Latest News
December 27, 2025
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Woman Arrested in Deadly Manhattan Beach Crash Involving Loyola Tennis Standout: A woman has been arrested in connection with a fatal pedestrian collision in Manhattan Beach that led to the death of 18-year-old Braun Levi, a Loyola High School tennis player. Authorities say Jenia Resha Belt was taken into custody after an investigation determined she drove under the influence during the May 4, 2025, incident. Belt faces felony charges including second-degree murder and gross vehicular manslaughter. Bail has been set at $2 million and the investigation is ongoing. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Dec 27)
December 15, 2025
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Venice Beach Cape Cod-Style Home on Ocean Front Walk Listed for $9.8 Million: A three-bedroom, four-bathroom Cape Cod-style residence on 2705 Ocean Front Walk is now on the market for $9.8 million through Compass. The 3,849-square-foot property is situated along the Venice Beach boardwalk and offers expansive ocean views from multiple outdoor spaces, including balconies and a rooftop deck. Interior amenities feature high-end finishes, an elevator servicing four levels, and an upgraded kitchen. The property also includes a spacious primary suite with direct beach vistas. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Dec 15)
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Venice Beach Oceanfront Cape Cod-Style Home Listed for $9.8 Million: A three-bedroom, four-bathroom Cape Cod-style residence at 2705 Ocean Front Walk in Venice Beach has been listed for $9.8 million by Compass. The 3,849-square-foot property offers direct boardwalk access and features multiple ocean-facing outdoor spaces, including balconies and a rooftop deck. The home includes an elevator for four levels, open-plan living spaces with limestone and walnut finishes, and a kitchen equipped with high-end built-ins. The suite includes a marble bathroom, walk-in closet, and private balcony. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Dec 15)
November 29, 2025
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Holiday Volunteering and Donation Opportunities Support West L.A. Communities: Local organizations throughout West Los Angeles are urging residents to assist families, seniors, and individuals during the holiday season through volunteering and donations. The Westside Food Bank is experiencing a significant surge in demand and requests shelf-stable foods, online contributions, and volunteers for food sorting events. Meanwhile, St. Joseph Center is organizing holiday meal distributions, care package assembly, and clothing drives for those in need. Community participation is encouraged to address increased seasonal needs. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Nov 29)
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West L.A. Organizations Seek Volunteers and Donations for Holiday Season: As the holiday season nears, nonprofits throughout West Los Angeles are asking local residents to assist those in need. Groups such as the Westside Food Bank report rising demand and encourage contributions of shelf-stable foods and financial donations to support families and individuals. The St. Joseph Center is organizing holiday meal and care package efforts, with requests for volunteers and donations including warm clothing and hygiene kits. Community involvement is encouraged throughout December. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Nov 29)
November 19, 2025
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Santa Monica Civic Auditorium's Future Sparks Debate on Arts and Development: Santa Monica is at a crossroads regarding the future of its historic Civic Auditorium, once considered vital to the city's cultural identity. Plans led by arts professionals to revitalize the space were halted by the City Council, raising concerns about shifting priorities. Some residents worry that ongoing debates could lead to redevelopment for housing, hotels, and retail, rather than preserving the venue for arts. The decision is expected to shape the city's cultural landscape for years to come. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Nov 19)
November 17, 2025
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Santa Monica Council Ends Deal to Revive Civic Auditorium, Concerns Raised: A group of four Santa Monica City Council members recently voted to halt negotiations with the RPG Group, a major concert promoter, on a proposed plan to restore the historic Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. The group had offered to invest in reviving the site at no direct cost to the city or residents, but the council cited financial concerns. Critics argue that the land's high value for developers factored into the decision. The future of the venue remains uncertain after this development. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Nov 12)
November 14, 2025
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Debate Grows Over Development and Community Identity in Santa Monica: Santa Monica faces a pivotal moment as residents and officials debate how to balance ongoing development with preserving the city's traditional character. The community's coastal charm and small-town feel were shaped over decades, but recent construction and rising density challenge that legacy. While leaders cite the need for new housing and economic growth, concerns remain about losing the unique atmosphere that defines the city. This conversation continues to shape Santa Monica's future direction. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Nov 14)
November 11, 2025
