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June 2, 2026
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Santa Monica and Coastal Commission Formalize Plan to Finalize Local Coastal Program: Santa Monica and the California Coastal Commission have signed a memorandum of understanding to finalize the city's Local Coastal Program, aiming to give Santa Monica increased authority over development decisions along its coast. The agreement outlines a process for completing and certifying a Land Use Plan and zoning ordinance for the coastal zone. Once certified, Santa Monica will oversee various projects such as outdoor dining, residential development, and transportation while safeguarding public access and coastal resources. The plan builds upon earlier drafts and prior community outreach efforts. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jun 2)
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Santa Monica Pier to Celebrate Route 66 Centennial with Festival on June 4: The City of Santa Monica will commemorate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a festival at the Santa Monica Pier on Thursday, June 4, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. This free public event will feature classic midcentury cars displayed by the Petersen Automotive Museum, live country music, and a Texas-themed steak challenge inspired by the Amarillo landmark. Attendees can also enjoy regional food offerings and the debut of a commemorative local pale ale. The event highlights both community spirit and Route 66 history. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jun 2)
June 1, 2026
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Santa Monica Allocates $6 Million for Renter Aid and Homelessness Prevention: Santa Monica has approved a $6 million program aimed at preventing evictions and reducing homelessness as part of its 2025–2030 Homelessness Strategic Plan. The Renter Aid initiative, funded by Measure GS, will provide direct financial support and related services to at-risk households. The program will be administered in partnership with The People Concern and is expected to launch later this summer. Eligible households can receive substantial assistance depending on their needs and income levels. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jun 1)
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Santa Monica Allocates $6 Million to Prevent Evictions and Reduce Homelessness: Santa Monica has approved a $6 million program aimed at preventing evictions and addressing homelessness as part of its 2025–2030 Homelessness Strategic Plan. Funded through Measure GS, the initiative will provide direct financial aid to qualifying renter households, including emergency and ongoing housing assistance. The People Concern, a local non-profit, will help administer the program, which is set to begin this summer. Eligible households with incomes up to 120% of area median income may benefit from these resources. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jun 1)
May 31, 2026
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Santa Monica Library Schedules July Events for Local Youth and Families: The Santa Monica Public Library plans to host a series of free educational and entertainment programs for children and families throughout July at its various branches. Activities include balloon art workshops, interactive magic demonstrations, bubble science presentations, music, dance, and Pokémon-themed events. The programs aim to provide engaging experiences for children aged 5 to 11, with sessions kicking off July 2 at the Montana Branch. Attendance is free, with events scheduled at multiple community locations. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 31)
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Santa Monica Public Library Schedules Free Summer Programs for Families in July: Throughout July, the Santa Monica Public Library will host several free programs for children and families at various branch locations. Events include a balloon artistry workshop, bubble science demonstrations, music, dance activities, and themed entertainment, all designed for youth engagement and learning. These activities offer creative and educational experiences, with scheduled programs beginning July 2. All events are free and open to young residents and their families. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 31)
May 29, 2026
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Santa Monica Police Department Opens New Downtown Substation at Santa Monica Place: The Santa Monica Police Department has inaugurated a new substation at 395 Santa Monica Place, Suite 122, aimed at enhancing public safety and community engagement downtown. City officials and Police Chief Darrick Jacob attended the opening, signaling support for ongoing efforts to improve the area's retail and entertainment corridors. The facility is designed to boost response times, increase visible patrols, and foster collaboration with local businesses. These changes are part of a broader city plan to revitalize downtown Santa Monica. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 29)
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Illinois Resident Charged After Dog Bite Incident Near Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade: A 49-year-old man from Illinois faces charges of criminal threats and battery following an incident near Third Street and Broadway in downtown Santa Monica on May 24. Police allege the man stopped his car in traffic, threatened two pedestrians, and pursued one while his Cane Corso dog bit the individual, resulting in a minor injury treated at the scene. The dog was quarantined by Santa Monica Animal Control. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has filed related charges. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 29)
