Victory Boyd, an emerging solo artist, captivated the audience with her captivating performance of original and classic soul, jazz, folk, and gospel music during the 31st annual Juneteenth Celebration. The event took place on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at Virginia Avenue Park.

An Afternoon Filled with Music, Cuisine, and Crafts

The Juneteenth Celebration offered an afternoon filled with music, delectable cuisine, and unique craft vendors, along with local resources, all designed to commemorate the 31st anniversary of Juneteenth under the theme of "Coming Together in Appreciation, Reconciliation, and Commemoration."

Exciting Highlights and Activities

Notably, the event featured the CRJ Live Community Stage, sponsored by the Committee for Racial Justice, where talented performers showcased their skills. Attendees were also treated to a dedicated children's area, a variety of food vendors, community information booths, and over 20 different vendors offering a diverse range of products, including original artwork, African carvings, and jewelry.

Commemorating Juneteenth and Honoring History

Juneteenth, a significant holiday, holds historical significance as it commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is often referred to as America's second Independence Day. The commemoration of this holiday in Santa Monica began 31 years ago, when LaVerne Ross approached the City to honor a holiday her family celebrated in Texas. The first Juneteenth event in Santa Monica was held in 1992 as a modest observance. Thanks to LaVerne's unwavering dedication and leadership, the celebration has evolved into an important annual tribute that unites Santa Monica's Black community.

Official Recognition and Support

Recognizing the significance of Juneteenth, the Santa Monica City Council officially designated it as a City holiday in March 2022, one year after President Biden acknowledged Juneteenth at the national level.

Funding and Contributors

The Juneteenth Celebration receives funding from the City of Santa Monica, as well as generous support from Activision/Blizzard, the LA County Department of Mental Health, Snap Inc., BroadStage, and contributions from the Juneteenth Celebration Committee, Inc., Santa Monica Cultural Affairs Division, and Virginia Avenue Park. These collective efforts make the event possible and enable the community to come together to honor the legacy of Juneteenth and embrace the values of appreciation, reconciliation, and commemoration.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Celebrates LGBTQ+ Community and Pride Month

Lindsey Horvath, a Los Angeles County Supervisor, marked a significant milestone in honoring the LGBTQ+ community and celebrating Pride Month on Saturday, June 17, 2023. Unveiling the artwork by Artist KATBING, Lifeguard Towers 17 and 18 were transformed into vibrant displays adorned with the colors of the Progress Pride Flag. This transformative installation beautifully represented the enduring legacy of "Ginger Rogers" Beach as an LGBTQ+ sanctuary, providing respite from discrimination and oppression faced elsewhere.

During the event, Supervisor Lindsey Horvath addressed a gathering to honor Pride Month and unveil the transformed lifeguard towers. Expressing her enthusiasm and gratitude, Horvath thanked the community for their support in turning this vision into reality. She emphasized the significance of creating safe spaces and wholeheartedly celebrating the diversity of Los Angeles County, rather than simply tolerating or accepting it. Horvath highlighted the historical importance of "Ginger Rogers" Beach as a site for political activism, including rallies against McCarthyism, protests against the Vietnam War, and fundraising events for AIDS. She stressed the importance of unity and honoring the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges to LGBTQ+ rights. Horvath also acknowledged the contributions of various individuals and organizations involved in the project, such as artist KATBING, Assembly member Rick Zbur, the One Archives Foundation, and others.

Tony Valenzuela, executive director of the One Archives Foundation, spoke about their partnership with the county and the foundation's commitment to preserving and educating about LGBTQ+ history. Trevor Ladner, education program manager for the One Archives Foundation, provided insights into the history of "Ginger Rogers" Beach. He underscored its role as a safe haven for the queer community and its connection to the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. Attendees were encouraged to explore the beach's history further through QR codes and archival photos.

The event concluded with expressions of gratitude and appreciation for commemorating the queer history of "Ginger Rogers" Beach. Participants were invited to continue building new memories at this historically significant location.

The beach's name, paying homage to the legendary actress Ginger Rogers, holds a special meaning. Recognized for her mesmerizing performances and influence on drag queens in the 1930s and 1940s, Ginger Rogers represents the captivating charisma that has shaped the beach's vibrant culture.

Throughout its rich history, "Ginger Rogers" Beach has served as a dynamic platform for political activism. It has hosted rallies against McCarthyism, protests opposing the Vietnam War, and fundraisers to support those affected by AIDS. These efforts have transformed the beach into a hub of cultural expression, political engagement, and joyous celebration. However, the profound story and significance of the beach have remained largely unknown beyond the LGBTQ+ community in Los Angeles.

This significant initiative, marked by the unveiling of artwork on Lifeguard Towers 17 and 18, brings long-overdue attention to the remarkable history of "Ginger Rogers" Beach. It stands as a jubilant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, reminding us of their resilience and the crucial importance of equality and acceptance. This commemoration arrives at a critical moment when LGBTQ+ rights face challenges nationwide. 

