Community Soil Testing Day! Residents can bring soil samples to be tested, and volunteers are welcome to help make the event a success. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about soil health, contribute to local environmental research, and connect with your community.

📅 Date & Time: Sunday, November 16th, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Free soil health event with expert guidance, easy sample collection, plus refreshments, music & activities. Fires

can impact the soil in our communities — but testing it is simple, free, and helps keep our families and neighbors safe.

For more info, Click Here

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The Santa Monica Police Department has made an arrest in connection with the fatal hit-and-run collision that occurred on Friday, October 24, 2025, in the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard, which resulted in the deaths of two pedestrians and serious injuries to two others.

Following the collision, the Major Accident Response Team (MART) assumed the lead on the investigation. Given the seriousness of the incident and the suspect’s efforts to evade arrest, detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) were brought in to assist.

Through extensive investigative work, detectives identified Alex Kristopher Earl Kirksey, born May 22, 1987, as the responsible driver. He has been charged by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office with vehicular manslaughter (192(c)(1) PC), felony hit-and-run resulting in injury (20001(b)(2) VC), and reckless driving (23103(a) VC). Evidence revealed that the involved vehicle had been rented through an online platform and that Kirksey took deliberate steps to avoid detection after the crash, including leaving the state in the days that followed.

The investigation also revealed that the person who rented the vehicle traveled to the scene after the collision, sought information about what occurred, and later assisted the suspect in leaving the state. The extent of that individual’s involvement remains under investigation and will be evaluated by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

These findings supported the issuance of search warrants, during which detectives recovered additional evidence — including contact information and electronic records — that helped determine Kirksey’s location.

Working with law enforcement partners in the Midwest, SMPD detectives tracked Kirksey to Chicago, Illinois. With the assistance of the Chicago Police Department, he was taken into custody at or near a transit center as he appeared to be attempting to flee further. Kirksey has since been extradited from Illinois and is currently in the custody of the Santa Monica Police Department.

“This arrest reflects the persistence and professionalism of our investigators, who worked tirelessly to identify and locate those responsible for this senseless act,” said Interim Chief Darrick Jacob. “While nothing can undo the pain this tragedy caused, this marks an important step toward justice for the victims and their families.”

The Santa Monica Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by this tragedy.

“We are united with law enforcement in seeking justice for Maura Cohen and Brad Lipshy, who were 61 years old when they were tragically killed simply exiting a restaurant, and the two other victims who suffered critical injuries,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman. “I’m thankful to the Santa Monica Police Department for their thorough work on this ongoing investigation and our prosecutors who worked around the clock with investigators to ensure the defendant would be arrested and face his day in court. We have a message for criminals: You will not escape the law. Our office will continue to advocate for the victims as the case progresses through the criminal justice system.”

Anyone with additional information related to this case is urged to contact Traffic Investigator Lantz Lewis at (310) 458-2201 ext. 5311

The city of Santa Monica will join the U.S. Army for a Veterans Day ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. on the Santa Monica Pier.

The event will feature exciting performances, military demonstrations and a flyover, as well as remarks from senior military leaders and local elected officials. The ceremony, which will take place on the Pier’s west parking deck, is free and open to the public.



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

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

Ice at Santa Monica presented by Disney+ and Hulu will be opening on Friday, November 7, 2025, thier 17th season, for an unforgettable holiday season experience! Located in the heart of Santa Monica, our rink offers the unique opportunity to skate under the California sun by day and the twinkling stars by night.

Season Opening: Friday, November 7, 2025
Season Closing: Monday, January 19, 2026



Located at the corner of Arizona Avenue and 5th Street in Downtown Santa Monica.

Nearly 8,000 square feet of shimmering ice with a 400-square-foot tot rink for the little ones.

