Downtown Santa Monica, CA - The holiday season has officially begun in Downtown Santa Monica, marked by a magnificent Tree Lighting Ceremony that took place on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at the iconic Third Street Promenade. A multitude of eager onlookers gathered to witness the enchanting moment when Santa Claus himself lit up the city's holiday tree, ushering in a festive atmosphere that promises to bring joy and cheer to the community.

The event featured a diverse program that added an extra layer of magic to the evening. It commenced with a warm welcome by Santa Monica City Mayor Gleam Davis, who extended her heartfelt greetings to the assembled crowd, setting the celebratory tone. The performance by the talented dancers of Westside Ballet added an element of grace and artistry, while the Lincoln Middle School Madrigals and Samohi High School Choirs filled the air with melodious Christmas carols, infusing the atmosphere with holiday spirit.

Distinguished members of the Santa Monica community graced the occasion with their presence, underlining the unity and camaraderie within the city. As anticipation reached its peak, Santa Claus himself stepped forward to illuminate the towering holiday tree, and to everyone's delight, snow began to fall, turning the Third Street Promenade into a winter wonderland.

Families and children were invited to create cherished memories by taking free photos with Santa Claus, adding to the enchantment of the evening. The musical talents of the SMC Emeritus Band continued to delight the crowd, filling the air with enchanting melodies that resonated with the holiday spirit.

The Tree Lighting Ceremony at Third Street Promenade signals the start of a captivating holiday season in Downtown Santa Monica. With the city adorned in festive lights and decorations, residents and visitors alike are invited to explore the magic of the season through a variety of planned events and activities. Santa Claus has arrived, bringing with him the spirit of the holidays, and the city is aglow with the warmth of the season 🎅🏼🎄.

Santa Monica, Calif. – In a significant move to enhance environmental protection efforts, the Santa Monica City Council approved a new ordinance on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, prohibiting the distribution of food to birds and animals at local beaches and the Pier. This decision aligns with the city's ongoing initiatives to improve water quality and address bacterial contamination in Santa Monica Bay.

The ordinance is a part of a comprehensive strategy to combat the rising concerns over water pollution, particularly around the Pier area. It builds upon data from the Heal the Bay Beach Report Card, which highlighted the need for stringent measures to reduce bacterial levels in the bay.

In addition to this ordinance, the city has implemented several infrastructural changes to support its environmental goals. Earlier this year, netting was installed under the pier to discourage pigeon roosting and nesting, a move aimed at reducing bird-related pollution.

The city's efforts to safeguard water quality extend beyond these recent measures. Significant projects like the 2018 Clean Beaches Project have been instrumental in capturing urban runoff and rainwater from the downtown area, diverting it to a large cistern near the Pier. Moreover, the Sustainable Water Infrastructure Project, completed last year, plays a crucial role in capturing stormwater and redirecting urban runoff and stormwater pollution away from Santa Monica Bay, further demonstrating the city's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

In a show of solidarity with Israel, members of the Jewish community in Santa Monica gathered for a march along Ocean Front Walk on Sunday, November 12, 2023. Beginning at 2400 Ocean Front Walk near Parry's Beach Cafe, the march progressed south towards the Shul on the Beach (Pacific Jewish Center) on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, escorted by armed security guards.

Participants, some pushing baby strollers adorned with posters bearing the photos of Israelis held hostage by Hamas in Gaza, called for the immediate and safe release of these individuals. The demonstrators highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that many hostages are children under 18, some taken from their parents. They sought to peacefully raise awareness and advocate for the return of these young hostages to their families.

The event was marked by a palpable sense of sorrow and deep concern for all children impacted by the conflict, both Israeli and Gazan. The community's stance was clear: the acts of kidnapping are egregious human rights violations, possibly with genocidal intent. The march served as a reminder of the broader implications of the ongoing conflict and the shared tragedy it brings.

Emphasizing their commitment to solidarity, hope, and love, the participants voiced their collective prayers and hopes for a peaceful resolution and the safe return of all hostages. This gathering reaffirmed their stand against all forms of violence and hostility affecting innocent lives, demonstrating a united front in the face of adversity.

The City of Santa Monica and the U.S. Army collaborated to host a grand Veterans Day ceremony on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023. This event, held on the western half of the Santa Monica Pier parking deck, marked its fourth year and was the largest yet. The ceremony featured performances, flyovers, and speeches by military and local elected officials, drawing a large crowd to honor veterans.

Mayor Gleam Davis of Santa Monica shared her appreciation for the military, noting her personal connection as the mother of a veteran. She expressed honor in recognizing the bravery and sacrifice of military personnel.

The Veterans Day event at Santa Monica Pier included several highlights. The program featured a flyover by Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters, a performance by the West Point Drill Team, and music by the 300th Army Band and Miss USO Heidi-Marie Ferren. The national anthem was beautifully sung by Christena Rich. The event also showcased Humvees & JLTVs, and concerts by the Army rock band Brave the Night and the Rusty de la Croix blues band. Keynote speeches were delivered by Deputy Under Secretary of the Army Mario Diaz, Mayor Gleam Davis, and Congressman Ted Lieu. Major General Dianne Del Rosso conducted a soldier swearing-in ceremony, with additional comments from Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits Michael Frueh. Veterans and active military members enjoyed free ride tickets at Pacific Park and complimentary meals from Meals on Wheels.

Event organizer and Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army Sonki Hong emphasized the significance of honoring military service members, especially in a world facing numerous challenges.

Santa Monica, November 6, 2023 – A physical altercation erupted between two street vendors at the bustling Santa Monica Beach on Monday, resulting in police and lifeguard involvement. The confrontation escalated when one vendor reportedly struck another in the face. Los Angeles County lifeguards were quick to administer first aid to the injured party.

