From Santa Monica Close Up:

"The Santa Monica Mounted Police Officers took to the shores on Sunday, May 28, 2023, as part of their patrol duties during the bustling Memorial Day weekend."

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.

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

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A vegan rally/protest at Ocean Park in Santa Monica.

On Saturday, June 17, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Cardboard Yacht Regatta kicks off a bucket list of summer fun at the Annenberg Beach House!

SAIL, ROW, PADDLE OR SINK YOUR WAY INTO SUMMER! Be a part of the 11th Annual Cardboard Yacht Regatta!

Have you ever dreamed of setting sail across the waters in your very own yacht? Now you can build your own cardboard yacht and test its seaworthiness in a race across the Beach House Pool. Build a yacht using just corrugated cardboard and duct tape, decorate it, cross your fingers and hope you can make it to the other side.

Two people must be in the yacht during the race. All boats must be human-powered (no motors).People's Choice Awards will be given in a variety of categories, including "Most Likely to Sink", "Best Use of Theme", and "Most Spirited". The Beach House Courtyard will open for yachts to be on display beginning at 9am. Races will launch beginning at 11am. Please read attached information sheet for more details on the Cardboard Yacht Regatta, including appropriate yacht building materials, regatta rules and an event timeline.

For questions or more information, call the Beach House at 310-458-4904.

Preregistration required to race your yacht. Register early and enjoy building your boat with friends and family! $20 entry fee per yacht. Payment is NOT required for each sailor who will be in the yacht. This is a team registration. Please register once per yacht that will be entered in the event.

You will be asked for the names and ages of sailors in the registration process.

For more info, Click Here

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"A tragic incident unfolded today at Santa Monica Beach as authorities responded to a distress call concerning an individual in distress near Tower 17. Santa Monica Police Officers and the Santa Monica Fire Department rushed to the scene after receiving the report shortly after 11:00 a.m., May 27, 2023. Sadly, despite their swift arrival and efforts, the woman was declared deceased upon their arrival.

Preliminary investigations conducted by the authorities did not reveal any visible signs of drowning or physical trauma, leading them to suspect that the woman's passing may have been the result of an accidental overdose. In accordance with established protocols for public deaths, the Santa Monica Police Department requested the expertise of the Los Angeles County coroner, who arrived at 2:40 p.m."

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.

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

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The festival was a celebration of our planet and a powerful demonstration of love and unity.

A vehicle traveling southbound on PCH was stopped in the left turn lane at Temescal Canyon Road across from Will Rogers State Beach, when it suddenly caught on fire. The driver and his daughter, who he was driving to school, were able to exit the vehicle and cross over safely off the highway, along with their dog. A witness who was jogging through he crosswalk at the intersection saw the fire start, she said flames started in the passenger side wheel well.

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"In a prompt display of emergency response, Los Angeles County Lifeguards and Santa Monica Firefighters sprang into action following a cycling accident on the Santa Monica Beach Bike Path on Sunday, May 21, 2023. The incident occurred when a person unexpectedly darted onto the bike path, causing a cyclist to lose control of their bicycle and crash. Fortunately, the cyclist's use of a helmet minimized the severity of their injuries. "

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.

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

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From Santa Monica Close Up:

"Santa Monica Pier Painter Joey Alvarez proves his dedication to preserving the pier's beauty!"

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.

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

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Nick Gabaldon Day is always an incredible time. Filled with joy, history and the future. Definitely get out there if you can!

Hosted by The Black Surfers Collective, his year is even more epic with their partnership with Jamal Hill!

Jamal Hill, the founder of Swim Up Hill, has created an innovative teaching method that promotes restorative justice through swimming for underserved communities with little access to this essential life skill. We are pleased to have Swim Up Hill as our swimming lesson partner and grateful for their support.

Furthermore, we are thrilled to welcome the LA28, the organizers of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, who will be celebrating our community's diversity and creativity.

