Santa Monica Mirror: Sep 08 - Sep 14, 2023

Homeless Man Shoots Himself Near Palisades Park, Possibly Connected to Prior Gunshot Reports

The Two Incidents Occurred Within Two Days

By Zach Armstrong

A homeless victim/suspect who witnesses say shot himself at Palisades Park was possibly the same who fired a handgun on Ocean Ave the previous day, SMPD says.

On Sunday, Aug. 27, a subject described as a Black male wearing a gray hoodie fired into the air in the 1700 block of Ocean on the west sidewalk. The suspect then left southbound before officers’ arrived. SMPD officers responded the next day to additional shots near the 1500 block of Palisades Park, where there were reports of a male shooting himself in the face. A victim, matching the clothing and description of the Ocean Ave., was found at the bottom of the Broadway stairs.

A preliminary investigation showed the victim lists an address in Los Angeles, but is also experiencing homelessness.

Arrest Made in Santa Monica Intruder Case:

Cordell Dionte Studley Apprehended

Police Apprehend Suspect Quickly After Attempted Assault and Burglary Incident

By Dolores Quintana

The Santa Monica Police Department reported the arrest of Cordell Dionte Studley, a 29-year-old male with black hair and brown eyes, standing at 5 feet 10 inches tall and of medium build. A public alert was sent out on social media on the morning of September 4 around 10:29 a.m. and the suspect was apprehended by about 11:30 a.m. that morning.

Cordell Dionte Studley was wanted for breaking into a woman’s apartment on September 2 at approximately 1:00 a.m. The Santa Monica Police Dispatch received an emergency call from a resident residing in the 1500 block of 15th Street. The caller reported a

disturbing incident in which she awoke to find a nude male intruder standing beside her bed. Following a brief struggle, the victim managed to open the front door of her apartment, forcing the assailant out.

The Santa Monica Police Department responded to the incident and deployed its Forensics Unit and Detectives to the scene. Through diligent investigative efforts, the suspect was identified as Cordell Dionte Studley, who had been observed at the apartment complex on the preceding day.

Cordell Dionte Studley has been

apprehended and is being held on the following charges:

• 220(b) PC - Assault with Intent to Commit

Rape

• 459 PC - Residential Burglary

• 236 PC - False Imprisonment

The Santa Monica Police Department is urging anyone with information concerning Studley’s whereabouts to contact Detective Brian Spencer at 310-458-8420, Sgt. Chad Goodwin at 310-458-8931, or reach out to the Watch Commander (available 24 hours) at 310-458-8427.

Photo Cred. Rich Schmitt

New CDC Director Calls for Updated Vaccinations Amidst Hospitalization Surge

Dolores Quintana

BA.2.86 Variant on the Horizon, New Booster May Be Available Next Week By

In a recent call with reporters, the newly sworn-in Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Mandy Cohen, has called upon Americans to get the updated COVID-19 vaccination when the new one becomes publicly available. This appeal comes in light of a concerning rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations.

Cohen endeavored to provide context to the surge, highlighting that the current COVID-19 hospitalization rate is approximately half of what it was at the same time last year. According to CDC data, COVID-19 hospitalizations have been steadily climbing over the past few weeks, reaching 15,067 cases for the week ending on August 19th, marking an 18.8 percent increase from the previous week.

Comparatively, at this point last year, the United States was grappling with an average of over 84,000 weekly hospitalizations.

Remarkably, more than 96 percent of U.S. counties are currently witnessing low COVID-19 hospitalization figures, with fewer than 10 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 individuals. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that the CDC’s ability to track COVID-19 cases has been hampered due to diminished data tracking capabilities resulting from the conclusion of the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Anticipated to be available in the second week of September, the latest updated COVID-19 vaccines are designed to combat the current predominant strain of the virus. Cohen has suggested that the next booster shot is likely to become an annual regimen.

Despite the impending availability of this new vaccine in time for the fall and winter respiratory virus season, the likelihood that Americans will take the new booster seems less likely. Last year, only 17 percent of eligible Americans received their free COVID-19 booster shots, according to CDC statistics.

