On Wednesday, March 8, 2023, a unique sight could be seen at Santa Monica Beach. People were playing basketball from the back of an old school bus. This wasn't just any old bus, though - it was the Shred Sled, a custom-converted 24ft 2001 International school bus designed by @abuslifestory, @desgnarlais and @brookedoeseverything to be the best damn skate/rv/party bus ever created. The Shred Sled is the hub for Beyond the Board, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses longboarding as a tool to empower people with confidence and community that go "beyond the board."

In the past 16 months, Beyond the Board has traveled over 15,000 miles, hosting 75 plus events in over 30 cities, including Seattle, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, and beyond. They use the Shred Sled to build up local longboard communities and, of course, to have a big adventure along the way. The Shred Sled is a home for all skaters - new and old - and it's the perfect vehicle for exploring new places and making new friends.

The goal of Beyond the Board is to create a space where people can feel confident and connected. Longboarding is the perfect tool for this, as it requires focus, balance, and determination. By learning how to longboard, people can gain a sense of accomplishment and develop new skills. But Beyond the Board goes beyond just teaching people how to ride a board. They also host weekly meet-ups with "@viberidela", where people can come together to hang out, skate, and connect.

Beyond the Board's mission is to use longboarding as a tool to empower people with confidence and community that go "beyond the board." They believe that everyone should have the opportunity to feel empowered and connected, no matter who they are or where they come from. By traveling around the country and building up local longboard communities, Beyond the Board is making that vision a reality.

So the next time you see the Shred Sled rolling down the highway or parked at a local skate park, take a moment to appreciate the work that Beyond the Board is doing. They're not just teaching people how to ride a longboard - they're creating a community of empowered and connected individuals who are ready to take on the world, one ride at a time.

The Annual Black History Greens Festival

On March 4, 2023, the Annual Black History Greens Festival was held at Virginia Avenue Park. The event was a celebration of Black American history and culture and had a new theme this year: "We Are Family: Celebrating the Cultural Melting Pot of Black American History." The festival was organized by Virginia Avenue Park and the Parent Connection Group in collaboration with the Pico Branch Library and the Santa Monica Farmers Market.

Entertainment

The festival kicked off with a lively dance performance by South African dancers, Lindiwe Rose Dancer. The crowd was pumped up by the beats of DJ Mark Birotte, who kept the energy levels high throughout the day.

Education

The festival was not just about entertainment but also education, as it featured book readings and giveaways, spoken word performances, and live cooking demonstrations with Chefs Ewanda and Miche’le, who shared family favorite greens recipes. The Malik Books Bookmobile was a popular spot for visitors, with its wide selection of culturally diverse books for sale. Additionally, the Pico Branch Library had book giveaways and coloring activities for children.

Special Guest

One of the highlights of the event was the presence of special guest KJLH’s Arron “BOBO” Arnell, who was the master of ceremonies for the day. His enthusiasm and energy added to the festive atmosphere of the event.

Health and Wellness

The festival also had a focus on health and wellness, with resource booths offering information on health-related issues. Visitors could learn about the benefits of a plant-based diet, and the Farmers Market was featuring Master Gardeners who were giving out seedlings.

Conclusion

The event was a great success, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate Black American history and culture. The festival showcased the rich history and contributions of Black Americans and provided an opportunity to learn about the diverse cultural traditions that have shaped the country.

We Are Family, a day of soulful spark,
A celebration of Black American history,
At Virginia Avenue Park.
With greens and cooking demos to behold,
Dance, spoken word, and books to be sold,
KJLH's Arron "BOBO" Arnell guided with grace,
As health and wellness took their place.
A reminder of culture and tradition,
And the journey that never ends,
The annual Black History Greens Festival,
A melting pot of history that forever transcends.

HAPPY WORLD PISTACHIO DAY!

In a surprising upset, Nick Wehry emerged as the victor of the inaugural "Wonderful Pistachios Get Crackin' Eating Championship" held at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier on February 26, 2023. Wehry defeated World Champion Competitive Eater Joey Chestnut, who was considered the favorite going into the event.

Competitive eaters from across the country vied for the championship title and a $10,000 cash prize, provided by Wonderful Pistachios, America’s #1 Nut®. The event was a collaboration between Major League Eating and Wonderful® Pistachios, and was held on World Pistachio Day.

During the contest, competitors had eight minutes to crack open and eat as many Wonderful Pistachios as possible. Wehry managed to consume 109 pistachios in just 8 minutes, earning him a cash prize of $5,000.

The event was unlike any Major League Eating contest ever held, showcasing the Wonderful Pistachios brand to a wider audience. Wonderful Pistachios, part of The Wonderful Company, is the world's largest vertically integrated pistachio processor and marketer, providing Non-GMO Project Verified nuts for consumers around the world.

Major League Eating, which oversees all professional eating contests, holds approximately 70 events annually, including the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island, NY.

The "Wonderful Pistachios Get Crackin' Eating Championship" was held at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park. The park provided a perfect backdrop for the event, offering 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, an oceanfront food plaza, and seaside retail shopping.

