Venice Healer Daisy anmd her group do a Freestyle Rap Concert on the Venice Boardwalk.

Click Here for more Stories about Venice Healer Daisy

How to Get an E-Bike Voucher

The application for Santa Monica’s E-bike Voucher Program is open!

The City of Santa Monica’s E-bike Voucher Program will award approximately 90 vouchers to qualified Santa Monica residents to cover the cost of an e-bike, and safety equipment like a helmet, lights, and/or a bike lock. Each voucher is worth up to $2,000 to be used at the time of purchase and will be awarded through a series of lotteries. To be eligible to receive a voucher, residents must meet defined income criteria. Vouchers will be redeemable at several participating Santa Monica shops.

It is important to note that Santa Monica’s E-bike Voucher Program is not a rebate program. Residents must apply and be awarded a voucher prior to purchasing their e-bike. No reimbursement for the purchase of an e-bike will be made prior to being awarded a voucher.

Increasing equity in access to e-bikes and their benefits is a key pillar of this program. Distinct from the City’s Electrify Santa Monica Rebate Program, the E-Bike Voucher program aims to serve low- and moderate-income households and waives any upfront costs that typically exclude such communities from taking advantage of rebate programs. If selected to receive an e-bike voucher, recipients will not need to pay any upfront costs to the bike shop or wait for reimbursement. The voucher will directly cover the cost of the e-bike and accompanying equipment (up to $2,000) at the time of sale.

Applications will remain open until all funds are exhausted. Due to limited funding, vouchers will be awarded through a lottery system, NOT first-come-first-served basis. All applicants, regardless of the date they apply, will be entered into a lottery to receive an e-bike voucher.

To learn more about the voucher process, Click Here.

Just 2 weeks ago the Palm Springs Surf Club reopened after they shut down back in January due so some magical "lightning strike" that lead to a lot of pissed of customers because of the shady manner in how they didn't inform anyone. You can read about that drama here.

This time, they actually admitted they had to shut down, here's the email they sent out to those that had sessions booked:



"Your booking has been cancelled

Dear valued customers,

We regret to inform you that, due to unforeseen circumstances, we are temporarily suspending all surf sessions at this time. We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and we sincerely apologize.

Refunds: Rest assured that full refunds will be processed immediately.

Stay Connected: We appreciate your understanding during this challenging period. Our team is actively working to resolve the situation, and we hope to resume surf sessions as soon as possible. In the meantime, please stay connected with us through our website and social media channels for further updates. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon.
-The Palm Springs Surf Club

An update from the Palm Springs Surf Club

First, we want to apologize to the people who wanted to come out and surf. We know many of you have scheduled trips to come surf and we have disappointed you. Again, we are sorry. If you have a surf session booked with us, you will receive a cancellation email along with a full refund. The goal of this business is to serve up great waves, delicious food and drinks, fun music, and good times. Please know we are trying our hardest to bring the magic of surfing to the desert of Palm Springs.

Manufacturing Waves is Difficult

When you talk with the executives at the other wave pool clubs in the USA and hear their stories, we appreciate and respect the hard work and incredible journey those teams traveled to get their waves operational. Modern wave pool technology is an emerging field that is young and complex.

Our Status
Our surf wave is down but the rest of the park remains open. We expect to be back serving up waves again in the very near future. We will keep you updated on our progress in the coming weeks. Our restaurant, Amala, is fully operational, along with our water slides, resort pool, and lazy river. Additionally, we're thrilled to announce exciting performances for the upcoming Stagecoach weekend. For more details, please visit our website

The Good

We have many committed employees who are pouring themselves into making Palm Springs Surf Club awesome. We have amazing customers and we feel your energy. It's what motivates us.

Thank you for your patience, support and enthusiasm.
-Vinny Smith
Ownership and Leadership Team
You've been refunded"

They also made announcement on their Instagram account, but they turned off comments (which is pretty shady).

SKATESIDE FEST: A FREE FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT FOR ALL AGES AT BILL BOTT'S PARK IN CULVER CITY

Saturday, May 18 · 10am - 6pm
9910 Jefferson Boulevard Culver City, CA 90232


This event will be enjoyable for both skaters and non skaters of all ages. Come celebrate the joy of skateborading and rollerskating at SKATESIDE FEST with lots of family-centered activities, creativity, music and community spirit! This event has something for everyone.

