# SMDP
> Award-winning local journalism covering Santa Monica, Venice, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Marina del Rey. Trusted by Westside readers since 2001.
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## Posts
- [Bryson Fire evacuation orders lifted as Malibu schools reopen](https://www.smdp.com/bryson-fire-evacuation-orders-lifted-as-malibu-schools-reopen.md) - All evacuation orders and warnings tied to the Bryson Fire in the Santa Monica Mountains have been lifted, and four Malibu schools reopen Monday after crews held the 146-acre blaze without the loss of a single structure, officials said. Two evacuation zones were downgraded to advisories, according…
- [Santa Monica Pier sign coming down Tuesday for restoration during bridge rebuild](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-pier-sign-coming-down-tuesday-for-restoration-during-bridge-rebuild.md) - Crews will begin removing the Santa Monica Pier's iconic sign Tuesday, Oct. 20, sending the 1941 landmark to Las Vegas for a full restoration while the aging Pier Bridge beneath it is replaced. The removal is temporary, city officials said. The sign is being refurbished, not replaced, and will retu…
- [Santa Monica approves license plate readers for parking enforcement](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-approves-license-plate-readers-for-parking-enforcement.md) - Santa Monica parking officers will soon trade their chalk sticks for cameras after the City Council voted 7-0 to equip the city’s parking enforcement vehicles with automated license plate readers. The council on Oct. 13 authorized the city manager to negotiate and sign a five-year agreement with Co…
- [Measure RR: No evictions over rent debts smaller than one month's rent](https://www.smdp.com/measure-rr-no-evictions-over-rent-debts-smaller-than-one-months-rent.md) - Measure RR would limit when Santa Monica landlords can evict tenants for unpaid rent. What it does Currently, a landlord may evict over any amount owed. Under RR, a tenant would have to owe more than one month’s federally estimated fair market rent before a landlord could seek eviction for nonpayme…
- [Measure TT: Hotel tax on corporate room blocks during major events](https://www.smdp.com/measure-tt-hotel-tax-on-corporate-room-blocks-during-major-events.md) - Measure TT would let the city collect its hotel tax on long corporate room bookings during council-declared "Major Event Periods," such as the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It would not raise the tax rate. What it does The transient occupancy tax, or bed tax, is currently set at 15% for hotels…
- [Measure VV: Just-cause eviction protections for houses and condos](https://www.smdp.com/measure-vv-just-cause-eviction-protections-for-houses-and-condos.md) - Measure VV would make it harder to evict tenants in homes and condos. It would also tighten owner move-in rules for units not under rent control. What it does * VV amends the city charter to end its exclusion of single-unit dwellings and condos. Tenants in those homes could then be evicted only for…
- [Measure GG: Mostly housekeeping for rent control, with one contested eviction change](https://www.smdp.com/measure-gg-mostly-housekeeping-for-rent-control-with-one-contested-eviction-change.md) - Measure GG would make a series of administrative changes to how the Rent Control Board operates with the most controversial being a new requirement that tenants in affordable housing prove they qualify for those reduced cost units. What it does * GG would let Rent Control Board commissioners serve…
- [Measure ES: A permanent parcel tax to replace the city's school payments](https://www.smdp.com/measure-es-a-permanent-parcel-tax-to-replace-the-citys-school-payments.md) - Measure ES would impose a permanent $495 annual tax on most Santa Monica parcels to fund local public schools. It would replace money the city now pays the school district under an agreement that expires next year. Even though it’s a new tax, because it qualified by petition, the initiative needs o…
- [Costumed canines take over Main Street for Day of the Dog](https://www.smdp.com/costumed-canines-take-over-main-street-for-day-of-the-dog.md) - The Day of the Dog, billed by the organizers as "North America’s Largest Dog Festival", returned to Santa Monica on Sunday, October 18. The afternoon was hot and the street was packed. Dogs cooled off in a snow play area and lapped up ice-cold Pawp Water from the can (a hydration drink for dogs), w…
- [TNT's Council Candidate Questionnaire -- Housing in our City](https://www.smdp.com/tnts-council-candidate-questionnaire-housing-in-our-city.md) - Neighbor! In the spring of 2021, the Southern California Association of Governments (“SCAG”) published a Regional Housing Needs Assessment (“RHNA”), which directed Santa Monica to plan and zone for the potential construction of nearly 9,000 new dwelling units during an eight year period ending in t…
- [Dirty Latte Co. opens first brick-and-mortar cafe at Water Garden](https://www.smdp.com/dirty-latte-co-opens-first-brick-and-mortar-cafe-at-water-garden.md) - Los Angeles-based specialty coffee brand Dirty Latte Co. has opened its first brick-and-mortar location. The 800-square-foot cafe is in the 26th Street lobby of the Water Garden office campus. Founder Guy Blanco launched Dirty Latte Co. in 2022 with a coffee cart. He wanted a coffee experience that…
- [SMMUSD superintendent outlines priorities at State of Our Schools event](https://www.smdp.com/smmusd-superintendent-outlines-priorities-at-state-of-our-schools-event.md) - The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District welcomed families, staff, community members and education partners to its State of Our Schools event at Santa Monica High School. The evening focused on the district’s progress, priorities and future. Superintendent Antonio Shelton delivered an addres…