Epidemiologists are closely monitoring a newly identified, highly mutated lineage of the virus, referred to as BA.2.86, which the World Health Organization has recently designated as a “variant under monitoring.” This variant boasts a greater number of mutations compared to previous omicron subvariants and may possess an increased ability to evade existing immunity.

How High Are Santa Monica Residents Monthly Bills Compared to the Rest of the U.S.?

A Report Shows How Much Local Residents’ Household Income Is Sacrificed

By Zach Armstrong

Living in one of the more prominent U.S. cities, it’s no surprise that Santa Monica residents pay more on expenses than an average U.S. citizen. A new report shows just how much local residents pay on monthly bills and how much of their household income is sacrificed compared with those in other U.S. residents.

In a recent report by Doxo Insights, which compared the percentage spent of household income on bills by residents in all 50 states, Californians spend an average of 40% of their income on household bills with those in

Santa Monica paying the same average. That’s compared with the U.S. average of 35%.

The report showed Santa Monica bills are $15,705 higher per year than the U.S. average, with the average Santa Monica home paying $3,355 per month on bills. This makes Santa Monica the 116th most expensive city in California and its households 64% more expensive than the U.S. average.

The average mortgage bill for a Santa Monica resident is $3,637, while the average rent is $2,055, average auto loan is $322, average monthly utilities is $373, average monthly auto insurance is $208 and average monthly health insurance being $151.

These results aren’t news for locals of the L.A.-area charter city. Santa Monica was recently listed as the third least affordable city in the U.S. by WalletHub’s “2023’s Most Affordable Cities for Home Buyers”. Metrics in WalletHub’s report included housing affordability, maintenance affordability, cost of Homeowner’s Insurance, cost of living, real

estate tax, rent-to-price ratio and vacancy rate.

In Doxo Insights recent report, California cities paying the highest in average household bills are San Roman, Danville, Ladera Ranch, Mill Valley and Hermosa Beach. States shown to have a higher ratio of household income-to-bills are Louisiana (44%), Hawaii

(43%), Florida (42%) and Mississippi (41%) while being tied with Alabama, Idaho, South Carolina, Nevada, New Mexico and Montana. Doxo Insights’ methodology for these results included using a proprietary dataset that based on bill payments in 97% of zip codes and 45 bill pay service categories.

HIGH HOLIDAYS 5784

Special Space.

Meet the New Principal of Roosevelt Elementary

She Joins SMMUSD With a Background Spanning Over 14 Years in Education

Dr. Amy Onyendu joins the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District as the new Roosevelt Elementary Principal with a background spanning over 14 years in education, with her most recent role was as the Director of Admissions and Attendance, as well as Assistant Principal at Palisades Charter High School.

Before her tenure at Pali, Dr. Onyendu held diverse positions within schools in Mesquite, Texas. Her previous roles encompassed serving as a middle school Honors English Language Arts teacher, At-Risk Student Success Coordinator for a high school, and Assistant Principal / Academic Dean for a middle school.

In addition to her school-based roles, Dr. Onyendu served as a Lecturer at Western State Colorado University’s College of Education. In this capacity, she prepared and delivered lectures and course materials to both undergraduate and graduate students, providing valuable training and guidance to aspiring educators.

Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity, Dr. Onyendu shared, “I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve both the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District and the Roosevelt Elementary community. I eagerly anticipate immersing myself in the local culture and collaborating with staff, parents, guardians, and the community to cultivate an educational landscape that nurtures our students’ talents, celebrates their boundless creativity, values their voices, and promotes their growth—all while instilling the profound impact of education.”

Dr. Onyendu assumes the role of principal at Roosevelt Elementary, succeeding Ms. Lynda Holeva, who retired after a dedicated seven-year tenure in the position.

Unbuilt Townhome on Market for $2.7M

Ocean Views Will Be Seen From the Rooftop Deck

By Zach Armstrong

Sellers are in the final process of obtaining approval from the City of Santa Monica to build six luxury attached townhouses totaling $2.7 million, according to a listing from Zillow.