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Santa Monica Driver Charged After Alleged Dog Attack on Pedestrian: A Santa Monica driver faces felony criminal threat and misdemeanor battery charges after allegedly commanding his dog to bite a pedestrian near the Third Street Promenade. The incident occurred on Broadway on May 24, when the driver reportedly shouted threats, chased a pedestrian, and ordered his Cane Corso to attack, causing injury. Prosecutors did not pursue hate crime enhancements. The driver, Nay Min Tar, pleaded not guilty during his arraignment and the case is proceeding through the courts. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 29)
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Santa Monica Considers Major Changes to Coastal Development and Housing Rules: Santa Monica is weighing legislative changes that could significantly alter its coastal areas. A new state bill may allow projects in the coastal zone to greatly expand in size without a matching increase in affordable housing, sparking concern in neighborhoods like Wilmont, which has many rent-controlled units. The approach to historic properties under the proposed framework remains uncertain. Meanwhile, a separate bill could bring density mandates closer if transit definitions shift. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 29)
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Santa Monica Council Approves Agreement to Advance Local Coastal Program: The Santa Monica City Council has approved a memorandum of understanding with the California Coastal Commission to outline the process for obtaining a fully certified Local Coastal Program. This agreement includes plans for both land use and implementation, with a goal of completing certification by the end of the year. The framework aims to enhance local management of coastal resources and streamline coastal planning. The initiative marks a significant step in the city's coastal governance. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 29)
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Pacific Park Marks 30th Anniversary With Discounted Rides Through June 11: Pacific Park, located on the Santa Monica Pier, is extending its 30th anniversary festivities with special ride discounts available until June 11. Visitors can take advantage of reduced prices on several attractions, including the Pacific Wheel, as part of this ongoing celebration. These promotions aim to attract both locals and tourists looking for entertainment at the iconic beachfront amusement park. The offers are valid through the specified date, welcoming attendees daily until the promotion ends. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 29)
May 28, 2026
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Driver Arrested After Confrontation and Dog Bite in Downtown Santa Monica: Authorities arrested a motorist in downtown Santa Monica following an incident that resulted in a pedestrian being bitten by a Cane Corso on May 24. According to police, the situation began when the driver confronted and threatened two pedestrians before exiting his vehicle and chasing one of them. The suspect's dog then attacked and injured one of the individuals. Police are reviewing video footage and witness statements to determine if further charges will be filed. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 28)
May 27, 2026
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Santa Monica Conservancy Introduces Self-Guided Coastal History Tour Launching June 7: The Santa Monica Conservancy will launch a self-guided historical tour called “Coastal Crossroads” on June 7. The tour aims to educate participants about the cultural and historical importance of Santa Monica’s coastline, as part of the organization’s broader efforts to make local history more accessible to the public. This new offering adds to the Conservancy’s existing lineup of walking tours. Community members are encouraged to take part in this local history experience. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 27)
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County Resumes Beach Bus Service to Address World Cup Visitor Surge in Santa Monica: Los Angeles County has relaunched its Beach Bus program in anticipation of increased traffic as Santa Monica readies for a wave of World Cup visitors this summer. The service provides affordable transportation from multiple inland communities to Santa Monica Beach, operating through Labor Day on various days each week. The initiative aims to reduce vehicle congestion as large fan events and activities are held throughout the city. Reservations are recommended for riders planning trips during the busy tournament season. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 27)
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Santa Monica Budget Proposal Aims to Move From Deficits to Strategic Investment: Santa Monica officials presented an updated city financial overview and proposed changes to the 2026–27 operating budget on Tuesday night. Although the city continues to face several challenges, council members and staff expressed optimism about a shift toward more stable financial footing. The proposal emphasizes increased investment after a period of deficits, reflecting improved fiscal confidence. The council is now evaluating these changes as part of their ongoing budget planning. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 27)
May 23, 2026
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Santa Monica College Piano Ensemble Schedules June Concerts at The Edye: Santa Monica College's Piano Ensemble is set to hold two concerts in early June, highlighting collaborative piano works by intermediate and advanced students. Performances will take place on June 4 at 11:15 a.m. and June 6 at 2 p.m. at The Edye, part of the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center on Santa Monica Boulevard and 11th Street. The events will feature a range of piano compositions performed by ensembles and duos under the direction of a college instructor. Admission details vary by performance. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 23)
