Latest News


The 2028 Olympics Surfing Events finally have venue, here's the statement LA18 released today:



"Synonymous with California-culture is Surfing, which will be held at Trestles Beach in San Clemente, CA where athletes will enjoy the best and most consistent waves for competition in Southern California."


The 2028 Olympics Events will be held in Venice Beach, here's the statement LA28 released today:

"The scenic and vibrant coastline of Venice Beach will serve as the new home of Triathlon, which is relocating from Long Beach. This historic beachfront neighborhood in Los Angeles will also host the official starting locations for the Marathon and Cycling Road courses. The courses and finishes for both the Marathon and Cycling Road will be confirmed and announced at a later date."

The Surfing Venue was also announced, Click Here

Skateboarding is still being held at the Sepulveda Dam, the Venice Skatepark was never going to be considered. Plus contrary to what whatever incorrect information members of the Venice Neighborhood Council say and a whatever lies a local juice magazine try to get people to beleive, skateboarding was not invented in Venice.



Governor Gavin Newsom today announced an all-hands-on-deck effort to support businesses and tourism by expediting fire cleanup efforts so that State Route 1, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), will reopen to public travel by the end of May – well ahead of experts’ original predictions.

The Pacific Coast Highway is a major artery that serves hundreds of thousands of Angelenos and visitors from around the world daily and is crucial to connecting Los Angeles with Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and points north. Currently, PCH is only open to residents who live in the Palisades Fire burn area, essential businesses, and repair crews. Following the reopening, one lane in each direction would be available for public travel.

With the busy summer months along the coast fast approaching, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and Caltrans will effectuate the reopening by working closely with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to prioritize the cleanup of parcels along PCH by surging additional crews into the area so that these parcels can be cleared of debris quickly.

Crews will work around the clock – literally 24/7 – to demolish the damaged and collapsed homes, remove toxic ash and soot, repair the roadways, and install new utility equipment.

There are currently more than 100 USACE crews (consisting of excavators, metal crushing equipment, and dump trucks) working on Palisades Fire parcels. All equipment and dump trucks utilize PCH as a path of travel for the haul routes. Currently, USACE is removing nearly 1,284 truckloads of debris per day.

Once their work is complete, PCH will be able to safely reopen to the public with one lane in each direction.

Once the highway is reopened, security checkpoints currently in place on the north and south ends of closure will be removed, but a robust law enforcement presence from state and local agencies will remain in place.

For more news and updates on the Palisades Fire, Click Here.



A search is underway for the owner of a pit bull that mauled to death a toy poodle. This happened on Friday afternoon as Alyssa Kluge and Christoper Dietrick were walking their poodle, named Dublin, down Strand inbetween Main Street abd 2nd St, when they pasted dark-haired man next to a parked car with black and grey pitbull on a leash. The pit charged at the poodle and killed him. The man then took off.

Dublin's owner posted this:

"Hi All - Unfortunately, our dog was the one killed by this dangerous animal. The owner was absolutely negligent. We have called SMPD, Animal Control, you name it, and have spoken to every business on Main Street, in addition to neighbors, and have put up 50+ signs and sent over 100 emails. We've also patrolled our neighborhood and blasted this across every channel we've tried.

PLEASE HELP US FIND THIS MAN. He may have two pitbulls; one gray, one white-ish with spots on his face, but he only had the gray one with him. He was middle aged, a little bigger around the middle (not fat, but just got winded running away), was wearing shorts and flip flops -- white, black or dark brown hair and had an accent like it was British.

IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION ON THIS MAN, PLEASE REACH OUT TO THE POLICE AND OR ME DIRECTLY -- I have posted in NextDoor, Neighbor Ring, everywhere with my phone number and my phone number 517-803-5158 on flyers throughout Main Street / Santa Monica area. WE NEED EVIDENCE AND PHOTOS OF THIS MAN."







