A Waymo vehicle struck a child on Friday, January 23. According to the NHTSA, the incident occurred within two blocks of a Santa Monica, CA elementary school during normal school drop off hours and that there were other children, a crossing guard, and several double-parked vehicles were in the vicinity. The child ran across the street from behind a double parked SUV towards the school and was struck by the Waymo AV. Waymo reported that the child sustained minor injuries.

At the time of the incident, the Waymo AV was operated by Waymo’s 5th Generation Automated Driving System (ADS). No safety operator was present in the vehicle.

Waymo released a statement:

"At Waymo, we are committed to improving road safety, both for our riders and all those with whom we share the road. Part of that commitment is being transparent when incidents occur, which is why we are sharing details regarding an event in Santa Monica, California, on Friday, January 23, where one of our vehicles made contact with a young pedestrian. Following the event, we voluntarily contacted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that same day. NHTSA has indicated to us that they intend to open an investigation into this incident, and we will cooperate fully with them throughout the process.

The event occurred when the pedestrian suddenly entered the roadway from behind a tall SUV, moving directly into our vehicle's path. Our technology immediately detected the individual as soon as they began to emerge from behind the stopped vehicle. The Waymo Driver braked hard, reducing speed from approximately 17 mph to under 6 mph before contact was made.

To put this in perspective, our peer-reviewed model shows that a fully attentive human driver in this same situation would have made contact with the pedestrian at approximately 14 mph. This significant reduction in impact speed and severity is a demonstration of the material safety benefit of the Waymo Driver.

Following contact, the pedestrian stood up immediately, walked to the sidewalk, and we called 911. The vehicle remained stopped, moved to the side of the road, and stayed there until law enforcement cleared the vehicle to leave the scene.

This event demonstrates the critical value of our safety systems. We remain committed to improving road safety where we operate as we continue on our mission to be the world’s most trusted driver."

A parent posted this statement online:

"Happened in my kids school, grant elementary. From everything I heard, it’s the kids/parents fault for sure. They let the child out on the opposite side of the street ad the kids ran behind a car to cross the street. There is a crossings guard just next to him but they still ran. I hope they will charge the parents for negligence. I’m not here to protect a corporation but I believe that if it was a human driver the kid would had it worse."

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

Big Blue Bus honors Rosa Parks’ birthday and Transit Equity Day, with FREE RIDES on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 To honor the legacy of Civil Rights Activist Rosa Parks, Transit Equity Day is celebrated nationwide as a day of action supporting equitable, affordable, accessible, reliable, and safe transit for all. This year’s theme, “Transit Moves Democracy”, highlights the work being done by community leaders, environmentalists, and social justice advocates fighting for equitable, accessible, and fully funded sustainable public transit systems in our communities. Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Construction of the new Santa Monica Pier Bridge is underway. Work will take place near the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue and extend to the Pier entrance on weekdays from 5 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

In preparation for the demolition and reconstruction of the Pier Bridge later this year, crews are constructing a temporary pedestrian bridge and temporary vehicle ramp to maintain access to the Pier and its attractions.

Two-Week Closure of Moomat Ahiko Way Off-Ramp Crews will perform an extended closure of the Moomat Ahiko Way off-ramp from southbound PCH from Monday, Feb. 9 through Friday, Feb. 27. This closure is necessary to construct the foundation of the temporary pedestrian bridge.

Originally constructed in 1939, the 86-year-old bridge no longer meets modern structural or seismic standards. To improve long-term safety, access, and mobility, the city is moving forward with a federally funded replacement project that will deliver a new, seismically sound structure with improved features, including a 15-foot-wide sidewalk to enhance the experience for pedestrians and bicyclists.

The replacement bridge will preserve the character and scenic views of the historic route while addressing critical structural deficiencies. Construction is scheduled to begin in late-2025 and is expected to be completed before the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Construction activities will take place near the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue, extending to the entrance of the Pier. The city will implement traffic management strategies and work closely with stakeholders to minimize disruption throughout the approximately two-year construction period.

The City of Santa Monica appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as it invests in this vital infrastructure improvement to ensure continued safe access to the Pier for generations to come.

Bridge Improvements

Replace the existing 86-year-old bridge with a seismically sound and structurally safe bridge.
Improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles traveling to and from the Santa Monica Pier.
Increase pedestrian access with a wider sidewalk to accommodate the high volume of foot traffic.
Preserve the visual character and aesthetics of the surrounding area, including views from Palisades Park.
Maintain vital access for Pier businesses, residents, and emergency services.
Complete construction prior to the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics to support regional mobility and tourism.

This Saturday West LA Bicycle is riding in unity with Alex Pretti who was murdered in Minneapolis by ICE.