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Security Guard Stationed Outside 'South Park' Marina del Rey Offices: A uniformed security guard has recently been posted outside the ‘South Park’ production offices near Marina del Rey’s waterfront, marking a significant change after years without visible security presence. The measure comes following a string of provocative episodes in the current season of the popular animated series, which included references to public figures and controversial topics. Representatives for the show have not commented on the new security precautions. The move reflects heightened concerns in the area. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Nov 11)
November 10, 2025
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Venice Oakwood Home Featuring Japanese Soaking Pool Listed at $3.95 Million: A three-bedroom, four-bath home in Venice's Oakwood neighborhood has been listed for $3.95 million. The 2,092-square-foot property at 812 Brooks Avenue offers drought-tolerant landscaping, a chef's kitchen, and a private yard with a Japanese-style soaking pool, fireplace, hot tub, and outdoor shower. Inside, amenities include a spa-like primary suite, automated carport, full camera system, touchpad locks, and built-in surround sound. The property is available through The Agency. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Nov 10)
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Venice Oakwood Home with Japanese-Style Pool Listed at $3.95 Million: A three-bedroom, four-bathroom home in Venice's Oakwood neighborhood has been placed on the market for $3.95 million. Located at 812 Brooks Ave., the 2,092-square-foot residence features a chef's kitchen, drought-tolerant landscaping, and a private yard equipped with a fireplace, hot tub, outdoor shower, and Japanese-style soaking pool. The primary suite offers a spa bathroom and private terrace. Security and automation amenities are integrated throughout the property. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Nov 10)
October 29, 2025
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Ex-LAPD Officer Arrested in Connection with 2015 Venice Beach Shooting: A former Los Angeles police officer was taken into custody at Los Angeles International Airport on a murder warrant related to the 2015 shooting death of Brendon Glenn, an unarmed homeless man, on Windward Avenue in Venice Beach. The officer, who left the department in 2017, is accused of shooting (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 20)
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Santa Monica Pier to Conclude Wellness & Waves Series with Free Health Activities: Santa Monica Pier will host the final event of its Wellness & Waves series on Saturday, October 11, from 8 a.m. to noon. The free event, organized with UCLA Health, includes a coastal run and walk, yoga sessions, therapy animal visits, and family activities. Attendees can also enjoy discounts on pac (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 4)
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Venice Art Crawl Schedules Annual Fundraiser to Support Local Artists: The Venice Art Crawl will hold its yearly fundraising event, Avant Garden, on October 16. The gathering will feature floral art displays, live music, and refreshments. Proceeds will go toward supporting local artists and promoting art initiatives in the Venice community. Early bird tickets are now $ (Source: Yo! Venice! on Sep 19)
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Venice-Based Artist Alison Saar to Create Sculpture for Obama Presidential Center: Alison Saar, an artist from Los Angeles' Westside, has been selected to design a bronze sculpture for the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. Her work, titled 'Torch Song,' will be installed in the Women's Garden and is part of a larger initiative involving over 25 artists. The Center is scheduled (Source: Yo! Venice! on Sep 13)
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Modern Home on Palms Blvd. in Venice Listed for Nearly $6 Million: A contemporary single-family residence at 1385 Palms Blvd. in Venice has been listed for sale at close to $6 million. Built in 2016, the 4,012-square-foot home sits on a 0.19-acre lot and is not attached to neighboring properties, offering added privacy. The property is represented by Coldwell Bank (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Sep 15)
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Venice West Schedules Music-Focused Weekend With Brunch Events and Bob Dylan Tribute: The Venice West in Venice Beach is set to host a weekend of live music and entertainment, including a Grateful Dead-themed brunch on Saturday, a bingo brunch on Sunday, and a Sunday night performance by Joan Osborne featuring Bob Dylan songs. Events are open to all ages and feature food, music, and, (Source: Yo! Venice! on Sep 26)
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Venice High Football Faces Challenges in Western League Season: The Venice High School Gondoliers football team holds a 3-4 record as it approaches the end of the 2025 season. Despite a strong offensive showing, including a high-scoring game against Palisades, the team has struggled recently with three losses in four games. Venice is set to play Fairfax next, as (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 17)
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Venice Surfing Association to Hold Annual Breakwater Open This Sunday: The Venice Surfing Association will host its fourth annual Breakwater Open surf contest on Sunday, October 19. The event will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is expected to benefit from favorable weather and moderate surf conditions. Several local businesses and restaurants are sponsoring the contest. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Oct 18)
