Latest News
February 28, 2026
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Violent Crime on LA Metro Drops to Lowest Level Since 2021, Officials Report: Violent crime incidents on Los Angeles County's Metro system decreased by 6.7% in 2025 compared to the previous year, marking the lowest reported level since 2021. Metro attributed the decline to increased uniformed presence, improved fare gate controls, and expanded partnerships targeting homelessness and mental health. While property crimes such as theft and vandalism remained stable, crimes against society, including trespassing and narcotics violations, dropped by a third. Officials noted that copper wire theft continues to be a persistent concern. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 28)
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Health Officials Advise Against Water Activities at Seven Los Angeles Beaches: Los Angeles County public health authorities have issued advisories for seven beaches along the county's coastline, including sites near Santa Monica, Malibu, and Marina del Rey, due to elevated bacteria levels found in recent water samples. Residents and visitors are being advised to avoid activities such as swimming and surfing in these areas to reduce the risk of illness. A prior warning for Topanga Canyon Beach has been lifted after new tests met safety standards. The affected advisories cover specified stretches by various creeks and storm drains. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 28)
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Santa Monica Plans March Events for Women's History Month Focusing on Leadership: Santa Monica will observe Women's History Month this March with a variety of community events emphasizing women's leadership and their roles in shaping a sustainable future. Programming, organized by the city's Women’s History Month Committee, seeks to highlight achievements across environmental, economic, and social areas. Activities include Julia Morgan Legacy Day at the Annenberg Beach House and reflect broader issues such as economic and health disparities facing women. The celebration began with a City Council proclamation on February 24. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 28)
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Suspect Charged in Armed Robberies Targeting Postal Workers in San Fernando Valley: A 28-year-old man has been arrested and charged with five counts of robbery following a series of armed incidents targeting postal carriers in the San Fernando Valley. Police from the North Hollywood Division took the suspect into custody after the fifth robbery, reportedly recovering evidence linking him to the crimes. The robberies took place between December and February in Studio City, Valley Village, and Sherman Oaks. Each incident involved threatening postal workers with a firearm while they were on duty. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 28)
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Health Officials Advise Against Swimming at Seven Los Angeles Beaches Due to Bacteria: Los Angeles County public health authorities have issued advisories for seven beaches following tests showing elevated bacterial contamination. Impacted areas include beaches near Santa Monica, Malibu, and Marina del Rey, each spanning 100 yards along the coast from designated points. The warnings cover locations such as Santa Monica Pier, Escondido State Beach, and Mother’s Beach, among others. The previous advisory for Topanga Canyon Beach in Malibu was lifted after water quality improved to meet state standards. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 28)
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Overnight Lane and Ramp Closures Scheduled on I-405 for Pavement Repair: A pavement rehabilitation project on Interstate 405 will cause nightly lane reductions and ramp closures through the Sepulveda Pass from Monday, March 2, to Saturday, March 7. The work will occur from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. and affect both northbound and southbound I-405 between U.S. 101 and Wilshire Boulevard. Multiple ramps, including those at Wilshire Boulevard, Skirball Center Drive, Mulholland Drive, Burbank Boulevard, and Getty Center Drive, are included in the scheduled closures. Motorists are advised to expect disruptions and plan alternate routes. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 28)
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Testimony Suggests Lachman Fire Site Not Fully Extinguished Before Palisades Fire: Sworn deposition from a long-serving Los Angeles firefighter indicates that hot spots remained at the Lachman Fire site days before the Palisades Fire, despite orders for crews to depart. The testimony is part of a lawsuit involving around 3,000 Palisades Fire victims suing the city and state. The firefighter reported several visibly smoldering areas to superiors, though his concerns were allegedly not fully addressed. Los Angeles Fire Department officials maintain the scene was extinguished when crews left. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 28)
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Violent Crime on LA Metro Drops to Lowest Level Since 2021: Los Angeles County's Metro transit system saw violent crime fall by 6.7% in 2025 compared to the previous year, reaching the lowest rate since 2021. Metro officials credited the improvement to increased security presence, tighter fare controls, and collaborative efforts addressing homelessness and mental health. While crimes such as trespassing and drug violations dropped significantly, challenges with copper wire theft persisted. Rider satisfaction with safety and cleanliness reached record levels in recent surveys. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 28)
