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.

Today, Wednesday, November 1, 2023, the winter season in Santa Monica took an exciting turn with the opening of the much-anticipated Ice at Santa Monica. Under the warm November sun, locals and visitors laced up their skates to enjoy the unique experience of ice skating just a stone's throw away from the Pacific Ocean.

From November 1st to January 15th, the seasonal rink is offering a chance to skate in an idyllic setting, where the sea breeze mingles with the joy of the holidays. As day turns into dusk, skaters can revel in the golden glow of the sunset, which seamlessly transitions into an evening sparkle as the rink illuminates with twinkling lights and festive decor.

Ice at Santa Monica caters to everyone—from those taking their first cautious steps on the ice to seasoned skaters performing graceful sweeps and turns. It's more than just skating; it's about creating memories in a setting that could only be found in Southern California.

For those looking to join in the fun, a one-hour session on the ice is priced at $22.00, a small fee for the unforgettable experience of gliding across the ice with the ocean as your backdrop. Don't miss out on this quintessential winter activity with a coastal twist!

Santa Monica, October 28, 2023 - In a heartwarming display of culture and tradition, members of the indigenous community came together at the Santa Monica Pier to lead a Dia de Los Muertos procession. Spectators witnessed mesmerizing performances by Aztec dancers dressed in bright, eye-catching costumes, as they gracefully led the parade from the pier's west end to the iconic Merry Go-Round building.

In reverence to the cultural essence of Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, the Santa Monica Pier unveiled a two-day public art installation. This immersive event aimed to commemorate significant individuals, places, and concepts treasured by the Santa Monica community, offering a plethora of free, family-oriented activities.

The celebration kicked off at the scenic west end of the pier with a soulful indigenous blessing, marking the beginning of the Dia de los Muertos festivities.

Renowned local artist, Sylvia Sanchez, showcased her artistic prowess with meticulously crafted altars. Visitors were in awe of the dedication and passion poured into these altars, which stood as a beautiful reflection of Mexican tradition and the cherished memories of departed loved ones.

Inside the Merry Go-Round building, the Dia de Los Muertos Celebration provided a communal space for attendees. Visitors were warmly encouraged to add their personal tributes to the community altar and to marvel at the handcrafted altars by local artisans, including Sylvia Sanchez.

The event was not only a visual feast but also an educational experience. Attendees had the opportunity to delve into the rich history and traditions of Dia de Los Muertos. The lively ambience, coupled with the informative displays, made for an unforgettable experience.

Santa Monica Pier's tribute to Dia de Los Muertos was a testament to the city's ongoing efforts to foster diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness. This celebration was one of the numerous events across the city, each echoing Santa Monica's dedication to honoring diverse traditions and promoting unity.

On October 28, 2023, the Santa Monica Pier was painted in shades of pink and purple as participants took to its stretches in support of the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event. A symbol of unity and hope, this annual event aims to raise crucial funds benefiting breast cancer patients, survivors, thrivers, and caregivers at every phase of their battle against the disease.

The Making Strides movement is more than just a walk—it's a nationwide celebration of courage and a beacon of hope. It stands as a testament to the unity of communities coming together with a singular purpose: ending breast cancer.

Spanning across Palisades Park and looping back to the Santa Monica Pier Deck, the 5K walk is a heartfelt gathering of survivors, caregivers, and supporters standing shoulder to shoulder in the face of breast cancer.

It's a sobering fact that each year sees more than 250,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer. Yet, events like these offer hope, rallying communities in the quest for a world without this disease.

On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, officers from the Santa Monica Police Department's Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) team engaged with a homeless individual who was camping publicly at Santa Monica Beach near the Venice Beach Border. The officers, adhering to the local municipal codes, advised the individual to pack up their belongings and move. Complying with the officers' request, the individual promptly relocated to Venice Beach.

This area, often referred to as "No Man's Land" by local law enforcement, marks the border between Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach and is a frequent relocation spot during the weekly homeless encampment cleanups conducted by the Los Angeles Police Department in Venice. During these cleanups, many unhoused individuals move across to Santa Monica Beach to set up their encampments, only to be faced with different sets of regulations. Camping in this area is deemed an infraction on the Venice side and a misdemeanor on the Santa Monica side.

The individual's camping activity at Santa Monica Beach was a clear violation of Santa Monica Municipal Code 4.08.095, which strictly prohibits camping in public areas within the city limits, including beaches, streets, parks, educational institutions, and government-owned properties. The code is unambiguous in its terms, mandating that no person should camp in prohibited public areas within the city.

Understanding the sensitive nature of homelessness, the Santa Monica Police Department emphasizes the welfare of the homeless community. Through its nationally recognized Homeless Liaison Program (HLP), the department is committed to tackling homeless issues by fostering Relationship Building, Networking, Outreach, Education, and Enforcement. This comprehensive approach aims to provide the necessary support and services to homeless individuals, ensuring their well-being while adhering to the city's regulatory framework.