The suspect is described as:
"middle age white male dark hair five o clock shadow slightly heavier set had an english accent
gray / black pit bull
lives in the neighborhood — around 4th and Pacific we believe
middle class local"



Public Health Releases Preliminary Soil Testing Results With Unanticipated Elevated Lead Levels in Parcels Downwind from Eaton Fire

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health released preliminary findings from representative soil sample testing in and around the Eaton and Palisades fire areas, revealing a higher percentage of soil samples with lead levels above health-based screening thresholds from parcels with intact homes downwind of the Eaton Fire.

The preliminary findings also indicate localized chemical impacts to soil above health-based screening thresholds are present in the Palisades fire area, but there is no evidence of widespread contamination from fire-related chemicals.

The County’s soil sampling and analysis, conducted by Roux Inc., measured levels of harmful substances that may be present after a wildfire—such as heavy metals, polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and dioxins—on representative soil samples from various parcels in different areas and with different property conditions in and around the Eaton and Palisades fire areas. Over four weeks from mid-February to mid-March, soil samples were collected from destroyed, damaged, and intact properties within the burn areas, as well as from properties just outside, and compared to current residential soil screening level thresholds. A final report and analysis will be available in May.

Levels below the screening thresholds are considered protective over a lifetime of exposure, even for the most vulnerable people. If levels exceed the screening thresholds, it does not automatically mean cleanup is required, but it suggests the need to consider additional evaluation.

Representative soil sampling involves collecting soil samples from different areas affected by the fire to assess contamination levels, such as ash or chemicals, and understand the overall impact on the environment.

The identification of high frequent lead exceedances in soil samples from downwind of the Eaton fire are consistent with reports of elevated lead in air samples collected in the days immediately following the fire. The source of lead in the fire is reasonably expected to be from the burning of homes with lead-based paint, which was common prior to 1979. CalTech reported that more than 90 percent of the houses in Altadena were built before 1975.

However, because there are many potential sources of lead in soil in the Los Angeles area, additional assessments will help understand how much of the lead found in the samples came from the 2025 wildfires versus other sources.

Testing identified isolated areas of heavy metal and PAH soil sample exceedances above screening thresholds in the Palisades fire area. The source is unknown at this time, but these are not consistent with communitywide impacts from fire-related smoke plumes.

This assessment provides a representative analysis of the soil in areas and under different conditions impacted by the fires. Individual parcels may have unique factors that result in differences compared to these representative samples. The reported results are not intended to imply cleanup or specific remediation is necessary; rather, the results identify areas potentially requiring additional evaluation.

Those with concerns about their specific property may want to test their soil and/or consult an environmental professional about evaluating their property. In all areas with on-going fire debris, residents are reminded to take precautions to not inhale, ingest or come into contact with ash, soot, and/or fire debris by using appropriate personal protective equipment. Additionally, community members are encouraged to review the soil sampling results and consider taking appropriate precautions if your home is in one of the areas where soil sample screening thresholds have been exceeded. Residents can refer to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s FAQs for best practices to minimize exposure to these potential hazards.

In response to potential health risks from wildfire-related smoke, ash, and debris, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is offering free blood lead testing for individuals concerned about exposure to lead. Testing is available through three easy options: by visiting a medical provider (with costs covered by most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal), scheduling a free appointment at a Quest Lab by calling 1-800-LA-4-LEAD, or accessing walk-in mobile testing offered at select community events. Testing is fast, free, confidential, and does not require insurance. Lead exposure can be especially harmful to children and pregnant individuals, and early detection is key. For more information or to find testing locations, call 1-800-LA-4-LEAD (1-800-524-5323).

For larger versions of the following charts, Click Here










For more news and updates on the Palisades Fire, Click Here.



Santa Monica’s favorite Thursday night tradition is back—and you’re invited to the party! Locals’ Night is your one-stop celebration of community, creativity, and coastal vibes, with everything from live music and dancing to an epic local art market and car show. Whether you’re coming for the tunes, the handmade goods, or just a killer sunset, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

This month’s lineup is stacked with local legends and rising stars—plus Salsa dancing, 30+ local vendors, and a fundraiser supporting Concrete Queenz, a nonprofit empowering girls in South LA through skateboarding. Bring your friends, your family, and your dancing shoes. We’ll see you on the Pier.

