Santa Monica Mirror: Jul 21 - Jul 27, 2023

What’s the Story Behind Santa Monica’s Most Memed Homes?

Their Stark Contrast Have Led to Memes and Tweets Referencing the Upcoming Oppenheimer and Barbie Movies

By Zach Armstrong

A pair of adjacent Santa Monica homes alongside the Pacific Coast Highway have sparked widespread internet attention for their aesthetic analogy to the upcoming Oppenheimer and Barbie movies.

An all-black narrow home sits adjacent on the left side to one of identical height and length resembling a dollhouse with pink and purple features. Their stark contrast in color and aesthetic have led to many memes, tweets and social media posts comparing it to the excitement around the upcoming Oppenheimer and Barbie movies. Both being released on July 21, the Barbie movie appeals as a fun, playful feature based on the classic doll while Oppenheimer centers around the intense story of the man who invented the atomic bomb.

A Twitter user posted a photo of the homes with the caption “Oppenheimer and Barbie releasing on Jul 21, 2023” Another user posted a photo with the caption “Their entire lives have led up to the Oppenheimer/Barbie release.

The pair of homes was originally part of a trio referenced as the Sherbet Homes,

according to an Instagram post by @welcome. jpeg. The home on the far right has maintained its color scheme while the other two, painted in baby blue and seafoam-green and yellow, have since changed appearance. After the middle one was purchased in 2012, the new

owner installed its current look.

According to the post by the Instagram account, the current owners are aware of the memes and have no plans or intention of changing colors.

Councilmember Phil Brock Attacked on Third Street Promenade

The Man Doused Brock and His partner With a Sticky Liquid From a Bottle

Santa Monica Councilmember Phil Brock was assaulted on the 1300 block of Third Street Promenade after confronting a man tearing apart signs from a storefront. Around 2 p.m., Brock says he saw the man tearing signs off and asked if he

could place the material in the trash. After the man shouted profanities at Brock, the councilmember picked up the trash to throw away. Soon after, the man doused Brock and his Partner kathy with a sticky liquid from a bottle before throwing the bottle at them.

While kathy was on the phone with 9-11, they kept track of his direction to inform law enforcement. On the corner of Santa Monica Blvd and Third Street, the man attempted to steal Brock’s hat then began shoving Brock. While following the man to

retrieve the hat, the man fell in front of the Anthropology store where Brock said he held the man down while officers arrived.

Brock said the man was arrested on a felony of aggravated robbery. The man was also deemed mentally unfit to be on the streets by mental health professionals following the arrest. The DA will decide whether the man will be charged, Brock said.

“The problem of homelessness and mental health is huge, whether it’s drugs or mental breakdowns, and that’s been a factor

for all residents and residents are of course weary,” said Brock. “We’ve hired 45 new replacement police officers in the last two years, so we are doing better.”

Despite the incident, Brock says it was a lovely afternoon spent with his wife and that Promenade still looked fantastic with shoppers. After the incident, he and kathy enjoyed dinner at California Pizza Kitchen and saw a movie.

“Yes, it was a terrible incident. But I’m resilient,” said Brock. “We’re not going to let that defeat us.”

New Barnes and Noble Store Coming to Santa Monica

The current closest B&N Store is in Marina del Rey

By Zach Armstrong

Barnes and Noble is returning to Santa Monica at Third Street Promenade, according to a Facebook post by Downtown Santa Monica.

“This is the former site of Midnight Special Bookstore, an iconic Westside bookstore that closed in 2004, and hosted authors including bell hooks, Octavia Butler, Edward Said, Dave Eggers and more.” the organization said in its post.

The news comes five years after the nationwide bookselling company closed its Santa Monica location at 1201 3rd Street. The

30,000 square foot space was replaced by a co-working space called work well win, Patch reported in 2018. According to its website, the closest bookstore location to Santa Monica is currently in Marina del Rey at 13400 Maxella Ave.

SMPD Seeks to Use Ammunition

Causing Less Unintended Damage

SMPD Uses Rounds That Poss Risks of Overpenetration

By Zach Armstrong

The City Council will take up a measure at its Tuesday meeting to convert caliber rounds of patrol rifles used by the Santa Monica Police Department, a move that the staff report says will mitigate unintended and excessive damage that can be caused by its current weapons.

