Chabad Menorah Parade Lights Up Santa Monica on New Year’s Eve

Santa Monica streets shone brightly on New Year's Eve as the Chabad in Simcha Monica Menorah Parade, led by a motor escort, brought the spirit of Hanukkah to life. The dazzling parade featured menorah-topped vehicles spreading a message of light, hope, and joy across the city.

Organized by the Chabad of Santa Monica, the event served as a meaningful celebration of Hanukkah, or the Festival of Lights, which commemorates the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the rededicated Second Temple. With illuminated menorahs adorning cars and streets, the parade captured the holiday’s essence, emphasizing themes of resilience, unity, and faith.

Families, friends, and community members gathered to witness the spectacle, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate together. Attendees described the event as a touching reminder of shared traditions and the power of community.

The parade, guided safely through Santa Monica by a motor escort, concluded with the menorahs lighting up the streets, symbolizing warmth and brightness during the winter season. Chabad’s dedication to organizing the event was widely appreciated, highlighting the enduring significance of Hanukkah in fostering connections and celebrating faith.

As the lights of the menorahs shone through Santa Monica, they carried a message of hope into the new year: one of perseverance, community, and shared celebration. Happy Hanukkah to all!

Santa Monica Approves SaMo Bridge Program at Civic Auditorium to Address Homelessness and Root Causes of Criminal Behavior

Santa Monica Approves SaMo Bridge Program at Civic Auditorium Amid Resident Concerns

December 20, 2024 – SANTA MONICA, Calif.

The Santa Monica City Council has approved the SaMo Bridge program, a new initiative to address homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health challenges while offering alternatives to incarceration. Set to launch in the spring, the program will be based in a designated portion of the Civic Auditorium’s east parking lot and aims to break cycles of recidivism by providing a pathway to rehabilitation and stability.

Program Overview

At the heart of SaMo Bridge is a 24-hour “respite hub” to be located on the east side of the Civic Auditorium site. The hub will consist of two temporary trailers with onsite security and video monitoring. Individuals referred by law enforcement for low-level infractions—such as violating camping ordinances or loitering—can access meals, showers, and rest in a secure environment.

Once there, participants will meet with case managers to develop a 90-day personalized care plan. The plans are designed to connect individuals with resources such as mental health treatment, substance abuse programs, temporary housing, and assistance with essential documentation like IDs and benefits applications.

Participants can stay at the hub for a maximum of 72 hours, though most are expected to remain for six to 12 hours before being transitioned to appropriate long-term services. If individuals complete their 90-day care plan and remain connected to services, misdemeanor charges may not be filed, providing an incentive for compliance.

Funding and Additional Support

The program is funded through an $8 million grant awarded to the City Attorney’s Office and will operate alongside existing diversion initiatives, including STEP Court and the Alternatives to Incarceration Pre-Filing Diversion Program. Contracts have been awarded to organizations such as Exodus Recovery, Inc., which will manage the program’s day-to-day operations, and WillScot, which will provide the mobile trailers.

Additional services include program evaluation and fiscal audits by Moss Adams and grant consulting by Elizabeth Anderson Consulting. A dedicated analyst will also be hired to oversee data collection and ensure successful grant implementation.

Resident Concerns

While city leaders, including Chief of Police Ramon Batista, highlight the program’s potential to offer individuals a chance at recovery, some residents remain skeptical. Concerns have been raised about the location of the respite hub, with some questioning its proximity to residential neighborhoods and the potential for increased disruption.

Critics have suggested relocating the program to less central areas, such as the Santa Monica Airport, and have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of diversion programs based on past failures. Others have voiced a preference for stricter punitive measures rather than offering rehabilitation alternatives.

City’s Response and Public Engagement

Santa Monica officials emphasize the program’s comprehensive security measures and its focus on reducing crime by addressing its root causes. Housing and Human Services Director Heather Averick described SaMo Bridge as “a vital addition to the city’s toolbox for supporting individuals on their path to treatment and stable housing.”

To address public concerns, the city plans to conduct extensive outreach, including regular community meetings and a local advisory committee. The first public meeting will take place on January 22, 2025, during the Human Services Commission meeting, where residents will have an opportunity to voice their concerns and ask questions.

The city encourages residents to stay informed and participate in discussions as the program moves forward. For additional information, visit the City of Santa Monica’s website.

Santa Monica Comes Alive: Capoeira Exchange Draws Crowds with Vibrant Performances

Santa Monica Beach was a hub of vibrant energy on Sunday, December 29, 2024, as a dozen Capoeira groups gathered for the much-anticipated Capoeira Exchange 12 event. Participants traveled from as far as San Francisco and Brazil to showcase and celebrate this captivating art form. Enthusiasts flocked to the beach, soaking up the sunshine while witnessing the rich cultural tradition of Capoeira unfold. Known for its fluid acrobatics, rhythmic combat, and musicality, Capoeira seamlessly blends dance, martial arts, and Brazilian heritage into a mesmerizing performance. Traditional Brazilian instruments set the tempo as practitioners engaged in rhythmic movements, creating an energetic and ever-moving display. The Capoeira fellowship was a standout moment, embodying the art form’s spirit of unity and cultural pride against the backdrop of Santa Monica’s golden sands. Spectators and participants alike experienced a mesmerizing event that celebrated Capoeira’s deep roots and boundless creativity, leaving a lasting impression on all who gathered by the shore.