- [SMC Celebrates Fall 2026 Santa Monica Review With Launch Party and Readings Oct. 25](https://www.smdp.com/smc-celebrates-fall-2026-santa-monica-review-with-launch-party-and-readings-oct-25.md) - Santa Monica College will celebrate the release of the fall 2026 Santa Monica Review with a launch party and readings by recent contributors Oct. 25. The event runs from 5 to 7 p.m. in The Edye at the SMC Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St. Tickets are a suggested $10 donation at smc.edu/tickets.…
- [St. Aidan's Harvest of Hope marks 20 years of helping others](https://www.smdp.com/st-aidans-harvest-of-hope-marks-20-years-of-helping-others.md) - St. Aidan's Episcopal Church will hold its 20th annual Harvest of Hope Charity Fundraiser on Oct. 24 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the church, 28211 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. Organizers said the event has persevered through COVID lockdowns, devastating fires and road closures. This year it reaches 20…
- [The Venice Whaler temporarily pauses alcohol sales](https://www.smdp.com/the-venice-whaler-temporarily-pauses-alcohol-sales.md) - The Venice Whaler, the beachfront bar and grill at the foot of Washington Boulevard, has temporarily stopped serving alcohol because of a paperwork error, owner Mike Dobson told SMDP on Sunday, Oct. 18. Dobson said the pause was caused by a technical error involving paperwork that was not submitted…
- [Malibu council rejects PCH undercrossing, seeks signal at Malibu Seafood](https://www.smdp.com/malibu-council-rejects-pch-undercrossing-seeks-signal-at-malibu-seafood.md) - The Malibu City Council on Monday rejected plans to tunnel pedestrians under Pacific Coast Highway near Malibu Seafood and directed staff instead to pursue a full traffic signal and crosswalk at street level. On a unanimous voice vote, the council told staff to ask the Los Angeles County Metropolit…
- [Santa Monica council authorizes Brew Works lease for former Rusty’s Pier site](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-council-authorizes-brew-works-lease-for-former-rustys-pier-site.md) - The Santa Monica City Council on Tuesday authorized a lease with Santa Monica Brew Works for the former Rusty’s Surf Ranch space on the Santa Monica Pier, moving to fill a site that has sat empty for nearly two years after an earlier deal collapsed over worker protections. The 7-0 vote allows City…
- [Santa Monica moves toward deal to park Zoox robotaxis at Main Library](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-moves-toward-deal-to-park-zoox-robotaxis-at-main-library.md) - Santa Monica is working toward an agreement that would let Zoox, the Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company, stage and store up to 150 of its robotaxis in city-owned parking facilities, including the Main Library parking structure. The City Council voted 6-0 Tuesday to authorize staff to continue…
- [Deadlines, City Limits, and Democracy](https://www.smdp.com/deadlines-city-limits-and-democracy.md) - Election season is upon us. Campaign signs are sprouting from every available patch of dirt, political mailers are colonizing kitchen counters, and everyone, it seems, has seen a political ad pop up on their phone during one of many late-night doomscrolling sessions. I’ve spent nearly 20 years work…
- [Santa Monica couple found dead in suspected murder-suicide, city's third this year](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-couple-found-dead-in-suspected-murder-suicide-citys-third-this-year.md) - A married couple was found dead Wednesday morning inside their Santa Monica home in what police believe was a murder-suicide. It is the third suspected murder-suicide in the city this year. The Santa Monica Police Department received a request for a welfare check at about 9:04 a.m. on Oct. 14 at a…
- [Malibu Moves Running Festival Adds More Medals and Rewards for October Event](https://www.smdp.com/malibu-moves-running-festival-adds-more-medals-and-rewards-for-october-event.md) - Malibu Moves, the only running event featuring a course within the city of Malibu, will return for a two-day running festival that starts and ends at Zuma Beach on Oct. 24 and 25. As the event marks its third year, organizers have announced three new ways for participants to bring home more medals:…
- [Santa Monica Fire Department joins regional agencies in launching AwareCA app](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-fire-department-joins-regional-agencies-in-launching-awareca-app.md) - The Santa Monica Fire Department has joined AwareCA, California’s statewide public safety information app, the department announced Oct. 14. The app gives residents another direct source of information from fire departments and other public safety agencies. The department is participating alongside…
- [Parsing the Santa Monica parcel tax](https://www.smdp.com/parsing-the-santa-monica-parcel-tax.md) - A funny thing happened on the way to balancing the city’s budget. Twelve million dollars annually given to the schools disappeared. There’s no need to send out a search party, because the funds fortuitously turned up as found money on the city’s balance sheet. But that doesn’t help the pillaged San…
- [Destination Dishes: Santa Monica's Culinary Bucket List](https://www.smdp.com/destination-dishes-santa-monicas-culinary-bucket-list.md) - Forget full menus—this week we’re ranking the legendary sandwiches, wood-fired showstoppers, and mouth-watering sweets that are the single items worth crossing town for. Santa Monica has no shortage of great restaurants. But sometimes you’re not looking for the best restaurant—you’re looking for th…
- [Prop 38 asks: Should California take on more debt to fund a single field of medical research?](https://www.smdp.com/prop-38-asks-should-california-take-on-more-debt-to-fund-a-single-field-of-medical-research.md) - Three decades ago, as the 20th century was winding down, a culture war erupted over the use of human embryos in researching stem cell cures for dreaded diseases. It was a subset of the nation’s never-ending conflict over abortion. After Republican George W. Bush won the presidency in 2000 his admin…