SMPD currently uses the 5.56 NATO round and has since 1996. However, its caliber poses a risk of overpenetration, when a bullet goes through its initial target and then continues flying as a stray projectile, said the staff report. This creates challenges to law agencies in urban areas such as Santa Monica.

The measure, which will be presented at council’s July 18 meeting, would switch use of SMPD’s 5.56 NATO rounds to .300 AAC rounds which staff said would not over penetrate or travel as far. The Los Angeles Police Department SWAT, Scottsdale Police Department, Monterey County Sheriff’s Office and Seattle Police Department are

switching or already switched to .300 AAC chambered rifles, according to the report.

According to the staff report, the .300 AAC rounds traveled shorter distances, had less velocity, displayed less penetration and mitigated the problem of overpenetration when undergoing tests at the Department’s indoor range and commercial outdoor shooting range. The report also said .300 AAC rounds cost 44% less than 5.56 NATO rounds. The department averages an order of at least 20,000 duty rifle rounds every two years.

Bob’s Market in Santa Monica Dispels Closure Rumors Amid Social Media Buzz

Bob’s Market Remains Committed to Serving Santa Monica

The vibrant community of Santa Monica recently experienced a wave of uncertainty when rumors began circulating on social media platforms about the future of Bob’s Market, the cherished neighborhood grocery store in Ocean Park. However, the dedicated owner, Bob, has promptly addressed the speculations and clarified that there are no plans to close the market or sell its land. As a staple of the local landscape, Bob’s Market remains committed to serving Santa Monica with its finest products, meats, and wines for the foreseeable future.

The rumors on social media had sparked concerns among residents who hold Bob’s Market dear to their hearts. The store has become more than just a place to shop; it represents a meeting point for neighbors,

where warm connections are forged, and a true sense of belonging is fostered. For many, the thought of losing this community cornerstone was unsettling.

The resounding relief from the community demonstrates the profound

impact that local businesses like Bob’s Market have on the spirit of Santa Monica.

As urban landscapes evolve and change, maintaining these treasured establishments becomes increasingly important to preserve the neighborhood’s unique character and

strengthen the bonds among its residents

If you haven’t visited Bob’s Market yet, don’t miss out on this hidden treasure in the community located at 1650 Ocean Park Blvd.

City Tests AI to Issue Parking Tickets Reality Show Production Halted at Santa Monica Hotel

It Involved the Installation of Two Specialized Cameras on a Bus Windshield

New AI camera technology enables buses to instantly issue tickets. Santa Monica recently conducted a test of this technology on their Big Blue Bus Line, KTLA5 recently reported. With a total of 7.7 million trips provided last year, some trips experienced delays due to vehicles unlawfully parked or stopped in dedicated bus lanes. The implementation

involved the installation of two specialized cameras on the bus’s windshield, which captured real-time footage of the events occurring in the bus lane. This visual data was then transmitted to a computer box located on the bus, which utilized artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze the images, identify vehicles that were in violation of the regulations, and generate comprehensive reports, the local outlet reported.

While Santa Monica has yet to make a final decision on whether to adopt this technology, its successful implementation sets the stage for a broader trend in which AI will autonomously generate tickets for rule-breaking individuals in the future.

Filming Scenes Were Set For Season 11 at the Prestigious FourStar Hotel

Last week, the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica experienced a strike initiated by its employees, who were advocating for improved wages. On Thursday, it was announced by SAG-AFTRA actors that they would be joining the writers on the picket

lines, Fox11 reported.

The local outlet reported the production of “Vanderpump Rules” contemplated filming scenes for Season 11 at the prestigious fourstar hotel. However, upon learning about the scheduled strike earlier this week, the production promptly decided to abandon those plans.

Katie Maloney and Ariana Madix were reportedly slated to film an event to promote their “Something About Her” sandwich shop. Fans of the reality show had been informed about the event through social media channels, but it was ultimately canceled.