Overall, the event was a thrilling experience that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. While Joey Chestnut was expected to win, it was Nick Wehry who emerged as the surprising victor. The event successfully showcased the Wonderful Pistachios brand and provided a one-of-a-kind experience for attendees. Fans of competitive eating can't wait to see what Major League Eating and Wonderful Pistachios have in store for future events after the excitement of this year's competition.

On Tuesday, February 21, 2023, the Santa Monica Police Department took measures to increase its presence and improve safety in the downtown area.

As part of this effort, the Department's Downtown Service Unit was present along 3rd St Promenade and the surrounding areas to address any crimes or safety concerns in those areas. Additionally, the Mobile Command Center was deployed as a communication hub and to enhance the visibility of law enforcement.

The Mobile Command Center is a sophisticated vehicle designed for emergency situations, equipped with advanced technology and capable of coordinating responses to various incidents. Its presence in the downtown area serves as a deterrent to crime and allows for a more effective response in case of emergencies.

In addition to law enforcement, the Santa Monica Police Department also used this opportunity for community outreach. The Command Post was set up for the Department's Neighborhood Resource Officers to answer any questions from the community and provide information on safety tips and crime prevention.

The Santa Monica Police Department's efforts to increase its presence and outreach in the downtown area are a clear indication of its commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and visitors. By having the Downtown Service Unit present and the Mobile Command Center deployed, the Department can address any crimes or safety concerns more effectively, while the Command Post provides an opportunity for community members to engage with law enforcement and get the information they need to stay safe.

In conclusion, the Santa Monica Police Department's recent operation in the downtown area highlights the importance of increasing law enforcement presence and community outreach efforts. By utilizing advanced technology and community engagement, the Department is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all who live and visit the downtown area.

Jesus March at Santa Monica Beach

On Saturday, February 18, 2023, the Santa Monica Beach was filled with the joyful sounds of Christian rock music and the sights of a Jesus March led by the band "United Revival". It was an opportunity for Christians in the community to come together and publicly express their devotion to Jesus Christ.

As the band performed their lively music, a group of believers walked along the Santa Monica Beach Bike Path proclaiming their faith in Jesus Christ. The Jesus March drew people from all walks of life, including families with young children and elderly individuals. People carried signs with bible verses and messages of hope and love, creating an atmosphere of joy and positivity.

"United Revival" played a selection of their original songs as well as some classic Christian rock anthems, and the crowd sang along and danced in praise of Jesus. The band members shared their testimonies, encouraging others to live a life of faith and devotion to Christ. They spoke about how their faith has transformed their lives and how they want to share the love of Jesus with everyone around them.

The Jesus March was not just a time of celebration, but also an opportunity for Christians to stand together and show that their faith is still strong in a world that often challenges it. It was a time to be encouraged and inspired, and to connect with others who share the same beliefs.

The event ended with a prayer, and people left feeling uplifted and refreshed. The Jesus March was a powerful expression of faith and unity in the Santa Monica community, and a reminder of the enduring power of Christian rock music to bring people together in worship and praise. It was a beautiful example of how a shared faith can create a sense of community and belonging, and how music can be used to express devotion and love.

The vibrant and colorful tradition of Mardi Gras

was brought to life on the Venice Beach Boardwalk on Saturday, February 11, 2023, with the spirited parade led by the Beaucoup Brass Band, with Queen Heatha Bee and King Toussaint at the helm. The parade, a beloved annual event, was a joyful celebration of music, culture, and community that drew a diverse crowd of locals and tourists alike.

As the Beaucoup Brass Band marched along the boardwalk, their infectious music and lively energy filled the air, drawing onlookers to join in the festivities. Their performance was a testament to the power of music to unite people from all walks of life in a shared celebration of joy and creativity.

Queen Heatha Bee and King Toussaint, adorned in vibrant and regal attire, waved to the crowd with joy and enthusiasm as they led the parade through the bustling Venice Beach Boardwalk. Their presence was a testament to the rich history and tradition of Mardi Gras, a festival with roots dating back to medieval Europe that has since evolved to become a vital part of the cultural fabric of New Orleans and beyond.

For those in attendance, the parade was a feast for the senses, with colorful costumes, lively music, and a palpable sense of community spirit. The event was a testament to the power of cultural celebrations to bring people together in a shared celebration of diversity, creativity, and joy.

As the parade drew to a close, the Beaucoup Brass Band, Queen Heatha Bee, and King Toussaint continued to entertain the crowds with their music and precession, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration that lingered long after the parade had passed. For those who were lucky enough to be there, it was a day to remember, a testament to the enduring power of music and community to unite us all in a shared celebration of life.

To the sound of trumpets and drums so grand,

The Mardi Gras Parade marched on the sand,

Led by Queen Heatha Bee and King Toussaint,

A regal duo, without a complaint.

Along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, they roamed,

And the crowd's energy, the band inflamed,

With Beaucoup Brass Band's music so sweet,

The parade marched on, to its own beat.

Their melodies filled the salty air,

And everyone stopped just to stare,

As the Queen and King, regal and proud,

Led the parade with music so loud.

Onlookers danced to the rhythmic sound,

And threw beads to the crowd on the ground,

As the Mardi Gras Parade, with its joyous glee,

Filled the beach with festive revelry.

And long after the parade had passed,

The memory of the music would last,

As the Beaucoup Brass Band had brought to life,

The spirit of Mardi Gras, free from strife.