Located at 1518 11th St., the 7,501

square foot is 11 blocks from the beach. Once completed, ocean views will be seen from the rooftop deck of every townhouse. The project can be delivered RTI or sold as is, said the listing.

The project is listed by Mohammad Sadoughi of Ashby & Graff. The property’s legal owner is 1518 Eleventh St. Condominium LLC, according to The Real Deal. The entity’s registered agent is Ali Sadoughi, who is potentially Mohammad’s father.

For more information on the property, go to https://www.zillow.com/ homedetails/1518-11th-St-Santa-MonicaCA-90401/20479795_zpid/.

Kehillat Israel Plans Guest Speakers, Food Drive for Upcoming High Holy Days

By Susan Payne

Kehillat Israel, a Reconstructionist Congregation in the Pacific Palisades, is inviting Jewish families in Los Angeles to celebrate the upcoming High Holy days.

A natural extension of the congregation’s permanent location in the Pacific Palisades, KI invites unaffiliated Jewish families from the west side to join the celebrations of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, the day of atonement, in Santa Monica.

This year, KI is hosting David Kaczynski, the younger brother of the late domestic terrorist also known as The Unabomber, and Gary Wright, one of the survivors of the Unabomber’s terrorism as guest speakers for High Holy Days.

“Every year we invite an innovative and information speaker for the High Holy Days. The two will share how they became unlikely friends,” said Senior Rabbi Amy Bernstein.

During High Holy Days, KI also hosts a food drive, collecting enough food to fill an

entire warehouse of the Westside Food Bank.

“We hold services for all demographics and pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming to all,” Bernstein said.

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are two of the holiest days of the year in Jewish culture, celebrated at KI’s Pacific Palisades location and the Barnum Hall at the Santa Monica High School, the latter of which is open to ticketed non-congregants.

Service details include the following at Santa Monica High School’s Barnum Hall, 600 Olympic Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405:

• Erev Rosh Hashanah, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

• Rosh Hashanah, Sept. 16, 10 a.m.

• Erev Yom Kippur, Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m.

• Yom Kippur, Sept. 25, 10 a.m. service, 4 p.m. Mincha, 4:30 p.m. guest speaker, 5 p.m. Yizkor and 5:30 Ne’ilah

For these holidays, it’s important for Jewish people to gather and convene, even if they don’t regularly attend services throughout the year.

“Jews often feel the desire to be with other Jews for these important holidays. Jews who don’t regularly attend services observe the High Holy Days because they focus on how

we can name what we want to change about who we were in the past year and how we want to do things differently in the year that is beginning,” Bernstein said.

On Sept. 9 at 8 p.m., families are invited to celebrate Selichot and join the clergy under the stars at the Kehillat Israel Courtyard for a night of introspection and care for the soul ahead of Holy Days.

High Holy Days on the Hill, celebrating Erev Rosh Hashanah and Kol Nidre, will take place on Sept. 15 and Sept. 24 at Founder’s Meadow at St. Matthew’s, 1031 Bienveneda Ave, Pacific Palisades, at 5 p.m. Guests are invited to bring their own picnic for a familyfriendly service. Additionally, families are invited to celebrate Tashlich, on Sept. 16 at 5 p.m., at Will Rogers State Beach, for a bringyour-own picnic dinner.

While much is planned in celebrating the High Holy Days, KI is looking forward to welcoming anyone who wants to be part of a warm and dynamic spiritual Jewish community.

For more information on the food drives, ticketing, guest speakers or services visit https://www.ourki.org/hhd.

Dr. Antonio Shelton’s Welcome Back to School for the Santa Monica-Malibu School District

Shelton Sets Goals and Puts The Development of SMMUSD As Top Priority

Doctor Antonio Shelton welcomed children back to school with this heartfelt message touching upon many topics central to going back to school in Fall of 2023. He stated via press release, “More than 1,000 staff members joined together on August 21 for professional development and personal growth opportunities at our annual convocation. All staff, whether an administrator, teacher or classified employee, understands their value and importance to our school community and system. Everyone has a place and importance in the system and brings their own story to the bigger picture. Every story has value. The SMMUSD family is excited to educate,

support, and mentor our students toward greatness, both academically and socially and emotionally, and help them appreciate and honor their story to empower them. Educators will entwine this approach in their day-to-day programs, and families will see this throughout the system in other departments, including special education, visual and performing arts, athletics and other curricular and extracurricular programs.