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Santa Monica College Piano Ensemble Schedules June Concerts: Santa Monica College's Piano Ensemble will present two concerts in early June featuring collaborative piano works. The performances, set for June 4 and June 6 at The Edye venue, will highlight music played by intermediate and advanced students in various ensemble formats. Directed by faculty member Sumy Takesue, the events emphasize diverse piano repertoire and student musicianship. Tickets for the June 6 concert are available for purchase, with both free and general admission options offered. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 23)
May 20, 2026
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Santa Monica Plans Events and Specials for Bike Anywhere Day on May 21: Santa Monica is set to mark Bike Anywhere Day on May 21 with a variety of community activities organized by Santa Monica Spoke and local partners. Cyclists can participate in morning pit stops throughout the city, receive discounts from area businesses, and attend a Handlebar Happy Hour in the evening. The annual event aims to encourage cycling and foster local engagement. These activities highlight the city's ongoing commitment to sustainable transportation. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 20)
May 18, 2026
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Santa Monica Boulevard to Receive Safety Upgrades Following Council Approval: The Santa Monica City Council has approved significant changes to Santa Monica Boulevard to address road safety issues, including 435 high-injury crashes recorded in the past decade. The plan focuses on reducing speeding and improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists from Ocean Avenue to Centinela Avenue. Immediate measures include installing temporary barriers near McKinley Elementary School and prioritizing stronger pedestrian crossings in the area. Travel lanes will also be narrowed to enhance protection for vulnerable road users. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 18)
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Santa Monica Boulevard Safety Plan Advances With Focus on School Zone Protections: Santa Monica City Council has approved updates to the Santa Monica Boulevard Safety Study, which targets reducing speeding and improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists between Ocean Avenue and Centinela Avenue. The plan includes installing temporary barriers at the intersection near McKinley Elementary School before the next academic year and enhancing safety features at other crossings. Over the last decade, the boulevard experienced 435 high-injury crashes. These changes aim to improve travel conditions for all users along the corridor. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 18)
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Santa Monica Faces Parallel Debates Over Development and Coastal Oversight: Santa Monica is currently navigating two significant discussions regarding development on its coast. One debate centers on Assembly Bill 1740 in Sacramento, while the other focuses on the city's overdue Local Coastal Program, which is now being reconsidered at city hall. These parallel efforts have the potential to significantly influence Santa Monica's coastal planning and future growth. The outcomes could create lasting changes for the community. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 18)
May 15, 2026
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Nordstrom Rack Plans New Store at Marina Marketplace in Marina del Rey: Nordstrom Rack has announced it will open a 30,000-square-foot store at Marina Marketplace in Marina del Rey in spring 2027, marking the second major retailer to relocate to the area within a month. The company also revealed a separate new location will open in Torrance the following summer. This move follows Anthropologie’s recent decision to transfer its Santa Monica location to Marina del Rey and comes after Nordstrom closed its Santa Monica store last year. These shifts highlight ongoing changes in the local retail landscape. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 15)
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Santa Monica's Business Climate Sees Replacement Rather Than True Recovery: Santa Monica has seen numerous new businesses open, but the high vacancy rates in commercial properties suggest the area is not fully recovering post-pandemic. Despite positive headlines, lingering vacancies in Downtown, the Promenade, and key corridors remain above 30 percent, which is much higher than normal historical averages. The data indicates that only those with significant resources are able to enter or remain in the local business market. The ongoing low absorption rate points to a commercial environment that is still unstable. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 15)
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Santa Monica Debates Future Use of Civic Center Land: Park or Commercial Space?: Santa Monica is currently considering significant plans for the future of its Civic Center land. The community faces a pivotal decision between developing a large public park or opting for a commercial project that would include green spaces alongside retail features. Local officials and residents are discussing the long-term implications of each option, weighing the benefits of dedicated park space against potential economic development. This decision is expected to shape the heart of Santa Monica for generations. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 15)
