Santa Monica Mirror / Yo! Venice - May 26, 2023

City Could Extend Contract With Security Firm To Protect Santa Monica Pier

Extra Security Is Part Of Pier Task Force Used To Enforce Local Vending Codes

By Zach Armstrong

Council members will review a contract with a security company to protect and serve the Santa Monica Pier.

An agenda item in Tuesday’s council meeting includes modifying an agreement in the amount of $327,969 with A.G. Coast Inc. (d/b/a CA Panther), for security services on and around the Santa Monica Pier, resulting in a six-month amended agreement with a new total amount not exceeding $1,059,969. The service is related to the “Pier Task Force” which was created to address concerns over safety, public health, and the environment related to unpermitted vending.

“Based on the success of the Task Force, now known as DaRT (Directed Action Response Team), Council directed staff to continue the program through June 30, 2023,” read a city staff report. “Contract security services provided by A.G. Coast, Inc. (dba CA Panther) continue to be instrumental in assisting DaRT in reducing unpermitted vending on and around the Santa Monica Pier.”

The staff recommended that the City modify its agreement with CA Panther to continue security services through the end of 2023 to “ensure that DaRT has the contract security services needed to continue to address unpermitted vending and its associated public safety, public health, and environmental risks.”

The staff is also preparing a Request for Proposal for security services on and around the Pier and will return to Council to approve of a five-year contract agreement effective January 1, 2024.

Tourism Doubles In Santa Monica Following Pandemic Reaching Near 2019 Levels

Lodging Was The Biggest Revenue Source, International Vists Up

By Zach Armstrong

The amount of visitors in Santa Monica almost doubled last year to about 5,320,500 with annual tourist spending having gone up nearly 30% at more than $961 million, the Santa Monica Daily Press reported.

While still below levels seen in 2019, international visitation saw an increase from 9.2% in 2021 to 21% in 2022. International visitors have played a large role in the city’s tourism market, making up a 50% share of total visitation. International visitors typically play

an important role in any tourism market because they stay longer, stay overnight and do more local activities.

Lodging was the primary revenue source for Santa Monica tourism standing at just under $500 million.

The numbers were shared at the Santa Monica Travel and Tourism’s annual summit with local business owners, government officials and community members in attendance. City Manager David White pointed out that quality hotels play an important role for local tourism, highlighting some renovation and rebranding projects in the city. Santa Monica Mayor Gleam Davis said that each household in the city would have to contribute at least $1,400 to Santa Monica if it wasn’t for tourism.

Photo: Getty Images

Photo: Getty Images

WESTSIDE GETAWAY GUIDE 2023

Address:2304 Sawtelle Blvd 90064

License number: C10-0000626LIC

Phone number: (310)616-5140

Insta: @Erba_Sawtelle

Garden Party: SMC’s Organic Learning Garden is Back & Blooming

After A PandemicInfluenced Hiatus, The Garden Is Open Again

After a pandemic-induced hiatus, Santa Monica College’s Organic Learning Garden—a 1,200-square-foot garden in the heart of the college’s main campus—is open, once again, to students (and employees) who want to learn how to grow their own food. Master gardener Daniela Roveda says the garden is “like a magnet.” She opens the gate, and people start to wander in, looking at the 14 plots of vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Some become so enchanted that they offer to volunteer as gardeners themselves.

“We have several raised beds in addition to planting straight into the ground,” says Roveda,

who also serves as an advisor to the SMC student-run Club Grow. With the club’s members, she manages the garden and teaches students how to grow their own food without artificial fertilizers or pesticides.

Opened in 2011, the Organic Learning Garden is a tangible example of SMC’s

commitment to sustainability, enabling students to embrace eco-friendly growing techniques that yield fresh, healthy foods while also nourishing the earth. Groups of students can apply to maintain one of the 14 plots and Club Grow meet weekly to tend to the overall garden, in addition to growing what they want in their designated plot.

Harvesting

Together

The Organic Learning Garden is also open to SMC employees, something Roveda calls beautiful, because “the garden has become a meeting point where people can feel part of a community connected by the same interests and passions.” She points out that many miss out on gardening because they live in apartments where they can’t have one. “Many are just happy to put their hands in the soil. Others want to learn so they can start their own garden, so they come in with a million questions.”

She also holds workshops on topics such as seasonality, soil health, caring for fruit trees, pruning techniques, grafting and the benefits of organic agriculture. The volunteers

also share their produce with students facing food insecurity through donations to the Bodega, SMC’s first on-ground free food pantry.

Greener Pastures

Roveda’s love for gardening can be traced back to her childhood in Milan, Italy. “I went to a school that incorporated the garden and nature as a learning tool for children, so we had a little farm on site,” she says. She studied economics and became a financial journalist, but that interest never left her. Then, about a decade ago, she left journalism to earn a certification as a master gardener from the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.

Club Grow President Ryan Brode is glad she did. An avid gardener since boyhood, he joined Club Grow immediately upon coming to SMC to study environmental science, and enjoys recruiting budding gardeners to the cause.