This practice informs our SMMUSD goals well:

1. All graduates are socially just and ready for college and careers

2. English Learners will become proficient in English while engaging in a rigorous, culturally and linguistically responsive standards-aligned core curriculum

3. All students and families engage Dr. Antonio, see page 13

Dr. Antonio, from page 12

in safe, well-maintained schools that are culturally responsive and conducive to 21stcentury learning

Parents are part of this broad community effort and will learn about our plans and goals through back-to-school nights and PTA meetings. We strongly encourage parents, teachers and staff to join PTSA at your school site. We are fortunate to have an engaged and supportive parent network at every site, along with our SMMPTA Council. Find your PTSA / PTA webpage on your school website, or visit: www.smmpta. org

School safety

The health and safety of our students and staff are our top priorities. Let’s all work together to create a safe and secure environment for everyone. If you see or hear something of concern, please say something. Students should report concerns to any adult on campus. In an emergency, call 911. Any threats of crime, vandalism, harm, threats, drugs, may be reported anonymously: 1-800-78-CRIME or online at www.wetip. com.

Facility readiness

Our facilities teams worked all summer preparing classrooms, offices, and other indoor and outdoor spaces for the return of students and staff. Our campuses look fantastic inside and out and I appreciate all the effort that went into cleaning and

preparation.

Indoor Air Quality

Over the past five years, SMMUSD has installed new heating, air conditioning and ventilation (HVAC) systems in the majority of our indoor spaces that did not previously have air conditioning. The equipment ordered and purchased prior to the pandemic predominantly uses quality MERV 8-11 filters that are changed twice a year as recommended by the manufacturer. The ventilation system fan should be on when the spaces are occupied. Teachers have control of the thermostats in their classrooms to ensure comfortable temperatures regardless of the weather outside. For the heating and air conditioning to work most efficiently, windows and doors must be closed. Our room ventilation is excellent with hourly air exchange that exceeds the minimum standard. We are confident in the air quality in our indoor spaces. Going forward, new code requires the higher MERV 13 filters, which will work properly without taxing systems as was previously experienced, that we will install with any new or renovated classrooms where HVAC will be installed or replaced.

Hand washing / sanitizing

We continue to encourage frequent hand washing or sanitizing to help prevent the spread of illness. We have additional hand washing stations set up on every campus, in addition to sinks and supplies in restrooms.

Stay home if sick

The greatest deterrent to the spread of any

illness is for students and staff to stay home when sick. Individuals should stay home if they have symptoms of illness and take a COVID test. Fever, vomiting, and diarrhea must be resolved for at least 24 hours before returning to school. While Covid-19 is less risky for most individuals than in the early stages of the pandemic, reducing transmission remains an essential strategy to minimize disruption at schools. There has been an uptick in Covid-19 cases in our area. We continue to offer free Covid-19 test kits at our schools / offices. Students or staff who test positive for Covid-19 are required to isolate for five days minimum. A person may return to school on day 6 through 10 if symptoms have resolved/ improved and are fever free for at least 24 hours without fever reducing medication. It is strongly recommended that you get a negative test before returning. If you are still testing positive Day 6-10, you should continue to isolate until you test negative or through Day 10, whatever comes first. Our guiding agency, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, states that no masks are required upon return on days 6-10, if a person has two days of negative tests. Otherwise, masks are strongly recommended. Here is the guidance we are following from LACDPH: English / Spanish. Our nursing team and administrators will be using this chart for guidance. We can prevent the spread of many illnesses when everyone does their part and stays home when sick. The best defense against Covid is to

be up-to-date on Covid vaccines. For information about where to get vaccinated visit the LA County Public Health How to Get Vaccinated webpage.