May 14, 2026
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Santa Monica Celebrates First Year Achievements of SaMo Bridge Diversion Program: Santa Monica's SaMo Bridge diversion program has completed its inaugural year, surpassing its original goals in linking justice-involved individuals to housing, treatment, and support services. City officials recently held a ceremony to honor four program participants who graduated, highlighting the impact on public safety and community well-being. The initiative has helped hundreds of people transition away from the justice system. City leaders view the program as a model for future efforts. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 14)
May 13, 2026
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Santa Monica Kicks Off Summer With Theater Events and Music Festival: Santa Monica's summer arts season begins with several notable events, including the final performances of the play 'Blue Kiss' at the Ruskin Group Theatre. The theater's new arts center hosts this two-actor production, praised for its emotional depth and storytelling. Meanwhile, the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival returns for its 61st year, signaling the start of the area's summer music festivities. Both events serve as key highlights for local arts enthusiasts. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 13)
May 12, 2026
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Santa Monica Solicits Community Feedback on $10 Million Human Services Grant Cycle: The city of Santa Monica is seeking public input on the future direction of its Human Services Grants Program, which provides approximately $10 million each year to nonprofits that support vulnerable populations. A meeting scheduled for May 19 will give residents the chance to offer feedback on funding priorities, eligibility, and goals ahead of the next five-year funding cycle. The program targets services for youth, seniors, people experiencing homelessness, and other at-risk groups. The feedback will inform the formal proposal process planned for the fall. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 12)
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Ultramarathoner Completes 600-Kilometer Run From Death Valley to Santa Monica: German ultramarathon runner Arda Saatçi finished a 604.6-kilometer trek from Death Valley to Santa Monica Pier, arriving after 123 hours of near-continuous running. His journey, which began at Badwater Basin and ended at the Pacific Ocean, included overcoming harsh temperatures, sleep deprivation, and a detour caused by a landslide. Saatçi covered more than 14 marathons’ worth of distance, navigating both desert and mountain terrain. He completed the challenge on May 10, 2026. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 12)
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Santa Monica Invites Community Feedback on $10M Human Services Grants: Santa Monica is seeking community input ahead of its upcoming Human Services Grants Program funding cycle, which allocates about $10 million annually to nonprofits assisting residents in need. The Housing and Human Services Department, working with the Human Services Commission, will host a public meeting on May 19 to gather feedback on priorities, eligibility, and goals for the 2027-2031 period. The session will be held at the Civic Center on Olympic Drive. Public participation will help shape the draft Request for Proposals before its release in the fall. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 12)
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Santa Monica Legislation to Limit Coastal Commission Power Encounters Local Pushback: A bill sponsored by Assemblymember Rick Zbur to reduce the authority of the California Coastal Commission in Santa Monica has advanced through several committee votes. Despite revisions that have moderated the legislation, various community organizations in Santa Monica remain opposed to the proposed changes. The bill is scheduled for a vote on the Assembly floor before potentially advancing to the state Senate and Governor. Debate continues over how the legislation may affect local coastal oversight. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 12)
May 11, 2026
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Santa Monica City Council to Consider Renewal of Homelessness Emergency Declaration: The Santa Monica City Council will vote on whether to renew the local emergency declaration on homelessness at its upcoming Tuesday meeting. The declaration, first enacted in March 2025, enables the city to expedite support programs for the unhoused and access additional funding. Council approval is required every 60 days in accordance with state guidelines. Officials maintain that the emergency designation is vital as the region continues to face significant challenges related to homelessness. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 11)
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Santa Monica City Council to Vote on Extending Homelessness Emergency Declaration: The Santa Monica City Council will decide whether to extend its official homelessness emergency declaration at its upcoming meeting. City officials say maintaining the declaration is key to speeding up aid programs, expanding services for unhoused residents, and helping the city qualify for additional funding. The renewal, originally adopted in March 2025, is required by state law every 60 days. The council meeting will be held at City Hall on Tuesday evening. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 11)
May 9, 2026