All participants will have the chance to meet and listen to inspiring stories from Olympic athletes, making the celebration even more special.

If you wish to take free surf lessons please Click Here

If you're interested in volunteering for the event, please Click Here to sign up. Please feel free to share this with anyone you think would be interested in attending and supporting the event. Thank you all for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you at Nick Gabaldon Day.

Summer Board Swap is upon us! Join Bay Streets Boards on Sunday, May 28th for some wicked deals and bomb food!

No registration needed, just pull up and make a deal. A little later than the typical board swap for the Sunday sleepers or early morning shredders. Freshly baked Neapolitan pizza provided by Citrea Bakery

Come by from 11am-3pm for a good time!

For more info, Click Here

The Santa Monica Police have finally released an update to the BOY LINKED TO ARMED ROBBERY SHOOTS HIS HAND story we reported on Monday.

They are letting the public know that the "boy" was not an innocent victim like all the main stream news stations were reporting.

Here is the SMPD official statement:
On Monday, May 15, 2023, at 2:00 pm, the Santa Monica Police Department received a 911 call of an armed robbery that just occurred near the intersection of 3rd Street and Idaho Ave. The victim, a delivery driver, was threatened by two suspects, one of whom brandished a firearm and pointed it at the driver during the theft.

Approximately 20 minutes later, there was another call of shots fired in the 800 block of 2nd Street. Officers who were already in the area investigating the robbery soon learned that the second call was an accidental discharge of a firearm by one of the suspects involved in the incident at 3rd and Idaho Ave. The injured suspect shot himself in the hand while inside a residence. Officers responding to the shots fired call located the two robbery suspects inside the residence; both are juveniles.

The uninjured youth, a resident of Santa Monica, was booked at the Santa Monica Police Department and transported to juvenile hall. The injured suspect was transported to the hospital for treatment. He was released from the hospital the next day, booked at the SMPD, and also transported to juvenile hall.

Subsequent investigation of the incidents tied the two youth to multiple additional crimes that occurred in the area over the past few months, including residential and vehicle burglaries, auto theft, and a stabbing. They have both been charged with the robbery. Additional charges are pending.

Anyone with information pertaining to this incident or persons involved is strongly encouraged to contact SMPD Criminal Investigations during business hours at 310-458-8451.

A few things we left out of our breaking news story, was that the parents did not seemed to be shocked or even suprised, according to the eye witnesses (and from watchinmg their reactions in the video when they were toild what happened). Also, another witness said a man who seemed like he was the apartment manager came out and spoke to the parents, telling them the owner wants them gone. Good riddance, they were stealing from all over the neighborhood. F'em.

Below are screenshots of the Video Stories from the Shacked Mag Instagram:

Searching the apartment

Gather your friends and family and head down to the Pier for amazing entertainment including youth activities, a car show, local DJs and live music from local bands, art exhibits, and so much more! You really won’t want to miss this incredible and unique outdoor setting to unwind, all while celebrating Santa Monica.

May 18th, 3 - 9PM



WestSide Dream Car Club
Attention all car enthusiasts! WestSide Dream Car Club is back again to show off their incredible collections of cars at Locals' Night. Get ready to drool over their stunning rides, from classic muscle cars to sleek sports cars and everything in between. Whether you're a car fanatic or just appreciate fine craftsmanship, this is your chance to see some of the most impressive vehicles in town. So bring your camera and strike a pose with your dream car, or just marvel at the sight of them all. With WestSide Dream Car Club in town, Locals' Night is the place to be for any car lover.

PIER PARKING DECK | 4:30PM - 9:30PM




Grease!
Get ready to transport yourself back to the 1950s as the talented students of JAMS/SMASH Theatre Company take the stage to perform songs from the beloved musical, GREASE! With their impeccable singing, energetic dancing, and captivating acting skills, the JAMS/SMASH Theatre Company is set to bring the iconic characters of Danny, Sandy, and the Pink Ladies to life. With their remarkable talent and dedication, the JAMS/SMASH Theatre Company is guaranteed to deliver a memorable and electrifying performance of GREASE that will leave the audience cheering for more.




