Sunday, August 18, 2024

Police Arrest Man After Smoking in Palisades Park and Fleeing from Officers

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.

Police Arrest Man at Palisades Park for Violating Open Container Law After Refusal to Identify

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.

Saturday, August 17, 2024

Shake, Twerk, and Sweat: Booty-Burning Workout Takes Over Crescent Bay Park

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.

Daisy the Venice Healer Arrested and Bailed Out After Threatening to Bomb Courthouse

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.

Muscle Beach Venice: Fitness Enthusiasts Converge for PAINKLLR Challenge 2024

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.

L.A. Leggers Hit the Ground Running with 5K Along the Coast

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.

Friday, August 16, 2024

Venice Beach Crackdown: Police Clamp Down on Illegal Biking on the Boardwalk

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.