For more info, Click Here

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CALTRANS PLANS FOR LANE CLOSURES FOR WORK ON PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY IN MALIBU, WEEK OF NOV. 3 - 9 CURRENT CONDITIONS / SPEED LIMITS • Temescal Canyon Rd – Sunset Blvd: 35 mph, cones and signage in place.
• Sunset Blvd – Carbon Beach Terrace: Active work zone, single-lane closures, 25 mph.
Crews may set up closures weekdays, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

POTENTIAL LANE CLOSURES IN ACTIVE WORK ZONES • Ventura County Line – Carbon Beach Terrace: Work near Trancas Canyon Rd–Guernsey Ave and Corral Canyon Bridge; possible night closures.
• Kanan Dume Rd – Ramirez Canyon Rd: 7 a.m.–4 p.m. Nov. 6–7, one northbound lane closed.
• Latigo Canyon Rd – Puerco Canyon Rd: 7 a.m.–3 p.m. Wed–Fri, one northbound lane closed.
• Las Flores Canyon Rd – Sunset Blvd: Fire damage, slope, and drainage repairs; lane closures as needed, 9 p.m.–6 a.m.
• South of Big Rock Dr: Northbound reduced to one lane, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays.
• Las Flores Canyon – Topanga Canyon Blvd: SCE trenching; northbound lane/shoulder closures 4 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays, 4 a.m.–4 p.m. weekends, 9 p.m.–6 a.m. daily. Southbound closures 9 a.m.–5 p.m. weekdays, 4 a.m.–4 p.m. weekends, 9 p.m.–6 a.m. daily.
• South of Topanga Canyon Blvd: Rock mitigation, 6 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays, one northbound lane closed about half a mile south.
• Coastline Dr – Porto Marina Way: Retaining wall work near Getty Villa, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays, one northbound lane closed.

For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.

UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital celebrates 25 years of fun for a cause with its milestone 25th Annual Party on the Pier, returning to the Santa Monica Pier's Pacific Park on Sunday, November 2, from 10AM to 2PM PT. This beloved family-friendly fundraiser brings together celebrity guests—including Heidi Montag & Spencer Pratt, Whitney Port, Raini & Rico Rodriguez, Anna Maria Perez de Tagle-Kline, Nathan Kress, and Christine Chiu—for a day of joy, rides, games, and giving back. Guests can enjoy unlimited Pacific Park rides, carnival games with Mattel toy prizes, photo activations, therapy animals, and more, all benefiting UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital and its mission to provide world-class pediatric care.

Cost: Admission is FREE

For more info, Click Here.

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A new pumptrack is currently under construction in Highland Park at Arroyo Seco Park. It is a pre-fabricated concrete track being installed. No word on the opening date yet. The park is off the 110 Freeway in South Pasadena.

On Friday, October 24, 2025, at approximately 9:15 p.m., the Santa Monica Police Department responded to reports of a severe traffic collision involving a vehicle and multiple pedestrians in the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard.

Upon arrival, officers located four victims on the south sidewalk. The Santa Monica Fire Department responded and transported two individuals to a local hospital with injuries. They are expected to survive. Tragically, two victims were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Preliminary information indicates the involved vehicle was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Wilshire Boulevard when it drove onto the sidewalk and struck the four pedestrians. The involved vehicle remained at the scene; however, the driver fled on foot prior to officers’ arrival and remains outstanding.

The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 6 feet tall, last seen wearing a red hat, a black sweater, and black shoes.

The Santa Monica Police Department’s Major Accident Response Team (MART) is leading this criminal investigation. Wilshire Boulevard between 14th Street and Euclid Avenue was closed for several hours as investigators processed the scene.

“We recognize the gravity of this tragedy and the impact it has on our community,” said Interim Chief Darrick Jacob. “Our investigators are working tirelessly to identify and locate the suspect responsible, and our hearts are with the families of the victims who are experiencing unimaginable loss.”

For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.

Join us for the 4th Annual Santa MoniCARES Volley-Ween Tournament and Fundraiser on Wednesday, October 29th, 2025 for a fun afternoon of games, food, friends and supporting a great cause!

Enjoy entertainment, a tasty meal, quenching beverages, a friendly volleyball tournament, a Halloween costume contest and more at Perry’s Beach Cafe & Rentals (2400 Ocean Front Walk). Buy tickets for yourself or your 2, 4 or 6-person team to attend the mixer, play in the volleyball tournament, enjoy delicious bites and have a scarily good time in the sand! Do you have to play volleyball (or be good at it) to come? No way! You can come just for the mixer, or you can participate in the volleyball tournament at any skill level. All proceeds will go towards Santa MoniCARES and its charities.

