Despite the drizzling rain on Saturday, September 2, 2023, the Venice Beach Boardwalk was alive with the rumble of engines and the gleam of classic chrome as car enthusiasts from across the region gathered for the 2nd annual Venice Classic Car Show. Over 200 classic cars, kustoms, lowriders, street rods, rat rods, pre-80's trucks, pre-80's muscle cars, and Harley Davidsons graced the event, turning the iconic Venice Beach setting into a paradise for automotive aficionados.

The Venice Classic Car Show is not just an exhibition of vehicles; it's a celebration of West Coast car culture. Rain or shine, attendees reveled in the rich history and craftsmanship on display.

Trophies were awarded to the standout vehicles in various categories, including Best Classic, Best Kustom, Best Lowrider, Best Truck, Best Muscle Car, Best Paint, and Best Chop. Enthusiasts had the unique opportunity to get up close, inspect these automotive marvels, and meet the passionate owners behind these incredible machines.

This year's event was proudly presented by the Westside Classic Car Club in collaboration with the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation & Parks, Venice Beach, and Munson Industries, Inc. Generous sponsorship was provided by the Los Angeles Chargers, Bartels’ Harley-Davidson, Minute Maid’s Agua Frescas, SMART Water, ThumzUp!, Mr. Cartoon x Turtle Wax, STANCE, and more, underlining the event's significance as a community-driven celebration.

The car show festivities began with a special "Blessing of the Cars" ceremony conducted by descendants of the Tongva people, honoring the rich cultural history of the Venice Beach area. Numerous local car clubs also participated in the event, showcasing the camaraderie and community spirit that surrounds the world of classic automobiles. Austin the DJ played music throughout the event, adding a vibrant soundtrack to the day.

Among the attendees at the Venice Classic Car Show was a group of Los Angeles Police Officers from the Pacific Division, underlining the event's importance as a bridge between the local community and law enforcement. Their presence added an extra layer of appreciation for the shared love of classic cars.

In addition to the impressive vehicle lineup, the Venice Classic Car Show invited the community to explore a variety of vendors and food trucks. A percentage of vending and raffle donations will benefit the LA Parks Foundation for Venice Beach Recreation Center. The event aimed to reintroduce Venice Beach as a safe and family-friendly recreation area for everyone, in partnership with the City of LA Department of Recreation and Parks.

Despite the less-than-ideal weather conditions, the Venice Classic Car Show offered a fantastic opportunity for car enthusiasts to pay homage to the beauty and history of classic cars while enjoying the stunning backdrop of Venice Beach. Raindrops couldn't dampen the enthusiasm of those in attendance, and the event stands as a testament to the enduring passion for automotive excellence on the West Coast. With the support of sponsors and the community, this annual gathering promises to become a staple of the Venice Beach calendar for years to come.

On Saturday, August 26, 2023, the iconic Santa Monica Pier played host to the 2nd Annual Classic Car Show 'Coastin’ To The West Coast,' a spectacular event organized by the Santa Monica Police Officers Association (SMPOA). Enthusiasts of classic cars, motorcycles, and community members gathered from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to revel in the timeless charm of vintage automobiles while supporting a noble cause.

The event received a significant boost from its sponsors, Chemical Guys and Liquid Death, who ensured that attendees could enjoy the festivities free of charge. Amid the scenic backdrop of the Santa Monica Pier, the 'Coastin’ to the West Coast' show unfolded, featuring a diverse array of classic cars and motorcycles in a captivating competition.

Participants showcased their automotive masterpieces for a chance to claim accolades in various categories, including the prestigious titles of Best Hotrod, Best Paint Job, Best Lowrider, Best in Show, and Best Classic. The discerning eyes of guest judges added to the excitement as they reviewed the entrants and presented the well-deserved awards.

Beyond the celebration of automotive craftsmanship, the event carried a significant purpose. All proceeds from the event were dedicated to the SMPOA Survivor Fund, a charitable initiative established in honor of SMPD Officer Ricardo Crocker, who made the ultimate sacrifice while on active duty in Iraq in 2005. The fund provides critical assistance to police families during times of tragedy, offering support for transportation, funeral services, and specific survivor needs.

Attendees had the chance to participate in raffle ticket sales, with enticing prizes up for grabs. Culinary delights were available from The Albright and Rusty's restaurants, while the Santa Monica Brew Works provided a lively beer garden. Additionally, exclusive 'Coastin’ to the West Coast' event T-shirts were on sale, with proceeds contributing to the charitable cause.

The SMPOA Charity Fund's philanthropic efforts extend not only within California but also reach beyond state lines. While its primary focus remains on assisting police officer families in California who have lost loved ones in the line of duty, the fund also extends its support to fallen officers outside of the state on a case-by-case basis.

