Santa Monica Beach Transformed by Captivating Drone Light Show

On Tuesday, June 27, 2023, Santa Monica Beach was transformed into a captivating spectacle as a fleet of three hundred drones illuminated the night sky. The mesmerizing drone light show was organized to commemorate the Fourth of July, leaving spectators in awe of the stunning visual display.

Pet-Friendly Silent Fireworks Show Hosted by Stella & Chewy's

In a unique twist, Stella & Chewy's, a renowned manufacturer of premium food for dogs and cats, hosted a Pet-Friendly Silent Fireworks Show to celebrate Independence Day alongside our furry companions. The event aimed to provide a festive experience without subjecting pets to the anxiety-inducing loud noises typically associated with traditional fireworks displays.

An Inclusive Celebration for Pets and Owners

Owners and their beloved pets gathered to witness the grandeur of the silent fireworks show, ensuring that all animals, regardless of their size or temperament, could partake in the holiday celebrations. The absence of loud explosions allowed for a serene atmosphere, enabling pet owners to fully enjoy the event with their four-legged family members.

Stella & Chewy's Commitment to Pet Well-being

Stella & Chewy's commitment to promoting the well-being of dogs and cats is evident through their dedication to crafting high-quality nutrition. Their premium food offerings are designed to help pets thrive, emphasizing the importance of optimal nourishment for furry companions.

Fostering a Deeper Bond Between Humans and Pets

This unique celebration served as a testament to the growing trend of inclusive festivities, acknowledging the significance of our pets in our lives and ensuring their inclusion in joyous occasions. The breathtaking drone light show and the Pet-Friendly Silent Fireworks Show left an indelible mark on the attendees, fostering a deeper bond between humans and their animal companions.

Celebrating the Integral Role of Pets

As the sun set on Santa Monica Beach, the dazzling display of lights and the shared moments of joy between pets and their owners created lasting memories, reinforcing the notion that our furry friends are an integral part of our lives worth celebrating.

Join the Celebration: #FourthOfJuly #PetFriendlyFireworks #SilentShow #StellaAndChewys #CelebratingWithPets

Pier 360 Beach Festival Sandcastle Competition

The highly anticipated Pier 360 Beach Festival Sandcastle Competition took center stage on Sunday, June 25, drawing sandcastle enthusiasts of all ages to engage in a day filled with boundless imagination, creative expression, and friendly competition.

Despite the morning's overcast skies, nature played its part in setting the stage for an unforgettable event. As the day progressed, the clouds gave way to a stunning sun-drenched afternoon, providing the perfect backdrop for participants to showcase their sand sculpting skills and construct awe-inspiring sandcastles that left onlookers mesmerized.

Nestled along the scenic shores of Santa Monica Beach, this inaugural competition acted as a unifying force, bringing together individuals who shared a deep passion for the art of sandcastle craftsmanship. While the competition was intense, the event also fostered a strong sense of community, as attendees celebrated the artistry, self-expression, and the inherent splendor of Santa Monica Bay.

In addition to the Sandcastle Competition, the Pier 360 Beach Festival offered an array of attractions that delighted the thousands of beach-loving guests in attendance. Adrenaline-filled ocean sports competitions left spectators in awe as swimmers, surfers, and paddleboarders showcased their extraordinary talents on the waves. Meanwhile, the vibrant atmosphere came alive with captivating live music performances that had everyone dancing and singing along.

The festival also catered to the taste buds of attendees, with an abundance of mouthwatering food options and refreshing drinks that kept everyone fueled and satisfied throughout the day. Interactive games and activities provided an opportunity for participants to test their skills and engage in friendly competition, while brand sampling booths allowed attendees to discover new favorites from their beloved brands.

The success of the Pier 360 Beach Festival was the result of the hard work and dedication of its organizers, the support of generous sponsors, and the enthusiastic participation of the attendees. This weekend celebration truly captured the essence of Southern California's vibrant beach culture, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of attending.

As the memories of this remarkable event linger, participants and guests are encouraged to share their amazing moments on social media using the hashtags #Pier360, #BeachLife, and #SoCalCulture. Let us cherish these cherished memories for a lifetime, and eagerly await the next installment of Pier 360 Beach Festival's unforgettable experiences.

Heartfelt Gathering at Palisades Park Marks Summer Solstice and Honors Tree-Loving Activist

Santa Monica, June 21, 2023 - Today, Palisades Park witnessed a poignant gathering of tree enthusiasts led by Jerry Rubin, as they came together to commemorate the Summer Solstice. The event, filled with heartfelt moments, showcased their profound connection with nature and marked the beginning of the summer season. The highlight of the gathering was the embrace of the "Children's Tree of Life," symbolizing the participants' deep reverence for trees and their vital role in our ecosystem. In a touching tribute, the attendees extended their affection to the neighboring "Tree of Gratitude," planted in memory of Marissa Rubin, a beloved tree lover who recently lost her battle with pancreatic cancer.