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Health Officials Issue Ocean Water Warnings for Beaches in Santa Monica Area: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued warnings for several beaches, including spots in Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu, following tests revealing bacteria levels above state health standards. Beachgoers are advised to avoid water activities near the storm drain at Will Rogers State Beach (Tower 5), Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach, and near the Santa Monica Pier. Recent advisories for Tunas Canyon and Inner Cabrillo Beach have been lifted after improved water quality results. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 9)
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Santa Monica College to Present Comic Opera Productions in May: Santa Monica College will showcase two comedic operas, Rossini’s "La cambiale di matrimonio" and Gilbert and Sullivan’s "Trial by Jury," at The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage later this month. The Opera Theatre and Symphony Orchestra will deliver fully staged performances from May 22 to May 24. "La cambiale di matrimonio" explores an interrupted arranged marriage and will be sung in Italian with English supertitles, while "Trial by Jury" offers a humorous take on 1980s divorce court. Both productions aim to provide an entertaining, accessible program. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 9)
May 8, 2026
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Santa Monica Faces Rising Concerns Over High-Rise Development Projects: Santa Monica is experiencing a wave of new development proposals, with multiple seven- and eight-story residential projects and even a 23-story building planned for 7th Street. These projects, mostly offering luxury units, have prompted residents to question the future character of their neighborhood commercial districts. The debate extends beyond simple pro- and anti-development positions, with locals seeking a thoughtful approach that addresses both housing needs and neighborhood preservation. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 8)
May 7, 2026
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Chef Sandra Cordero Opens Bar Xuntos in Santa Monica, Highlighting Spanish Cuisine: Bar Xuntos has opened in Santa Monica, offering a Barcelona-inspired atmosphere with a focus on Spanish natural wines and Basque-style pintxos. Chef Sandra Cordero's latest venture features an extensive wine list of over 200 bottles, emphasizing female-led wineries and innovative producers from Spain. The menu includes classic Spanish snacks such as pintxos, croquetas, and Jamón Ibérico. Bar Xuntos is an evolution of Xuntos, now revamped to provide a unique destination for wine enthusiasts. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 7)
May 6, 2026
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Santa Monica Students Recognized for Artwork in Sustainable Poster Contest: Santa Monica recently announced the winners of the 18th annual Sustainable Santa Monica Student Poster Contest, with 16 students from kindergarten through 12th grade being recognized. The contest, coordinated by the city in collaboration with nonprofit Sustainable Works, encouraged students to create artwork on the topic of reducing emissions and building resilient communities. Winning entries highlighted actions such as using zero-emission transit, biking, and promoting clean energy. The contest aims to foster climate awareness among local youth. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 6)
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Santa Monica Students Recognized in Annual Sustainable Poster Contest: Sixteen students from kindergarten through twelfth grade were recognized in the 18th annual Sustainable Santa Monica Student Poster Contest. The event, organized by the city and the nonprofit Sustainable Works, asked students to submit artwork focused on reducing emissions and building resilient communities. Winning entries highlighted strategies such as zero-emission transportation, biking, electric vehicles, and clean energy. Winners' artwork reflects a strong grasp of climate solutions and community goals. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 6)
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Santa Monica International Jazz Festival Continues With Second Weekend of Events: The Santa Monica International Jazz Festival is entering its second weekend, featuring performances curated by festival creator Stanley Clarke. The event showcases a variety of jazz artists and aims to establish itself as a recurring highlight in the Santa Monica music scene. In addition to jazz, other cultural happenings such as the L.A. Opera's production of Verdi's "Falstaff" and the Netflix Is A Joke comedy festival are taking place across Los Angeles. Attendees can choose from various venues and performance dates to enjoy these events. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 6)
May 4, 2026
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Santa Monica Wine Auction Brings In Over $400,000 for Local Public Schools: The 11th annual Santa Monica Wine Auction hosted at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows raised more than $400,000 to benefit public schools in Santa Monica. Organized by the Santa Monica Education Foundation, the event brought together approximately 400 attendees for wine tastings, dining, and live auctions. Funds from the evening will support academic programs, the arts, instructional assistants, and school-wide grants. The event also featured the launch of a student investment club at Santa Monica High School. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 4)
May 2, 2026