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Venice Chamber Schedules Networking Mixer at Belles Beach House: The Venice Chamber of Commerce, together with the Culver City Chamber, will hold a networking mixer on October 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Belles Beach House on Windward Avenue. The event is open to members and prospective members, with tickets available for a fee. Attendees can expect opportunities to be (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 3)
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Arcane Space Hosts Exhibit on Stamp Art and History in Venice: Arcane Space in Venice is reopening with an exhibition focused on the artistic and historical significance of postage stamps. Running from October 24 to December 21, the show features curated 20th-century stamps that reflect national identity and cultural moments. The exhibit is organized by Morlieg (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 22)
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Venice Storefront Hosts Matcha Kit Launch Event on Abbot Kinney Boulevard: A kitchenware company and a local matcha business are collaborating for a public event in Venice to introduce a new matcha kit. The gathering will be held at 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney Boulevard on Friday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees can sample complimentary matcha and preview a newly-re (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Oct 23)
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DoorDash Begins Two-Week Los Angeles Promotional Tour at Venice Beach: DoorDash launches a two-week promotional tour across Los Angeles starting September 18 in Venice, featuring free snacks and location-themed giveaways. The initiative includes stops at the Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Park, BMO Stadium, LACMA, and Smorgasburg. Attendees can receive complimentary items, such as Randy’s Donuts during the Venice kickoff, with additional in-app promotions available. The tour aims to engage residents at popular city destinations over a series of scheduled events. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Sep 18)
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Santa Monica Family Seeks Support After ICE Detention of Local Resident: A Santa Monica family has started a fundraising campaign to cover legal expenses following the detention of a woman by federal immigration authorities outside a Pico Boulevard restaurant. The effort aims to raise $40,000 to assist with her release, with over $3,600 collected so far from community, a (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Oct 20)
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Santa Monica Family Seeks Support After ICE Detention of Local Resident: A Santa Monica family has started a fundraising campaign to cover legal expenses following the detention of a woman by federal immigration authorities outside a Pico Boulevard restaurant. The effort aims to raise $40,000 to assist with her release, with over $3,600 collected so far from community, a (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 20)
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Venice Eateries Plan Sports Screenings, Live Music, and Barbecue Events This Weekend: Venice restaurants and bars are organizing a series of events from October 3 to 5, including sports broadcasts, live music, DJ performances, and a barbecue event. Venues such as Gin Rummy and Ōwa will feature NCAA and NFL games, live entertainment, and special food offerings, highlighting the area's (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 2)
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Venice Library Schedules Community Forum on Neighborhood's History and Future: The Venice-Abbot Kinney Memorial Branch Library will hold a free public discussion on October 11 to examine the area's historical development, current issues, and future direction. Local speakers will guide the conversation, which is open to all residents and includes ADA accommodations upon request (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 10)
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Progress Pride Flag Crosswalk Unveiled on Abbot Kinney Boulevard: A crosswalk on Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice has been updated with the Progress Pride Flag design, replacing the previous rainbow pattern. The new crosswalk aims to reflect broader LGBTQ community representation and was recently relocated and repainted as part of the project. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 14)
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Tree Planting Event on Hampton Drive in Venice to Improve Local Habitat: A tree-planting event is set for Saturday, September 27, on Hampton Drive between Rose and Sunset avenues in Venice. Organized by the Venice Pollinator And Resilience Corridor initiative, the project aims to add greenery, enhance shade, and support pollinators in a mainly hardscaped area. Local residents can join as volunteers regardless of gardening experience, with tools and guidance provided. This effort is part of broader community and environmental sustainability initiatives in Venice. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Sep 22)
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Venice Restaurant Launches Southeast Asian Brunch Series on Weekends: Simpang Venice, an Indonesian eatery in Venice, is introducing a weekend brunch series featuring dishes inspired by Indonesian, Malaysian, and Singaporean cuisine. The brunch is available every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a menu offering a variety of sweet and savory options. It (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 9)