For more info, Click Here.

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a night of thrills and chills at the Santa Monica Swim Center! Dive into our Floating Pumpkin Patch, brave the Sharks Haunted House, and test your skills on the Floating Obstacle Course. Enjoy Spooky Flicks, arts & crafts, treats, and more. Don't miss out on this family-friendly event packed with fun activities, food trucks, and recreational swimming!

Ticket required for entry and are nonrefundable.

For more info, Click Here.

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

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

There’s fun and scares for all ages, but the frights intensify as night falls over Burton Chace Park in Marina del Rey during this two-day festival.

Dates and Hours:

Saturday, October 25 | 4:00–10:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 26 | 4:00–10:00 p.m.

Location: Burton Chace Park – 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Ages: Activities for all ages & scare levels!

Cost: Admission is FREE

For more info, Click Here.

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Welcome to LA's Biggest Ever Halloween College Block Party! Get ready for a night of epic fun at the 3rd Street Promenade. Join us for a spooktacular evening filled with music, dancing, and costume contests. This is THE event of the season you don't want to miss! UCLE VS USC doesn't just happen on the field. Now add PEPPERDINE, LOYOLA, CSU & more for a massive showdown! Grab your friends, put on your best costume, and get ready to party of the year!

For more info, Click Here.

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Ready for a trick-or-treating adventure in Downtown Santa Monica?

On the 1200 Block of Third Street Promenade (between Arizona & Wilshire), join us for a Monster Mash for all ages! Dogs are more than welcome to join the fun too (and hopefully wearing costumes of their own...)

3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Friday, October 31, 2025



The party will include :

Kid-friendly costumed characters
Mini Pumpkin Patch - Pick your FREE pumpkin! (first come, first served)
Pumpkin decorating
Appearances by special guests!
Games
Face painting
Photo ops
Arts & Crafts
Free treats, stickers, and tattoos
And more!

New, clearer video of the chaotic brawl at punk rock show hreld on Venice Beach where 3 teens were stabbed

The brawl started when the rooler skaters because the roler skaters were upset that the punk rock show was interferring with thier music. Even after moving further away, it was not even to please the roller skaters. So it became a pissing contest over whose music could over power the others.

It turned violent when one of the roller skaters got too closssee to the mosh pit and turned his back to catch his bike that his partner tipped over, when he did that, He was accidentally bumped into by one of the punks who was dancing. So he turned around, and went after him, hiting him in thr back of the head. That's when all hell breaks loose from both parties.

Scenes from this Saturday's No Kings Rally in Santa Monica

Intense scene develops as a couple of Trump Supports visit the No Kings Rally in Santa Monica

On Monday, September 29, the Malibu City Council declared a local emergency in response to worsening wildfire conditions. The Council unanimously approved the declaration after live fuel moisture levels in the Santa Monica Mountains dropped below 65%, which is the threshold the City has adopted for declaring an emergency. A live fuel moisture of 60% is considered the “critical” threshold where wildfires spread faster, grow larger, and pose greater risks to lives, property, and the environment.

Declaring a local emergency is an important proactive safety measure. It allows the City to expedite the removal of homeless encampments located in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Normally, state law requires a lengthy notice period before any encampment removals. The emergency declaration shortens that timeline to one day, enabling faster action in high fire-risk areas while ensuring outreach teams connect individuals with shelter and services. Cooking fires in encampments pose a particular danger, as open flames can quickly ignite dry vegetation. Since 2021, the City has responded to more than 30 encampment fires in Malibu.

“As we continue to recover from the most devastating fire in our City’s history, declaring a local emergency is an important and proactive step to reduce wildfire risk and protect lives, homes, and our community,” said Malibu Mayor Marianne Riggins. “We are stepping up enforcement if there is illegal activity, especially fires, but we lead with compassion. Our first priority is always getting people housed and connected to the resources they need.”

The City continues to prioritize engagement through the City’s Homeless Outreach Team operated by The People Concern, as well as the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department’s Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST), ensuring that enforcement actions are accompanied by offers of support, services, and relocation assistance. In all cases, the City and Sheriff outreach teams will offer housing support and services.