2 Live Music Stages ft. Tom Nolan Band, Movie Club, House of Vibe, and Jane Fonda’s

Youth + Emerging Artist Performances

Art Mart with 30+ local vendors

Salsa Way with Rush Hour Orquesta and Salsa dance lessons with Courtney Parisi

Classic Car Show

A special fundraiser for Concrete Queenz

Live Music Lineup – April 17

Main Stage
5:00 – 5:45 PM – School of Rock
6:15 – 7:00 PM – Jane Fonda's
7:30 – 9:30 PM – Tom Nolan Band

Stage 2
4:30 – 5:30 PM – Lunch Crew Combo (featuring emerging artists from the SMC Jazz Ensemble & Just Jazz Collective)
6:00 PM – Movie Club
7:30 – 9:00 PM – House of Vibe

Kids' activities begin at 3:30 PM, followed by the performances starting at 5 PM.

For more info, Click Here

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


The LA28 Committeejust announced they will not have Longboarding in the 2028 Los (Orange County) Angeles Olympics. The surfing events are going to be in Orange County anyways, that's more a short board crowd, so this isn't much of a surprise. Anyhows, here's the Press Release:

The International Surfing Association (ISA) acknowledges with disappointment the decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) not to include Longboard Surfing in the LA28 Olympic Games.

The ISA appreciated the opportunity to present Longboard’s value for Olympic inclusion and are grateful for its consideration in the LA28 program. While our request for additional athletes for Shortboard Surfing was also declined, we will continue our push for greater participation at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

At the same time, the ISA understands and applauds the IOC’s continued push for gender equality as one of the key criteria behind its decisions today on the events and quotas for LA28.

The ISA firmly believes in the value of Longboard Surfing and the expanding global reach of our sport across its many events and disciplines. The proven success of Longboard at past Pan American Games is a testimony to its value, and we remain fully committed to the sport’s continued growth and development through our multiple World Championships.

ISA President Fernando Aguerre said:

“Obviously, we are disappointed to receive the news that Longboard Surfing will not feature at LA28 and that we will not receive more slots for our athletes, but I believe we are still only in the early stages of our long Olympic journey.

“We are proud of Surfing’s contribution to the success fo the Olympic Games, and will continue to push forward in our efforts to campaign for Longboard inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games and beyond. We look forward to working closely with the IOC and the Brisbane Organizing Committee to highlight our sport’s value on the Olympic stage.

“As surfers, we know that finding the perfect wave takes time. In our sport, we learn patience, passion and persistence. Those are traits that the ISA has always demonstrated across our nearly 30-year journey to see Shortboard Surfing’s debut in Tokyo. We will continue to put that same energy into our Olympic ambitions for the future.”



Join the City of Malibu on Friday, Apr 11, 12PM at Malibu Bluffs Park to celebrate the start of construction on the new Skate Park! Enjoy snacks, see design plans & celebrate this rad addition to our community.

The City of Malibu is excited to announce the groundbreaking of the Malibu Skate Park, a project designed to provide a safe and modern space for the entire community to enjoy. We invite residents, local officials, and skate enthusiasts to join us for this special event as we officially kick off construction!

This new skatepark will feature street and transition elements including, stairs, rails, ledges, banks, a flow bowl, quarter pipes, spine, extensions, and waterfalls making it an exciting addition to our community’s recreational spaces.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a project that will bring fun, fitness, and community spirit to Malibu.

An RSVP is not required. Speakers include City dignitaries and the event is catered by Jennifer Naylor Catering and Events.



A new book coming out about the new era of fearless, empowered women who redefine beauty one wave at a time, features some of our local surfers. The book is called Every Body Surf: A Tribute to Self-Love and Sisterhood

Featuring breathtaking photography combined with inspirational profiles of female surfers from around the world in this uplifting celebration of self-love, sisterhood, and body positivity.

Breathtaking photography is combined with inspirational profiles of female surfers from around the world in this uplifting celebration of self-love, sisterhood, and body positivity.