- [Santa Monica to study conservancy for Great Park at airport site](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-to-study-conservancy-for-great-park-at-airport-site.md) - The Santa Monica City Council on Tuesday directed city staff to study how a nonprofit conservancy could help build and sustain the Great Park planned for the Santa Monica Airport site, which is scheduled to close at the end of 2028. The council approved the item on a voice vote with no opposition o…
- [A year into Realignment Plan, Santa Monica beats budget forecast and turns to revitalization](https://www.smdp.com/a-year-into-realignment-plan-santa-monica-beats-budget-forecast-and-turns-to-revitalization.md) - Santa Monica finished its last fiscal year $7.3 million better than projected and is on track to balance its general fund operating budget by July 2027, city officials told the City Council on Tuesday in a one-year review of the city's Realignment Plan. The council took three separate votes on the…
- [Malibu fire spreads to 100 acres and triggers evacuations](https://www.smdp.com/malibu-fire-spreads-to-100-acres-and-triggers-evacuations.md) - Editor's Note: The Bryson Fire is at about 20 percent containment as of Friday morning. Several brush fires were burning in Southern California on Thursday evening, stoked by hot, windy weather that caused utility companies to shut off electricity for tens of thousands of people around the state. A…
- [SMMUSD readies generators at Malibu schools ahead of possible power shutoffs](https://www.smdp.com/smmusd-readies-generators-at-malibu-schools-ahead-of-possible-power-shutoffs.md) - With Southern California Edison warning of dangerous fire weather and possible power shutoffs through Friday, the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is preparing for potential impacts at three Malibu schools. Backup generators are on standby and ready to use if needed. Generators are ready…
- [SMC science lecture series to feature biotech executive, USC scientist](https://www.smdp.com/smc-science-lecture-series-to-feature-biotech-executive-usc-scientist.md) - Santa Monica College’s Distinguished Scientists Lecture Series will feature a biotech executive and a USC scientist this fall. Their talks will cover building a U.S. biotech subsidiary and advances in precision medicine. The free talks are designed for the general public and begin at 11:20 a.m. in…
- [Inaugural Brentwood Concours to bring more than 80 classic cars to San Vicente Boulevard](https://www.smdp.com/inaugural-brentwood-concours-to-bring-more-than-80-classic-cars-to-san-vicente-boulevard.md) - The Brentwood Concours, a new luxury and classic car show, will debut Saturday, Dec. 5, on San Vicente Boulevard, featuring more than 80 classic, vintage, exotic and collector automobiles. The free, public event will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on San Vicente Boulevard between Barrington and Darlingt…
- [Vote No on Measure ES: The City is Walking Away From Its Commitment to Our Schools](https://www.smdp.com/vote-no-on-measure-es-the-city-is-walking-away-from-its-commitment-to-our-schools.md) - As a longtime Santa Monica resident and homeowner, I urge you to vote NO on Measure ES on the November 3 ballot. The story behind Measure ES is plain and simple. The City Council and City Manager Oliver Chi are desperate for revenue. They found $12 million in the City budget, the City’s longstandin…
- [Immunotherapy gave me my life back. Proposition 38 can do the same for the next family](https://www.smdp.com/immunotherapy-gave-me-my-life-back-proposition-38-can-do-the-same-for-the-next-family.md) - When my daughter was six years old, she came home from school and said, “Daddy, I don't want you to die.” I was 45 years old, months into chemotherapy for lymphoma and she was getting used to seeing “Daddy resting” in bed. Until then, I'd been laser-focused, fighting my battle with stage 3 cancer w…
- [Around Town: DogFest, Divas & Delicious Discoveries](https://www.smdp.com/around-town-dogfest-divas-delicious-discoveries.md) - SMDP's Weekly Guide to Food & Entertainment Goings-On In & Around Town includes Main St.’s signature Day of the Dog Fest, skateboarding legends at Locals Night, opera under the stars, and plenty of delicious discoveries, and much more! 50 Years of Dogtown - Locals Night at the Pier: Santa Monica ce…
- [The Dirt](https://www.smdp.com/the-dirt.md) - I miss Bill Bauer, especially now as we enter the final weeks before the election when things are getting dirty. Bill was a political columnist for the Santa Monica Daily Press who laid bare the truth underlying the power struggle among the various political forces in our small city: SMRR, The Cham…
- [One area Democrats, GOP agree: California needs a larger rainy day fund](https://www.smdp.com/one-area-democrats-gop-agree-california-needs-a-larger-rainy-day-fund.md) - At a moment when Californians can’t agree on much, we’ve found common ground on something that matters: how the state saves for hard times. One of us is a Democrat. The other is a Republican. We are united about Proposition 2, because this measure isn’t about partisan politics. It’s about basic fis…
- [Airport park plan, free 'Carmen' and costumed canines highlight Santa Monica weekend](https://www.smdp.com/airport-park-plan-free-carmen-and-costumed-canines-highlight-santa-monica-weekend.md) - Santa Monica residents can help shape the future of the city's airport land, catch a free broadcast of one of opera's best-known works and watch costumed dogs take over Main Street this weekend, as three events spanning civic affairs, the arts and entertainment fill Saturday and Sunday. The city wi…