"It’s ICE Out of LA, it’s ICE out of MN, it’s ICE out of everywhere until there is abolishment. The federal hate machine is trying to make us quiet, and afraid, and contained, and it’s absolutely not gonna work.

An inclusive community ride at 1:00PM on Saturday that is rolling out from our bike shop (114 Washington Blvd, Marina del Rey). We’ll have the back garage open in the alley with bike valet

We want as many people as possible to be able to come out. This is family friendly the route will be Venice Pier to Santa Monica Pier on the boardwalk, then back to the Venice Pier on Main Street and the boardwalk. The pace will be slow and we’ll post up near the piers.

Come one come all. This is a call for change. We will be distributing as many printed materials as we can at this for you to further spread into your own blocks." Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Venice Beach will be one of the nine Los Angeles FIFA World Cup Fan Zones, here's the press release:

As Los Angeles counts down to hosting eight FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee announced its comprehensive community and fan engagement plans, including details on the FIFA Fan Festival™ Los Angeles, Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zones, and a series of community events taking place around the Los Angeles region in the lead-up to and during FIFA World Cup 2026™. The community and fan events are designed to bring the excitement of the world’s largest single-sport event to neighborhoods across the region.

Together, these initiatives will create multiple opportunities for global soccer fans and Angelenos alike to come together and celebrate the best of FIFA World Cup 2026™, showcasing Los Angeles’ diverse communities, vibrant culture, and deep passion for the world’s game.

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 isn’t just about hosting eight matches at SoFi Stadium, it’s about using the tremendous media attention generated to highlight all the opportunities for community engagement throughout our region,” said Kathryn Schloessman, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission and CEO of the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee. “From the Official FIFA Fan Festival at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum to our Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zones, and all of the World Cup themed community events taking place across the region, these activities will allow both Angelenos and visitors alike to be part of this historic event.

In addition to the official FIFA Fan Festival™ at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zones will extend the reach of the live match viewing and interactive experiences across locations around the greater Los Angeles region, bringing access to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience closer to residents and visitors. The Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zones will transform these destinations into the ultimate watch events for the biggest matches taking place over the 39-day tournament.

We are excited to announce the following locations have been selected to be part of the official Host Committee celebration, as the Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zones, and they include:

The Original Famers Market - June 18-21
City of Downey - June 20
Heart of the City: Union Station & LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes - June 25-28
Hansen Dam Lake - July 2-5
LA County’s Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park - July 4-5
Los Angeles County Whittier Narrows - July 9-11
Venice Beach – July 11
Fairplex - July 14-15 & July 18-19
West Harbor - July 14-15 & July 18-19

“The Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zones are about meeting fans where they are,” said Chris Klein, Co- Chair of the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee. “By creating accessible fan experiences across the region, we’re extending the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 beyond the stadiums and creating welcoming spaces for residents and visitors to come together and celebrate the world’s game right in their own backyards throughout the 39-days of this global celebration.”

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

On Sunday, February 1, Resilient Palisades is hosting “A Palisades Community Celebration – Our Electric Future” at Paul Revere Middle School. It’s focused on wildfire recovery and rebuilding safer homes through electrification, solar, and battery backup, led by people who were directly impacted by the fire.

It’s not just talks or panels. There will also be food, live music, kids activities, and a native plant sale, so it’s meant to feel like an actual community gathering, not homework.

It’s free and open to neighbors from the Palisades, Malibu, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Eaton Fire impacted communities and nearby areas.

A Community Celebration of Recovery, Food, and Clean Energy

This event was postponed and reimagined. It is now bigger, more hands on, and more community driven.

Our Electric Future is now joined with Pali Veg Fest to create a full day Palisades community celebration focused on rebuilding smarter after wildfire while coming back together around food, learning, and connection.

This is still an event about electrification. Still about recovery.

Still about rebuilding safer, healthier homes.

We have simply added more ways to gather, learn, and spend the day together.

Join neighbors, families, and local recovery partners to learn how all electric homes, solar, batteries, and microgrids work in the real world. Ask real questions. Get real answers. Hear where things stand with incentives and policy and get help navigating what is already available to you.

For more info and to register, Click Here.

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

Fremantle and FOX are holding a OPEN CASTING CALL for Baywatch! If you’re an actor and think you could be right, we want to meet you!!

The world’s most iconic lifeguard team returns — new faces, new stories, and high-stakes rescues on the beaches of Southern California.

Baywatch is looking for a wide range of possible roles, from lifeguards to beachgoers, bartenders and buddies to love interests, rescuers and rescuees of all kinds. Actors aged 18+ are invited to come "Baywatch Ready" in the hopes of securing an opportunity to audition for potential roles ranging from series regulars to major recurring characters to guest roles. Event Date:

February 18, 2026

Location:

Marina del Rey Marriot

Criteria:

Seeking actors of all types and experience levels to play characters of any gender or ethnicity.