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Salt & Straw's Tacolate Ice Cream Dessert Returns Permanently to Venice Location: Salt & Straw has announced the permanent return of its Tacolate, a dessert created in partnership with Taco Bell, following a successful limited launch that quickly sold out. The Tacolate will now be available at all Salt & Straw shops, including the Abbot Kinney location in Venice, and can also be, (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 23)
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Urban Jungle Nursery Offers Indoor Plant Selection on Lincoln Blvd.: Urban Jungle, a nursery on Lincoln Boulevard in Venice, provides a variety of indoor plants and pottery for local residents interested in enhancing their indoor spaces. The business is active on social media, sharing updates and tips for plant enthusiasts in the area. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Sep 24)
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Venice Storefront Hosts Matcha Kit Launch Event on Abbot Kinney Boulevard: Fellow, a kitchenware company recognized for its coffee and tea products, is partnering with Los Feliz-based Kettl for a public event in Venice on Friday, October 25. The gathering, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fellow’s Abbot Kinney Boulevard location, will showcase the launch of Fellow’s new (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 23)
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Local Column Highlights Live Music Recommendations in Santa Monica Area: A weekly column in the Santa Monica Mirror offers curated recommendations for live music events in the Santa Monica and greater Los Angeles area. The column aims to inform residents about notable performances and encourage community engagement with the local music scene. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Sep 19)
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Upcoming Live Music Recommendations for Santa Monica Area, Sept. 24–Oct. 1: A local columnist highlights notable live music events happening in the Santa Monica area from September 24 to October 1. The recommendations aim to help residents discover performances they might otherwise miss, with a focus on artists and shows relevant to the Westside Beaches community. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Sep 24)
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Review of 'The Smashing Machine' Highlights Dwayne Johnson's Portrayal of MMA Fighter: A new biographical film released on October 3 focuses on the life of MMA fighter Mark Kerr, with Dwayne Johnson in the lead role. The movie explores Kerr's career and personal challenges in the late 1990s, featuring notable performances and impactful scenes. The review is relevant to the Westside/Be (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Oct 10)
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‘Venice-Opoly’ Board Game Brings Local History to the Tabletop: The game’s properties feature the neighborhood’s oldest small businesses, with more valuable spaces reserved for landmarks After more than three years of research, design, and community collaboration, longtime Venice resident Mark Rago has released Venice-Opoly, a Monopoly-style board game celebrating the neighborhood’s character and history. Rago, who has lived in Venice for over 25 years, said he began working on the project in 2022 after noticing that other cities—from Los Angeles to Manhattan Beach—had their own versions of Monopoly. “Someone was going to make a Venice version eventually,” Rago wrote on social media. “I wanted to make sure it was done with respect to the history and diversity of our community.” Instead of streets, the game’s properties feature the neighborhood’s oldest small businesses — some dating as far back as 1911 — with more valuable spaces reserved for landmarks such as Ocean Front Walk and the Venice Canals. Each property card includes a brief history of the featured business or site. Rago said determining which businesses to include was one of the hardest parts of the process. Some longtime establishments closed during the game’s development, including Candle Café, which operated from 1973 until recently, and Sarlo Tax Service, which moved to Playa del Rey. Others declined to participate. The game also includes nods to Venice’s surf and skate culture, historic architecture, and artistic legacy. “Dogtown originated in Santa Monica,” Rago said, “but the influence in Venice is obviously massive.” Ten percent of each sale benefits the Venice Heritage Museum, which aims to preserve the area’s cultural history. The board game is available for purchase at VeniceOpoly.com. The post ‘Venice-Opoly’ Board Game Brings Local History to the Tabletop appeared first on Yo! Venice!. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 8)
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(Video) Registration at School of Rock Venice Opens to Turn Kids Into Rockstars: To Sign Up or For More Info, Go To SchoolofRock.com Registration at School of Rock Venice Opens to Turn Kids Into Rockstars.To Sign Up or For More Info, Go To https://t.co/E3neWh3yoO pic.twitter.com/WbrUv0jTsj— Yo! Venice! (@YoVenice) October 8, 2025 The post (Video) Registration at School of Rock Venice Opens to Turn Kids Into Rockstars appeared first on Yo! Venice!. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 8)
October 23, 2025