The Santa Monica Police Officers Association, with its mission to safeguard, uphold, and enhance the rights and benefits of its members, continues to actively engage with the Santa Monica community, striving to improve the quality of life for both its members and the citizens it serves.

As the day concluded, the 2nd Annual Classic Car Show 'Coastin’ To The West Coast' stood as a testament to the enduring allure of classic automobiles, community spirit, and the unwavering support for those who dedicate their lives to law enforcement. The event's success underscored the power of collaboration between automotive enthusiasts and a committed police association, making a positive impact on both classic car culture and the lives of those who serve and protect.

The Santa Monica Pier was awash with a mesmerizing display of light and technology on Thursday night, as a fleet of 500 drones took to the night sky in celebration of the highly anticipated premiere of Netflix's live-action adaptation of the beloved Japanese manga, "One Piece."

Executed by the renowned drone performance troupe, Pixis Drones, who boast an illustrious track record spanning over three decades of global entertainment events, the aerial exhibition was the star-studded prologue to the official launch event. Held at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, attendees of this grand affair were treated to an exclusive engagement with Pacific Park, featuring an array of thrilling games, delectable cuisine, and exhilarating rides.

The festivities mark the commencement of Netflix's worldwide extravaganza – a series of 10 fan-centric gatherings – heralding the forthcoming release of their live-action rendition of "One Piece." Commencing at the Santa Monica Pier on this momentous August 24th evening, these celebrations are slated to unfold across the globe. In homage to the story's protagonist, Monkey D. Luffy, aficionados are encouraged to sport the distinctive straw hats synonymous with Luffy and his intrepid crew.

Translating the cherished Japanese manga and anime into live-action, Netflix's "One Piece" production is set to debut on August 31, exclusively on the streaming platform. Charting the escapades of Monkey D. Luffy – portrayed by the talented Iñaki Godoy – the series embarks on the young pirate captain's relentless pursuit of the fabled One Piece treasure. The supporting cast includes Mackenyu as Roronoa Zoro, Emily Rudd as Nami, Jacob Romero as Usopp, and Taz Skylar as Sanji.

Eiichiro Oda's masterwork, "One Piece," an entrancing Japanese manga, first serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Shōnen Jump on July 22, 1997, has burgeoned into a cultural phenomenon. Comprising 106 tankōbon volumes as of July 2023, the narrative chronicles the odyssey of Monkey D. Luffy, who acquires elasticity akin to rubber post-consuming a Devil Fruit. Endowed with this supernatural ability, Luffy embarks on an epic voyage in pursuit of the enigmatic One Piece, an artifact that promises dominion over the high seas as the Pirate King.

Throughout his journey, Luffy assembles a disparate crew of seafarers, christening them the Straw Hat Pirates. Comprising individuals such as Roronoa Zoro, Nami the skilled navigator, Usopp the sharpshooter, the culinary virtuoso Sanji, the ingenious cyborg shipwright Franky, and the musically inclined skeleton musician Brook, this formidable crew confronts an array of perils, from rival pirates to Machiavellian governmental forces, all vying for the coveted One Piece treasure.

Evidencing its universal appeal, "One Piece" stands as one of the world's most sought-after manga series, boasting a staggering circulation of over 490 million copies worldwide. Its resonance transcends the pages, extending to an animated series, feature films, and video games. Distinguished by an array of accolades, including the Shogakukan Manga Award and the Kodansha Manga Award, "One Piece" undeniably takes its place as an iconic and critically acclaimed cultural touchstone.

Santa Monica, CA - The Santa Monica Fire Department and the entire community are mourning the loss of Fire Engineer Dom Smith, a dedicated firefighter who served with distinction for 22 years. Engineer Smith passed away on July 13, 2023, after a courageous battle with a work-related illness. He was laid to rest today at St. Monica's Church in a celebration of life service.

Dom Smith's impact on both the fire department and the Santa Monica community is undeniable. Throughout his esteemed career, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his role as a firefighter and paramedic. He served in various cities, including Poway and Oceanside, before retiring from the Santa Monica Fire Department in March 2023.

Born in 1971, Dominic James Smith was not only a dedicated professional but also a loving husband to Alexa and a devoted father to their daughter Sydney. Dom's passion for helping others extended far beyond his career, as he was known for his willingness to assist friends, neighbors, and family members with a variety of projects and challenges.

In recognition of his outstanding service, Dom's life was celebrated at St. Monica's Church earlier today. Friends, family, and fellow firefighters gathered to pay their respects and honor his memory. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the service was made available.

Dominic's legacy lives on through his family, including his wife Alexa, daughter Sydney, parents Veronica Murphy and Douglas Smith, six brothers, three sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and fellow firefighters. His genuine kindness, generous spirit, and dedication to helping others have left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Santa Monica Firefighters Relief Fund, an organization that provides essential support during times of need.