Classic Steakhouse That Housed Judy Garland and Dick Van Dyke Reopens

The Space Has Been Restored With Vintage Photographs

By Zach Armstrong

After the reopening of the Georgian Hotel, the iconic Italian steakhouse The Georgian Room quietly reopened at the end of last month, LA Eater reported.

First opened in 1933, the restaurant welcomed guests including Judy Garland, “Bugsy” Siegel and Dick Van Dyke. The space has been restored with vintage photographs which mostly line the supper club’s walls. It is reservation-only with only 65 available seats. Photography or phone usage is discouraged so diners can enjoy live jazz performances, the outlet reported.

Bar manager Jerom Morris serves craft cocktails while classic Italian dishes come

from chef David Almany. LA Eater reported that the menu includes veal Parmesan, rigatoni alla vodka, and a 48-ounce dry-aged

ribeye. The steakhouse is open Thursday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. It is located at 1415 Ocean Ave. To make

reservations or for more information, call (424) 722-6846 or email tgr@thegeorgian. com.

Anuj Gupta Appointed Interim Director of the Department of Transportation

Deputy City Manager Takes the Helm to Lead City’s Transportation Initiatives

By Dolores Quintana

City Manager David White has announced that Deputy City Manager Anuj Gupta will assume the role of interim director of the Santa Monica Department of Transportation (SaMo DOT) starting August 10, 2023. This transition follows the impending retirement of current DOT Director Ed King, scheduled for August 9, 2023. As interim director, Gupta will oversee a team of 472 employees and manage a budget of $110 million.

White expressed confidence in Gupta’s ability to excel in this role, citing his demonstrated leadership within the organization. “Anuj’s exceptional experience

in policy and legislative affairs, including his successful advocacy for transportation and mobility-related legislation and funding, will be a valuable asset to the department as the City continues its innovative work in transportation and mobility,” said White.

With 15 years of experience as a public servant at both the local and federal levels, Gupta has served as the City’s deputy city manager for the past six years. In this capacity, he has led the City’s legislative and intergovernmental advocacy and partnerships work while overseeing the City’s communications team. Gupta has been instrumental in engaging and informing the community during recent challenges and crises. He has spearheaded complex interdepartmental policy projects, including the development of the City’s pioneering framework for shared mobility.

Additionally, Gupta has played a crucial leadership role in the City’s economic recovery, homelessness, and business engagement initiatives. Prior to joining the City, he worked for the Mayor of Los Angeles, the U.S. Department of Justice, and President Obama’s White House.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the DOT during this transitional period, Gupta said, “Our extraordinary professionals are committed to planning, maintaining, and operating an accessible, safe, integrated transportation network that advances a more sustainable and equitable future. I am thrilled to join the team and contribute to their mission.”

With his family, Gupta, who resides in Santa Monica, embraces a personal passion for transportation. He enjoys exploring the city with his young children on the Big Blue Bus and making use of the renowned network of bike lanes. In the coming months, a nationwide recruitment process will commence to identify a permanent director for the Department of Transportation.

The Impact of Private Companies on Our City Streets: A Call

SMa.r.t.

Deputy City Manager Takes the Helm to Lead City’s Transportation Initiatives

As someone who’s always out and about, whether walking, biking, or driving, this writer has noticed a worrying trend that affects how we use our public spaces. Private companies are taking up more and more of our streets and sidewalks, seemingly only caring about their own interests and not considering the people who actually use these spaces. This puts pedestrians, drivers, and bicyclists at risk, leading to some dangerous situations. These companies are often pushing the limits of what’s legal and safe.

What’s particularly disheartening is the lack of action from our city authorities. They seem to disregard these activities, making them more common over time. As a result, our streets have become less safe, and we no longer feel as secure when moving around our city.

Before things worsen, our city needs to acknowledge the problem and take decisive action. We have to identify the specific issues caused by private companies using our public spaces and establish policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents.

One primary concern is the reckless way in which some of these companies use our sidewalks and streets. For example, those electric rental scooters are often scattered all over the sidewalks, making it difficult for pedestrians to move around and even posing tripping hazards. And let’s remember the remote-controlled motorized food-delivery vehicles that too often ignore traffic rules both on the sidewalks and the streets, putting pedestrians and drivers in danger.