Hostile Witness


A 6-piece classic rock cover band based in LA playing classic rock tunes like songs from The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, the Doors, and more! PIER PARKING DECK | 6:00PM-7:00PM >



Salsa on the Pier
Get ready to spice up your night because Salsa on the Pier is back again for Locals' Night! Cesar, Michelle, and Nicole are bringing their incredible dancing skills to the Pier, and they're ready to teach you some moves. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, they'll have you salsa-ing like a pro in no time. So slip on your dancing shoes and get ready to sway to the rhythm of the music. And when the lesson is over, the real fun begins! The dance floor is open and the music is hot, so grab a partner and show off your new moves. Salsa on the Pier is the perfect way to add some Latin flavor to your night, so come on down and let's dance!

EAST MERRY GO-ROUND DECK | 5:00PM-9:00PM

And much, much, more..... Click Here

On Monday just before 3PM, Santa Monica Police responded to the 800 block of 2nd Street to a report of a gunshot wound. This is over in the Montana area of north Santa Monica.

Apparently, a "boy" shot himself in the hand. As he was being treated and taken to the hospital, the police discovered that he is linked to an armed robbery and a stolen vehicle (this information was overheard from the detectives conversations with the parents).

Several investigaters and the Forensics vehicles soon arrive to the scene and a search of the street facing apartment began.

A neighbor stated that the kid and his parents must have just moved in, because the aparment was vacant about two months ago.

Also overheard was that the boy will be going to juvenile hall.

Below are screenshots of the Video Stories from the Shacked Mag Instagram:

Searching the apartment

Celebrate America returns to Santa Monica College on Saturday, July 1! Fireworks by Pyro Spectaculars. Live music by Westside Crew. Picnic on Corsair Field

Gates open at 5 p.m.
Fireworks at 9 p.m.
$5 parking - enter at Pico Blvd. & 17th St.

For more info, Click Here

On April 25th, 2023, the Santa Monica Police Department received information that human remains were found in the courtyard of an abandoned property in the 2900 block of Santa Monica Boulevard.

The Los Angeles County Coroner took possession of the remains and are currently working to determine the cause of death. On May 6, 2023, the Coroner positively identified the remains as those of Beau Mann (DOB: 2/21/1982).

Mann, who was last seen on November 30, 2021, was reported missing to the Los Angeles Police Department on December 4, 2021.

Anyone with any information pertaining to this incident or person(s) involved is strongly encouraged to contact SMPD Detective Ismael Tavera at 310-458-2256

Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Operation Planned for May 5, 2023

The Santa Monica Police Department will conduct a traffic safety operation on May 5th from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. focused on the most dangerous driver behaviors that put the safety of people biking or walking at risk.

These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield or provide right of way to bicyclists or pedestrians, or failing to stop for signs and signals.

“We all have places to be and not everyone gets there by car. Bicyclists and pedestrians have the same rights to the road but face even more risk without the protections vehicles have. We should all be looking out for one another.”

The Santa Monica Police Department offers steps drivers and pedestrians can take to greatly reduce the risk of getting injured or in a crash:

Pedestrians
· Be predictable. Use crosswalks, when available.
· Take notice of approaching vehicles and practice due care.
· Do not walk or run into the path of a vehicle. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.
· Be visible. Make it easy for drivers to see you – wear light colors, reflective material and carry a flashlight, particularly at dawn, dusk or at night.
· Be extra careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night when it is harder to see, or when crossing busier streets with more lanes and higher speed limits.

Drivers
· Follow the speed limit and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
· Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
· Never drive impaired.

Bicyclists
· Obey traffic laws, use hand signals, use lights at night (front white light and rear red reflector), and wear a helmet.
· Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.
· Avoid the door zone: do not ride too closely to parked cars.
· If there’s a bike lane, use it, unless making a left turn, passing, or approaching a place where a right turn is allowed.
· Yield to pedestrians. Bicyclists must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within marked crosswalks or within unmarked crosswalks at intersections. 