Beauty standards play a significant role in most aspects of society—especially in the world of surfing. This inspirational book pays tribute to women in the surfing community who are breaking down those barriers and living their best lives on and off the water.



Reaching across five continents—from Australia, Japan, and Bali to France, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and the United States—this book features stunning photographs that capture the beauty and power of the ocean and the joyful essence of a diverse array of surfers. And it offers remarkable stories of life-changing experiences, struggles, and achievements of women navigating surf culture on their own terms.


A manifesto for a new era of fearless, empowered women who redefine beauty one wave at a time, this book is a must-read for female surfers, women interested in surfing, and anyone passionate about inclusivity and diversity in sports.

Every Body Surf: A Tribute to Self-Love and Sisterhood will be released on April 29, 2025 and is currently avaliable for Pre=Order Now on Amazon



Sign-up for Northern LA Boardriders surf series contest is open, Northern LA Boardriders Malibu Surf Series 09 on Saturday April 26. Looking forward to our community coming together once again. This should be an epic event.

For more info and to register, Click Here

Northern LA Boardriders (NLAB) is a surf club that shares a strong passion for surfing and giving back to our community. We aim to foster the sport of friendly competitive surfing and create a positive movement and platform for our younger generations.

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


The Ocean Water Advisory due to Fire Impacts from Las Flores State Beach (SMB 1-14) to Santa Monica State Beach (DPH 104 A&B) has been lifted. Residents are still advised to avoid fire debris in the water, and to avoid being on beaches on or near burned properties.

After Rigorous Testing, Public Health Lifts Ocean Water Quality Advisory for Fire-Impacted Beaches - RESIDENTS CONTINUE TO BE ADVISED TO AVOID FIRE DEBRIS IN THE WATER, ON THE BEACH, AND ON OR NEAR BURNED PROPERTIES

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is lifting the Ocean Water Advisory due to Fire Impacts from Las Flores State Beach (SMB 1-14) to Santa Monica State Beach (DPH 104 A&B). This decision comes after the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board released results and analysis for testing on ocean water on January 22nd, January 27th, February 6th, February 18th , and March 13th, and sediment/beach sand testing from February 25th through February 27th.

The ocean water and sediment/beach sand testing, which looked for metals, nutrients, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are chemicals that may be found in water runoff based on previous California wildfires, revealed no chemicals related to wildfires at levels that are dangerous to human health

Beachgoers may now enter the ocean water and recreate on the sand in these areas, but they are still advised to avoid fire debris in the water, and to avoid being on beaches on or near burned properties, as the fire debris may contain harmful substances and physical hazards such as glass, metal, and sharp wooden debris.

High tides may carry fire debris into the ocean, creating hazardous conditions. In areas along the coast—particularly near burned or destroyed properties on the inland side of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)—debris from recent fires has not yet been fully cleaned up. As the tides rise, this debris can be swept into the water, posing a danger to those in or near the ocean.

Residents are advised to continue following the Department of Public Health Ocean Water Advisories, which are non-fire related, and avoid entering the ocean water when ocean water quality exceeds State bacterial limits.


For more news and updates on the Palisades Fire, Click Here.



Congratulations to Northern LA Boardriders Dillon Perillo, Taro Watanabe, Lilie Kulber, and Shaneborland for taking the win at the United States Board Riders BATTLE of the BOARD RIDERS! These four were ripping and brought the win home for us. Congratulations to @newportbeachboardridersclub @scboardridersclub @spacecoastboardridersclub for making the final.




Northern LA Boardriders (NLAB) is a surf club that shares a strong passion for surfing and giving back to our community. We aim to foster the sport of friendly competitive surfing and create a positive movement and platform for our younger generations.


Back in October we report that Santa Monica was not accepting the terms for hosting the 2028 Olpmics Beach Volleyball event due to the Olympic Committee outrageous demands and lack of transparency regauding costs and reimbusments to the city.

On Tuesday, April 8th, the city made it officioal, Santa Monica will not host the Beach Volleyball Events.