To contribute to the Santa Monica Firefighters Relief Fund in memory of Dom Smith, please visit: https://www.supportsmfire.org/

Dom Smith's impact on the Santa Monica community will be remembered for years to come, and his absence is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of crossing paths with this exceptional individual.

SANTA MONICA, August 19, 2023,on a sunny Saturday afternoon, the picturesque Tongva Park came alive with vibrant sights and sounds as the City of Santa Monica hosted its much-anticipated Endless Summer C.A.M.P. event, a harmonious convergence of Community, Art, Music, and Picnic. The event, produced in partnership with Community Arts Resources (CARS), in collaboration with Conservation Ambassadors and Elemental Music, drew a diverse crowd of residents and visitors eager to partake in the festivities.

A kaleidoscope of international influences unfolded at the event, held on August 19, 2023, transforming Tongva Park into a cultural hub. Attendees were treated to a captivating lineup of attractions, including live animal encounters by Conservation Ambassadors, Elemental Music's Chamber Music Institute performances, and a hands-on Succulent Plant Terrarium building workshop guided by artist Eros Cortes.

Mayor Gleam Davis, an enthusiastic supporter of these community-driven initiatives, expressed her delight, saying, "I'm thrilled to see these free events enliven the public parks that are part of the fabric of Santa Monica. I'm looking forward to seeing our community enjoy the arts, support our youth, and connect with one another."

The event provided a platform for the youth of Santa Monica to shine, with captivating performances by Elemental Music's Chamber Music Institute. The audience was treated to a mesmerizing fusion of musical talents, showcasing the diversity that Santa Monica proudly embraces.

Conservation Ambassadors added a touch of the wild to the proceedings by bringing exotic animals to the park. Through these animal ambassadors, attendees had the opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting our planet's ecosystems. The organization's mission to educate and inspire resonated strongly with the event's attendees.

An essential aspect of the Endless Summer C.A.M.P. was its interactive workshops that allowed participants to immerse themselves in creative pursuits. Eros Cortes guided attendees in crafting their own Succulent Plant Terrariums, celebrating the park's plant life and fostering a connection to world traditions.

Tongva Park itself provided an idyllic backdrop for the event, boasting amenities such as a splash pad, playground, ocean observation deck, and public art installations, all surrounded by a rich array of over 100 plant species. Attendees were encouraged to make a day of it by exploring the nearby attractions including Downtown Santa Monica, the 3rd Street Promenade, the iconic Pier, and Main Street, all while supporting local businesses and restaurants.

Endless Summer C.A.M.P., made possible by Art of Recovery, aligns with the City Council's commitment to economic recovery and enhancing cultural offerings. As the event series continues through August and September, the City of Santa Monica is poised to uplift its community through a celebration of culture, arts, and togetherness.

For more information about upcoming Endless Summer C.A.M.P. events and other Santa Monica initiatives, visit the official city website or contact the City's Cultural Affairs Division.

On Monday, August 14, 2023, the visionary creator and artist, Robin Murez, extended an exclusive invitation to sponsors and neighborhood guests for a test ride on the highly anticipated Venice Flying Carousel. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Venice Canals, the private event provided a sneak peek into the enchanting world of this captivating carousel.

Crafted from basswood, the animals of the Venice Flying Carousel are a captivating ensemble of big animals, kiddie swings, and a chariot. What sets this carousel apart is its distinctive blend of Venice-themed, fabulous public art with an innovative twist: the carousel's propulsion mechanism is 100% human-powered fun and eco-friendliness.

True to its name, the 'Flying Horse' carousel animals gently soar through the air as they go 'round, offering an inviting experience for both adults and children.

The ultimate home of the Carousel is to be Venice’s Centennial Park: the perfect neighborhood site, adjacent to the public library and farmers market on Venice Boulevard. While awaiting its availability, Murez “pivoted” and had the mechanism constructed as a portable ride. It’s an ingenious design that folds down for transit and sets up on location. It’s solid steel, “over engineered by Al,” a seemingly simple design based upon centuries old carousels and provides a smooth ride. Being portable, the Carousel will now bring its soaring magic throughout the neighborhood. Today the Venice Canals, tomorrow perhaps a school, gallery, or library near you.

The Carousel measures 20 feet in diameter and features eight meticulously carved animals, a chariot for two, and five kiddie swings. The Venice Flying Carousel promises a magical ride for up to 15 riders at a time.

In this first “staging” of the completed Carousel, artists, engineers, the mechanism fabricator, and neighbors joined Murez at this canal location to raise the mast, assemble the arms, hang the animals, mount their golden name plaques, and add all the final details. In the coming weeks, hours and locations will be scheduled.

Drawing from a vibrant history of fascinating individuals, eclectic amusements, and delightful carousels, Venice welcomes the Flying Carousel as a testament to its innovative spirit. Spearheaded by “Legendary Woman Artist of Venice” Robin Murez, renowned for her public art installations that grace the town. This project harmonizes creativity, expertise, and community engagement.