Chess Tournament on Third Street Promenade

On Sunday, June 11th, chess enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels gathered at Third Street Promenade for an exhilarating Chess Tournament organized jointly by the Santa Monica Bay Chess Club and Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. This event marked the beginning of the highly anticipated Chess Sundays series, which is set to take place throughout the summer.

Participants had the opportunity to showcase their strategic prowess and engage in friendly competition. The tournament, held from 11 am to 3 pm, offered enticing prizes for the winners, adding an extra level of excitement to the games.

The collaboration between the Santa Monica Chess Club and Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. proved to be a winning combination, attracting a diverse and enthusiastic crowd. The event highlighted the organizers' dedication to promoting chess and fostering a sense of community among players. This partnership promises more exceptional chess-related experiences in the future.

Chess Sundays on Third Street Promenade

Following the success of the tournament, Chess Sundays on Third Street Promenade promises an engaging summer-long affair. From 11 am to 3 pm every Sunday, chess aficionados can enjoy casual games with friends or challenge new opponents. Various chess sets, including some colossal ones, are provided to ensure an immersive experience for everyone. Participants are also welcome to bring their own sets to add a personal touch to their games.

Chess enthusiasts in the Santa Monica area have much to look forward to as the Chess Sundays series unfolds on Third Street Promenade. The collaborative efforts of the Santa Monica Bay Chess Club and Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. have set the stage for an eventful summer filled with intellectual battles and camaraderie.

Athletes Compete at the Santa Monica Pier during the USA Teqball Tour - Los Angeles Championship

On Sunday, June 11, 2023, the Santa Monica Pier became the stage for intense competition as athletes from around the world gathered to participate in the USA Teqball Tour - Los Angeles Championship.

Teqball USA and the Global Popularity of Teqball

Teqball USA, the leading organization behind the sport, showcased the global popularity and growing influence of Teqball at the Santa Monica Pier. Teqball, a fast-growing soccer-based sport, has gained traction in more than 150 countries, including all 50 states of the United States.

The sport has attracted a diverse range of participants, from professional athletes to enthusiastic amateurs, known as "teqers." Notable figures such as Messi, Neymar, Ronaldinho, David Beckham, Mauro Icardi, Eden Hazard, Justin Bieber, and Adam Levine have all expressed their support for Teqball, further fueling its popularity.

The Teqball Experience and Community

Teqball is played on a specially-curved table called the Teq table, which adds a unique element to the game. This innovation has appealed to a new generation of athletes and recreational players, fostering a vibrant community passionate about the sport.

Teqball USA is committed to building a strong community and leveraging the power of sports to create cultural relevance. Their vision is to bring joy to people's lives through Teqball on a daily basis. As part of their ambitious goals, Teqball USA aims to have Teqball recognized as an Olympic sport in time for the LA28 Olympics, showcasing their dedication and long-term aspirations for the future.

Yesterday marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to revitalize Venice Boulevard as a joint operation spearheaded by Los Angeles Council Member Traci Park, in collaboration with St. Joseph's Center, LAHSA, CIRCLE, and SHARE, successfully completed a comprehensive homeless encampment cleanup. In the aftermath of this remarkable achievement, the community-driven initiative known as Beautify Venice united with Mariposa Landscapes Inc. to transform the area by planting over 200 native and drought-tolerant plants.

The landscaping endeavor not only aims to enhance the visual appeal of the surroundings but also highlights the significance of sustainable practices in urban environments. The diverse range of plants introduced includes Indian Hawthorne, Matilija Poppies, and Fox Tail Agaves, each carefully selected to thrive in the local climate and contribute to a vibrant ecosystem.

Beautify Venice, an informal neighborhood group driven by a collective community spirit, rallied together to secure funds for the purchase of plants and materials required for the construction of a protective fence. This fence serves a dual purpose: safeguarding the plants and deterring the return of homeless encampments along the sidewalks. To ensure the project's success, a professional landscape company was engaged to oversee its implementation. In a testament to their dedication, members of Beautify Venice volunteered their time to assist in planting the native, drought-resistant plants.

During an interview with a neighborhood volunteer involved in the beautification project, they expressed their gratitude for Council Member Traci Park's election, which paved the way for such transformative initiatives. The volunteer highlighted the severity of the homeless encampments in the area, describing incidents of violence, drug use, and unsafe living conditions. The recent fire in the Venice canals acted as a catalyst for change, motivating the community to seek solutions and bring about positive transformations. The collaborative effort between residents, the city, and various city services, including sanitation and homeless services, resulted in the successful implementation of the project.

Another resident, Mike Maloy, who has lived next to the homeless encampment and is now witnessing the beautification project, expressed his joy and relief. As a surfer, Maloy emphasized the importance of Venice Beach as an inclusive and enjoyable destination for people from all walks of life. The encampments had dampened the vibrant spirit of the area, but the recent cleanup and landscaping efforts have revitalized the community. The installation of non-intrusive barriers, replanting initiatives, and overall cleanliness have brought back a sense of joy and safety to the neighborhood.

The funding for the project came from a collective effort of the neighborhood, with individuals who have personally experienced the negative effects of homelessness stepping forward to contribute. While the city provided mulch and topsoil, the neighborhood's continuous funding ensures the project's sustainability, with the community demonstrating their commitment to being the change they wish to see.

The success of this endeavor is a testament to the power of community collaboration and serves as an inspiring example for other neighborhoods facing similar challenges. It also highlights the critical role played by elected officials, law enforcement, sanitation services, and transportation in addressing complex issues like homelessness.

The cleanup and landscaping efforts along Venice Boulevard represent a significant step forward in improving public health and safety. However, it is essential to acknowledge that these initiatives are just one part of a comprehensive approach needed to address the larger issue of homelessness. The City of Los Angeles remains committed to implementing sustainable, long-term strategies that tackle the root causes of homelessness while providing essential resources to those in need.

Santa Monica Hands-Only CPR Training

In commemoration of National CPR Week

The Santa Monica Fire Department and Santa Monica Police Harbor Patrol Officers joined forces to provide vital training on Hands-Only CPR at the iconic Santa Monica Pier. This event took place on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, with the aim of equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to save lives in emergency situations.

Hands-Only CPR Training

Hands-Only CPR, a technique that eliminates the need for mouth-to-mouth rescue breaths, was the focus of the training. Participants were guided through two simple steps: firstly, calling 911 for professional assistance, and secondly, performing forceful and rapid chest compressions at the center of the chest. The importance of continuing these compressions until help arrives or an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available was emphasized.

Accessibility and Benefits

One of the key advantages of Hands-Only CPR is its accessibility to everyone, regardless of their level of CPR training or confidence. This simplified technique serves as a valuable alternative for those who have not received conventional CPR training or feel uncertain about their abilities. By employing Hands-Only CPR, individuals can deliver a greater number of uninterrupted chest compressions until advanced medical assistance arrives at the scene.

Importance of Prompt Action

Bystanders were urged to take immediate action when witnessing a sudden collapse or cessation of normal breathing. Research has shown that prompt bystander CPR, when administered effectively after a sudden cardiac arrest, can potentially double or even triple the chances of survival for the victim. Hands-Only CPR, with its straightforward methodology, has proven instrumental in saving lives during critical moments.

Exceptions and Additional Information

However, it is important to note that Hands-Only CPR should not be administered to infants and children. In such cases, conventional CPR techniques are required. Additionally, adults who have nearly drowned or experienced cardiac arrest due to respiratory causes should also receive conventional CPR.

Commitment to Community Safety

The collaborative effort between the Santa Monica Fire Department and Santa Monica Police Harbor Patrol Officers in providing Hands-Only CPR training at the Santa Monica Pier exemplifies the commitment to community safety and the proactive approach taken to ensure that more lives can be saved during emergencies.

On Saturday, June 3, 2023, a gathering took place at Palisades Park where members of the Russian community united to express solidarity with the people of Ukraine. A striking display of support was showcased as they adorned a structure with numerous paper peace doves, symbolizing their desire for peace. Additionally, the community organized an art sale to raise funds in support of Ukraine. Holding signs with powerful messages, such as "We Stand with Ukraine" and "Putin is a Monster," they made their stance clear against the ongoing conflict. With slogans like "Putin is a Killer," "No War," and "Russians against the war," they emphasized their opposition to violence and their commitment to peace.

Unity and Determination

The atmosphere at Palisades Park was charged with a sense of unity and determination. Members of the Russian community stood side by side, their voices joining together in a resounding call for peace and justice. The fluttering white doves, delicately crafted from paper, served as a poignant symbol of hope and reconciliation, reminding everyone of the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.

Art Sale for Ukraine

As the art sale commenced, vibrant paintings adorned the surroundings, each stroke of the brush capturing the essence of compassion and empathy. The proceeds from the sales would go towards supporting Ukraine, offering a lifeline to those affected by the conflict. The Russian community's commitment to lending a helping hand spoke volumes about their desire to bridge the divide and foster understanding between nations.

Powerful Messages

The signs held high by the attendees were visual testaments to their unwavering dedication. The words "We Stand with Ukraine" echoed the sentiments of solidarity, emphasizing that they stood alongside their Ukrainian neighbors in their quest for freedom and peace. The stark message of "Putin is a Monster" and "Putin is a Killer" showcased their discontent with the actions of certain individuals and their determination to separate the actions of a few from the collective will of the Russian people.

Emphasis on Peace and Opposition to War

"No War" and "Russians against the war" reverberated throughout the gathering, underscoring the firm belief that conflicts could be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than through violence and aggression. It was a powerful statement, highlighting their rejection of the path of destruction and their commitment to peaceful coexistence.

A Call for a Brighter Future

The rally served as a powerful reminder that communities could come together to make a difference, transcending national boundaries and cultural differences for a common cause. It was a testament to the resilience and compassion of the Russian community, a demonstration that they were not indifferent to the struggles of others, and a call for a brighter and more peaceful future.

Continued Efforts

As the rally drew to a close, the Russian community left Palisades Park with a renewed sense of purpose. The fluttering white doves, the striking paintings, and the impassioned voices were symbolic of their unwavering support for Ukraine and their commitment to standing up against injustice. They would continue their efforts, raising awareness, advocating for peace, and standing as a testament to the power of unity.