Stay connected = stay informed

Visit the district website (www.smmusd. org) and school websites for important information and what’s happening throughout the year. Stay opted in on Blackboard Connect messages from your school and district. This is a main communication connection to your school and what is happening. Please “like” us on Facebook and Malibu Schools Pathway; “follow us” on X (Twitter) @smmusd and @MalibuPathway, and Instagram: smmusd_ official, and download our mobile app from your app store listed as Santa MonicaMalibu USD. I also have a X (Twitter) you may follow: @Dr_AShelton.

Together, let’s make 2023-24 a great school year!

Parents, guardians, staff, students, community members, I look forward to all of us working together to establish a sense of belonging for our entire SMMUSD family, instill a sense of curiosity and wonder in our children and empower each and every student to come to school as their best version of themselves, ready to learn, grow and develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful now and in their futures.”

Author Mike Rothschild To Sign Copies of His New Book at DIESEL, A Bookstore

Rothschild Will Discuss The Book With Anna Merlan in Brentwood

By Dolores Quintana

Join us on Tuesday, September 19th, at 6:30 pm for an engaging evening with author Mike Rothschild as he unveils his latest work, “Jewish Space Lasers: The Rothschilds and 200 Years of Conspiracy Theories.” This captivating discussion and book signing event will take place in the charming courtyard at DIESEL, A Bookstore in Brentwood.

Mike Rothschild will be joined in conversation by Anna Merlan, adding depth and insight to the exploration of his compelling narrative.

The event is open to the public and completely free to attend; however, seating in the courtyard is limited. To secure your spot, we kindly request that you reserve a seat by purchasing a copy of the book. Each book purchase guarantees one reserved seat for this thought-provoking gathering.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to delve into the world of conspiracy theories and their historical context with Mike

You can reserve your space here

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, September 19th, 2023

• Time: 6:30 pm

• Location: Courtyard at DIESEL, A Bookstore, Brentwood

• Admission: Free (with book purchase for seat reservation)

Rothschild and Anna Merlan.

French Restaurant LouLou Celebrates One Year Anniversary in Santa Monica

Food Enthusiasts, Delighted Patrons, and Notable Personalities Attended

By Zach Armstrong

LouLou, the new French restaurant in the heart of Santa Monica which opened in the former Sonoma Wine Garden space, recently marked its inaugural anniversary with a celebration.

The event drew food enthusiasts, influencers, and notable personalities to join in the festivities, according to a Restaurant News Release. Florence and Erik Chol, the owners, shared, “Commencing celebrations for a first

anniversary is an extraordinarily enchanting and heartening experience. Life’s journey is punctuated with moments both grand and modest, all worthy of celebration. Here’s to the anticipation of numerous forthcoming joyful moments and commemorations within LouLou’s ongoing journey.”

Perched atop the iconic Route 66 on the rooftop deck of Santa Monica Place, LouLou boasts decor characterized by natural materials and lush greenery. At its culinary core is French-Mediterranean cuisine, infused with Californian flavors, crafted by Chef Stanislav Suchy.

The concept for LouLou began when Erik and Florence Chol traveled to Los Angeles and visited Santa Monica Place. Eight years later, a realtor suggested the now LouLou location.

Prominent menu items include buttery escargot, lobster linguine, steak with Frites, specialty cocktails including the Saint Tropez Rosé Spritz and the ‘Oui’ which includes Union mezcal with cucumber and fire water, Salad Nicoise (a specialty of Nice),

Californian Caesar salad, beef Tartare, the Buckwheat pancake, homemade pasta ranging from lobster to pesto and three-day proof dough pizza.

LouLou also offers evening events and brunches with DJs, various artists and handpicked music.

After Son’s Death, Bridget McCarthy Is on a Mission To Prevent Suicide Deaths

She Seeks to Provide Information and Resources to as Many Parents as Possible

By Zach Armstrong

The late Santa Monica High School student Riley Chart would have recently turned 19. This is Bridget McCarthy’s son, who committed suicide three years ago. Riley, who identified as a member of the LGBTQ community and had issues of depression and anxiety, was a “creative” person who attended SaMoHi before the family moved to Culver City during the pandemic. Following what McCarthy describes as a “minor parent interaction” over being on the phone, Riley had an extreme reaction. McCarthy left the room and phoned a therapist. By the time she

came back, she had to break in the locked door, but it was too late.