The city of Santa Monica and the Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, or LA28, have ended formal talks to host beach volleyball at Santa Monica State Beach for the 2028 Summer Olympics, following nearly two years of negotiations.

As the birthplace of the modern sport, the city of Santa Monica has been in discussions about hosting beach volleyball since Los Angeles’ first bid for the Games in 2016.

Despite good-faith efforts to reach a deal that would benefit both the Santa Monica community and work for LA28, ultimately the two parties were not able to agree to terms around community benefits, operational details and financial guarantees.

LA28 informed the city Friday that it plans to host beach volleyball elsewhere.

With the formal end to venue city negotiations, Santa Monica will focus efforts on bringing a host of exciting opportunities surrounding the Games as a regional partner. City teams have been exploring ideas for related events and revenue-generating prospects, including hospitality houses for numerous countries, broadcast centers, practice venues and watch parties to name just a few opportunities.

The city also remains committed to partnering with LA28 and neighboring agencies to coordinate the Games in the region, including collaboration and support around transportation, hospitality, media, events and more.

“There is no better place to host the Olympic beach volleyball competition than Santa Monica, where the sport was born. We would have loved to be a venue city in 2028,” Mayor Lana Negrete said. “While we’re disappointed that an agreement was not realized, we remain eager to share in the excitement the Olympics will bring to our region and are looking forward to being a regional partner in this historic event.”

Prior to the end of venue city negotiations, a team of city officials had been meeting with LA28 since early 2023 to finalize a Venue City Games Agreement.

At a public study session on Oct. 8, 2024, the Santa Monica City Council discussed the potential impacts of being a venue city and directed staff to negotiate more tangible benefits for residents and businesses and greater clarity and assurances about financial and other impacts on residents and businesses, particularly on and around the Santa Monica Pier. LA28 declined to adjust the proposed agreement to accommodate these terms.

Separate from negotiations around the beach volleyball venue, preparations for this major regional event have been moving forward through the city’s CELEBRATE28 initiative. The initiative brings together key groups of staff and community partners in areas of sustainability, transportation, arts, special events, community safety and hospitality to prepare for welcoming thousands of spectators still anticipated to visit Santa Monica during the games.

The city and its partners continue to coordinate and prepare to welcome visitors and engage locals throughout the Games, and are exploring additional revenue generating options in Santa Monica, including opportunities that could bring benefit to the community in advance of the Games.

“When the world shows up to Los Angeles for the 2028 Summer Olympics, we look forward to welcoming hundreds of thousands of participants and sports enthusiasts to Santa Monica for an iconic California experience,” Santa Monica Travel and Tourism President/CEO Misti Kerns said. “With our key location and proximity to LA28 venues, our beachside city is already seeing strong demand for the summer months of 2028. Our hotels, restaurants, attractions, and shopping areas are working to create additional packages and experiences while looking forward to hosting Olympic visitors during this exciting time for the region.”



Surf Shop Day is May 17th and brands, retailers, and surfers everywhere are gearing up to celebrate the local surf shops that have shaped the industry and culture for generations. Surf shops aren’t just places to buy boards and gear—they’re the heart of coastal communities, the birthplace of surf legends, and the pulse of a lifestyle embraced worldwide.

“Surf shops are more than just stores—they’re the beating heart of our surf culture. They’re where dreams begin, where friendships are forged, and where the next generation of surfers finds their stoke,” said Shaun Tomson, World Champion Surfer & Surf Industry Icon. “Supporting these shops means honoring our roots and ensuring the spirit of surfing continues to thrive. This collaboration is about giving back to the places that have given us so much.”

From Huntington Beach to Santa Cruz all the way across to the Jersey Shore and the iconic North Shore, surf shops have been more than just retail spaces. They’ve served as gathering spots where local heroes share stories of epic swells, where groms get their first taste of surf culture, and where careers in the industry are born.

“Surf Shop Day is an important time to encourage everyone to go to their local shop and remember that this is where the community can come together, look at and get gear, get good advice, and share stories,” said Scott Smith, Owner of Central Coast Surfboards. “Just to experience something you can’t get online or at corporate stores.”

