Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur introduced the Right to Human Customer Service Act requiring large California businesses to provide human customer service within five minutes. The bill aims to end situations where consumers are trapped in automated systems.
Applications are now open for cannabis retailers in Santa Monica with a first-come, first-served process. The program includes a social equity component and a 4% cannabis business tax that was approved by 66% of Santa Monica voters in 2022.
Spry Fitness, a new appointment-only gym at 2222 Pico Blvd. in Santa Monica, offers personalized training in a non-intimidating environment. Owner Evan Spry, a former history teacher and local resident, designed the studio to welcome clients ages 12 to 80+.
Twenty years after officials recommended phasing out methyl bromide, the toxic pesticide remains widespread in California. New UCLA research shows some communities face exposure nearly double state safety recommendations, with port areas like Long Beach at highest risk.
The Gesualdo Six, an acclaimed British vocal ensemble, will perform Renaissance music from influential European queens at St. Matthew's Church in Pacific Palisades on February 6, 2026, marking the venue's first concert since the 2025 fires.
Santa Monica College will hold a Valentine's Glass Sale on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 8am-2pm at Virginia Avenue Park. The fundraiser will feature handcrafted hearts, jewelry, vases and other artworks created by SMC glass artists to benefit the college's Art Department.
The Santa Monica Public Library selected 'What You Are Looking For Is in the Library' for its 2026 Santa Monica Reads program. The 23rd annual community-wide reading initiative will run Feb. 2 through March 14, featuring author Michiko Aoyama for discussion and signing events.
The Makers Hive Market returns to Santa Monica Place on Sunday, Feb. 1, featuring over 35 Southern California makers, artists and food vendors. The free Valentine's Day-themed event includes workshops, live music, and artisan goods from noon to 5 p.m.
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Westside Coalition presented Education Awards to seven high school seniors and recent graduates at a Jan. 19 ceremony in Santa Monica. Recipients were recognized for exemplifying King's principles of nonviolence.
Santa Monica City Council will consider a proposal to enter a civic float in the 2027 Tournament of Roses Parade, showcasing the city's renewal to more than 28 million viewers. The community-powered model would rely on private sponsorships rather than city funds.
Santa Monica City Council will vote Tuesday on adopting the 2025 Parks Vision Plan targeting 5 acres per 1,000 residents, the $73-86M Memorial Park expansion, and establishing a groundbreaking $3.5 million restorative justice program.
Adam Byrnes, a Santa Monica College student and former Amazon product manager, will premiere his directorial debut 'Two Lie Together' at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on February 11. The suspenseful family drama represents a major career shift inspired by the pandemic.