The event, which drew a diverse group of attendees, featured a range of engaging activities designed to celebrate and promote environmental awareness. Environmental speakers, musical performances, poetry readings, and, of course, the collective act of tree hugging were all part of the day's program. The focal point of the gathering was the magnificent New Zealand Christmas Tree, originally planted during a public peace rally on Earth Day in 1983. This iconic tree holds the distinction of being one of Santa Monica's earliest Heritage Trees and was officially recognized as a "living monument to world peace" by former Mayor Ken Edwards through a City Council proclamation in 1984.

Jerry Rubin, a prominent advocate for tree hugging, passionately called for global participation in this age-old practice on Earth Day. He emphasized the critical role that trees play in environmental preservation and climate change mitigation. Rubin's message resonated strongly with the attendees, which included esteemed figures such as former Santa Monica mayors Judy Abdo and James Conn. Inspired by Rubin's words, they pledged their support for nurturing, protecting, and increasing the planting of trees in their communities.

The "Tree of Gratitude," planted in memory of Marissa Rubin, stands as a sister tree to the Children's Tree of Life. It serves as a tribute to Marissa's profound impact as an artist, art therapist, environmental activist, and lover of trees. Marissa's unwavering love for Santa Monica and her belief in expressing gratitude amidst life's challenges made her a true friend of both Mother Nature and Mother Earth. Her legacy will forever inspire the Santa Monica community to cherish and safeguard the environment in her honor.

In a heartwarming display of community spirit and environmental activism, Jerry Rubin, a long-time Santa Monica resident, took the stage to share his story. Jerry, a dedicated peace and environmental activist originally from the East Coast, recounted the story of the tree planted four decades ago on Earth Day, affectionately named the "Children's Tree of Life" by his late wife, Marissa. He fondly remembered their shared commitment to peace and the environment, including their public peace rally wedding held in Santa Monica forty years ago. Jerry expressed the deep sorrow that still lingers within him and the community over Marissa's passing almost a year ago due to pancreatic cancer.

Undeterred by this loss, Jerry and a group called the "Tree Hugging Friends" have continued the tradition they started twelve years ago, hosting an annual tree hugging day. This special day of celebration, coinciding with the summer solstice, symbolizes the vital importance of trees for our environment and the future of our planet. Jerry emphasized the need for public involvement and urged people to proudly become official tree huggers, encouraging them to embrace the positive emotions it brings without any sense of embarrassment.

Jerry expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the city's Urban Forester and Urban Forest Task Force in caring for Santa Monica's trees. However, he also expressed concern about the devastating disease affecting some of the trees and highlighted the city staff's dedication to saving as many trees as possible and preventing the spread of the disease.

Former mayors Judy Abdo and James Conn took to the stage, sharing fond memories of Marissa and voicing their support for Jerry and his ongoing efforts. They stressed the significance of peace, environmental conservation, and the transformative power of community action.

Kathy Knight from the Sierra Club also addressed the audience, praising the importance of preserving nature and highlighting the ongoing fight to protect the Biona Wetlands. She recognized Jerry's substantial role in the campaign to save the Ficus trees in downtown Santa Monica and expressed gratitude for his unwavering dedication to trees and nature.

The event culminated with a heartfelt group tree hug around the Children's Tree of Life, followed by a collective walk to the Tree of Gratitude, planted in Marissa's honor. The community united, embracing the trees and one another, with hopes of spreading positive energy and love.

Jerry concluded the gathering by expressing his gratitude to Lawrence Cohen for his efforts in raising funds for pancreatic cancer research through the Hershberg Foundation. He urged everyone to remember the importance of supporting such causes.

This heartfelt gathering served as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of activism, love for nature, and the immense power of community in Santa Monica.

Santa Monica City Transportation Management Specialists Conduct Pedicab Inspection

On Wednesday, June 21, 2023, Santa Monica City Transportation Management Specialists conducted their annual inspection of pedicabs at Santa Monica Beach. This inspection is crucial in guaranteeing the safety and functionality of pedicabs used to transport tourists and locals in and around the Santa Monica area.

During the inspection, various aspects of the pedicabs were assessed, including brakes, lights, seatbelts, tires, and other components, to ensure compliance with all necessary safety and performance requirements.