- [SMC Sustainability Week offers free workshop, film, compost tour Oct. 19-23](https://www.smdp.com/smc-sustainability-week-offers-free-workshop-film-compost-tour-oct-19-23.md) - The Santa Monica College Sustainability Center will host free events Oct. 19-23 for Sustainability Week 2026. They include a seed-starting workshop, a composting tour, a documentary screening and a career conference. Most events take place on SMC’s main campus, 1900 Pico Blvd. Sponsors include the…
- [Lincoln Middle School counselor Aimee Stauffer builds trust one conversation at a time](https://www.smdp.com/lincoln-middle-school-counselor-aimee-stauffer-builds-trust-one-conversation-at-a-time.md) - Some of the moments that matter most to Lincoln Middle School counselor Aimee Stauffer happen outside her office. They happen in the LMS WellSpace, at school events, during lunch, or when a student wants to share something as simple as a new pair of shoes or a birthday. For Stauffer, those everyday…
- [John Adams Middle School teacher honored by Teach Democracy for civic education work](https://www.smdp.com/john-adams-middle-school-teacher-honored-by-teach-democracy-for-civic-education-work.md) - Jorge Cierra, a social studies teacher and Spanish Immersion Department chair at John Adams Middle School, was recently recognized by Teach Democracy for his commitment to civic education. The honor also recognized his work helping students become informed, engaged members of their communities. Cie…
- [Santa Monica opens human services grants cycle; applications due Dec. 14](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-opens-human-services-grants-cycle-applications-due-dec-14.md) - The city of Santa Monica on Sept. 29 released a request for proposals for its Human Services Grants Program. The city is seeking applications for the fiscal year 2027-31 funding cycle. The city will provide about $10 million to selected agencies to address critical community needs and gaps in exist…
- [Taylor Swift did more for LA hotels than the world cup, but AirBnB may be the big winner](https://www.smdp.com/taylor-swift-did-more-for-la-hotels-than-the-world-cup-but-airbnb-may-be-the-big-winner.md) - The 2026 FIFA World Cup let Los Angeles hotels charge more, but it brought them almost no additional guests, and most hotels cut staff instead of hiring, according to a report from a research project of the Hotel Association of Los Angeles. The report was released in September by the Hospitality Ed…
- [Public financing of California’s electoral campaigns could curb power of money in politics](https://www.smdp.com/public-financing-of-californias-electoral-campaigns-could-curb-power-of-money-in-politics.md) - This year’s gubernatorial primary illustrated vividly that California needs better ways to fund political campaigns. Proposition 4, The California Fair Elections Act, is a crucial step in the right direction, allowing Californians the freedom to create systems of public financing of elections. In t…
- [Santa Ana winds, heat prompt possible power shutoffs in Malibu](https://www.smdp.com/santa-ana-winds-heat-prompt-possible-power-shutoffs-in-malibu.md) - Southern California Edison may cut power to parts of Malibu beginning Thursday as forecasters warn of hot, dry Santa Ana winds that could fuel extreme fire behavior, city officials said Tuesday. The utility told the city it may shut off power to Malibu's Cuthbert, Galahad, Maguire and Merlin circui…
- [Airport conversion project to unveil park master plan at Oct. 17 event](https://www.smdp.com/airport-conversion-project-to-unveil-park-master-plan-at-oct-17-event.md) - The Santa Monica Airport Conversion Project will unveil its Illustrative Master Plan for the future park at a community event from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, at Memorial Park Gymnasium. The event launches the fourth of five phases in the multiyear planning effort, which follows more than two ye…
- [Samohi, Malibu High climb in U.S. News best high schools rankings](https://www.smdp.com/samohi-malibu-high-climb-in-u-s-news-best-high-schools-rankings.md) - Santa Monica High School and Malibu High School were named among the nation’s best in the 2026-27 U.S. News & World Report Best High Schools rankings, which evaluated nearly 18,000 public schools. Samohi ranked No. 562 nationally, No. 82 in California and No. 34 in the Los Angeles metropolitan area…
- [Santa Monica Pier marks 50 years of Dogtown with free drive-in Oct. 15](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-pier-marks-50-years-of-dogtown-with-free-drive-in-oct-15.md) - The Santa Monica Pier will mark 50 years since the rise of Dogtown and the Z-Boys with a special edition of Locals’ Night from 3:30 to 10 p.m. Oct. 15. Pacific Park is presenting the free, all-ages event. It will feature a drive-in screening of “Dogtown and Z-Boys,” Stacy Peralta’s documentary abou…
- [Malibu to host Senior Resource Fair Oct. 15 at City Hall](https://www.smdp.com/malibu-to-host-senior-resource-fair-oct-15-at-city-hall.md) - Malibu seniors are invited to the city's fourth annual Senior Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, at City Hall. The free event, hosted by the city's Community Services Department, will connect seniors with local providers offering information on wellness services, home care, com…
- [Newsom signs Allen bill creating low-interest loans for wildfire home hardening](https://www.smdp.com/newsom-signs-allen-bill-creating-low-interest-loans-for-wildfire-home-hardening.md) - Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed SB 894, a bill by Sen. Ben Allen, D-Pacific Palisades, that creates a state-backed, low-interest loan program to help property owners pay for home hardening and defensible space improvements. The bill, called the Wildfire Mitigation Affordability Act, passed the Legisla…