February 27, 2026
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Metro D Line Subway Extension Set to Open with Three New Stations May 8: Metro plans to open a four-mile extension of the D Line subway on Friday, May 8, expanding service from Wilshire/Western in Koreatown to La Cienega/Wilshire in Beverly Hills. The extension, known as Section 1, will introduce three new stations at Wilshire/La Brea, Wilshire/Fairfax, and Wilshire/La Cienega. This infrastructure project aims to improve public transit options across key Westside neighborhoods. Service is expected to begin as scheduled on the announced date. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 27)
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Los Angeles City Council District 11 Candidates Set for Forum in Venice: Voters in Los Angeles City Council District 11 will have an opportunity to see incumbent Traci Park and challengers Faizah Malik and Jeremy Wineberg participate in a public candidate forum on March 1 at the Venice First Lutheran Church. The event, hosted by the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils, comes as the race for the Westside seat—covering communities such as Venice, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, and Westchester—continues to draw attention. Key issues in the district include housing, public safety, and homelessness. The forum welcomes all constituents as the campaign season intensifies. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 27)
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Los Angeles CD11 Candidates Set to Participate in Venice Forum Ahead of Election: Candidates for Los Angeles City Council District 11, including incumbent Traci Park, Faizah Malik, and Jeremy Wineberg, will join a public forum on March 1 at Venice First Lutheran Church. The event, organized by the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils, invites residents from neighborhoods such as Venice, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, and Westchester. Key issues in the race include housing, public safety, homelessness, and economic recovery. The forum offers voters direct insight into each candidate's views ahead of the upcoming election. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 27)
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Santa Monica Introduces Civic Education Program for Local Residents: Santa Monica has announced the launch of the One SaMo People’s Academy, a new six-week educational program designed to help residents better understand local government functions. The course, beginning in late April, will introduce 25 participants to topics such as city operations, budgeting, public safety, infrastructure, and policy development. Adults interested in gaining insight into civic processes have until mid-March to apply. The city also intends to offer a separate event focused on youth civic leadership later this year. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 27)
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Pacific Palisades Teens Launch Tennis and Pickleball Ball Recycling Initiative: A group of 12 Pacific Palisades high school students have launched a campaign to set a world record for collecting the most used tennis and pickleballs for recycling. Their project, Another Bounce, targets the vast number of non-biodegradable balls discarded annually and is supported by waste reduction nonprofit Habits of Waste. The initiative is scheduled to culminate with a major collection event on April 19 during Earth Month, with drop-off and shipping options available in the region. Participants are encouraged to contribute used balls to help promote recycling. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 27)
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Santa Monica Weighs Local Coastal Control Amid Proposed State Legislation: Santa Monica faces significant changes to coastal oversight if AB1740 is enacted, affecting areas from the northern city limit to the Venice border. The proposal would shift authority over much of the Coastal Zone from state to local control, with only a narrow buffer near the beach remaining under state review. Supporters raise concerns about potential overdevelopment and the loss of longstanding environmental and community character. The outcome could reshape land use for generations. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 27)
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Santa Monica Offers Six-Week Civic Education Program for Residents: Santa Monica has introduced the One SaMo People’s Academy, a six-week program starting April 30 for residents ages 18 and up. The initiative is designed to educate 25 participants about city operations, budgeting, and policy development. Sessions will cover topics such as public safety, sustainability, infrastructure, and housing. City officials aim to strengthen transparency, trust, and civic engagement through the program. A separate youth leadership event is also planned, with more details to be provided later. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 27)
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Widespread Streetlight Outages Impact West Los Angeles Neighborhoods: Over 1,100 streetlights are reported to be out of service across Los Angeles, with significant impact in Westside neighborhoods such as Mar Vista, Pacific Palisades, and Venice. The outages are attributed largely to a rise in copper wire theft, leaving lights and circuits nonfunctional. Local officials, including Councilmembers Traci Park and Katy Yaroslavsky, are working to address these ongoing public safety issues. Efforts are underway to restore lighting and reduce risks for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 27)