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Santa Monica Deploys Automated Cameras to Enforce Bike Lane Regulations: Santa Monica has introduced automated cameras on parking enforcement vehicles to monitor and ticket cars that block bike lanes. This initiative follows a six-week pilot that identified 1,700 violations, reflecting broader city efforts to promote safer and more accessible cycling routes. The technology uses forward-facing cameras to automatically detect unauthorized vehicles in bike lanes, aiming to reduce risks for cyclists by keeping lanes clear. The city hopes this step will improve overall transportation safety. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 2)
May 1, 2026
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Santa Monica Launches Automated Bike Lane Enforcement Program in May: Santa Monica has initiated an automated system to enforce bike lane regulations, starting May 1. The program employs cameras mounted on parking enforcement vehicles to identify and address illegally parked cars in bike lanes, aiming to improve cyclists' safety and keep lanes unobstructed. This marks the first citywide use of such technology in California. The enforcement effort expands on a successful pilot project previously conducted in Santa Monica. (Source: Santa Monica Next on May 1)
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Stewart Copeland to Headline Inaugural Santa Monica Jazz Festival in May: The first Santa Monica International Jazz Festival will take place from May 1 to 9, with performances scheduled at Tongva Park, Third Street Promenade, and BroadStage. Stewart Copeland, famed drummer from The Police, is set to perform alongside Stanley Clarke and other notable artists during the main ticketed event on May 9. The weeklong festival launches with a free public concert and aims to attract visitors as part of Santa Monica’s summer programming. Organizers anticipate strong attendance and diverse musical offerings. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 1)
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Stewart Copeland Set to Perform at First Santa Monica Jazz Festival in May: The inaugural Santa Monica International Jazz Festival is scheduled to run from May 1 to 9 across several city venues, including Tongva Park, Third Street Promenade, and BroadStage. Stewart Copeland, renowned drummer from The Police, will perform on May 9 as part of the festival's main ticketed concert alongside Stanley Clarke, Kamasi Washington, and others. The event features both free and ticketed performances and is expected to attract significant local interest. (Source: Yo! Venice! on May 1)
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Santa Monica Faces Familiar Political Patterns Ahead of City Council Election: As Santa Monica prepares for its upcoming city council election, concerns are rising about the potential repetition of past political dynamics. A recent opinion piece references a similar situation from 2018, highlighting the advantage incumbents often hold, even if they are recently appointed. The article expresses worries over increasing crime and homelessness in the city, suggesting these issues are prominent in local discussions. Residents remain watchful of the city's political and social direction. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on May 1)
April 30, 2026
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Historic Circle Bar in Santa Monica to Reopen After Two-Year Hiatus: Circle Bar, a Main Street staple in Santa Monica since 1949, will resume operations in May following nearly two years of closure. Known for its iconic oval bar and vibrant dance floor, the venue is set to open Thursday through Saturday evenings under new ownership. The 1,700-square-foot property recently changed hands for almost $2 million, with upgrades to sound and lighting planned. The reopening aims to preserve the bar's historic character while bringing new amenities to patrons. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Apr 30)
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Chef Raphael Lunetta Celebrates Ten Years at His Santa Monica Restaurant: Chef Raphael Lunetta recently marked both his 59th birthday and the tenth anniversary of his Pico Boulevard restaurant in Santa Monica. In reflecting on a decade of running Lunetta, he discussed the joys and challenges of maintaining a small business, emphasizing the importance of staff, quality ingredients, and creating a positive atmosphere. A Santa Monica native formerly known for Jiraffe, Lunetta credits his restaurant’s longevity to its welcoming environment and dedication to guests. The establishment has become a staple in the local dining scene over the last ten years. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Apr 30)
April 29, 2026
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National Strike Encourages Santa Monica Residents to Support Local Businesses May 1: A national strike is planned for May 1, 2026, aimed at encouraging Santa Monica residents and others to refrain from work, schooling, or patronizing large corporations for one day. Organizers recommend shopping at small, independently owned stores and engaging in relaxing or community activities. The movement seeks to signal widespread dissatisfaction with current economic practices by prompting a collective reduction in business for major companies. This event emphasizes unity and support for local economies. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Apr 29)
April 28, 2026
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Santa Monica City Council Race Forms as Three Candidates Announce Bids: The upcoming Santa Monica City Council election is gaining momentum as several candidates, including Mayor Caroline Torosis, Lana Negrete, and Brett Morrow, have entered the race. Voters will decide on three of the seven council seats in the November election. While the official start for campaign filings is still a few months away, early announcements are beginning to shape the field. The developments signal an active campaign season for local governance. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Apr 28)