- [Santa Monica named 'Most Business-Friendly City' finalist for second straight year](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-named-most-business-friendly-city-finalist-for-second-straight-year.md) - Santa Monica has been named a finalist for the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp.'s Eddy Awards for the second consecutive year, the city announced Oct. 6. The city is one of seven finalists for the "Most Business-Friendly City" award in the large cities category. It was recognized for s…
- [Santa Monica planners urge city to keep existing parks in airport conversion](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-planners-urge-city-to-keep-existing-parks-in-airport-conversion.md) - Santa Monica's Planning Commission is urging city staff to keep two existing parks in place as the city plans to turn its 192-acre airport into a vast public park, echoing cost concerns raised by another city advisory panel. In a study session Oct. 7, commissioners approved on a voice vote a recomm…
- [Proposed Pier lease offers brewery more city money, lower rent and weaker worker guarantees than failed deal](https://www.smdp.com/proposed-pier-lease-offers-brewery-more-city-money-lower-rent-and-weaker-worker-guarantees-than-failed-deal.md) - A proposed lease for the vacant restaurant space at 256 Santa Monica Pier would give Santa Monica Brew Works more city money for improvements and lower rent than the city offered the operator it chose for the site in April, while scaling back guarantees for workers who lost their jobs when Rusty's…
- [Meth addict cuts internet service for hundreds of Frontier subscribers over the weekend](https://www.smdp.com/meth-addict-cuts-internet-service-for-hundreds-of-frontier-subscribers-over-the-weekend.md) - A 48-year-old man was arrested Saturday after a resident reported seeing him pull wiring from a utility box in Santa Monica, cutting off internet service and television services for a swath of residents North of Montana, police said. Santa Monica police responded at 1:06 p.m. to the 100 block of Ma…
- [Santa Monica College to stage Orwell's 'Animal Farm' Oct. 16-25](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-college-to-stage-orwells-animal-farm-oct-16-25.md) - The Santa Monica College Theatre Arts Department will present "Animal Farm" Oct. 16-25 at the Theatre Arts Studio Stage on the SMC main campus, 1900 Pico Blvd. Adapted by Nelson Bond from George Orwell's novella, the play is a satire about the seduction of power in which farm animals overthrow thei…
- [Arc'teryx opens first climbing-focused store on Abbot Kinney](https://www.smdp.com/arcteryx-opens-first-climbing-focused-store-on-abbot-kinney.md) - Arc'teryx Equipment has opened a store on Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice that the company calls its first retail concept dedicated exclusively to climbing. The store at 1116 Abbot Kinney Blvd. opened Saturday, Oct. 3. It is the North Vancouver, Canada-based apparel and equipment company's fourth…
- [California will need more than a ‘kill switch’ to keep AI under control](https://www.smdp.com/california-will-need-more-than-a-kill-switch-to-keep-ai-under-control.md) - California just moved from talking about AI safety to building concrete oversight. Last month, Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered faster implementation of independent AI audits and development of a verified “kill switch” for frontier systems, explicitly citing recent AI incidents, including the Hugging Face…
- [French choreographer brings LA-inspired dance workshops to Santa Monica](https://www.smdp.com/french-choreographer-brings-la-inspired-dance-workshops-to-santa-monica.md) - French choreographer Elite Parker will bring three dance workshops inspired by Los Angeles film, television and hip-hop culture to Santa Monica in October. The series is the first U.S. stop in what she describes as a broader international development for her company. The workshops will be held at 1…
- [Pink wave to roll down LA coast as Boarding for Breast Cancer marks 30 years](https://www.smdp.com/pink-wave-to-roll-down-la-coast-as-boarding-for-breast-cancer-marks-30-years.md) - Update: The registration party/30th anniversary venue just got changed to The Deck in Hermosa Beach. Boarding for Breast Cancer will celebrate its 30th anniversary this month by sending hundreds of riders dressed in pink down the Southern California coast, with the nonprofit aiming to raise $100,00…
- [City leaders back plan to turn the Victorian into a membership club](https://www.smdp.com/city-leaders-back-plan-to-turn-the-victorian-into-a-membership-club.md) - City leaders are welcoming the planned conversion of the longtime Main Street restaurant and nightclub into a family-centered membership club, saying the deal keeps a historic city-owned building active while writing public benefits into its lease. The Victorian will close after its annual Hallowee…
- [Police seize ghost gun during traffic stop, arrest driver](https://www.smdp.com/police-seize-ghost-gun-during-traffic-stop-arrest-driver.md) - CRIME: Santa Monica police seize ghost gun with large-capacity magazine during Ocean Park Boulevard traffic stop. (Courtesy of SMPD) Police arrested a driver and seized an untraceable ghost gun fitted with a large-capacity magazine during a traffic stop in the 2800 block of Ocean Park Boulevard. Of…
- [In response to Susan Sheu’s guest commentary](https://www.smdp.com/in-response-to-susan-sheus-guest-commentary.md) - After reading the guest commentary from Ms. Susan Sheu, I’d first like to speak more generally about this trend of individuals and groups irresponsibly spreading misinformation meant to manipulate voters and influence political opinions, with little to no prior research or knowledge on certain topi…
- [Santa Monica's Realignment Plan cuts crime, narrows deficit in first year](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monicas-realignment-plan-cuts-crime-narrows-deficit-in-first-year.md) - A one-year update to the city’s Realignment Plan says a variety of actions in recent months has increased safety and improved the city’s finances. The report from City Manager Oliver Chi's office says the city needed $26.7 million in one-time reserves to close the 2025-26 fiscal year, $7.3 million…