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Santa Monica Forward Voices Opposition to Airport Housing Plan: Santa Monica Forward, a local advocacy group committed to expanding housing access, has expressed opposition to the proposed Airport Housing Initiative. While the organization acknowledges the ongoing housing shortage in Santa Monica and supports increased development, it argues that the current ballot measure targeting housing at the municipal airport site does not represent an appropriate solution. The group maintains that alternative strategies should be explored to address local housing needs. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 27)
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Review: 'How to Make a Killing' Explores Dark Inheritance Drama: How to Make a Killing, released on February 20th, is a mystery-drama centered on inheritance rivalry within the Redfellow family. The film tells its story from the perspective of protagonist Becket Redfellow, portrayed by Glen Powell, who finds himself at odds with relatives for a multi-billion dollar legacy. The narrative is noted more for its performances, particularly Powell’s, than its plot, offering a mix of tragedy and dark humor. The film’s atmospheric estate setting adds to its dramatic impact. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 27)
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Study Analyzes Presidential Vocabulary in Recent Public Statements: A recent study led by Professor Frederique Sandretto of Sciences Po in Paris examined the vocabulary used by the current U.S. President in speeches and informal remarks. The analysis, highlighted in the French newspaper Le Figaro, focused on identifying trends within the language consisting of approximately two hundred words. The findings shed light on patterns in presidential communication as observed by international scholars. The study contributes to ongoing discussions about leadership and public rhetoric. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 27)
February 26, 2026
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California Sets Landmark Goal to Boost Water Supply by 2040: California has established its first statewide target to expand water supply, aiming for an additional 9 million acre-feet by 2040. The Department of Water Resources is updating the state water plan to address challenges from extreme weather and shrinking snowpack due to climate change. This new goal, required by recently enacted legislation, will involve collaboration among various government agencies and stakeholders. The initiative reflects efforts to secure resources for the future amid shifting environmental conditions. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 26)
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California Sets 2040 Target for 9 Million Acre-Feet in Water Supply Plan: California has established its first long-term statewide water supply goal, aiming to secure 9 million additional acre-feet by 2040. The update, led by the Department of Water Resources as part of the 2028 California Water Plan, is designed to address ongoing challenges from prolonged droughts and severe storms linked to climate change. This initiative is required under Senate Bill 72, which calls for improved water data and collaboration among varied stakeholders. Plans include diverse advisory representation from urban providers, tribes, and other key groups. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 26)
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Debut Novel by Former LA Pastry Chef Explores High-End Kitchen Pressures: Michelle Christensen, a former Los Angeles pastry chef, has published her first novel, 'La Pâte à Bombe,' which delves into the demanding world of fine-dining desserts. The narrative follows Fiona McConnell, who steps into a leadership role at a fictional Michelin two-star restaurant in LA after sudden staffing changes. The story captures the pressures, rivalries, and artistry within a top-tier kitchen, as well as Fiona’s challenges balancing ambition and romance. The book has earned recognition at the Southern California Book Festival. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 26)
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The Willows School Highlights Diverse, Progressive Learning Environment: The Willows School, serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade, annually enrolls 470 children representing over 50 zip codes. The institution is known for its progressive approach, integrating experiential learning, technology, and the arts within its curriculum. These elements aim to foster curiosity and a passion for learning among students. Its diverse student body reflects a wide area of the greater Westside Beaches region. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 26)
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Santa Monica Board to Review Design for Bergamot Mixed-Use Project Near Clover Park: The Santa Monica Architectural Review Board is set to evaluate the design for a new residential development at 2800 28th Street near Clover Park and the business park. The project aims to replace an existing commercial site in the Bergamot neighborhood with a modern multi-unit residential building. The proposal has reached this stage due to its eligibility for ministerial approval. The public hearing on the project is scheduled for March 2, 2026. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 26)