You must be at least 18 years old.

You must be authorized to work in the United States.

Wardrobe: Attire should be suitable for a beach setting: Come "Baywatch Ready”

Registrants will read a short scene. Memorization is not required.

Please note that this casting call is FREE.

If selected to audition following this event, the roles for consideration are anticipated to be under schedules B, C, D, E and F of the SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement.

For more info and to register, Click Here.

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

Los Angeles Police officers respond to a call about a man in the midle of the street. They arrive and find the very angry guy in the middle of Linoln Blvd. in front of El Polo Loco. With guns drawn, they attempt to get calm him down and get him out of traffic, but he refuses leading to a standoff that last several minutes.

Santa Monica Police activity: Homeless Man with a large pet rat threatens a street Performer on the pier , a woman collaspes from the heat, and another homeless man is arrested for an outstanding warrant.

Santa Monica is partnering with Goldenvoice, a division of AEG Presents and one of the nation’s leading producers of large-scale music events, to produce a new music and cultural festival on Santa Monica’s coastline in fall 2026.

"Partnering with the city of Santa Monica to bring a yearly music festival to the Pier is a true honor for us,” said Melissa Ormond, Goldenvoice COO and COO of Festivals for AEG Presents. “We can't wait to bring world class music and artists to one of the most beautiful urban locations in the state."

The inaugural festival concept envisions a single-day event with an estimated capacity of 30,000 to 35,000 attendees. Programming would include 12 to 15 musical artists, curated food and beverage offerings, festival and artist merchandise, art installations, partnership activations, and guest services such as restrooms, lockers, and water stations.

Goldenvoice has indicated its intention to design a festival that aligns with the character of Santa Monica, encourages attendance by residents, and drives economic activity for local hotels, restaurants, and retail prior to and during the event.

The concert would return in fall 2027 and fall 2028 as an annual event.

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

It's time for Santa Monica's 8th Annual Polar Bear Plunge!

Saturday, January 10, 2026, 10am-2pm Looking for a bold way to get 2026 started? The Annual Polar Bear Plunge at the Beach House is a great way to refresh, reset, and have some fun. If you have never been part of a Polar Bear Plunge, it’s time to see what you’re missing.

The morning starts with a 10 a.m. check-in at Guest Services before heading to the shoreline in front of the Beach House. The first plunge takes place around 10:15 a.m. The most stalwart Polar Bears can take part in the 300-yard swim around a buoy. At this no judgement zone, whether you stick your toes in the ocean, take a quick dip or round the buoy, it’s a great experience that gets the blood pumping and the skin tingling. After the invigorating ocean plunge, warm up in the heated Beach House pool. Gather with friends and family, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, and grab a photo with our very own Pat the Polar Bear mascot.

Pool admission will be charged for Polar Bears and others entering the pool deck to visit, soak, swim in the heated pool, or take a hot shower.

In-person registration will be available but may be limited on the day of event. Parking is $3 per hour or $8 per day.

Pool Admission: $10/adult, $5/senior adult age 60+, $4/youth age 1-17.

Regular Pool Rules apply while swimming at this event. Youth under age eight and under four feet must be accompanied by an adult in the pool at all times.

For more info, Click Here.

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

NEW YEAR SAME SHENANIGANS!!!! Cruise to the Mollusk Venice New Year’s party on the 10th with Fahrenheit/Celsius and all the legends!

1600 Pacific Ave, Venice

For more info, Click Here.

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

Project Save Our Surf returns to Tower 26 to clean the beach. Buckets, gloves and light snacks will be provided.

SUNDAY January 17th



While we are usually on the second Saturday of the month - were doing this one big on Sunday for plastic free July with amazing sponsors - cant wait to see you out soon!

Come join Project Save Our Surf for a fun afternoon of music and refreshments cleaning the beach. Buckets and gloves will also be provided for the cleanup. Connect with others in Los Angeles working to support our environment.

Supported by Beryl Foundation you can donate by choosing a donation ticket and choosing an amount

We have also partnered with Project Pop Drop to collect items for the homeless that we will be delivering to a homeless shelter on the last Saturday of the month (each month is a different shelter and details will be available at the cleanup for those who want to attend that event as well). We are collecting non- perishable foods and new toiletries, new socks, new underwear, new clothing etc.

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

On January 6, 2026, at approximately 11:54 a.m., the Santa Monica Police Department was notified by UCLA Police that an adult female had been detained on the UCLA campus after making statements indicating she had harmed her child and left the child inside an apartment in the 2000 block of Broadway.

Officers responded to the residence where an infant was located inside an apartment with significant injuries. Santa Monica Fire Department personnel responded and transported the infant to a local area hospital, where the child was later pronounced deceased.