Santa Monica Police Officers arrived on the scene to deescalate the situation and gathered eyewitness accounts from both parties involved. A detailed report is being prepared for submission to the City Attorney's Office to review the incident and consider any necessary legal action. Despite the violent exchange, no arrests have been made at this time. The SMPD continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the altercation.

Santa Monica, CA - The Edgemar Center for the Arts on Main Street is abuzz with holiday spirit as it gears up for the installation of the iconic Shopping Cart Tree by renowned artist Anthony Schmitt on Saturday, November 4, 2023. This towering structure, meticulously assembled from 85 shopping carts, is more than just a spectacle; it is a resonant symbol of both prosperity and compassion.

Anthony Schmitt, the visionary behind this creative marvel, has chosen shopping carts for their dual significance—they represent the bounty many enjoy while also evoking a poignant reminder of those in need. The installation has been an integral part of the Santa Monica community's holiday traditions, attracting visitors from near and far.

For years, Schmitt’s installations have captured the imaginations of holiday revelers, establishing a legacy that intertwines with the festive joy of the season. The Shopping Cart Tree stands not only as a testament to innovative artistry but also as a beacon of community unity and awareness.

The unique holiday structure has consistently drawn in crowds of holiday shoppers, families, and curious tourists, all eager to partake in the extraordinary holiday experience that the Shopping Cart Tree offers. As this year's assembly of the iconic tree begins, it promises to continue inspiring and engaging the community in the true spirit of the holidays.

While the Shopping Cart Tree will only grace the Edgemar Center for a limited time, the powerful message it embodies about society's wealth disparity remains impactful throughout the year. Schmitt's work is a compelling reminder of the enduring power of art to evoke reflection, conversation, and action.

The installation will be open for public viewing throughout the holiday season, offering a unique backdrop for photos, reflection, and holiday merriment. For more information on viewing times and any associated events, please visit the Edgemar Center for the Arts' website or contact their public relations department.

For additional updates and coverage on the Shopping Cart Tree and other local events, be sure to follow https://www.facebook.com/shoppingcarttree. Join the community as we embrace local traditions and celebrate the artists who add vibrancy to our cultural fabric.

In a display of unity and determination, UNITE HERE Local 11 and their supporters marched through Santa Monica on Saturday, November 4, 2023. The march was organized in response to the arrival of migrant workers brought in as strikebreakers, and it coincided with the American Film Market being hosted at Le Meridien Delfina from October 31 to November 5.

The strike, which had garnered widespread attention and support under the hashtag #SoCalHotelStrike, had been ongoing as workers demanded better working conditions, fair wages, and improved job security in the Southern California hotel industry. As the strike continued to gain momentum, the arrival of migrant workers brought in to replace striking employees had further fueled tensions.

The march, which began at 10 AM on Saturday, started at Le Meridien Delfina, the epicenter of the strike and host to the American Film Market. Participants walked through Santa Monica, demonstrating their commitment to workers' rights and their opposition to the use of migrant labor as strikebreakers.

UNITE HERE Local 11 spokesperson, Sarah Rodriguez, had stated, "We stand in solidarity with all workers, regardless of their background. The arrival of migrant workers during our strike is not a solution to the problems we're trying to address. We are marching to show that our demand for fair treatment is unwavering and that we will not be divided."

The strike had garnered widespread community support, with various organizations, labor unions, and activists joining in solidarity with the striking hotel workers. The march on Saturday drew a diverse crowd, united in their commitment to workers' rights and fair labor practices.

The use of social media hashtags like #SoCalHotelStrike had allowed the movement to gain visibility and support beyond Santa Monica, resonating with workers' rights advocates across the country.

As the strike entered a critical phase, the march on Saturday symbolized the determination of the striking workers and their allies to bring attention to their cause and emphasize the importance of fair labor practices in the hotel industry.

Santa Monica, CA – The global sensation and towering symbol of resilience, Little Amal, a 12-foot-tall puppet embodying the spirit of a young Syrian refugee, arrived at Santa Monica Pier on November 2, 2023, at 5 PM, continuing her extraordinary journey of awareness and compassion.

Little Amal's odyssey, which captivated the hearts of millions worldwide, celebrated the arts and shone a light on the plight of countless children who had been uprooted by conflict. Supported by a myriad of artists, leaders from various faiths, civil society, and a massive online community, Amal's voyage became more than a movement—it turned into a global festival of hope and solidarity. Her resonant plea, "Don’t forget about us," echoed the urgent need for attention to the stories of children affected by war and strife.

Crafted with masterful artistry by the Handspring Puppet Company, known for their groundbreaking work on the international hit play "War Horse," Little Amal represented a beacon of human rights, especially advocating for the displaced and family-severed young ones across the globe.

As Amal traversed the world, her presence was celebrated through deeply engaging and culturally rich events. She had already journeyed through 14 countries, engaging with communities in over 270 events across 97 cities, towns, and villages, each encounter tailored to reflect and honor the local traditions and narratives.

In her visit to Santa Monica, the community gathered for an unforgettable evening of cultural immersion and heartfelt welcome. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the pier resonated with the stirring performances of Hālau Hula Keali`i O Nālani, enveloping Amal in a tapestry of music and dance that highlighted the cultural diversity of America.

The public was encouraged to participate in this momentous occasion and to walk alongside Amal, symbolically and literally, in a shared commitment to unity and understanding. Followers of @WalkWithAmal for updates joined the growing movement using hashtags #LittleAmalAtSantaMonicaPier, #HopeJourney, #CulturalDiversity, and #CommunityUnity.

The event was a transformative experience that transcended boundaries and celebrated the common humanity that binds us all together.