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Brennan's in Marina del Rey Plans Oktoberfest Event with Food, Beer, and Music: Brennan's, a well-known pub on Lincoln Boulevard in Marina del Rey, is set to hold its annual Oktoberfest celebration on Saturday, October 25. The event will start at noon and feature Bavarian-themed decorations, German food specials, and a variety of activities throughout the day. Highlights will (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 23)
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Si! Mon Celebrates Two Years as a Notable Venice Seafood Restaurant: Si! Mon, located on North Venice Boulevard, has reached its two-year milestone as a recognized part of the Venice dining landscape. Since opening in 2023 in the former James Beach location, the restaurant has drawn attention for its creative approach to Panamanian and Central American cuisine, led (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 23)
October 22, 2025
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Santa Monica Council Decision on Civic Auditorium Draws Community Scrutiny: Recent actions by four Santa Monica City Council members regarding the future of the historic Civic Auditorium have sparked debate among residents. The council's rejection of a proposed restoration plan has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the possibility of new housing on a (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Oct 22)
October 21, 2025
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Venice Historic Church May Become Private Club and Co-Working Space: A proposal under review by Los Angeles city planning could see a historic church at 305 Rose Avenue in Venice converted into a private social club and co-working hub. The plan includes shared workspaces, a lounge with alcohol service for members, and limited outdoor use. The building, dating to 1905 (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 21)
October 20, 2025
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Modern Home Near Abbot Kinney in Venice Available for Lease at $14,800 Monthly: A three-bedroom, three-bath contemporary residence on California Avenue in Venice is now listed for lease at $14,800 per month. The 1,844-square-foot home, built in 2012, offers modern amenities, multiple outdoor spaces, and is located one block from Abbot Kinney Boulevard and within walking access, (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 20)
October 18, 2025
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Venice Surfing Association to Hold Annual Breakwater Open This Sunday: The Venice Surfing Association will host its fourth annual Breakwater Open surf contest on Sunday, October 19, with heats scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event, supported by local businesses and sponsors, is expected to take place under sunny skies with favorable surf conditions. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 18)
October 17, 2025
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U.S. Open of Paddle Tennis Scheduled at Venice Beach Courts This Weekend: The U.S. Open of Paddle Tennis will take place October 18-19 at the Venice Beach courts near Muscle Beach. The event includes multiple divisions and is expected to draw participants from California and beyond. Proceeds will go toward court maintenance through the LA Parks Foundation. Local residents (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 17)
October 16, 2025
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New York Chicken & Gyro Opens First Venice Location on Lincoln Boulevard: New York Chicken & Gyro, a chain specializing in halal street food, is launching its first Venice restaurant at 324 Lincoln Blvd. The grand opening event, scheduled for October 18-19, will feature food specials, giveaways, and prize raffles. This marks the chain's fourth Los Angeles area site and is (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 16)
October 15, 2025
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Live Music and Arts Events Highlighted in Santa Monica for October 15-22: Santa Monica is set to host a range of live music and arts events from October 15 to 22, including performances by Marsalis and Escovedo. Residents are also encouraged to attend a peaceful demonstration supporting free speech at Palisades Park on October 18. The events aim to engage the local arts, (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Oct 15)
October 13, 2025
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Los Angeles Council Considers Mobility Hub and Affordable Housing Relocation in West : The Los Angeles City Council has directed staff to study converting a Venice parking lot near Abbot Kinney Boulevard into a transportation hub with parking, electric vehicle charging, and shuttle services. The council is also examining the possibility of moving a planned affordable housing project, (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 13)
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County Investigation Finds No Definitive Cause for Venice Canal Dog Deaths: A Los Angeles County health investigation into a series of dog illnesses and deaths near the Venice Canals this summer did not identify a clear cause. From June to August, 27 dogs became ill and five died, with most cases occurring in late July. While toxins and harmful algal blooms were considered, (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 13)
October 11, 2025
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California Adds Bigberry Manzanita and Giant Garter Snake as State Symbols: Governor Gavin Newsom has signed new legislation naming the bigberry manzanita as California's official state shrub and the giant garter snake as the state snake. The bigberry manzanita is valued for its resilience to wildfire and erosion control, while the giant garter snake, native to the Central (Source: Yo! Venice! on Oct 11)