President Donald Trump signed a New Year's Eve proclamation delaying increased tariffs on upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets and vanities for a year, citing ongoing trade talks
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Wildland firefighters across California are willing to wear respiratory protection despite concerns about mobility and safety, UCLA researchers found. The study comes as firefighters face increasing exposure to carcinogens and toxins from wildfires affecting the Los Angeles region.
Bank of America has committed $10 million in zero-interest loans to Community Development Financial Institutions supporting housing, nonprofit facilities and small business recovery from the Eaton and Palisades fires across Los Angeles.
Santa Monica offers numerous New Year's Eve options from family-friendly countdowns to upscale dining and dance parties. Plus, don't miss the historic Route 66 Centennial Kickoff on January 3 at the Santa Monica Pier.
🎉Wishing all our readers a very happy New Year! Thank you for all your support. We have plenty in store for 2026. Stay tuned.
Front & Center
Controversial developer defaults
Caltrans will close a 3.6-mile stretch of Topanga Canyon Boulevard between Pacific Coast Highway and Grand View Drive starting at 5 p.m. Wednesday in advance of predicted rainstorms and potential debris flows.
Santa Monica's December 2025 featured significant developments including controversial City Council decisions, the start of Pier Bridge construction, approval of Olympic beach events, and shifting positions on housing development and abuse litigation.
Santa Monica ordered Waymo to halt overnight operations after noise complaints, while Malibu approved $1.6M for PCH safety improvements. The month also saw new businesses announced and LA was named the 'Rattiest City' in America.
Santa Monica City Council unanimously approved City Manager Oliver Chi's comprehensive revitalization plan addressing a projected $29.6 million budget deficit and operational inefficiency. The multi-year strategy reorganizes departments and deploys $60 million in reserves for immediate investments.
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District has appointed Crystal Gonzalez as transportation supervisor, effective Dec. 1. With over 10 years of experience, Gonzalez previously worked at Antelope Valley Schools Transportation Agency as a driver and dispatcher.