“I love what gardening does to help people and give back to the community,” Brode says, referring to the donations made to the Bodega, as well as to what gardening teaches people about environmentalism. “It’s also about the joy of watching things grow and the satisfaction of being able to eat food you’ve grown yourself.”

An avid cook, Brode says his favorite thing to grow is probably tomatoes. “They are very universal, and you can make sauces, soups, sandwiches—a lot of different things!” he notes.

He also enjoys sharing his growing knowledge, much of which he picked up from Roveda. “It’s exciting working with her,” he says, “because I’m always learning new

things.” Before the Organic Learning Garden at SMC, a lot of his gardening know-how came from “trial and error.”

Planting Seeds

Daniela Roveda is passionate about teaching SMC students about the joys and benefits of cultivating your own food. “I think a lot of people tend not to pick vegetables as their first choice when they dine out or go grocery shopping,” she says. “But when you have this big head of lettuce that you planted as a little seed, there’s a feeling of ownership that changes your relationship with food.”

Instilling this appreciation is especially gratifying, according to Daniela. “I see those who might otherwise never touch broccoli, kale or a raw carrot that when they grow and pick it, they all eat their vegetables,” she says. “It’s like a miracle.”

Brode, who plans to transfer to continue his studies on his way to a career in environmental engineering or development, points out an additional benefit: “We make friends and have a good time,” he says. “Because who doesn’t love a garden party?”

To learn more about SMC’s Organic Learning Garden and all things sustainabilityrelated at the College, visit smc.edu/ sustainability.

Photo: Amy Williams / Santa Monica College

This is Santa Monica’s Vacancy Rate For 2023

Population Decrease Along With An Uptick In Housing Units.

By Zach Armstrong

The City of Santa Monica saw an incremental decrease in its total population along with an uptick in total housing units at the start of 2023 compared with 2022, according to data released by the California Department of Finance.

At the start of 2023, Santa Monica had 53,422 total housing units and a population of 91,720. Those numbers are compared

with those at the start of 2022 when the city had 52,857 total housing units and a population of 91,739.

All of this has led to a vacancy rate of 10.3% in Santa Monica. Out of those 53,422 units, 47,941 were occupied. The city also showed an average of 1.86 people for every household.

Factors in California’s population decline during 2022 include stable births, fewer deaths, and a rebound in foreign immigration, according to the department. The state’s population is estimated at 38,940,231 as of Jan. 1.

Over the same period, California’s housing growth increased to 0.85% – the highest level since 2008. The state added 123,350 housing units on net, including 20,683 accessory dwelling units, bringing its total housing to 14,707,698 units.

Mobility Expo

We are incredibly proud of our Class of 2023 graduates who have all been accepted to a four-year collegiate program and gained admission to 155 colleges and/or universities. Please note that all institutions with one or more graduates attending are denoted in bold, and that schools with an * indicate multiple enrollees.

Arizona State University

Barnard College

Bates College

Baylor University

Boston College*

Boston University

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo*

Case Western Reserve University

Chapman University*

College of the Holy Cross

Duke University

Fordham University*

George Washington University*

Georgetown University*

Harvey Mudd College

Howard University

Indiana University

Johns Hopkins University

Kenyon College

King’s College

Loyola Marymount University*

McGill University

New York University*

Northeastern University

Northwestern University

Purdue University

Rice University

Santa Clara University*

Santa Monica College*

Scripps College

Skidmore College

Southern Methodist University*

Spelman College

Swarthmore College

Syracuse University

Texas Christian University*

The University of Texas at Austin

Trinity College*

Tufts University

Tulane University*

University of California - Berkeley*

University of California - Davis

University of California - Los Angeles*

University of California - San Diego

University of California - Santa Barbara

University of California - Santa Cruz

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Georgia

University of Michigan

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Notre Dame*

University of Oregon*

University of Pittsburgh

University of San Diego

University of Southern California*

University of St. Andrews

University of Virginia

University of Washington

University of Wisconsin

Vanderbilt University

Villanova University*

Wake Forest University*

Photo: Our own archives

Teenagers Arrested for Robbing Delivery Driver at Gunpoint

The Two Suspects Were Connected To Other Crimes

Two juveniles, one of whom accidentally shot himself in the hand, were arrested in Santa Monica on Wednesday for allegedly robbing a delivery driver at gunpoint, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.

The incident occurred around 2 p.m. on Monday when Santa Monica police responded to a report of an armed robbery at the intersection of Third Street and Idaho Avenue as reported by Westside Current.

The delivery driver was threatened and robbed by the two suspects, with the stolen items remaining undisclosed.

Approximately 20 minutes later, authorities received a call regarding gunshots in the 800 block of Second Street. Responding officers discovered a juvenile inside a residence who had unintentionally shot himself in the hand. It was later determined that the juvenile, along with another individual present at the scene,

were the suspects involved in the earlier armed robbery, as stated by the police.

Following the events, the unharmed suspect was transported to a juvenile hall, while the injured boy received medical treatment at a hospital. He was released the following day and subsequently taken to a juvenile hall. As their identities and ages were not disclosed, their names remain unknown.

Further investigation conducted by the police revealed that the two suspects were connected to various other crimes in the area over the past few months, including residential and vehicle burglaries, auto theft, and a stabbing.