This is truly an interactive kinetic public art masterpiece – a carousel that goes beyond mere entertainment. From camels to rocket ships, the carousel creatures promise not only an exhilarating ride but also engaging tales of Venice's vibrant past interlaced with personal stories of the Venice families who “adopted” the animals. Here are a few:

• Ray, the Rocket Ship pays tribute to Ray Bradbury, father of science fiction who lived and worked in Venice. Portraits of Ray and the sponsor, Michael, are carved peering out of the portholes.
• Paa’ar + Mamoosh, the Tongva Turtle and her toucan companion tell the Tongva creation story and share the family’s love and favorite toys.
• Ribbon, the “pegacorn” reminds of the fabulous Dentzel Carousel that Venice enjoyed in the 1920s, and the magic that is in our air. Emory was 5 years old when she collaborated with Murez on its beautiful design. Look for hidden fairies and flowing mane.

The Carousel will enjoy a “soft opening.” This Thursday it will be open for the Venice Art Crawl from 6-8pm. See VeniceArtCrawl.com for details.

To schedule visits or invite the Carousel to your location, contact: info@VeniceFlyingCarousel.com

The Venice Flying Carousel is a 501c3 not-for-profit CA Corporation. It is funded through tax-deductible cash and pro-bono donations.

Los Angeles, August 14, 2023 - Amid the picturesque setting of Venice Beach, a remarkable scene unfolded today as two officers from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) enthusiastically participated in a friendly game of 'Horse' alongside local residents on the renowned Venice Beach Basketball Courts.

In a heartening display of community engagement, the classic 'Horse' basketball shooting game served as a bridge for fostering unity and camaraderie between law enforcement personnel and the local community. The game, cherished for its simplicity and enjoyment, revolves around players attempting inventive shots from various positions on the court. When a player successfully makes a shot that others miss, the unsuccessful players earn a letter, spelling out the word 'HORSE' incrementally. The coveted title of the last player standing took on new significance within the context of this community-oriented event.

As the California sun bathed the scene in a golden glow, the rhythmic bounce of basketballs and the harmonious laughter of participants resonated, offering a refreshing perspective on the dynamic between law enforcement and their communities.

This event stood as a testament to the LAPD's unwavering dedication to forging meaningful connections with the diverse neighborhoods they serve. By embracing an informal and playful setting, the officers aimed to establish a positive rapport that extends beyond their traditional roles and responsibilities.

Amid a landscape often dominated by challenging headlines, this heartening exchange poignantly reminded all onlookers of the immense potential for harmony, joy, and shared experiences when different facets of society come together with a common purpose.

In a world of constant change and sometimes-frayed bonds, the Venice Beach Basketball Courts hosted an afternoon that exemplified the art of building relationships – a game where everyone emerges victorious.

The annual "Open Main Street" festival, held on Sunday, August 13, 2023, saw the participation of acclaimed artist Daniel Alonzo, who captivated attendees with his stunning artworks capturing the essence of Santa Monica.

Daniel Alonzo, deeply connected to the coastal charm of Santa Monica, is a prominent figure in the local art scene. With roots tracing back to the esteemed "Casillas Family," early pioneers of the city, Alonzo's art reflects a profound bond with the region. His upbringing and education within the Santa Monica School System further fueled his passion for his hometown.

Alonzo's artistic journey is marked by significant milestones, including his victory in a statewide competition during his senior year at Santa Monica High School. His iconic creation, the "Whale of a Mural," positioned at 4th Street and Ocean Park Blvd, stands as a testament to his dedication and vision. This piece, funded personally by Alonzo and taking fifteen months to complete, has become an enduring symbol of his commitment to the city.

Throughout his artistic career, Alonzo's works have acted as a visual narrative of Santa Monica's evolution. The influence of his coastal living in the Art Deco Sea Castle Apartments and the impact of the 1994 Northridge Earthquake, which devastated his home, are palpable in his art, infusing it with a unique perspective on the city's history and emotional journey.

Daniel Alonzo's participation added an artistic dimension to the "Open Main Street" festival, presented by Cypress Equity Investments and LAcarGuy. The festival, spanning the weekend of August 12-13, offered an array of attractions for all ages.

Activities ranged from pickleball matches on the pop-up courts at Ocean Park, where beginners and seasoned players engaged in lessons and exhibition games, to live music performances at the Tavern on Main Stage and Cabin Creek Patio. Families enjoyed the Pump Station & Nurtury Kid Corner, while adult attendees relished the Ashland Hill Beer Garden and gained insights at the Open Condo event.

The "Open Main Street" festival transformed Santa Monica into a vibrant hub of community engagement, entertainment, and artistic expression, promising more weekends of diverse attractions in the future.