Santa Monica Police Department Holding Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation May 5, 2023

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) will have extra officers on patrol May 5, 2023 looking specifically for violation made by drivers and motorcycle riders. The top primary crash factors for motorcycles are unsafe speed, improper turning, right-of-way violations, driving under the influence and unsafe lane changes. Speeding is the most common, accounting for nearly a third of all crashes in the state.

To help protect you and your family, keep the following tips in mind while driving or riding:

Drivers

· Always check twice for motorcycles in your mirrors and blind spots.
· Use your signal when changing lanes.
· Never follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.
· When at an intersection, allow enough space before turning.


Motorcyclists
· Always wear a DOT compliant helmet and protective gear.
· Consider adding reflective tape to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
· Always keep your lights on, even during the day.
· Don’t assume drivers see you: signal well in advance before changing lanes and watch for turning vehicles.
· Although lane splitting is legal, the practice is not encouraged at high speeds in free-flowing traffic.

LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Two lifeguard towers located on what became known as Ginger Rogers Beach, a traditional coastal haven for the LGBTQ+ community, will be painted the colors of the Progress Pride Flag under a motion approved today by the county Board of Supervisors.

Towers 17 and 18 are located on Ginger Rogers Beach, which is part of Will Rogers State Beach north of the Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica. According to Supervisor Lindsey Horvath's office, the stretch of beach became a popular destination for gay men as far back as the 1940s, and it was soon dubbed Ginger Rogers Beach in honor of the screen legend. The location evolved into a focal point of political activism, according to Horvath's office, ranging from fundraisers for AIDS victims to petition drives opposing the Vietnam War.

Under the motion approved by the board Tuesday, the two lifeguard towers will be painted in the Progress Pride Flag colors and formally unveiled on June 17 as part of Pride Month celebrations. According to Horvath, the painted lifeguard towers will be accompanied by educational signs that will outline the history of the beach.

``Pride Month is about celebrating and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community honoring those who came before us, empowering all in the struggle today, and educating the generations that will lead after us,'' Horvath said in a statement. ``Amidst a despicable rise in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policy-making throughout the country, we have an important opportunity to honor the history of Ginger Rogers Beach, which has long been a safe space for LGBTQ+ people.

``As an advocate and ally, I look forward to celebrating the legacy of Ginger Rogers Beach, and the generations of LGBTQ+ Angelenos who have lived out and proud -- this June and all year long.''

The crash occurred at 3:10 p.m. in the 1000 block of PCH, near the California Incline, Santa Monica police Lt. Erika Aklufi told City News Service.

A Kia SUV with six adults and two small children was northbound on PCH and attempting to turn left into Beach Lot 4 North when it was T-boned by a southbound Toyota Camry with two adults. The impact was on the Kia's passenger-side rear door.

All 10 occupants of both vehicles were taken to UCLA Medical Center in Westwood. One passenger in the back of the Kia had suffered a major leg injury and died at the hospital, she said. The rest of the injuries were "mostly minor.'' There was no description of the victim who died.

Here's surfing photos from Tuesday, May 2nd at Ocean Park.

This set of surf photos was shot by Six12 Media and brought to you by Ocean Park 26.

These are just a few of the photos from this session. If you were out there, you probably got some surfing shots, probably multiple photos, they will be in the complete photo gallery for this day, check them out, the link to the complete gallery is down below.











You can find 70+ more photos from this session, all full size and in high-resolution, in this photo gallery:

Ocean Park - Saturday 2-11-2023 Photo Gallery


If you were out there, we probably got some cool surfing shots of you, go check them out!

Wanna see photos from previous days at this and other local surf spots from this photographer?
Click Surf Spot Galleries and look for the spot and then the date.

And be sure to check out all the hats, tees, and more from Ocean Park 26.