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Fitoor Santa Monica Plans Weeklong Anniversary Events and Holi Festival Finale: Fitoor Santa Monica, an Indian restaurant and lounge on Ocean Avenue, is celebrating its one-year anniversary with a series of themed dinners, live music, and special offerings throughout the week. The festivities will culminate in a major Holi festival taking place in Redondo Beach. Operated by Rivaaz Hospitality, the restaurant is known for its contemporary Indian cuisine and immersive décor. The anniversary events will run from March 2 through March 7 and feature nightly specials. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 26)
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Kändi Swedish Sweets to Open Second Shop on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica: Kändi Swedish Sweets, recognized for its array of imported Swedish confections, will open a new location at 1230 Montana Avenue in Santa Monica, joining its original store in Studio City. The upcoming shop features a variety of candies, which can be purchased individually by weight or as part of custom or pre-packed assortments. The Montana Avenue storefront, currently marked as coming soon, has not announced an opening date. The area is known for its diverse mix of boutiques and restaurants. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 26)
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Kạ̈ndi Swedish Sweets to Open New Candy Store on Montana Avenue, Santa Monica: Kạ̈ndi Swedish Sweets, a candy shop noted for its imported Swedish candies, is preparing to open a second location at 1230 Montana Avenue in Santa Monica. The new storefront has been confirmed and will join the company's original Studio City store, with an opening date yet to be announced. Kạ̈ndi offers a selection of Swedish confections sold by weight or in customizable and pre-packed assortments. This site adds to the retail and dining options in the bustling Montana Avenue district. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 26)
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Santa Monica Introduces One SaMo People’s Academy for Civic Engagement: The City of Santa Monica is launching the One SaMo People’s Academy, a six-week educational program designed to give residents an in-depth look at municipal operations and decision-making. The initiative is intended to strengthen community understanding and foster connections between local government and residents. Participants will explore city priorities and learn about opportunities for civic involvement. Applications are now open for those interested in joining the program. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 26)
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The Willows School Highlights Progressive Approach for DK-8 Students: The Willows, a private DK-8 co-educational school in the Westside Beaches area of California, serves approximately 470 students from over 51 zip codes each year. The school emphasizes a progressive educational philosophy, incorporating experiential learning, technology, and the arts into its curriculum. Administrators stress the importance of nurturing students' curiosity and provide a curriculum designed to foster exploration and innovation. The institution aims to support academic growth across its diverse student body. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 26)
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Fuegos LA Marks Restaurant Expansion and Showcases Bad Bunny Super Bowl Set Design: Fuegos LA recently celebrated the expansion of its restaurant at 3957 South Western Avenue. The event also spotlighted the set design created for Bad Bunny’s performance at the Super Bowl, known as La Casita. The occasion gathered local patrons and highlighted Fuegos LA's influence on the area’s dining and cultural scene. The restaurant's growth reflects ongoing changes in the neighborhood's culinary landscape. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 26)
February 25, 2026
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Storm Repairs Cause Lane Reduction on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu: Repair work is ongoing on a damaged retaining wall along Pacific Coast Highway near Porto Marina Way in Malibu after recent storms caused significant damage. Northbound lanes have been reduced to a single lane for about a quarter mile as crews remove debris and restore the area. Caltrans expects the temporary lane restriction to be lifted later this week, but drivers should anticipate delays and drive carefully in the construction zone. All repairs are part of ongoing efforts to ensure road safety after heavy rainfall. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 25)
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Warby Parker to Open New Location on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica: Warby Parker will launch a new storefront at 1311 Montana Avenue, Suite B, in Santa Monica on Saturday, February 28. The store will offer a broad selection of prescription eyewear, sunglasses, kids’ frames, contact lenses, and in-store eye exams. As part of its recent expansion throughout Los Angeles, the company will also highlight seasonal collections and multi-purchase discounts. This addition brings more vision care options to the Santa Monica community. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 25)
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Warby Parker to Launch New Retail Store in Santa Monica This Weekend: Warby Parker is set to open its latest retail location at 1311 Montana Avenue in Santa Monica on Saturday, February 28. The store will offer the company's full range of prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, kids' frames, third-party contact lenses, and accessories, along with in-store eye exams. The expansion strengthens Warby Parker's presence in the Los Angeles area, making eyewear and vision care services more accessible to local residents. The move marks the brand's continued growth in Southern California. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 25)