The adult female was taken into custody in connection with this incident and transported to the Santa Monica Jail. The identities of those involved are not being released at this time.

The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.

Detectives from the Santa Monica Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division are actively investigating this case. Based on preliminary information, this appears to be an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to the community.

No additional information is available at this time. Further updates will be provided as appropriate. Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Friday we’ll be kicking off the Route 66 Centennial by hosting the first official caravan of 2026 at the Santa Monica Ice Rink on Friday, January 2. Come on by and see the cars on display. Music and Mocktails till 10:00.

1324 Fifth Street, Santa Monica

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

Kicking off the Route 66 Centennial by hosting the first official caravan of 2026 at the Santa Monica Ice Rink on Friday, January 2. Come on by and see the cars on display. Music and Mocktails till 10:00.

1324 Fifth Street, Santa Monica

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

Brennan's Pub,known for being the home Turtle Racing for over four decades is closing down this Saturday.

"We have some unfortunate news. After so many shared moments, countless pints poured, and memories made both big and small, Brennan’s Pub will be closing the doors after this Saturday night.

Whether you were here for Turtle Races, birthday parties, Knights Fights, or your favorite sports team we enjoyed serving you and being a part of a small moment in your lives.

Thank you for supporting us, showing up, and making this place feel alive. Thank you to our regulars, our staff (past and present), our neighbors, and every single person who stopped by.

We will be open Friday at 4pm and Saturday at 12pm.

SATURDAY we will have a final Turtle Race at 9pm!

Come say goodbye, and send us and the community off with one last Turtle Race at 9:00 pm on Saturday Night!

Thank you for allowing us to be a staple in the community."

Construction is officially underway on the long-anticipated project to replace and upgrade the 86-year-old Santa Monica Pier Bridge. Construction crews are mobilizing onsite and staging equipment this week and next week to begin early fieldwork and site preparation for the Pier Bridge Replacement Project. Initial activities will include potholing and utility work, as well as widening and strengthening portions of the Pier in advance of bridge demolition and construction. Pier restaurants, shops and entertainment, as well as parking and visitor access, will remain open and accessible throughout construction, ensuring residents and visitors can continue to enjoy the Pier with minimal disruption. Approximately one-third of the parking lot area at Beach Parking Lot 1 North, adjacent to the Pier, will be used as the construction staging area. Approximately 726 parking spaces will remain available at Beach Parking Lot 1 during construction. Wayfinding signage is being installed to direct drivers to multiple alternate parking locations near the Pier. Construction is expected to continue through the end of 2027.

Locals’ Night is taking a holiday spin. This month, Holiday Cheer on the Pier wraps up with a special Locals’ Night: Sandy Cane Lane x Art Mart on Thursday, December 18. Enjoy live music, photos with Santa, a festive sand sculpture, and the return of our fan-favorite car decorating contest (Sandy Cane Lane), where car enthusiasts deck out their rides in holiday spirit for a cash prize. Celebrate the season seaside with lights, laughter, and holiday cheer.

Shop unique art, handmade goods, and festive finds from local artists, then explore Sandy Cane Lane: a glowing lineup of decked-out cars, holiday décor, and festive surprises.

What to Expect:

🎶 Sounds by local DJs

🛍️ Winter Art Mart featuring local artists and vendors

🚗 Sandy Cane Lane car decorating contest with cash prizes

🎅 Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus

🏖️ Festive holiday sand sculpture

📚 Books & Cookies musical storytime

🎨 Paint:Lab art station

✨ Holiday lights, ocean views, and more!

December’s Lineup!

Inside the Merry Go-Round Building:

3:30pm - 7:00pm — Paint:Lab

4:00pm - 7:00pm — Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Patio 66 at Pacific Park (next to Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf):

3:30pm & 4:30pm — Books & Cookies Musical Storytime

5:00pm & 6:30pm — Bob Baker Marionnette Theater

Main Stage:

5:00pm - 10:00pm — DJ sets from Jamma Dee, Xica Soul, Tavish DJ, Aiden Ramos, and DJ Proper

Pier’s Parking Deck:

5:00 - 9:30pm — Shop the Winter Art Mart from local artists/vendors (curated by Lisa Goldman)

5:00 - 8:00pm — Sandy Cane Lane (Festive Car Show + Competition)

Free to enter | Arrive at Pier Parking Deck by 4pm

Winner announced at 7pm ($400 CASH PRIZE)

For more info, Click Here

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

LA surf and skate legend Randy Wright who has been posted up at Sunset Point as photographer and surf guru now urgently needs our help after the Palisades Fire to get rolling and back in business to do what he does best.

Randy's friend & surf buddy, Andrew MacDonald from Pacific Palisades has set up a gofundme for him. Any amount will help immensely.

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