Latest News

High Surf & Dangerous Seas This Weekend



Strong to gale force winds and dangerous choppy seas will affect all coastal waters through the weekend.

Large breaking waves of 4 to 7 feet with local sets to 8 feet and dangerous rip currents. Surf will be highest on west-facing beaches. This alert lasts until 10 AM PDT Saturday.

Shooting Death in Malibu



Los Angeles County Sheriff's Homicide investigators responded to a shooting death investigation on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at approximately 2:55 p.m., at the 800 Block of Westlake, Malibu.

The male adult victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

When deputies arrived, they found the victim off the main roadway in an area that appears to be only accessible and used for 4-wheel drive vehicles to traverse.

The victim was located by a person who was doing the 4-wheel drive trail and noticed a vehicle at the top unoccupied. As the passer-by started down the trail, he noticed a person down and notified the Lost Hills Station.

Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel responded, and the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

The victim has not been positively identified but appears to be a male Hispanic between 20 to 30 years old.

The investigation is ongoing, and currently, there is no additional information.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call "Crime Stoppers" by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477)



Venice Boardwalk Freestyle with Daisy the Venice Healer & Friends



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

Click Here for more Stories about Venice Healer Daisy

Santa Monica E-Bike Voucher Program



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.

Palm Spring Surf Club Shuts Down Again

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



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.

Chubbies Splash Down at the Santa Monica Pier



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.


Skateboard Classes & Skate Camp at The Cove



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



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.

Apes take over Venice Beach



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 Surf Contest Registration is Live



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

Venice Beach Toilet Drama



Click Here for more Stories about the Venice Safe Team

Santa Monica Pier Car Show with German In Venice



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

Update on 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.

Inside Santa Monica Pier’s Ultimate Car Showdown



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.

Topanga Canyon to Remain Closed until Fall 2024



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.



Pup Cup - Kids' Skateboard Contest at Venice Skatepark



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

Check out the photos from this contest, Click Here


Bay Foundation Dune Restoration and Beach Cleanup at Point Dume



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.

Venice Pier Earth Day Cleanup - Surfrider LA x Cabinet Health



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.

Earth Month Celebration with Surfrider LA



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.

Surfrider Venice Pier Public Beach Cleanup



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.

LA Pumptrack Contest



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.

Out In The Lineup Screening & Panel with Glenice Venice



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.

Update on the Marina del Rey Shooter



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 - Venice



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.

Toke - We Are Venice



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.

Santa Monica Sustainable Quality Awards Event



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.

Info on the Suspect Arrested for Brutally Attacking Women in Venice



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....

Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory issued for All Beaches



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.


King Kong Takes Santa Monica



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.

The Marina del Rey Shooter



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.





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





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