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Youth Production of 'Guys and Dolls JR.' to Run at Paul Revere Middle School: Theatre Palisades Youth will stage 'Guys and Dolls JR.' at Paul Revere Middle School, beginning February 25 for a limited run. Thirty-five young actors will perform the family-friendly version of the classic musical, directed by Lara Ganz, with choreography by Rebecca Brancato Barragan. Showtimes are scheduled for the evenings of February 25 through 27, and both afternoon and evening on March 1. The performances will take place at 1450 Allenford Avenue in Los Angeles. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 25)
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Venice Love Fest Moves Beneath Venice Sign, Expands Footprint for 2026 Event: The Venice Love Fest will move to Windward Circle and the Venice Boardwalk for its 2026 event on March 21, marking its first time beneath the historic Venice sign. The festival, free to the public, is set to feature over 300 local vendors and four stages offering music, wellness activities, and family-oriented entertainment. Supported by the city of Los Angeles, the event will prompt full street closures from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Organizers say the relocation signals a significant growth milestone for the festival. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 25)
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Santa Monica Council Seeks Stronger Safety Measures for Santa Monica Boulevard: Santa Monica city officials are seeking revisions to initial staff recommendations aimed at enhancing safety on Santa Monica Boulevard. Following a recent presentation, council members expressed reservations regarding the proposed changes and requested further improvements. The process to finalize updated safety plans is expected to take several months as priorities are reviewed and adjusted. Community input and additional analysis will guide the next steps in implementing changes along the busy corridor. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 25)
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Venice Love Fest to Move to Venice Sign for 2026 Celebration: The Venice Love Fest will relocate to the area beneath the iconic Venice sign for the first time on March 21, 2026. The annual free event, supported by the city of Los Angeles, will take over Windward Circle, Windward Plaza, and the Venice Boardwalk with full street closures. Festivities are set to include multiple stages for music and wellness, activities for families, and over 300 local vendors. The move is considered a significant milestone for this community celebration. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 25)
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Crosswalk at Colorado and Yale Removed During Santa Monica Bike Lane Project: The City of Santa Monica has removed the crosswalk at the intersection of Colorado Avenue and Yale Avenue as part of ongoing improvements related to a bike lane project. This change marks a departure from previous infrastructure additions typically celebrated in the area. Community members have noticed the removal, which alters pedestrian access at the intersection. The new street configuration is now in effect following these updates. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 25)
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Indivisible Hosts Weekly Thursday Protest in Santa Monica and Venice: A weekly protest titled 'Venice & Santa Monica Take Back Our Streets' is being coordinated by Indivisible, along with local organizations Venice Resistance and Indivisible Westside LA. The event aims to unite residents and supporters to promote civil liberties, enhance community safety, and call for systemic reform. These demonstrations occur every Thursday, providing an ongoing platform for civic engagement. The regular gatherings reflect a continued focus on community and policy advocacy. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 25)
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Urban Jungle Offers Floral Arrangements and Pottery in Santa Monica: Urban Jungle, a Santa Monica-based business, specializes in enhancing homes with a variety of flowers and handcrafted pottery. The store features a range of options that cater to both interior and exterior decorating needs, providing residents with creative ways to enrich their living spaces. Urban Jungle’s offerings reflect local botanical trends and artistic craftsmanship. The shop has become a destination for those seeking unique home decor in the Westside area. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 25)
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Community Frustrations Emerge at Venice Homelessness Meeting: A recent committee meeting in Venice focusing on homelessness saw elevated tensions as local representatives and nonprofit workers addressed community concerns. The event was marked by heated exchanges and loud interruptions during the question-and-answer session. The discussions reflected ongoing frustration within the neighborhood over homelessness issues and the public response to current solutions. The meeting concluded amidst continued debate about local strategies for addressing homelessness. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 25)