“Even in the midst of an emergency, the City remains committed to connecting individuals in need with resources, shelter, and support through our dedicated outreach teams,” said Malibu Public Safety Director Susan Duenas. “Same-day shelter placements are available through the County’s Emergency Centralized Response Center and will be offered to everyone our teams engage with. This balanced approach allows us to advance wildfire prevention and public safety, while treating those experiencing homelessness with dignity and compassion.”

Malibu’s approach to homelessness has yielded measurable results. The 2025 Homeless Count shows Malibu’s unhoused population has declined to 21 individuals and 25 total dwellings (tents, cars, RVs, vans, makeshift shelters), the lowest number since the City started tracking in 2016, down from 69 in 2024, 71 in 2023, 81 in 2022, and 157 in 2021.

In partnership with The People Concern, the City continues to successfully connect individuals with permanent housing, interim placements, and family reunification services. The Outreach Team made 72 housing placements in 2024, 51 in 2023, 67 in 2022, and 22 in 2021. The City also proactively removes encampments year-round to address wildfire, public safety, public health, and environmental concerns. Working alongside the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Malibu cleared 44 encampments in 2024, up from 29 in 2023.

The declaration will remain in effect for the duration of the hazardous fire season, subject to periodic review by the City Council.

On Friday, Octobner 17th, at around 10:14AM, people witnessed an immigration raid at the car wash on 25th St and Pico in SWanta Monica. It has been reportd that 2 workers were taken away by ICE agents, as well as a lady from Gilbert's Restuarant. 20 immigratation officer were said to have been there.

The City of Santa Monica has released a statement:

The city is aware that federal immigration agents executed operations at a car wash and possibly other locations in Santa Monica on Oct. 17 and detained several individuals who were working. We understand that these actions have caused anxiety and uncertainty in the community, and we take them very seriously.

We stand with everyone in Santa Monica who is concerned, fearful, or grieving. We are committed to ensuring that no one feels isolated, and to doing all that is within our power to protect dignity, fairness, and inclusion.    

The city is taking immediate action to do what we can to support the individuals and families impacted by today’s action.

That includes:    

Coordinating with legal aid and immigrant rights organizations to provide support and resources Offering information about rights, legal representation, and community services Facilitating access to social, health, and economic support for those impacted Advocating against indiscriminate or unjustified federal immigration operations that harm our community

The city of Santa Monica does not engage in immigration enforcement. Santa Monica Police Department does not participate in raids, arrests, or detentions based on immigration status. Our priority remains public safety and maintaining trust with all residents, regardless of immigration status.

The City of Malibu has proposed two quick-build roundabouts on PCH/State Route 1 (SR-1) in coordination with Caltrans. This pilot project will install temporary roundabouts at PCH intersections with Encinal Canyon Road and El Matador Beach Road. The project aims to calm traffic, improve pedestrian safety, and add dedicated bike lanes to help assess the feasibility of permanent roundabouts.

The City of Malibu, in coordination with Caltrans, is advancing a quick-build pilot project currently in the Project Initiation Document (PID) phase. The project proposes the temporary installation of roundabouts at two key intersections along PCH: Encinal Canyon Road and El Matador Beach Road. The intent is to improve safety by slowing vehicle speeds, enhancing pedestrian crossings and reducing crash severity.

The corridor will be reconfigured from a four-lane roadway to two single-lane roundabouts with dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian refuge areas and buffered parking. Community feedback gathered during the pilot will help determine the feasibility of permanent installations at these and other locations along the corridor.

The purpose of the project is to improve safety and efficiency for all users of PCH by placing the roundabouts at both intersections. This will reduce vehicle speeds, create safer conditions for pedestrian crossings and provide them safe refuge and improve visibility.

The existing conditions between Encinal Canyon Road and El Matador State Beach consist of four travel lanes (two in each direction) with a two-way left turn lane, and a 55 mph speed limit. It creates an unsafe condition for pedestrian activity and vehicular turning movements at the two locations. The roundabouts are intended to improve safety for people walking, biking and driving. This will be achieved by redesigning PCH at these intersections to reduce vehicle lanes from two to one, which decreases crossing distance and overall speed of vehicles in the area. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026.

For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.