Santa Monica Police Nab Suspect in Deadly Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Incident

Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has announced the arrest of Rod Sharif, a 30-year-old Los Angeles resident, in connection with a fatal hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of a Vietnam War veteran on December 22, 2024. The incident occurred at the intersection of Wilshire Blvd. and Chelsea Ave., where the victim was fatally struck by a white Toyota Rav4 while crossing southbound on Wilshire.

Eyewitnesses reported the suspect vehicle fleeing eastbound at a high speed immediately after the incident. The victim, a long-standing resident of Santa Monica, was pronounced deceased at the scene. In a determined effort to solve the case, SMPD’s Major Accident Response Team and Traffic Investigations Unit were quick to gather video evidence leading to the identification of Sharif.

On December 27, 2024, SMPD’s Traffic Unit, supported by SWAT and detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division, executed search and arrest warrants at Sharif's residence in Santa Monica Canyon. Officers recovered several pieces of crucial evidence, including the damaged vehicle involved in the collision. Sharif faces charges of murder and felony hit-and-run, along with previous charges of reckless and impaired driving.

SMPD encourages anyone with additional information about the incident to contact their team. This tragic event has deeply impacted the community, reminding residents of the critical need for road safety awareness​

HAPPY CHANUKAH: Simcha Monica Shines Bright with 34th Annual Menorah Lighting

In a lively celebration of tradition and community, Chabad in Simcha Monica marked the Chanukah season with its 34th annual Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony. The event took place on the evening of Wednesday, December 25, 2024, transforming the Third Street Promenade in Downtown Santa Monica into a festive hub of culture and joy.

The ceremony featured spirited performances by Boruch Friedman and Aaron Niasoff of the Esh Orchestra, adding a musical flourish to the evening. Santa Monica City Councilmember Ellis Raskin had the distinguished honor of lighting the menorah, symbolizing the official start of Chanukah. Joining him at the event were Councilmembers Dan Hall, Natalya Zernitskaya, and Jesse Zwick, underscoring the city’s commitment to celebrating its diverse communities.

Families in attendance participated in crafts, savored freshly made hot latkes, and warmed up with steaming cups of cocoa, creating a welcoming and festive atmosphere for all.

Presented by Chabad in Simcha Monica, this year’s Menorah Lighting celebrated the rich history of the Jewish festival while fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity, bringing together attendees from all walks of life to share in the joy of the season.

Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Celebrated with the nightly lighting of the menorah, special prayers, and traditional foods, it serves as a testament to resilience and faith, retelling the story of the miraculous eight-day burn of a small quantity of oil. This festival stands as a symbol of hope and the triumph of light over darkness.

Bushman Prankster Brings Surprise and Smiles to Santa Monica Pier

On Tuesday, December 23, 2024, the Santa Monica Pier became the stage for a unique blend of humor and surprise, courtesy of a man who goes by the name Georgia Pranksters  (@georgiapranksters). Disguised as a bush, he seamlessly blended into the surroundings, only to leap out and startle unsuspecting locals and tourists passing by the iconic landmark. Georgia Pranksters, a Marine veteran battling depression, has found joy in bringing laughter to others. “Making people smile and laugh is what makes me happy,” he shared. Having honed his pranking skills since childhood, he now spreads positivity with his signature "bushman pranks." Many pier visitors were caught off guard, with reactions ranging from shock to hearty laughter, as the prankster reminded passersby of the power of humor. Despite his camouflaged appearance, the veteran’s mission is clear: to share his laughter and happiness with the world. The Santa Monica Pier continues to attract unique talents and creative individuals, adding vibrant layers to its lively atmosphere.

Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete Kicks Off ‘Mocha with the Mayor’ at Starbucks

Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete, newly elected and eager to engage with the community, held her first “Mocha with the Mayor” event at Starbucks across from City Hall on Tuesday, December 23, 2024. The casual gathering, just days before Christmas, allowed residents to meet their new leader, share ideas, and enjoy live music. "I'm super honored and proud to be the mayor of the city that I was born and raised in," Negrete shared. A lifelong Santa Monican, she highlighted her deep roots in the community, noting she grew up near Fourth and Ashland, attended local public schools, and now raises her own children in the city. Negrete also operates the Santa Monica Music Center, a family business founded 52 years ago. In her remarks, the mayor emphasized her commitment to community outreach. "I really want to use this year to reach all different corners of the city, all the different zip codes, and knock on people's doors," she said. Negrete plans to host the monthly “Mocha with the Mayor” events at various coffee shops around the city to connect with as many residents as possible. The event featured live music by Music Mentors, a student band from Santa Monica High School, creating a lively atmosphere. Negrete encouraged residents to join her future gatherings, promising that every session will include music and an open forum for community dialogue. "Come join me at ‘Mocha with the Mayor,’" Negrete urged. "I'm just here to listen to you."