This inspection is part of Santa Monica's ongoing commitment to promoting safe and sustainable transportation options, particularly alternative modes of transportation like pedicabs. By ensuring that pedicabs are safe and reliable, Santa Monica not only encourages environmentally friendly modes of transportation but also supports the local economy by providing tourists and locals with a unique and enjoyable way to explore the area.

For the permit year 2023-24, the City of Santa Monica will issue up to 30 decal permits to licensed pedicab operators in good standing, allowing them to operate non-electric pedicabs on the Beach Bike-Path.

Note: Motorized pedicabs are not permitted. Only non-motorized pedicabs are eligible for operation.

To maintain safety standards, every pedicab must have certain dedicated, properly working equipment. This includes seatbelts, headlights, taillights securely mounted on the rear exterior, turn signals visible from the front and rear, hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, spoke reflectors on each wheel, and tape-type reflectors showing the front and back width of the pedicab.

To operate on the Beach Bike-Path within the City of Santa Monica boundary, both the vehicle and operator must be selected through the Beach Bike-Path Lottery process.

The annual inspection is an integral part of Santa Monica's transportation planning efforts. By ensuring the safety and reliability of pedicabs and other alternative modes of transportation, the city is actively contributing to a more environmentally friendly and enjoyable community for both residents and visitors.

Santa Monica Animal Control and MMCC Sea Lion Rescue

In a prompt response, Santa Monica Animal Control Officers sprang into action on Tuesday morning, June 20, 2023, following a distress call regarding a sick sea lion spotted at Santa Monica Beach. Swiftly locating the ailing marine mammal, the officers evaluated the situation and promptly reached out to the Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) for assistance. Remaining on the scene until MMCC arrived, the vigilant officers ensured the safety of the animal, warding off any potential disturbances.

The rescue effort received additional support from the dedicated Los Angeles County Lifeguards, who collaborated with the Animal Control Officers to carefully transport the sea lion to the waiting MMCC vehicle. With the sea lion secured, the team swiftly conveyed the creature to the Marine Mammal Care Center, where it would receive the necessary care and attention it urgently required. Animal Control has recently noticed an increase in sick sea lions at the beach.

MMCC, a venerable nonprofit organization committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals, has been a stalwart haven for injured and sick marine mammals in Los Angeles County. Since its establishment in 1992, MMCC has accomplished remarkable feats, successfully saving and rehabilitating over 8,000 stranded creatures along the Southern California beaches, stretching across Seal Beach to Malibu. At the heart of MMCC's mission lies the unwavering dedication to restoring these animals to optimal health and subsequently releasing them back into their natural ocean habitats.

Focusing specifically on seals and sea lions, MMCC's specialized hospital has catered to the needs of these magnificent creatures found stranded along the 70+ miles of coastline from Malibu to Seal Beach. With a comprehensive approach encompassing the treatment of illness, injuries, and malnutrition, MMCC delivers unparalleled care to distressed marine mammals, tirelessly endeavoring to rehabilitate them and facilitate their triumphant return to the oceanic expanse they call home.

MMCC not only champions the cause of marine mammal rehabilitation but also fervently advocates for ocean conservation. Through robust educational initiatives, research collaborations, and strategic partnerships, the organization actively raises awareness regarding the significance of ocean stewardship, wildlife conservation, and sustainability. MMCC operates under the auspices of a permit granted by the National Marine Fisheries Service, empowering it to enforce the vital tenets of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972.

Renowned as the sole marine mammal rehabilitation facility operational year-round in Los Angeles County, MMCC stands as one of the nation's busiest centers of its kind, admitting an average of over 350 patients annually. Located in the proximity of San Pedro, near the bustling Port of Los Angeles, MMCC operates on property owned by the Los Angeles Unified School District, constituting a testament to the community's shared commitment to the welfare of marine life. The institution thrives thanks to its devoted staff and volunteers, who tirelessly care for an array of patients, including California Sea Lions, Northern Elephant Seals, Pacific Harbor Seals, Northern Fur Seals, and Guadalupe Fur Seals.

Beyond its integral role in treating stranded marine mammals in LA County, MMCC boasts a multifaceted educational program targeting students, educators, and the wider public. By delving into the realms of marine science and showcasing the incredible animals entrusted to their care, MMCC actively cultivates a deeper understanding of various environmental issues while underscoring the paramount importance of ocean conservation. The organization further collaborates with scientists from across the nation to conduct non-invasive research, making significant contributions to the collective understanding of marine ecosystems and wildlife.

The recent sea lion rescue at Santa Monica Beach serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role MMCC plays in safeguarding marine life and promoting a harmonious coexistence between humanity and the natural world. As MMCC continues to save lives, rehabilitate marine mammals, and educate the community, their enduring commitment to the welfare of our oceans remains steadfast.

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.