- [Malibu declares local emergency ahead of forecast strong El Niño](https://www.smdp.com/malibu-declares-local-emergency-ahead-of-forecast-strong-el-nino.md) - The Malibu City Council has declared a citywide local emergency because of the threat of extreme weather associated with the strong El Niño forecast for 2026-27. The council approved the declaration Sept. 28, citing the risk of flooding, mudslides, landslides, debris flows, coastal erosion and coas…
- [State Parks awards emergency contract for Malibu Pier repairs](https://www.smdp.com/state-parks-awards-emergency-contract-for-malibu-pier-repairs.md) - California State Parks announced that repairs will begin later this month on Malibu Pier in Malibu Lagoon State Beach, following the recent award of an emergency contract. The work marks a major step toward safely reopening the end of the pier, which has been closed since January 2025 as a precauti…
- [New law aims to protect Californians from losing home insurance coverage](https://www.smdp.com/new-law-aims-to-protect-californians-from-losing-home-insurance-coverage.md) - A bill by state Sen. Ben Allen, D-Pacific Palisades, has been signed into law to help more Californians at risk of losing coverage on the private insurance market. SB 1301 requires insurers to explain why they are dropping a policyholder, including by identifying a specific risk to the property. In…
- [Bacio di Latte opens second Santa Monica gelato shop on Montana Avenue](https://www.smdp.com/bacio-di-latte-opens-second-santa-monica-gelato-shop-on-montana-avenue.md) - Italian gelato chain Bacio di Latte has opened its second Santa Monica shop and 30th U.S. location at 1510 Montana Ave. Founded in 2011 by Edoardo Tonolli on Rua Oscar Freire in São Paulo, Brazil, the company has more than 250 locations in Brazil and calls itself the world's largest artisanal gelat…
- [Stop Losing Cases to Missing Defendants with Fast Publication of Civil Court Notices Made Simple](https://www.smdp.com/publication-of-civil-court-notices-guide.md) - TL;DR When a defendant hides, relocates, or vanishes, your legal claim comes to an absolute halt. Obtaining a court order for the publication of civil court notices allows you to satisfy constitutional due process so your legal case moves forward smoothly. This complete guide demonstrates how to pu…
- [Oops, SMMUSD Did it Again: A Big Surplus Instead of a Big Deficit](https://www.smdp.com/oops-smmusd-did-it-again-a-big-surplus-instead-of-a-big-deficit.md) - At the May 19, 2026 Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) Board meeting, the District predicted a $9 million deficit for the 2025-26 school year ending in 2 months. On September 9th, they presented the 2025-26 unaudited actuals. The District ended up with an $8 million surplus of unr…
- [From scorching to soaked: LA weather swings as Rachel nears, tides rise](https://www.smdp.com/from-scorching-to-soaked-la-weather-swings-as-rachel-nears-tides-rise.md) - Southern California's extreme weather season is making a sharp turn, from a long, dangerous heat wave to the season's first widespread rain. Tropical Storm Rachel is churning toward the region, and forecasters are warning of coastal flooding, powerful surf and possible thunderstorms over the weeken…
- [Check Your 401(k) Before Casting Stones](https://www.smdp.com/check-your-401-k-before-casting-stones.md) - Susan Sheu asks whether voters should judge Doug Trussler by the companies he invested in. Fair enough. But the standard has to apply to everyone, including those who criticize him. If you own a standard S&P 500 index fund, as tens of millions of Americans do, you co-own these companies: Palantir b…
- [Halloween goes secondhand as swaps and thrifting take center stage](https://www.smdp.com/halloween-goes-secondhand-as-swaps-and-thrifting-take-center-stage-2.md) - As shoppers look for ways to celebrate Halloween without overspending or adding to the landfill, swapping, thrifting and do-it-yourself costumes are emerging as a theme of the season, and two upcoming events give local residents a chance to trade in last year's getup for something new to them. A Sa…
- [Journey to LA28 Olympic Torch Relay begins in Atlanta, with flame set to visit all 50 states](https://www.smdp.com/journey-to-la28-olympic-torch-relay-begins-in-atlanta-with-flame-set-to-visit-all-50-states.md) - The journey to the 2028 Olympic Torch Relay kicked off Sept. 29 in Atlanta, home of the 1996 Games and the last U.S. Summer Games, as LA28 prepares to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The relay will make history by traveling to all 50 states. Organizers said it will be one of the largest in O…
- [SMC Foundation's 'Launch the Future' raises $166,500 for STEM students](https://www.smdp.com/smc-foundations-launch-the-future-raises-166-500-for-stem-students.md) - The Santa Monica College Foundation raised $166,500 toward its $175,000 goal at "Launch the Future," a Sept. 26 celebration of STEM at Santa Monica College. The event drew more than 150 community leaders, philanthropists, educators, students and supporters. The money will help expand opportunities…
- [Around Town: Brats, Blues & Block Parties](https://www.smdp.com/around-town-brats-blues-block-parties.md) - SMDP's Weekly Guide to Food & Entertainment Goings-On In & Around Town includes a Off-the-Hook Pier Seafood Festival, Oktoberfest at the Miramar, Evan Funke back at Rustic Canyon, and much more! Friday Night Jazz Returns to SMC: Jazz fans have a couple of good reasons to head to Santa Monica Colleg…
