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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.

Venice's Glen Walsh is thrilled to announce the documentary ‘Out in the Lineup’ is celebrating its 10 year anniversary with a screening at the Dana Point Film Festival on Saturday, May 4 at 1pm!

"Can’t believe it’s been 10 years since I music supervised and co produced this ground breaking documentary about LGBTQ surfers. So much progress has been made , of course we will have a ways to go towards equality and acceptance! Come see the film that launched a movement! Would love to see you all there with Riley Herman and mysel are doing a Q&A after! Or we will just surf!"

Time: Sat, May 4th, 1:00 PM @
Location: Dana Point Women's Club

For more info, and to get tickets, Click Here.


Originally released in 2014, and featured in film festivals around the world, ‘Out in the Lineup’ is a documentary following two gay surfers as they travel the world and learn why gay men and women surfers find it impossible to get sponsorships, or find acceptance in a sport which is supposed to be renown for it's laid back, free-spirited culture.



Join David and Thomas from the east coast of Australia to Hawaii, California, Mexico and the Galapagos Islands as they meet and surf with people from all corners of the surfing community. There’s some amazing stories, and beautiful surfing – contradicting a comment from a pro surf spectator that “gays just aren’t strong enough to paddle a surfboard”. There’s an openly gay three-time world champion, an award winning big wave rider, and former US Congressman and his surfer husband, along with everyday surfers, gay and straight coming together to help build acceptance. The story even inspired a current national champion surfer to come out and share his story – an amazing finale to the film.

Throughout their travels David and Thomas hear stories of fear, isolation and self-doubt, but are also inspired by tales of hope, self-empowerment and transformation. They witness the conflicts created by the marketing image of surfers (straight white males and women in tiny bikinis), and how it inhibits personal expression in a sport that’s supposed to be so free. Numerous attempts to get comments from the professional surfing associations, or the mega-corporations that sell billions of dollars of merchandise built on the surfing stereotypes were unsuccessful, as the film documents.



Why are homophobic slurs so common in the lineup? When homosexuality is now being accepted in pro sports including basketball, football and soccer – why is the surf industry unwilling to make any comment at all? How do gay surfers reconcile their identities as athletes when role models are invisible?

These topics and others are revealed as the journey of David and Thomas unfolds. They, along with the 5,000+ members of GaySurfers.net, their friends, families and communities hope this film can help create change in surf culture, looking to the surfing’s grassroots values of freedom of spirit, open-mindedness and love for the ocean.



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

Some updated info on the Marina del Rey rooftop Shooter that was in a standoff Saturday night with SWAT:

Victoryloc Nguyen was smiling today (Tuesday) in court as he was charged with multiple counts, including attempted murder of a peace officer. If convicted as charged, Nguyen will face life in prison.

So looks like there will be an open vendor spot at the Mar Vista Famrers' Market. That's where he ran a food booth called Good Morning Vietnam.

Here is the official statement from the District Attorney:

Victoryloc Nguyen is charged with carrying out an unprovoked shooting rampage throughout a multi-building Marina del Rey Apartment complex

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón today announced charges against Victoryloc Nguyen for carrying out an unprovoked shooting rampage throughout the grounds of a multi-building apartment complex in Marina del Rey on April 13.

“I am deeply outraged by the senseless shooting rampage carried out by Mr. Nguyen and I am thankful that no one was injured,” District Attorney Gascón said. “Innocent civilians and law enforcement officers were callously targeted without provocation. Our Office’s Bureau of Victim Services remains readily available to assist anyone who was impacted by this horrific act. I am grateful to the law enforcement officers who responded to this call, helped protect the public, and de-escalated the situation which resulted in Mr. Nguyen’s surrender – all without firing a single shot.”

“This individual jeopardized many lives and terrorized an apartment community,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Central Patrol Division Chief Bobby Wyche. “Our deputy personnel, along with other local law enforcement agencies, were able to quickly respond, locate, and arrest the suspect without firing a single shot. We are extremely grateful that nobody was injured during this incident and that he will be held accountable for his reckless actions.”

Victoryloc Vinh Nguyen (dob 08/29/82) is charged withtwo counts of willful, deliberate, attempted murder of a peace officer; one count of attempted murder – willful, deliberate and premediated on a civilian; 10 counts of assault with a machine gun or assault weapon upon a peace officer; four counts of assault with a machine gun or assault weapon upon a civilian; one count of shooting at an inhabited dwelling; and one count of first-degree residential burglary.

Nguyen pleaded not guilty to all charges today. A preliminary hearing setting is scheduled May 13 in Dept. 31 at the Airport Courthouse.

On April 13 at approximately 10:30 p.m., Nguyen allegedly went on a shooting rampage throughout a Marina del Rey apartment complex where he lives. Nguyen was wearing a tactical vest and was armed with two assault weapons and a handgun. He also carried multiple loaded magazines for the various weapons.

Nguyen allegedly fired more than 90 rounds at Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputies and residents, from numerous locations throughout the complex over a three-hour period.

No one was injured during the shootings.

The court has set bail at $5.275 million. If convicted as charged, Nguyen will face life in prison.

CicLAvia is a non-profit organization that has been opening streets throughout LA County since 2010. Come experience car-free open streets at the 51st event, CicLAvia—Venice Blvd.

Date: Sunday, April 21, 2024 / Domingo 21 de abril 2024
Time: 9am - 4pm
Location: Connecting Palms, Mar Vista, and Venice



Enjoy the pop-up park for the day in your favorite people-powered way, whether that's walking, jogging, biking, roller skating, skating, or simply spectating! All ages and abilities are welcome.



For more info, Click Here.