Highlights Include:

- Beginner Skateboard Lessons: Ages 5 + Ticket necessary to particpate. Rental equipment available on a first come first serve basis.Ticket necessary to partipate.
- Beginner Roller Skate Lessons: Ages 5 + Ticket necessary to partipate. Rental equipment available on a first come first serve basis.
- Art Activities: Get creative with skate-themed art and craft stations.
- Contests and Competitions: Showcase your skills in our skateboarding and roller skating contests. Categories will be available for different age groups and abilities with tons of prizes to be won!
-Family Fun Zone presented by Bones Love Milk: Engage in a variety of fun games and activities suitable for the whole family. There’s plenty of fun to keep everyone entertained throughout the day.
- Raffles and Giveaways: Enter our festival raffle for a chance to win exciting prizes including new skateboards, roller skates, gear, toys, exclusive Skateside merchandise & more. Plus, enjoy spontaneous giveaways throughout the day!
- Local Food and Vendors: Refuel with delicious bites from local food trucks and browse vendor stalls offering unique goods and skate-related products.
- Live Music and Entertainment: Enjoy live performances and DJs that will keep the festival vibes going all day long.

Tickets:

- VIP Passes Available for purchase: Gain exclusive access to skip lines, additional activities, gifts and more with a VIP pass!

More info:

- Parking: Street parking available on site.
- Safety Gear: Rent Helmets and safety gear for your lessons. Limited supplies available for rent.

Mark your calendars and bring your crew for a day of fun. Whether you're a pro skater or just love watching, there's something for everyone at SKATESIDE FEST. Don't miss out on this rad event!

Prepare for a day of fun, laughter, and community. Bring your friends and family to SKATESIDE FEST and make memories that will last a lifetime! Skate on!

For more info and to reserve a spot, Click Here.

Giant inflatable water slide. Free swim trunks. Need we say more?

Chubbies is taking over the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday, April 27th to bring you the first annual CHUBBIES SPLASHDOWN.

Chubbies is setting up a giant inflatable water slide on the Santa Monica Pier and those brave enough to slide down it will receive a FREE pair of Chubbies swim trunks .*

If water slides aren’t your thing (weird but okay), we’ve still got TONS to do and see, including:

Live DJ
Free food & drinks
A giant hammer carnival game
360 photobooth
Swag giveaways
Custom tote bag station
…and so much more. We may have outdone ourselves here.

The party goes from 12:00pm to 6:00pm. April 27. All ages welcome. SEE YOU THERE!

*While supplies last.

For more info and to reserve a spot, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Registration for the city of Santa Monica’s Summer programs including skate classes and skate camps at The Cove Skatepark opens April 24 for Santa Monica residents and May 1 for non-residents. Secure your spot and sign up now!

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Help Save Patrick's Roadhouse: A California Icon

Located on the corner of Entrada and Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, California, Patrick's Roadhouse has been a beloved landmark for over five decades. However, due to recent circumstances, this iconic establishment is at risk of permanent closure.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help save the place:

Why We Need Your Help:
Patrick's Roadhouse was forced to shut its doors after 51 years due to falling behind on rent payments. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they struggled to stay afloat with limited revenue from takeout orders. Despite their efforts to support the community by providing meals to frontline workers and students, they found themselves unable to meet the demands of accumulated rent when the deferral period ended and the large lump sum recently came due. That said, the business has operated profitably for nearly a half century and we want to see it continue on, making great food and great memories for all who visit Patricks Roadhouse!.

About Patrick's Roadhouse:
Patrick's Roadhouse isn't just a restaurant; it's a cultural institution. With its quirky decor featuring dinosaurs, Native American and Albert Einstein statues, and unique rooftop sculptures, Patrick's Roadhouse has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Over the years, it has earned numerous accolades, including "Best Diner in California", "Best Banana Cream Pie in the USA" and this year it was awarded “Best Diner in the USA”, It has even been featured on #2 episodes of Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives." Established in 1973, this iconic diner has been a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike. Known for its retro decor, hearty comfort food, and welcoming atmosphere, Patrick's Roadhouse has become a staple in the community over the years. The restaurant's founder, Bill Fischler, envisioned a place where people could gather for delicious meals and good company. Patrick's Roadhouse quickly became a popular destination for those seeking a taste of nostalgia and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Throughout its history, Patrick's Roadhouse has welcomed a diverse clientele, including numerous political luminaries, countless film, television, and music celebrities, surfers, families, and of course tourists from all over the world.

