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.

On a picturesque Sunday morning, droves of enthusiastic participants walked along the scenic Ocean Front Walk in Santa Monica to support the Alzheimer's Association's annual "Walk to End Alzheimer's" event. The vibrant gathering took place on October 22, 2023, at Santa Monica Beach, uniting community members in a heartfelt mission to raise funds for Alzheimer's care, awareness, and vital research efforts.

The Alzheimer's Association's Walk to End Alzheimer's event, which takes place in over 600 communities nationwide, has earned its reputation as the largest fundraiser dedicated to Alzheimer's care, support, and research on a global scale. People of all ages and abilities came together to contribute to the fight against this debilitating disease.

While participation in the walk itself is free, all attendees were encouraged to play an active role in securing critical funds. These funds, vital for the Alzheimer's Association, are used to provide round-the-clock care and support for individuals affected by Alzheimer's, as well as to advance research in pursuit of preventative measures, effective treatments, and, ultimately, a cure for this devastating illness.

The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's® is not merely a stroll; it's a powerful statement of unity and determination. Participants showed that they are closer than ever to halting the advance of Alzheimer's and that they need the support of their community to achieve this crucial goal. It's a united effort to secure a brighter and healthier future for families grappling with Alzheimer's today.

To get involved and make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer's, visit the official Alzheimer's Association website or your local chapter for more information on how you can support the cause. Together, we can bring hope and healing to countless lives impacted by this disease.

On a sunny Sunday, October 22, 2023, boarders, skaters, and cyclists united along the picturesque Santa Monica Bike path for the 16th Annual Skate the Coast event. Covering a scenic 19-mile stretch from the iconic Santa Monica Pier to the beloved Redondo Beach Pier, participants came together to raise vital awareness about breast cancer.

Organized by Boarding For Breast Cancer (B4BC), a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation with its origins dating back to 1996, Skate the Coast had a dual purpose: to promote early detection education and emphasize the significance of a healthy, active lifestyle in preventing breast cancer.

The dedicated mission of B4BC is to equip young individuals with knowledge about early breast cancer detection and advocate for a lifestyle that is both active and health-conscious as the best defense against this disease.

In addition to its educational outreach, B4BC stands as a pillar of support for those impacted by breast cancer. The organization's commitment to its mission is actualized through active participation in grassroots events tailored for the youth, with a focus on three core areas: Educational Outreach Experience, Prevention + Awareness Fundraising Events, and Survivorship.

Skate the Coast 2023 exemplified how sports and community involvement can be potent tools for social change. Participants and supporters came together for a day of exhilarating activity and a heartfelt mission: raising awareness and contributing to the fight against breast cancer.

#skatethecoast #breastcancerawareness #communitysupport

On Saturday, October 21, 2023, Santa Monica's Main Street was abuzz with furry fashion and camaraderie as dogs and their owners took the stage for the annual Howl-o-ween costume contest, stealing the spotlight in a delightful spectacle. This lively competition was one of the highlights of "Open Main Street."

At the heart of the festivities, the Howl-o-ween Pet Event transformed Main Street into a hub of pet-loving fun. The renowned costume contest and pet parade returned in grand style, providing pet owners with the perfect platform to showcase their beloved furry companions in the most creative Halloween attire.

Throughout the entire weekend, attendees and their pets enjoyed a photo booth, a cozy pet lounge, and a wide array of pet-friendly activities, creating unforgettable moments for everyone, whether on two legs or four.

"Open Main Street" had something for everyone, ensuring smiles all around. The festival turned Main Street into a Halloween wonderland with a wide range of engaging activities. From a live music showcase to a haunted beer garden for thrill-seekers and a kid's corner for the little ones, there was something for every taste.

But the crown jewel of the day was undeniably the Howl-o-ween pet costume contest. Pet owners showcased their beloved animals in the most adorable and imaginative Halloween outfits, vying for cash prizes and other exciting rewards.

Amidst the excitement, festival-goers relished a street-side movie screening, the return of the beloved Pump Station & Nurtury Kid Corner, a Santa Monica Pickleball Center Pop-Up, a gathering of VW Car Club enthusiasts, a challenging rock climbing wall, and the rhythmic tunes of live music.

"Open Main Street" delivered on its promise to create a vibrant hub of community engagement, artistic expression, and non-stop entertainment. This celebration exemplified the power of community-driven events to foster unity and create cherished memories.

"Open Main Street" is more than a festival; it's a celebration of Santa Monica's vibrant community spirit. With the anticipation of more weekends filled with diverse attractions, the event left an enduring mark, reminding everyone that this city is a place where unity, entertainment, and togetherness reign supreme. #OpenMainStreet #CommunityUnity #DogCostumes