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

In this episode of We Are Venice, we get to know Toke (@potlord). Surfer, Youtuber, livestreamer, and much more....

We Are Venice showcases the people and culture of Venice Beach, California and will inspire you to be the best version of yourself. This is a series of premium documentary profile pieces on Venice’s most important and influential individuals.

A business awards ceremony followed by a networking hour with sustainable business exhibitors, food & libations

Announcing the 28th Annual Sustainable Quality Awards (SQA) Event! Join us on Wednesday, May 1st at the beautiful Annenberg Community Beach House for an evening celebrating business sustainability and excellence. Come network with like-minded individuals, enjoy delicious food, and applaud the winners of this prestigious award. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be inspired and connect with leaders in sustainable practices. Doors open 4:30 PM. Registration required below. See you there!

SQA Grand Prize

Patagonia Santa Monica

SQA Excellence Awards

Yoga-urt: Excellence in Economic Development & Stewardship of the Environment

Angeles Investment Advisors: Excellence in Economic Development

Physical Therapyworks: Excellence in Social Responsibility

AVOCADO GREEN MATTRESS: Excellence in Stewardship of the Environment

HGA: Excellence in Stewardship of the Environment

Wednesday, May 1 · 4:30 - 7pm

General Admission FREE - includes food and beverages

Annenberg Community Beach House 415 East Pacific Coast Highway Santa Monica, CA 90402

For more info and register for the event, Click Here.

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

Some info gathered from various sources on the person who brutally assault 2 women in the Venice Canals a week ago:

His full name is Anthony Francisco Jones, 29 years old and his last address is listed as Las Vegas, NV. It appears they are not willing to release his mugshot.







Booking info from LASD:




Here is the DA's statement:

Anthony Francisco Jones is charged with allegedly sexually assaulting two women in the Venice Canals neighborhood "Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón today announced charges against Anthony Francisco Jones for allegedly sexually assaulting two women in the Venice Canals neighborhood on April 6.

“We are deeply outraged and appalled by these incomprehensible brutal sexual assaults committed against these two innocent survivors,” District Attorney Gascón said. “Such despicable acts have no place in our society and will not be tolerated. Our office is fully committed to prosecuting the individual accountable for these crimes with the utmost vigor and ensuring that justice is served for the victims.”

“Sexual assault and sex crimes in any form are abhorrent and intolerable, and I commend the swift and diligent efforts of the Los Angeles Police Department and District Attorney Gascon’s office in expeditiously investigating this matter and bringing forth charges,” said Lindsey P. Horvath, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. “Our hearts go out to the survivors of these egregious acts, whose lives have been forever altered by the trauma they endured.”

“I am proud of the hard work and dedication to public safety displayed by the officers and specialized detectives involved in this case as well as the expedient filing by the District Attorney,” said Los Angeles Police Chief Dominic Choi. “I am also thankful for the Venice community and their participation in ridding our streets from this predator.”

Anthony Francisco Jones (dob 09/12/94) is charged with two counts of forcible rape, one count of sexual penetration by use of force, one count of mayhem, one count of torture, one count of attempted murder, and one count of sodomy by use of force.

It also is alleged that Jones committed the sexual assaults during the course of a kidnapping, against multiple victims, and that he inflicted great bodily injury on the victims.

Jones is scheduled to be arraigned today in Dept. 30 at the Airport Courthouse.

On April 6 between 10:30-11:30 p.m., Jones allegedly physically attacked and sexually assaulted two female victims, both in their mid-40s and mid-50s, as they each were alone outside in the Venice Canal neighborhood.

The People are recommending that Jones be held on no bail.

If convicted as charged, Jones will face life in prison.

The case is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department."

More info to be posted as it is discovered....

An Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory has been declared for all Los Angeles County beaches. The advisory will be in effect at least until 8:00 am, Monday, April 8, 2024. This advisory may be extended depending on further rainfall.
Use the map below to obtain the current water quality status of your favorite beach location. Use your mouse wheel to zoom into a particular location. Click on the marker to identify the sampling location. This map is updated as conditions change.

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"A giant inflatable ape made a surprise appearance on Ocean Avenue by Santa Monica Pier, adding a splash of whimsy to a rainy Sunday."

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.

Some info gathered from various sources on the Marina del Rey rooftop Shooter that was in a standoff Saturday night with SWAT:

Eyewitnesses identified the shooter as Marina del Rey resident 41-year-old self-employed chef named Victory Nguyen, owner of Good Morning Vietnam, which specializes in “organic traditional Vietnamese cuisine.”

Victory was armed with numerous firearms, including two AR rifles and a pistol. He fired multiple rounds at people and at Los Angeles police. The shooting took place at the Pearl Apartments in the 4100 block of Via Marina.



One individual said, "My daughter lives at the apartment and has been talking to the sheriff department all week about this guy. They wouldn't do anything but "talk to him" It is sad that things have to get this bad for something to be done."

His weapons:




About 2 hours before he started shooting his guns off in the apartment complex, he posted a photo to his public Instagram Story. The photo was of lady sitting at what appears to be a indoor resaurant. The photo had the caption "Date Night", along with a winking emoji. Many are speculating that the person may be him using a Snapchat gender swap filter.

🚨#BREAKING: A Active Shooter is Reportedly Live Streaming Himself Armed with numerous firearms Shooting from a Roof as Bullets Whiz by Police⁰⁰📌#MarinaDelRay | #California

Currently, A major response is underway as numerous law enforcement and other emergency personnel,… pic.twitter.com/2LHxoRbtMb

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) April 14, 2024

He has a surfboard in the background of one of his selfie photos.





More info to be posted as it is discovered....