SMFD, Linnekens ‘Share’ toys

Panera Bread and Jenna Linnekens join together with the Santa Monica Fire Department for “Share of the Holiday” bringing toys to underprivileged children in Santa Monica.

Linnekens and Panera have engaged local businesses to house the toy contribution containers beginning Dec. 2 through Dec. 17. Visit the following businesses to drop off an unwrapped toy in the decorated donation containers: Revolution Fitness (1211 Montana Ave.), Scarboni (312 Wilshire Blvd.), Dr. Gruning Eye Care (1312 Montana Ave.), Yoga Hop (1612 Montana Ave.) Prudential California Realtors of Santa Monica (3130 Wilshire Blvd.), Panera Bread of Santa Monica (501 Wilshire Blvd.), Panera Bread of Marina del Rey (4720 Lincoln Blvd.) and Wahoo’s (418 Wilshire Blvd.).

Additionally, Panera Bread will be providing free coffee coupons to the parents of the youngsters receiving gifts from the SMFD.

“This kind and compassionate group of business and community members believe in the stellar efforts of our Fire Department and the deep needs of the children of Santa Monica. We are all proud to join together in this wonderful event and look forward to many years of service.” Linnekens said.

-DP



Topo Ranch hosts Art Angels

Venice-based apparel brand, Topo Ranch, will host the first annual Art Angels Benefit on Dec. 14, to raise money for Venice Arts, the local non-profit organization that provides art education in photography and digital media for at-risk youth. The benefit will take place at the new clothing brand’s holiday store, The Topo Ranch General Store, located at 1219 Abbot Kinney Blvd. from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

“Venice Arts plays an important role in keeping the Venice culture thriving,” said Alex Kump of Topo Ranch. “We derived a lot of inspiration from the Venice culture while conceiving our brand, so it’s nice to have an opportunity to give something back to the community.”

Alongside the latest Topo Ranch fashions, the Art Angels Benefit will feature a raffle drawing for gift-worthy prizes from outdoor companies like, Arc’teryx, Brunton and CamelBak, as well as artwork from local Venice artists. Guests will also enjoy live music, tasty appetizers and regional brews.

All proceeds from the raffle will benefit the Venice Arts’ Business Art Circle, which provides funding for the annual cost of supplies and equipment for art mentoring workshops.

Raffle tickets can be purchased directly at the Topo Ranch General Store at 1219 Abbot Kinney Blvd. or online at www.TopoRanch.com or www.VeniceArts.org, starting November 12th.

-DP