, accompanied by more than a dozen officers — including lieutenants, sergeants, and senior lead officers — walked with community members along Ocean Front Walk from Rose Avenue to the LAPD Substation at Windward Plaza. Along the way, the group engaged with vendors, tourists, and locals, addressing community concerns on a clear and sunny afternoon.

At the conclusion of the walk, attendees were invited inside the police substation for a tour, where refreshments and snacks were provided. Los Angeles City Councilmember Traci Park’s District Director, Juan Fregoso, also joined the event.

Captain Eppolito brings nearly three decades of experience to his new role. Since joining the LAPD in 1997, his career has spanned assignments in undercover narcotics, vice enforcement, gang and narcotics supervision, firearms instruction, and internal affairs. He was part of the leadership team that opened Topanga Division and later held command positions in Mission, Devonshire, and citywide incident management, including the Los Angeles Marathon and Palisades Fire response.

Promoted to Captain III in 2025, Eppolito now leads Pacific Division, which covers Venice Beach and surrounding neighborhoods. A graduate of Union Institute and University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, he has also completed the LAPD Leadership and POST Management Courses. He is known for mentoring young officers through training programs and promotional guidance.

Captain Eppolito lives in Los Angeles County with his wife, also an LAPD captain, and their young daughter.

Santa Monica Closeup documents public events of local significance. 

𝗣𝗜𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗘𝗖𝗨𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗬: Bollards Taken Out for Repairs

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Wednesday, September 3, 2025 — A crew from Jilk Heavy Construction carried out maintenance work at the Santa Monica Pier, removing two damaged bollards with the assistance of a crane.

The steel bollards, which were originally installed more than a decade ago by Jilk Heavy Construction, are designed to rise mechanically and block unauthorized vehicle access onto the pier. The devices were extracted and transported back to the company’s facility for repair, following what workers suggested may have been damage caused by accumulated sand in the area.

The project drew attention from visitors near the Route 66 “End of the Trail” sign and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., as workers in safety gear lifted the massive components from the pier deck and prepared them for transport.

Jilk Heavy Construction—formerly known as John S. Meek Company—has more than 60 years of experience in general engineering construction across Southern California. The firm specializes in piers, wharfs, seawalls, marinas, pile driving, shoring, foundations, bridges, and other large-scale structural projects.

The company’s client list includes the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, National Park Service, Caltrans, and cities such as Santa Monica, Newport Beach, Redondo Beach, and Ventura, along with various private-sector contracts.

Santa Monica Closeup documents public works projects and local events of civic importance for the community.