The Santa Monica Fire Department extends its gratitude to the city staff, community partners and mental health professionals who have helped bring this program to life. The department remains committed to exploring innovative ways to enhance the well-being of its personnel and aligns with national best practices for firefighter mental health and wellness.

This year, Instinct, Shaun Tomson, Building the Revolution, and the Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA) have come together to create an exclusive, limited-edition Surf Shop Day T-shirt available only at specialty retailers. A portion of the proceeds from these shirts will go to the SIMA Humanitarian Fund, supporting crucial initiatives such as surf therapy programs, disaster relief for communities affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles and Maui, recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene, and other vital causes within the surf community.

“Surf shops are the lifeblood of this industry and the soul of our coastal communities. They’re where surfers of all generations come together, share stories, and fuel their passion for the sport,” said Vipe Desai, Executive Director of SIMA. “Surf Shop Day is the collective industry’s way of giving back to these independent retailers that have given so much to our culture. By supporting them, we’re not just preserving history—we’re ensuring the future of surfing remains strong.”

Join us in celebrating Surf Shop Day—support your local surf shop and keep the culture thriving!



Join The Bay Foundation at the last Earth Month event of 2025 at the Malibu Living Shoreline project. Engage with dune ecology and make a positive impact by removing invasive plants. Your participation will contribute to the restoration effort, fostering increased biodiversity and enhancing coastal resilience. We look forward to seeing you at the Point Dume/Westward Beach Dunes!

Saturday, 04/26/2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AMbr /> Pt. Dume State Beach / Westward Beach

For more info, Click Here.

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


The Santa Monica Fire Department this week launched a new K-9 Peer Support Program, an initiative designed to support the mental health and wellbeing of firefighters and other Santa Monica city employees and community members.

The program’s first K-9 team member, an English Labrador named Roger, is a certified support K-9 trained in providing comfort and companionship. Working alongside a designated peer support team handler, Roger will visit fire stations, attend debriefings after critical incidents, attend community events to interact with the public and be available to firefighters and city employees in need of emotional support.

Through Roger’s efforts, the program aims to provide comfort, reduce stress and promote emotional resilience for Santa Monica Fire Department, or SMFD, personnel as well as the broader community.

“We are thrilled to introduce this program as a proactive step in supporting the mental wellness of our firefighters and city employees,” Fire Chief Matthew Hallock said. “The presence of a therapy dog has been proven to lower stress levels, improve morale and encourage open conversations about mental health. We believe this initiative will make a meaningful impact on our team.”

Firefighters face high levels of stress due to the intense and often traumatic nature of their work. Recognizing the need for enhanced mental health support, SMFD has integrated the K-9 Peer Support Program as part of its commitment and dedication to prioritizing a healthy and supportive work environment.

SMFD joins a growing number of agencies across the nation in bringing on a K-9 support program to prioritize mental health for first responders. In Southern California, that list includes Redondo Beach Fire, Orange County Fire Authority, Huntington Beach Fire, Westminster Police Department, Newport Beach Fire and Torrance Fire.

The Santa Monica Fire Department extends its gratitude to the city staff, community partners and mental health professionals who have helped bring this program to life. The department remains committed to exploring innovative ways to enhance the well-being of its personnel and aligns with national best practices for firefighter mental health and wellness.



After almost 3 months, this video shows the current conditioins of the beach, creek, parking lot and general area around Topanga State Beach.

For more news and updates on the Palisades Fire, Click Here.



The Venice Ale House, the casual gastropub located on the boardwalk in Venice Beach featuring organic American fare & craft beers with boardwalk-side seating and ocean view, is leaving.

It was announced via theit social media on Sunday, "The ship has just about sailed, and what a journey it’s been. Fifteen years filled with unforgettable moments and friendships that will last a lifetime. Come join us tomorrow from 4–7pm as we close this chapter and set sail on a new journey. Let’s raise a glass to the memories, the friendships, and the adventures we’ve had! This one’s for the legacy Tom’s built—and the continued voyage ahead."