Since the passing of her son, McCarthy has been on a mission to provide needed information, awareness and resources to as many parents as possible. The information and resources which she believes could have saved her son’s life if she was made aware of them.

“I spent thousands with therapists and doctors and nobody ever said, ‘Just be aware of the signs and what to look for.’ Like many parents in my position, we love our kids, we want the best for them, but the world has changed, the stresses are very different and the same responses do not work,” McCarthy said. “Seeing training programs since losing Riley, I was in tears, because if the information was there at that moment, I would have responded differently. I wouldn’t have phoned a therapist, which I thought was the best thing to do, and I wouldn’t have left the room. I would have reached out for support lines, which I didn’t even know existed.”

She joined the board of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Greater Los Angeles Chapter. She’s met with legislators in Washington D.C. to advocate for school’s mental health professionals. Locally, McCarthy works closely with Santa

Monica College, Santa Monica Unified School District, City Council and school board. Last year, McCarthy co-chaired the “Out of Darkness” walk on the Santa Monica Pier; an annual event where people walk side-by-side, supporting each other and open up about loved ones they’ve lost to suicide and mental health.

Later this month, McCarthy will be presented with a proclamation from the Santa Monica City Council and Mayor Gleam Davis that recognizes suicide as a national and statewide public health problem and designates Sept. 10 through 16 as “National Suicide Prevention Week” in California.

Awareness of the 9-8-8 hotline, a new suicide and crisis lifeline available nationwide, is something McCarthy believes can make a difference along with reducing the stigma around mental health. “You can just ask kids directly ‘Are you feeling safe? Are you okay? Do you feel suicidal?’ I’ve asked kids and they say they’d love to be asked but we tiptoe around it.” McCarthy said.

Funding mental health training in schools is one initiative McCarthy has championed in her lobbying efforts with politicians. Working with SMC and SMMUSD, she says as many as 10% of students have contemplated taking their own lives.

One piece of legislation McCarthy believes would make a crucial difference is California State Senate Bill 509, introduced by Sen. Portantino (D-La Cañada Flintridge). The bill would require the California Department of Education to ensure 75% of school campus staff complete a behavioral health training program on how to refer to mental health services, substance use disorder services, or other support for those in early stages of mental illness or substance use disorders.

The biggest obstacles McCarthy says stand in the way of these goals are fiscal arguments. How do things like mandatory mental health training and the 9-8-8 line get funded? But her argument has always been that the price tag for such funding is a “drop in the bucket” compared to other items thoroughly funded by local, state and federal governments.

Societal factors play a role as well. The internet and the “comparison of the perfection of others” is something McCarthy says results in mental health degradation for young people along with the isolation many felt during Covid-19. Riley also identified as a trans boy, and McCarthy says the LGBT community has suffered the pressure of hatred.

But McCarthy says she has also seen positive improvement on mental health services for young people and “so much hope for the future”. According to her, schools are now more open to provide mental health training. She also says she sees young people becoming more open to discussions of mental and emotional health.

Now, as she awaits her proclamation from City Council, McCarthy also looks forward to raising more awareness in the community with the next “Santa Monica Out Of The Darkness Walk” which will be sponsored by the City of Santa Monica. The event is taking place Oct. 21 at 10 a.m. at the pier. Interested participants can register at afsp.org/lawalk.

“I’m so connected with other parents and other moms in Santa Monica,” McCarthy said. “We meet in the parks where we used to meet for playdates. It’s a very surreal thing. We just don’t want anybody else joining us on the benches.”

Mandalorian Series Creator Expands Santa Monica Compound

Favreau’s Recent Acquisition Totaled $6.8 Million

Jon Favreau, the celebrated actor, director, and producer, is further diversifying his real estate holdings in Santa Monica, according to Off Plan Property Exchange.