- [Veteran broadcaster brings live interview series to the Santa Monica College quad](https://www.smdp.com/veteran-broadcaster-brings-live-interview-series-to-the-santa-monica-college-quad.md) - John Kerwin has built a broadcast career interviewing famous names. Now, he is turning his microphone toward a different kind of guest: his fellow students at Santa Monica College. Kerwin, a longtime Santa Monica resident enrolled at SMC as a Media Production student, will launch “Kerwin at SMC: Li…
- [Alcohol permit hearing signals Trader Joe's plans for former Rite Aid on Wilshire](https://www.smdp.com/alcohol-permit-hearing-signals-trader-joes-plans-for-former-rite-aid-on-wilshire.md) - Trader Joe's is scheduled to go before city officials next week seeking permission to sell alcohol at 1331 Wilshire Blvd., the clearest sign yet that the grocer plans to open a store in the former Rite Aid building it bought last year. The hearing is set for Oct. 13 when “Trader Joe’s Company” is s…
- [DA files murder charge in shooting of beloved Culver City bus driver](https://www.smdp.com/da-files-murder-charge-in-shooting-of-beloved-culver-city-bus-driver.md) - The man accused of shooting and killing Culver City Bus driver Bruce Rodriguez has been charged with murder and could face life in prison without the possibility of parole, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced Wednesday. Rodriguez drove a Culver CityBus for 12 years and was…
- [LA County opens investigation into FAIR Plan's handling of wildfire claims](https://www.smdp.com/la-county-opens-investigation-into-fair-plans-handling-of-wildfire-claims.md) - Los Angeles County has opened an investigation into how the California FAIR Plan handled claims from the January 2025 Palisades and Eaton fires, county officials announced Wednesday. The FAIR Plan is now the third insurer the county is scrutinizing over its treatment of fire survivors. County Couns…
- [Kidnapping suspect dies by suicide days before court case begins](https://www.smdp.com/kidnapping-suspect-dies-by-suicide-days-before-court-case-begins.md) - A local man suspected of kidnapping and rape killed himself at his home on Monday, the day before his court case was set to begin. Schecter, 24, of Santa Monica, was arrested at his residence on suspicion of rape by force, forcible oral copulation, robbery, extortion and battery following a monthsl…
- [Let's Bring Doug Trussler's Record to Light](https://www.smdp.com/lets-bring-doug-trusslers-record-to-light.md) - As Santa Monica homeowners for the last quarter century, my family and I have watched as our beautiful, funky beach community has become increasingly out of reach for working families, immigrants, students and young professionals like we were when we first moved here. Private equity, a federal gove…
- [Newsom signs Zbur bill setting path to Santa Monica coastal plan](https://www.smdp.com/newsom-signs-zbur-bill-setting-path-to-santa-monica-coastal-plan.md) - Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 1740, a new law gives Santa Monica a defined path to a certified Local Coastal Program after more than 50 years without one. The once controversial measure also creates a statewide fast track for bike, pedestrian and transit projects that improve access to…
- [SMC's Friday Night Jazz Series returns Oct. 16](https://www.smdp.com/smcs-friday-night-jazz-series-returns-oct-16.md) - The Santa Monica College Music Department will open its fall Friday Night Jazz Series on Oct. 16 with the Marvin "Smitty" Smith Octet. A benefit concert, "Some of My Best Musicians Are Friends," follows Nov. 13. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. in the Music Hall at the SMC Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th…
- [Santa Monica-Malibu school board seeks another waiver from state classroom salary rule](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-malibu-school-board-seeks-another-waiver-from-state-classroom-salary-rule.md) - The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District Board of Education voted unanimously Oct. 1 to ask county officials, once again, to excuse the district from a state rule requiring it to spend 55% of its expenditures on classroom salaries and benefits. The district fell short of the mark by 7.66%, o…
- [Santa Monica gallery pairs art and healing in breast cancer show](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-gallery-pairs-art-and-healing-in-breast-cancer-show.md) - A Santa Monica gallery that remade itself around patients living with illness will host a reception Oct. 17, opening with a free art meditation session, for a Ventura artist who painted her way through breast cancer. The "Jill's Journey" event at dnj Gallery, timed to Breast Cancer Awareness Month…
- [Heat wave prompts criticism and concern over conditions at local schools](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-students-protest-over-broken-ac-as-record-heat-strains-school-cooling-systems.md) - Students at Santa Monica High School have raised concerns over the lack of air conditioning at the school this week as a record-breaking heat wave pushed temperatures along the coast well above normal. Students organized an impromptu protest via social media after some said cooling systems in multi…
- [Santa Monica tribute to Gloria Steinem raises more than $80,000 for ERA](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-tribute-to-gloria-steinem-raises-more-than-80-000-for-era.md) - More than 130 people gathered in Santa Monica on Constitution Day to honor Gloria Steinem. The event raised more than $80,000 toward recognition of the Equal Rights Amendment as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The event, Unfinished: Cocktails & Conversation for Gender Equality, was amo…
- [SMC gallery to host free reception Oct. 13 for faculty exhibition 'Living Echoes'](https://www.smdp.com/smc-gallery-to-host-free-reception-oct-13-for-faculty-exhibition-living-echoes.md) - The SMC Pete & Susan Barrett Art Gallery will host a free reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, for "Living Echoes," an exhibition of work by Santa Monica College art faculty. The free exhibition opened Sept. 22 and runs through March 13, 2027. A free artist talk and panel is scheduled for 5…