Our Plan:
We are working closely with Anthony Fischler, the owner of Patrick's Roadhouse, and his legal team to secure a new long-term lease. Our goal is to raise $250,000, with $200,000 allocated for back rent and $50,000 for immediate building improvements. These improvements will help rejuvenate the establishment after 52 years and ensure its continued success and immediate reopening. We plan to accomplish all of the financial requirements through all of the generous donations stemming from this GoFundMe page as well as through a group of private angel investors and longtime customers of Patricks Roadhouse. Again, no proceeds will be taken or utilized unless an adequate lease is provided and all the proceeds ($250,000.00) are accumulated.

How You Can Help:
Every contribution counts, no matter how small. Your donation will not only help us save Patrick's Roadhouse but it will also help to preserve a piece of Santa Monica's history. Additionally, we have some big-name and famous customers who have pledged their support, and we hope you will join them in contributing to this cause.

What Happens if We Don't Reach Our Goal:
We understand that not everyone can contribute financially, and that's okay. Your moral support and sharing of this campaign are equally valuable. *Please note: If we don't reach our fundraising goal and secure a new lease, all funds raised will be returned to donors less fees charged by GoFundMe.

For more info and to donate, Click Here.

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"In an unusual spectacle, Venice Beach witnesses were treated to the sight of three individuals dressed as gorillas on horseback on April 22, 2024. The striking display is part of a promotional event for the upcoming film "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," the latest entry in the iconic "Planet of the Apes" franchise, set to premiere on May 10, 2024."

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

Queen Of The Point - Malibu 2024, the crown jewel in the celebration of women's longboarding. This event, set against the iconic waves of Malibu's First Point, is not just a competition; it's a movement, elevating female surfers in a sport where their presence continues to inspire and grow.

Queen Of The Point, the distinguished all-ladies longboard surfing competition, is excited to announce its return to the legendary First Point Malibu from June 28 to 30, 2024. Established in response to the need for a more prominent platform for women in the male-dominated sport of surfing, QOTP stands as a testament to empowerment, skill, and community within women’s surfing.

As the fastest growing population of surfers, female longboarders are not only taking over lineups, but they represent the beauty, flow, and art of the sport.

The mission of QOTP is to acknowledge and show respect to the women who came before, to give a platform for the current class, and to encourage girls of the future to embrace longboard surfing.



The event includes AMATEUR divisions.

Registration Details

Early registration will available to 2024 members on Monday, April 1, 2024.
Registration to non-members will open on Monday, April 29, 2024.
Pro division will be invite only. Please contact for inquiries.
Cancellations are non-refundable unless otherwise noted.

To register Click Here

Empowering Female Surfers

Founded in 2021 amidst challenges, QOTP’s mission has been unwavering: to elevate female surfers and inspire future generations. By highlighting the grace, athleticism, and spirit of female surfers, QOTP aims to ensure women’s significant presence in surfing. The event is open to both amateur and professional surfers, fostering inclusivity and the joy of surfing.

A Weekend of Surfing Excellence

The event kicks off with an opening party on Friday evening, setting the stage for a weekend filled with exceptional surfing. Competitors will showcase their talents on Saturday and Sunday at First Point Malibu, known for its perfect longboarding waves. Participants are required to ride longboards at least 9 feet long, competing in a pro division with a prize purse and several amateur divisions based on age. The weekend will culminate in a closing ceremony on Sunday evening, with the location to be announced.

Overcoming Challenges

The journey of QOTP has been marked by the challenge of securing sponsorships to cover event necessities. Despite these hurdles, the dedication to creating a platform for female surfers has never wavered, with the series looking to expand and evolve. The support of partners and sponsors remains crucial to the success and sustainability of the event.

For more info and to register, Click Here

*Subject to change without notice

Click Here for more Stories about the Venice Safe Team

Mike, aka German in Venice, vlogs about daily life in Venice Beach, and the nearby communities.

"Today there was a car show on the Santa Monica Pier lots of old-timers, classic cars you name it. Live bands were playing and we enjoyed the beautiful sunset. It was an incredible day."

Click Here for more Stories about Venice Healer Daisy

Click Here for more Stories about Venice Healer Daisy

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"This Thursday, April 18, 2024, the Santa Monica Pier turned up the heat with the Local's Night Car Show, turning the iconic spot into a buzzing hive of classic car mania. As part of the pier's hype Locals Night series, this event was tailor-made by and for Santa Monicans, dishing out a killer mix of activities that had everyone from toddlers to grandparents vibing."

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

Caltrans estimates the massive landslide at postmile 1.8 on Topanga Canyon Blvd (Route 27) in Topanga Canyon will be cleared by fall 2024 if all things go well.