Presently, he possesses three contiguous properties in Santa Monica, procured in 2002, 2005, and 2021, totaling an investment of $6.9 million. Recently, Favreau expanded his holdings by acquiring an adjacent property for an additional $6.8 million.

The newly acquired residence, completed in 2023, was never officially listed for sale. Its architectural aesthetic diverges from the Spanish or Mediterranean style characterizing his other holdings, featuring a modern and contemporary design. Specific details regarding the property are limited, given its absence from the market;

however, aerial photographs reveal the presence of a patio, expanses of manicured lawns, a swimming pool, and a detached garage with an accompanying cabana.

Favreau’s composite estate now sprawls across two-thirds of a level acre.

Jon Favreau is renowned for roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and as the

creative force behind The Mandalorian series. His directorial and production prowess shows in the reimaginings like The Lion King and The Jungle Book.

The Battle for the Planning Commission: A Circus of Political Maneuvers

SMa.r.t.

Ah, the wonderful world of city politics! Ladies and gentlemen hold on to your hats as we delve into the wild and wacky world of the Planning Commission. In recent days, the City Council filled three positions on this esteemed commission, and let me tell you, the excitement was palpable! It’s like a game of musical chairs, except the chairs are seats of power, and the music is the relentless buzz of political gossip echoing through the county.

You may be wondering how one becomes a candidate for the Planning Commission. It’s simple, really. Interested individuals fill out a form, which then gets buried in the dusty archives of City Hall until the day openings magically appear. And voila! The announcements are published, calling for candidates to step forward. The Council members, with their pencil-sharp eagle eyes, review these candidate statements and make their nominations. And then, friends, the Council votes. And votes. And votes again. It’s like American Idol but with less singing and more paperwork.

But hold your horses! It’s not just individuals who are vying for a spot on the Planning Commission. Oh no, political groups have their paws in this game too. As soon as the commission openings are announced (and usually even before), these organizations kick into high gear behind the scenes. They’re like frenzied paparazzi, desperately seeking a Commissioner who will represent their interests. People are approached left and right, like talent scouts on the prowl. Suitable candidates’ names are passed around like hot potatoes to gather responses from the faithful. It’s a mad, mad world of influence and leverage, where politically connected candidates rub shoulders with unaffiliated freelancers.

You see, dear readers, these political groups have grand plans beyond the Planning Commission. They see it as a stepping-stone to the City Council itself. Placing a Commissioner becomes the first move in their master plan to develop a future City Council candidate who will represent their views. It’s like a strategic board game where every move counts and the prize is control over city policy. Talk about playing politics on a whole new level!

Now, let’s take a moment to remember the true purpose of the Planning Commission. Picture a Santa Monica where, as the Commission’s mission statement suggests, well-being, sustainability, and equity dance hand in hand through the streets like a synchronized flash mob of urban harmony. The Commission, like a wise conductor, endeavors to strike the perfect balance

between the myriad needs and priorities within our vibrant community. They navigate this delicate dance, guided by the sacred texts of the City’s General Plan and Specific Plans—blueprints for a utopian Santa Monica.

Or they should. But alas, in the chaotic world of Santa Monica politics, these noble goals often take a backseat. The Commission often morphs into a battleground for proxy wars between different City Council factions. It’s like a never-ending soap opera where everyone’s fighting for the spotlight, and the residents are left scratching their heads, wondering where their needs went.

But fear not, friends, for this is not a new phenomenon. The politicization of the Planning Commission is as old as Santa Monica’s love for palm trees. Throughout the ages, politicized Planning Commissions have graced this city with their presence. They are as traditional as apple pie on the Fourth of July. Some say it provides a battleground for ground-level skirmishes, a window into the priorities of important constituencies, and a venue for enacting Council policies. But in our dear Santa Monica, divided as it is among political camps, a new approach beckons.

