Latest News


Tropical Storm Hilary continues to be the main focus for Los Angeles weather.

Here is the latest forecast info for Tropical Storm Hilary:
- Hilary forecast to become a major hurricane Friday night.
- Hilary is forecast to impact southern CA as a tropical storm on Monday.
- 20-30% chance tropical storm-force winds, beginning as early as Sunday evening.




Here is the forecast total rainfall expected from the system. Widespread 1-3 inch (local 4 inch) totals across Ventura/LA counties with a bit less across San Luis Obispo/Santa Barbara counties.




Currently Tropical Storm Hilary is located about 370 miles to the south of Manzanillo, Mexico, and is moving to the west-northwest at 15 mph with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) says Tropical Storm Hilary is expected to continue to spin off to the west-northwest with a gradual turn to the northwest in a day or so. The NHC says steady to rapid strengthening is forecast over the next few days and Hilary is expected to become a hurricane on Thursday.

Large swells generated by Tropical Storm Hillary will affect portions of the coast of southwestern Mexico and the Baja California Peninsula over the next few days. Those swells, according to the NHC, are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip currents.





A decent swell hits one of Los Angeles' most crowded surf spots, Sunset Point.



This Saturday! The Venice Classic - 2nd Annual! kick off event with the host and sponsor Bartels' Harley-Davidson

We can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday morning than surrounded by classic cars and good vibes—see ya there.

This is the last opportunity to register your car or confirm a vending booth at the main event.

For more info, Click Here

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


Amazing surf wax remover.



Wires down appeared to be the cause of a small brush fire at PCH and Mulholland Hwy on Tuesday. The fire was quickly extinguished by LA County Fire Department.



From Santa Monica Close Up:

"On Monday, August 14, 2023, the visionary creator and artist, Robin Murez, extended an exclusive invitation to sponsors and neighborhood guests for a test ride on the highly anticipated Venice Flying Carousel. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Venice Canals, the private event provided a sneak peek into the enchanting world of this captivating carousel.

Crafted from basswood, the animals of the Venice Flying Carousel are a captivating ensemble of big animals, kiddie swings and a chariot. What sets this carousel apart is its distinctive blend of Venice-themed, fabulous public art with an innovative twist: the carousel's propulsion mechanism is 100% human powered fun and eco-friendliness.

True to its name, the 'Flying Horse' carousel animals gently soar through the air as they go 'round, offering an inviting experience for both adults and children.

The ultimate home of the Carousel is to be Venice’s Centennial Park: the perfect neighborhood site, adjacent to the public library and farmers market on Venice Boulevard. While awaiting its availability, Murez “pivoted” and had the mechanism constructed as a portable ride. It’s an ingenious design that folds down for transit and sets up on location. It’s solid steel, “over engineered by Al,” a seemingly simple design based upon centuries old carousels and provides a smooth ride. Being portable, the Carousel will now bring its soaring magic throughout the neighborhood. Today the Venice Canals, tomorrow perhaps a school, gallery, or library near you.

The Carousel measures 20 feet in diameter and features eight meticulously carved animals, a chariot for two and five kiddie swings. The Venice Flying Carousel promises a magical ride for up to 15 riders at a time."

Support Santa Monica Closeup/Fabian Lewkowicz with Venmo or PayPal to help earn money to make these videos:

https://venmo.com/u/santamonicacloseup

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/fabianlewkowicz


Pico Youth & Family Center (PYFC) proudly presents the 3rd Annual Santa Monica Classic Car Show on the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday, September 9th from 10am to 4pm.

Lowride for a Cause. All proceeds will benefit youth services and after-school programming for underserved youth in Santa Monica and Los Angeles County.

Last year, more than 3,000 people attended this family-friendly event. The event is free for all spectators and guests on foot. This year, over 200 classic cars of various makes and models, some dating back to 1930’s will be on display.

All Solo Riders and Classic Car Clubs can register now for $40 or for $50 at the Pier (Day of event).

We are hosting this Classic Car Show to bring unity and awareness to the community that lowriding culture still thrives in the Westside of Los Angeles. Through this family-friendly event we plan to educate and inspire everyone, but especially our youth, to have pride in our culture and to contribute to the continuation of this beautiful art form that we know as low rider culture.

“At a time when low-income residents of all backgrounds, especially Latino and African American residents, are being pushed out of Westside communities due to gentrification we feel that unity, awareness and visibility is needed more than ever. This car show is necessary to celebrate our region’s cultural diversity that is at risk of extinction,” stated Oscar de la Torre, Santa Monica City Councilman.

For more info, Click Here

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


Chef Raphael Lunetta, along with his colleagues Chef Josiah Citrin and Chef Suzanne Tracht, is excited to announce a special benefit dinner, “Flavors of Aloha: Supporting Hawaii’s Restaurant Community.”

This remarkable event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, August 17th, at Lunetta Restaurant . The dinner aims to raise crucial funds for the Kokua Restaurant Hospitality Fund , dedicated to assisting the restaurant industry impacted by recent fires. 100% of the menu proceeds will go directly to the fund.

$135 per person for the 6 course menu

For more info and to RSVP, Click Here



The LASD Homeless Outreach Services Team was out in the Topanga area contacting those experiencing homelessness and educating them on the fire dangers. All individuals were offered resources and assistance.

The LASD Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST) is comprised of civilian outreach professionals from LAHSA and specially trained outreach deputies in crisis stabilization and intervention.