Water continues to seep out from under dirt, mud and rocks, indicating mass may move. The last rainstorm (April 13 - 14) further saturated the unstable hillside.

• Due to present geological conditions and instability of the slope, material must be removed from the top down. Removing the "toe" of the slope will bring down the unstable earth and large boulders above as water is still percolating under the surface.

• A boulder that is about 10 feet high that is visible from the south side of the landslide is a safety concern. A crack has formed behind it that is about 5 to 10 feet wide, with the weight of the hillside pushing down on the boulder. A rough estimate of the landslide - just the visible face — is about 80,000 cubic yards and 9.2 million pounds. This is enough material to fill 5,500 dump trucks.

• SR-27 is closed from Grand View Drive to SR-1 (PCH). Temporary signal lights have been installed at Tuna Canyon Road and State Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway). The signal provides a measure of safety for Topanga Canyon residents who need to access southbound PCH while SR-27 is closed.

• A major landslide occurred adjacent to the current landslide in the 1940s. It's unknown how long the roadway was closed at that time. The landslide that occurred March 9, 2024, is twice as large - the visible face is about 300 feet above the roadway but extends about 200 feet beyond that point into the brush.

Caltrans is working with the county and elected officials to mitigate impacts to the community. The public can submit questions to Topanga@dot.ca.gov.

The landslide is about 9.2 million pounds.

This is the Pup Cup division of the Skate Contest from the Venice Beach Games.

Check out the photos from this contest, Click Here

Join us at Point Dume beach for Earth Day weekend! We will be collecting trash alongside our local partners, The Bay Foundation, as they work on their ongoing living shoreline dune restoration project.

All cleanup equipment is provided- including gloves, grabbers, reusable trash bags, sunscreen, and a water refill station- just remember to bring a reusable water bottle!

The Bay Foundation’s mission is to restore and enhance Santa Monica Bay through actions and partnerships that improve water quality, conserve and rehabilitate natural resources, and protect the Bay’s benefits and values.

Sunday, April 21
10:00AM-12:00PM

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Join us at Venice Pier (southside) on April 22nd from 4pm-6pm! We will be joined by our sponsor, Cabinet Health, as they make a stop in Venice on their Sustainable Swap Tour!

All cleanup equipment is provided- including gloves, grabbers, reusable trash bags, sunscreen, and a water refill station- just remember to bring a reusable water bottle!

Along with joining an active and vibrant community of volunteers, you will gain some insight into what we do at the Surfrider Foundation at our LA Chapter and at national level, collect trash from the beach, weigh your findings, and sort/record items found for our trash database.

Monday, April 22
4-6pm

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Join us for a parking lot celebration behind the Surfrider LA office in Santa Monica on Wednesday, April 24th from 6:30 pm- 8:30pm. We will have our program leads from all of our SFLA programs tabling:

Blue Water Task Force
Ocean Friendly Gardens
One Watershed
Ocean Friendly Restaurants
Coast & Climate

Come learn how you can become a core volunteer with one of our programs!

Some other things to look forward to:

* A book swap! Bring your favorite climate/ocean related book to swap or donate to Surfrider LA's growing library.
* A giveaway! Show a screenshot demonstrating that you are a Surfrider LA monthly donor during our Earth Month Celebration to be entered to win.
* A call for artists! Surfrider is turning 40 this year! We will be hosting a design competition for our 40-year t-shirt design. Come to the meeting to learn more.
* Live music and celebration!

You won't want to miss this one!

Wed, Apr 24, 2024
6:30PM-8:00PM

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Join us at Venice Pier (northside) from 10am-12pm! We will be connecting with our environmentally-minded community to collect trash from our beloved California shorelines. All cleanup equipment is provided- including gloves, grabbers, reusable trash bags, sunscreen, and a water refill station- just remember to bring a reusable water bottle!

Sun, Apr 28, 2024
10:00AM-12:00PM PDT

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Get ready for some adrenaline-pumping action at the Spyder X Carver Pump track event - it's gonna be epic!

All ages, all skates, and all inclusive! Get ready for the first skate contest over at the Inglewood Pump Track presented by Carver and Spyder boards. They will have demos of all the latest boards, so if you don’t have a board and want to compete they'll take care of you!

There's going to be tons of prizes and the winner for one of the divisions will win a brand new Super73 E-bike.

Whether you're a beginner or a pro, this event is perfect for anyone looking to have a blast on two wheels. Don't miss out on the chance to meet fellow riders, test your limits, and maybe even pick up some new tricks. See you there!

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.