What’s the remedy, you ask? Well, we need to make the Planning Commission less of a City Council redux and more of a strong government body that actually looks out for the everyday residents. One suggestion is to impose a two-year waiting period for Commissioners whose terms expire before they can run for City Council. Let’s create a healthy separation between their duties as Commissioners and the political circus of campaigning. We need fresh faces, representatives from diverse backgrounds, and–most of all–individuals who have a genuine commitment to the needs of this community.

And let’s not forget the fate of these poor planning commissioners who do make it in, juggling an overwhelming amount of work. They need some support, friends. The City should provide independent researchers, untainted by the dynamics between the City Manager, City Council, lobbyists, and organizations. These knowledgeable folks will lighten the load on our Commissioners’ shoulders and ensure they can fulfill their critical role without being crushed under the weight of political pressure and expediency.

Ladies and gentlemen, the battle for the Planning Commission is, without a doubt, a grand spectacle of political maneuvering. But let us not lose sight of the commission’s true purpose and the wellbeing of the residents. It’s time to bring some sanity back to the process, separating the commissioners from the madness of City Council campaigns. Let’s attract a diverse group of qualified individuals who genuinely care about this community and its

specific issues. Together, we can transform the Planning Commission into a force to be reckoned with, working tirelessly for the betterment of Santa Monica. And who knows, maybe we’ll even add some circus acts to the mix to keep things interesting.

Daniel Jansenson, Architect, Building and Fire-Life Safety Commission.

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.

Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow

FILM REVIEW: STRAYS

BEHIND THE SCREEN

By Kathryn Whitney Boole

I’m not usually drawn to movies with talking animals. “Strays,” though, is so skillfully made, with such an original take on canine culture and dog-human relationships, that I thoroughly enjoyed the film. This is director Josh Greenbaum’s second feature, his first having been Barb and Starr Go to Vista Del Mar, also a wonky comedy. This is no Disney movie, and it’s absolutely not a kids or family movie. It’s a treatise on our relationships with our pets and what they tell us about our culture and our psychology. It’s a raunchy road trip featuring canine protagonists using landmarks to find their way back home, their conversation dubbed from “dog language” into English by the likes of Will Ferrell, Jamie Fox, Isla Fisher, and Randall Park. The style is more Rap or Trap Music lyrics than children’s books. Our team of stray dogs navigates dangers that lurk in their environment, most pointedly from unstable humans, as portrayed by Will Forte as “Doug” and Bruce Gelman as “Willie.”

The funny and revealing concept of how dogs perceive the humans around them is the genius of this movie. It’s a send-up of so many traits of our human personalities that we take way too seriously. The story includes a

“Me-Too” Movement type of commentary on human abuse of pets with a suggestion that taking responsibility for our actions and helping others is an antidote to that kind of behavior. Due to the skill of the film’s animal actors, their handlers, the cinematographer, and the voice actors, these dogs become friends you want to root for. The line between dog and human personalities is blurred, as often happens in the real world, and the dogs

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Robert Potash

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: Robert Potash

A Petition for Probate has been filed by Jesse Potash in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 23STPB09089

The Petition for Probate requests that Jesse Potash be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in Los Angeles County Superior Court as follows: Date: October 31, 2023, Time: 8:30 am. Dept.: 44 The address of the court: 111 North Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statues and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Petitioner Jesse Potash 22 Haide Pl. East Islip, NY 11730

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can also make mistakes and perhaps destroy something unintentionally, as happens in reality. The difference between the dogs and humans is that dogs are more forgiving and loyal.

The dogs in “Strays” are so much like people that we tend to relate to them like people, and that’s also the magic of real dogs. You will perhaps be reminded of all the dogs who have graced your life because they communicated with you on an instinctive level. The movie presents the world from a dog’s point of view,

which is very refreshing because, as you may know, in addition to having an exponentially better sense of smell than humans, dogs also may have arguably a more unscathed emotional intelligence than a great percentage of us. “Strays” is a celebration of dogs.

Kathryn Whitney Boole has spent most of her life in the entertainment industry, which has been the backdrop for remarkable adventures with extraordinary people. She is a Talent Manager with Studio Talent Group in Santa Monica. kboole@gmail.com