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Urban Jungle Offers Floral and Pottery Decor for Homes in Westside Beaches: Urban Jungle, a business serving the Westside Beaches area, specializes in enhancing living spaces with a variety of flowers and pottery. Their products cater to both interior and exterior home decor, aiming to provide unique and vibrant options for residents. A recent feature highlighted their offerings and showcased how their items can bring added charm to local homes. The business continues to be a resource for those seeking distinctive decorative elements. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 25)
February 24, 2026
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Malibu Plans Town Hall on Wildfire Recovery and Property Tax Guidance: Malibu city officials, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office, will hold a town hall to assist residents affected by recent wildfires. The event, scheduled at Malibu City Hall on February 25, aims to address questions about property tax assessments and provide updates on relief programs. Representatives will offer guidance on the steps for reassessment and available recovery resources. The town hall will also be accessible virtually for community members unable to attend in person. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 24)
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California Bill Targets Regulations for E-Motos and High-Speed E-Bikes: Senator Catherine Blakespear has introduced Senate Bill 1167, which seeks to strengthen regulatory oversight of electric mopeds and high-speed e-bikes in California. The bill aims to close existing legal gaps and establish clearer guidelines for vehicles that are sold as e-bikes but have performance characteristics similar to mopeds. Supported by bike safety organizations, the proposal addresses concerns about road safety and appropriate vehicle classification. The legislation is now under review. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 24)
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Venice Beach Mardi Gras Parade Continues a Tradition Started in 1914: The annual Mardi Gras Parade recently took place along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, highlighting over a century of tradition in the area. The event traces its roots to 1914, when Arthur Reese, who moved from Louisiana, brought Mardi Gras festivities to Venice. This year's parade featured colorful costumes and lively music, drawing both residents and visitors to celebrate. The enduring event continues to contribute to the cultural fabric of Venice Beach each year. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 24)
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Santa Monica City Council Considers Regional Approach to Homelessness Services: The Santa Monica City Council is examining ways to collaborate with neighboring municipalities to address homelessness. Officials believe that regional partnerships may improve service delivery and resource sharing, allowing for a more effective response. The Council is assessing potential agreements and the impact on both service quality and funding. This effort reflects a broader trend toward inter-city cooperation on complex social issues. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 24)
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Venice Beach Boardwalk Hosts Annual Mardi Gras Parade: The Venice Beach Mardi Gras Parade, established in 1914 by Louisiana-born Arthur Reese, returned to the boardwalk with its distinctive celebrations. Locals and visitors gathered along the coast to take part in the traditional festivities, which have become a longstanding community event. The parade highlights Venice Beach's unique cultural history and draws participants from the broader Los Angeles area. This year’s event continued the legacy of this local tradition. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 24)
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Pacific Palisades Wildfire Survivors Billed for Brush Clearance, Causing Frustration: Residents of Pacific Palisades who lost homes in the major wildfire last year are expressing frustration after receiving $31 brush clearance citations from the Los Angeles Fire Department. Many affected properties remain vacant and largely bare, yet owners have been warned of added penalties if fines go unpaid by March. The issue has prompted criticism from city leadership, especially as survivors continue efforts to rebuild. The situation highlights ongoing challenges in post-fire recovery. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 24)
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Bergamot Comedy Festival to Be Held in Santa Monica March 24-28: Santa Monica will host the Bergamot Comedy Festival from March 24 to 28, 2026. Organized by local nonprofit Comedy Reflects Our World, the event features a combination of stand-up performances, educational workshops, and networking opportunities for comedians. The festival aims to highlight emerging comedic talent and foster industry connections within the community. It is set to become a significant event for comedy enthusiasts in the area. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Feb 24)
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Santa Monica Council Considers Regional Collaborations on Homelessness Solutions: The Santa Monica City Council is assessing the potential for partner initiatives with neighboring communities to address homelessness more effectively. By expanding collaboration beyond municipal boundaries, the city aims to strengthen available services and coordinate outreach efforts. This approach seeks to address the complex challenges of homelessness through shared resources and unified strategies. The exploration of regional partnerships marks a significant step in Santa Monica's response to this longstanding issue. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Feb 24)