- [Would closing California’s corporate tax loopholes actually generate new revenue?](https://www.smdp.com/would-closing-californias-corporate-tax-loopholes-actually-generate-new-revenue.md) - California unions whose members depend on the state budget for their salaries celebrated last week when Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation aimed at plugging corporate tax loopholes. “Giant, highly profitable, global corporations often pay less in California taxes than a social worker or a teacher…
- [Deja vu all over again](https://www.smdp.com/deja-vu-all-over-again.md) - Close the doors and batten the hatches, because El Niño isn’t the only tempest on the horizon. Senate Bill 79 (SB 79) and its threat of upzoned neighborhoods is barreling towards us. That was the message from the last City Council meeting. Residents from the Pico neighborhood lined up to plead for…
- [City records show a plan to convert the Victorian into a members club](https://www.smdp.com/city-records-show-a-plan-to-convert-the-victorian-into-a-members-club.md) - The Victorian, which announced it would close Monday, is set to be converted into a members club with a pool, spa and fitness center, according to city records. The City Council voted 7-0 on March 24 to approve transferring the lease for the city-owned property at 2640 Main St. to a new company, Th…
- [Off the Hook seafood festival returns to Santa Monica Pier, marks Route 66 centennial](https://www.smdp.com/off-the-hook-seafood-festival-returns-to-santa-monica-pier-marks-route-66-centennial.md) - More than 25 Santa Monica restaurants and chefs will serve oysters, lobster, caviar and other seafood on the Santa Monica Pier on Sunday, Oct. 11, when the Off the Hook Santa Monica Seafood Festival returns for its eighth year with a salute to the 100th anniversary of Route 66. The festival, held i…
- [The Victorian to close after 20 years on Main Street](https://www.smdp.com/the-victorian-to-close-after-20-years-on-main-street.md) - The Victorian, the restaurant and nightlife venue located in a historical Victorian-style house on Main Street, is closing after 20 years. The venue announced the news on Instagram on October 5th at approximately 4:30 p.m. "After 20 incredible years, The Victorian is closing its doors," the post re…
- [Postal Service releases recommended 2026 holiday shipping dates](https://www.smdp.com/postal-service-releases-recommended-2026-holiday-shipping-dates.md) - The U.S. Postal Service has announced its recommended mailing and shipping dates for delivery by Dec. 25. In the contiguous United States, the Postal Service recommends sending mail and packages by the following dates: USPS Ground Advantage and First-Class Mail: Dec. 17 Priority Mail: Dec. 18 Prior…
- [Santa Monica Brew Works moves 12th anniversary celebration to Oct. 10](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-brew-works-moves-12th-anniversary-celebration-to-oct-10.md) - Santa Monica Brew Works has moved its 12th anniversary celebration to Oct. 10 because the Dodgers have a playoff game on Oct. 3, the original date. The brewery said it has an obligation to uphold its title as "Santa Monica's Most Loved Place to Catch a Game." The celebration will be held at the bre…
- [Santa Monica market tragedy survivor's memoir 'The Peach' due Oct. 15](https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-market-tragedy-survivors-memoir-the-peach-due-oct-15.md) - "The Peach: A Memoir of Trauma, Survival, and Forgiveness" by Melissa H. Cronin will be released Oct. 15 by Mnemosyne Books, a new imprint of Saint Julian Press. The memoir returns to an ordinary summer morning in July 2003, when Cronin was reaching for a ripe peach at the Santa Monica Farmers' Mar…
- [Free Continuum festival to honor Belmar history and Black Santa Monica Oct. 11](https://www.smdp.com/free-continuum-festival-to-honor-belmar-history-and-black-santa-monica-oct-11.md) - Historic Belmar Park will host Continuum: Honoring Belmar History & Black Santa Monica from noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 11. The free, all-ages celebration will feature KCRW DJs, live music, a vendor village curated by Black Market Flea and discussions with award-winning journalist Sam Sanders. The event hi…
- [Candidate profile: Phil Brock](https://www.smdp.com/candidate-profile-phil-brock.md) - Phil Brock is a defender of "neighborhood character" and a vocal critic of what he describes as "Sacramento overreach." As a former Mayor, he focuses on protecting the city's local control and restoring its historic charm. Position summaries Homelessness: Brock advocates for a "treatment-first" app…
- [Candidate profile: Wade Kelley](https://www.smdp.com/candidate-profile-wade-kelley.md) - Wade Kelley represents a homeless community activist perspective, running on a platform of human rights and anti-capitalist critique. He seeks to provide a voice for the most marginalized residents of Santa Monica. Position summaries Homelessness: Kelley advocates for the creation of "tiny home vil…
- [Candidate profile Lindsay Davis](https://www.smdp.com/candidate-profile-lindsay-davis.md) - Lindsay Davis says she brings a "holistic" and "love-based" approach to the race, focusing on ecological development and systemic healing. Her platform seeks to transform Santa Monica into a model of regenerative governance. Position summaries Homelessness: Davis advocates for "love-based" pilot pr…
- [Candidate profile: Brett Morrow](https://www.smdp.com/candidate-profile-brett-morrow.md) - Brett Morrow is a public health professional and current Chair of the Human Services Commission, running on an "equity-driven" platform. His campaign emphasizes the needs of working families and labor, seeking to leverage his administrative experience to improve affordability. Position summaries: H…

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