The introduction of self-driving vehicles brings a whole new set of challenges. We must consider who is liable if something goes wrong and how to ensure that any data gathered is secure and ethical dilemmas are properly handled. We can’t just brush these issues aside; we must carefully consider them and take proactive measures to ensure the responsible integration of self-driving vehicles on our city streets.

To tackle these challenges, our city needs to take immediate steps. We should push for clear and comprehensive rules that clearly define what private companies can and cannot do when using public spaces. These regulations should cover different types of vehicles and specify speed limits, designated parking zones, and operating areas.

Implementing a permitting system would also help us have better oversight and control over the number of companies operating on our streets. We should have a thorough application review process, compliance checks, and safety standards to make sure that only responsible and accountable companies receive permits.

It’s particularly crucial for the city to actively enforce the regulations that are already in place. Strengthening enforcement will send a clear message to private companies that they must follow the rules. Without consistent enforcement, these regulations are just words on paper and won’t effectively ensure the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers.

The city needs to show its commitment to maintaining the safety and order of our streets and make it clear that noncompliance won’t be tolerated. This proactive approach will create a safer environment and establish a culture of accountability, where private companies are held responsible for their actions, and our streets regain the sense of security and organization we deserve.

In addition to regulations and permits, we should enforce those rules that require private companies to share data. Analyzing anonymized data can provide valuable insights for urban planning and infrastructure development. By studying this data, we can identify areas with high demand and potential safety concerns, enabling us to take proactive measures to address these issues. But of course, we

need that data in the first place.

Public awareness campaigns are also crucial. We need to educate pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers on how to safely interact with these new mobility solutions. We should promote responsible and considerate behavior among users, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the proper use of our public spaces.

As someone who relies on walking, biking, and driving around town, I urge our city to address the safety concerns caused by private companies using our public spaces. Let’s make sure that the city establishes and enforces policies that prioritize the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, and, yes, even drivers while still allowing room for innovation and progress. Our city streets should be places where we can all move around safely and confidently, fostering a sense of community and enjoyment for everyone. The city must take the necessary steps to preserve the integrity of our public spaces and ensure that our streets remain safe and accessible for all.

Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow: Thane Roberts, Architect. Robert H. Taylor AIA. Dan Jansenson, Architect & Building and FireLife Safety Commission, Samuel Tolkin, Architect & Planning Commissioner. Mario Fonda-Bonardi, AIA & Planning Commissioner. Michael Jolly, AIR-CRE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

By Daniel Jansenson,

Architect, Building and Fire-Life Safety Commission.

FILE NUMBER: 2023147284 ORIGINAL FILING This statement was filed with the County Clerk of LOS ANGELES ON 07/06/2023. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as 1. Elizabeth Idlehart. The full name of registrant(s) is/are: Elizabeth Moser, 13970 Pana Way, Ste. 210., Los Angeles, Ca. 90292. This business is conducted by An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 07/1/2023. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime). Signed Elizabeth Moser. This Statement was filed with the County Clerk of LOS ANGELES County on July 07, 2023. NOTICE: IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE). SANTA MONICA MIRROR to publish 07/07/23, 07/14/23, 07/21/23 and 07/28/2023

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case No. 23SMCP00350

Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles 1725 Main St. | Santa Monica, CA 90401

Petition of: Jennifer Bowie McCarthy , by and through Jennifer Bowie McCarthy for change of name. ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

To all interested persons: Isabelle Patricia McCarthy

Petitioner: filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Isabelle Patricia McCarthy to Cameron James Reese McCarthy

AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT

PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE). SANTA MONICA MIRROR to publish 06/23/23, 06/30/23, 07/07/23 and 07/14/2023

The court orders that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING:

Date: 08/25/23 | Time: 8:30AM | Dept: K A copy of this ORDER to SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: SANTA MONICA MIRROR | Dated: July 6, 2023 Judge Lawrence Cho

Published: 07/07/2023, 07/14/23, 07/21/2023, and 07/28/2023

Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow