Santa Monica, May 13, 2024 - The community of Santa Monica came together this morning to bid farewell to one of its own, retired Officer Aurelio "Duke" Torrez, at a moving funeral service held at St. Monica Catholic Church. Officer Torrez, who dedicated 38 years of service to the Santa Monica Police Department, passed away on April 27 following a battle with cancer.

The solemn ceremony was marked by the presence of the mounted unit and honor guard, underscoring the high esteem in which Officer Torrez was held. Colleagues, friends, and family gathered to honor his legacy of service and commitment to public safety, remembering him not only as a devoted officer but as a community pillar.

The tribute saw officers in dress uniforms alongside their horses, paying respects with traditional salutes, a poignant reminder of Officer Torrez’s lifelong dedication to his duties and the city he served. His service to Santa Monica, characterized by his deep commitment and bravery, leaves a lasting legacy that continues to inspire those within and beyond the police force.

The DK3 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball Experience, powered by Fly Without Limits, unfolded on the iconic Venice Beach streetball courts on Saturday, May 11, 2024. The event, sponsored by the social impact foundation founded by Paralympic gold medalist Matt Scott, celebrated its inaugural tournament, attracting a vibrant crowd and top-tier para-athletes.

Commencing at 10 AM, the tournament showcased the skills of 60 men and women athletes, organized into 20 teams of three. This competitive gathering highlighted the talents of notable participants such as Brian Bell, Steve Serio, Jake Williams, and Ixelt Gonzalez, who are also slated to represent Team USA at the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris.

The athletes competed rigorously for a grand prize of $15,000, demonstrating exceptional prowess and sportsmanship. The DK3 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball Experience, now in its 21st year, continues to foster a talent pool for 3x3 wheelchair basketball and promote the sport at an internationally recognized venue. This event not only celebrated athletic excellence but also aimed to heighten awareness and empower individuals with physical disabilities, in alignment with Fly Without Limits' mission.

The Santa Monica Fire Department hosted its annual Fire Service Day at Fire Station 1 on Saturday, May 11, 2024. The event, held between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., offered an engaging open house for families and children, allowing attendees to explore fire engines, take tours of the station, and gain insights into the daily lives of the city's firefighters.

Fire Service Day offered educational sessions on fire and life safety, covering essential topics like fire prevention, home safety, and proper fire extinguisher usage. The American Red Cross collaborated with the department to provide hands-only CPR demonstrations and share crucial emergency preparedness information. In partnership with UCLA, the event also featured a "Stop the Bleed" education session.

Fire Station 1, located at 1337 7th St., is Santa Monica’s busiest station, with over 7,400 service calls in 2023. It houses the department’s largest equipment, including its ladder truck, which was prominently displayed during the event.

The celebration fostered a strong sense of connection between residents and their local firefighters. Community members gained a deeper appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of the fire department through interactive experiences and engaging activities. The Fire Service Day proved to be a resounding success, reinforcing the Santa Monica Fire Department's commitment to public safety and strengthening its relationship with the community.

On Saturday, May 4, 2024, the vibrant streets of Venice were energized by the annual Cinco de Mayo Parade, which drew crowds along Lincoln Blvd. Sponsored by the City of Los Angeles and organized by community leader Laura Ceballos, this year's event paid homage to Mexican-American culture, tracing its origins back to the 1960s civil rights and Chicano movements.

The parade kicked off at 10:00 AM at the intersection of California Ave and Lincoln Blvd, featuring a rich tapestry of cultural expressions. Participants included Aztec dancers, mariachi bands, Charro equestrians, and local groups such as the Venice High School band and Santa Monica College cheerleaders. Classic cars and vibrant floats added a festive flair to the procession, which proceeded north on Lincoln Blvd to Rose Ave, turning west to 7th Ave, and concluding at Oakwood Park.

The event transitioned into a street festival on 7th Ave, between California Ave. and Broadway Ave, where attendees enjoyed live music, DJ sets, and performances by local artists. The festival offered an array of activities from piñata breaking to face painting, alongside booths providing community information and authentic Mexican cuisine.

The Cinco de Mayo Parade is more than a festive occasion; it serves as a vital platform for the Mexican-American community to celebrate and share their heritage. It also promotes cultural understanding and unity within the broader community, reinforcing the City of Los Angeles' commitment to celebrating its diverse cultural landscape. As the parade festivities wound down, the spirit of unity and cultural pride lingered, leaving a lasting impact on all those who participated.

On Thursday, May 2, 2024, Santa Monica commemorated the 73rd annual National Day of Prayer with a solemn gathering at Tongva Park. Themed "Lift up the Word - Light up the World," based on the scripture 2 Samuel 22:29-31, the event brought together community leaders and citizens in a spirit of unity and reflection.

The ceremony commenced with an opening prayer by Pastor Peter Czer, warmly welcoming attendees and setting a reverent tone. The order of service was meticulously organized, ensuring that prayers addressed a broad spectrum of societal pillars:

• Family: Led by Pam Sommer, prayers focused on strengthening familial relationships and values.
• Church: Pastor Nunes from Pilgrim Lutheran highlighted the spiritual growth and community support fostered by churches.
• Business: Pastor Steve Snook of Metro Calvary Chapel Church offered prayers for integrity and prosperity in business endeavors.
• Youth: Rob Scribner III of Lighthouse Church dedicated his prayers to the challenges and aspirations of young people.
• Education: Hope Catalano prayed for enlightenment and support within educational institutions.
• Military: Captain Bryan Moselle, representing both the California National Guard and University Bible Church, prayed for the protection and ethical guidance of military personnel.
• Police and Firefighters: Detective Brian Spencer and Fire Marshal Joe Cavin, respectively, focused on safety and guidance for those in public safety roles.
• First Responders and LA County Lifeguards: Andrew Czer offered prayers for courage and protection for emergency responders.
• Legal and Law & Order: Paul Czer emphasized justice and integrity within the legal system.
• Health and Wellness: Dr. Robert Hamilton addressed the welfare and ethical responsibilities of health professionals.
• Arts, Entertainment, and Media: Reverend Eric Strickland prayed for positive influence and ethical standards in these impactful sectors.
• Government and National/Moral Awakening: Pastor Rob Scribner’s prayers called for unity, leadership ethics, and a spiritual awakening across the nation.

The event concluded with the communal singing of "God Bless America," echoing a shared hope for national well-being and unity. Among the notable attendees were Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista and Fire Marshal Joe Calin, demonstrating the community's solidarity.

The National Day of Prayer, an observance initiated in 1952 and tracing back to President George Washington, serves as an annual call for all Americans to engage in prayer and meditation, promoting peace and unity. This day reminds us of the profound impact of collective prayer and spiritual reflection in fostering national and community resilience.

In an exuberant display of wheels, smiles, and community spirit, thousands of cyclists of all ages took to Venice Boulevard on Sunday, April 21, 2024, for the 51st Los Angeles Open Streets Event, CicLAvia—Venice Blvd.

In a colorful stream, the throngs of participants pedaled the car-free stretch from Venice Beach to Culver City, exploring the neighborhoods in a unique, pavement-bound parade. CicLAvia, the non-profit organization that has championed these open street events since 2010, once again proved its dedication to creating dynamic public spaces.

The event, presented by Metro, transformed Venice Boulevard into a bustling corridor of activity where participants enjoyed the freedom of movement and community engagement. Families with children in tow, avid cyclists, and casual riders shared the road, along with those on roller skates and skateboards, all enjoying the street’s transformation into a temporary pop-up park.

The open streets concept not only encourages physical activity and sustainable transportation but also fosters a sense of community as it invites Angelenos to socialize, exercise, and enjoy the cityscape from a fresh perspective. As a nod to the environmental benefits, CicLAvia events help to highlight alternative modes of transport and the joy of a shared community experience devoid of motor vehicle traffic.

Attendees were also encouraged to use CicLAvia's digital map to discover local businesses, activities, and special hubs along the route, ensuring that the community's vibrancy was felt by all, from local entrepreneurs to first-time visitors.

CicLAvia has not only become a hallmark of Los Angeles' cultural calendar but also stands as North America's largest open streets event. Its success has been mirrored in cities across the United States—from Portland to New York to San Francisco—as well as internationally in Bogotá, Mexico City, Guadalajara, Quito, and Melbourne, promoting a global movement of open streets initiatives.

The event on April 21 is a testament to the enduring appeal of CicLAvia and its vision of streets as public parks, fostering healthier, more connected communities. As the streets returned to their usual rhythm with the close of the day, the memories of shared joy and community remained, pedaling forward the anticipation for the next CicLAvia event.

In a vibrant showcase of Americana on wheels, the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile graced the streets of Venice and Santa Monica today, adding a touch of whimsy to the Monday commute. Onlookers were treated to the sight of the 27-foot long hot dog-shaped vehicle, a roving emblem of the Oscar Mayer brand, which has been partaking in this unique form of vehicular travel across the United States since 1936.

The "Hotdoggers," as the drivers and brand ambassadors of the Wienermobile are known, have the enviable task of piloting the orange and yellow icon. Their duties encompass more than just navigation; they are responsible for the upkeep of the vehicle and the generation of social media content that promotes brand engagement. For those with a knack for communication and a taste for adventure, the Hotdogger role is a salaried position, offering $35,600 annually, with additional perks including a $150 weekly stipend for meals and personal travel, 18 days of paid time off, comprehensive health benefits, and full coverage of hotel accommodations.

The qualifications for those aspiring to become a Hotdogger are specific: a minimum age of 21, a valid driver's license, and a bachelor's degree, ideally with a background in public relations, communications, journalism, or marketing. Strong communicative abilities and proficiency in social media are also highly desirable. The chosen few who earn the title of Hotdogger commit to a year-long journey, crisscrossing the nation, participating in various events, and engaging with the public representing an iconic slice of American heritage.

With the first Wienermobile having debuted in 1936, the vehicle has undergone several redesigns over the decades, each iteration further cementing its status as a moving piece of pop culture. Today's sighting is a reminder of the playful spirit and enduring appeal of the Oscar Mayer brand. #keepitoscar

Members of the L.A. Hunnies, the renowned roller skate community, converged around the fountain at Santa Monica City Hall for their weekly meetup on Thursday evening, April 11, 2024.

Founded by Jen Yonda, the Skate Hunnies have evolved into the largest roller skate community in Los Angeles. Originating during the pandemic in 2020, the group aimed to provide a safe space for people to gather and move together amidst challenging times.

Inspired by her experience with LA Friday Night Skate but recognizing the need for more inclusivity and female representation, Jen set out to create a community where women could skate together and thrive. What began as small meetups quickly blossomed into a thriving community, with attendance skyrocketing to over 50 participants weekly.

Driven by their mission to empower, inspire, and connect individuals, the Skate Hunnies have crafted routes that traverse some of LA's most iconic neighborhoods, including Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, DTLA, and Culver City.

Beyond their love for skating, the group is committed to fostering a supportive community that promotes joy and shared experiences. Through free community rides, skate lessons, and pop-up events, they strive to contribute to safer streets and a healthier, more connected community.