Pretext Stops Are a Vital Crime Prevention Tool

By Cody Green, Santa Monica Police Officers Association (SMPOA) Chairman and Lieutenant, SMPD

Recently the Santa Monica Public Safety Oversight & Reform Commission (PSROC) was given a presentation by a staff member for State Senator Steven Bradford’s office advocating for a change in the Santa Monica Police Department’s policy as it relates to pretext stops.

A pretext stop occurs when a police officer enforces a traffic law, like a broken taillight, to investigate potentially more serious crimes. Police officers have been using pretext stops for decades because they are a proven and constitutionally affirmed policing technique that keeps the community safe. Simple traffic stops led to the arrest of serial killers Ted Bundy and Joel Rifkin, and Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh was arrested during a traffic stop that occurred for not displaying a license plate.

Critics of pretext stops claim that they disproportionally target people of color and that police officers use them to invade the privacy of those members of our community.

The presentation given to the PSROC was

based on a recent change to LAPD’s policy. LAPD officers now must have a reason to suspect a more serious crime is afoot before initiating a pretext stop, and they are required to record their reasoning on body cameras before the stop.

Senator Bradford’s office pointed to initial data that indicated that since the policy change, there has been an overall decline in stops and searches. Of course, there has been, the bar for conducting them has been significantly raised. LAPD has essentially decided to let the “small stuff” go.

Here’s what else happened according to the same data set the Senator’s office cited. There were nearly 3,000 fewer seizures of illegal items in just five months. This included almost 1,700 fewer seizures of narcotics, like fentanyl, and 374 fewer guns taken off the streets compared to the year before.

Santa Monica Police officers recognize the immense responsibility we have to keep the community safe and to do so in a fair and just manner without bias or animus. We urge our local policymakers and the members of the PSROC to keep responsible, proactive measures in place that ensure community safety. Any limiting of important investigative tools puts us all at risk.

FILM REVIEW: GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY Vol. 3

BEHIND THE SCREEN

By Kathryn Whitney Boole

After seeing Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, I felt like writer/director James Gunn had decided on his music playlist first and then built the story around it. That was a correct guess, as my research revealed. Gunn is acutely aware of the importance of music in cinema, to the point where his films are often crafted, very successfully, around a playlist. While his previous two Guardians films were built from mostly 1960s and 1970’s songs (and some early ‘80’s,) the list of classics on Vol. 3 is from a later vintage, later ’70s, ’80s, 90’s and some from this current century. Among its 17 songs are “Creep” by Radiohead (1993), “Reasons” by Earth, Wind & Fire (1975), “Badlands” by Bruce Springsteen (1975), and most notably, “Dog Days are Over” by Florence & the Machine (2008).

Music is part of the cultural history of the Guardians’ stories. In the first two “volumes,” the greatest treasure of our hero “Peter Quill” (Chris Pratt) is a mixtape left to him by his late mother. Not surprisingly, Gunn started his career in a rock band called “The Icons.” He also wrote novels and created comic strips for

underground and college publications.

Photo Two

Gunn gives his actors the movie’s playlist on set so they can listen to it and become absorbed into the environment of the story. The actors do seem to transform into their imaginative characters completely. Pratt seems genuinely awed by the journey he’s been drawn into as Peter Quill. Chukwudi Iwuji endows his villainous “High Evolutionary” with a hint of conscience.

I love Pom Klementieff as “Mantis,” and I wished that she was featured more in the first Guardians. Here she is a major character, her innocent demeanor masking an instinctive intelligence. Dave Bautista as “Drax,” Zoe Saldana as “Gamora” and Karen Gillan as “Nebula” are all able to give their exotic characters human emotion.

Will Poulter is introduced as “Adam Warlock,” a bad guy at first, who experiences an arc of the character. Poulter has been acting since his teens and is best known for The Revenant and Chronicles of Narnia. He and Gunn worked closely together fleshing out his Warlock.

Photo Three

In the end, it’s the characters that carry this movie, not its relationship to the comic books, nor the fantastic sets, or the special effects. The music sets the environment. There is a scene close to the end which I believe will

become iconic, played to the music of “Dog Days Are Over.” This is the heartbeat of the movie and the Bollywood Climax of the story. While die-hard Guardians fans are spending nervous energy speculating if this is the last installment in the Guardians franchise and what its place is in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, why worry about it? Forget all that and take it out of context. Just enjoy this movie as the wonderful modern-day Fairy Tale that

it is!

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. You can email her at kboole@ gmail.com

WESTSIDE GETAWAY GUIDE 2023

Champagne Yacht: A One-of-a Kind Charter Experience

By Susan Payne

This summer, elevate a special occasion by taking it on the water — yacht style.

Charter off the San Diego harbor and have a one-of-a-kind birthday, corporate event, celebration of life/burial, engagement, family reunion or other special occasion on Champagne, a private luxury motor yacht certified, licensed and insured for up to 49 passengers.

Built in Florida in 1983, the Bertram motor yacht owner David Levkowitz completely remodeled Champagne to add a full gourmet kitchen, household-sized appliances, two bars, two guest bathrooms and professional sound system.

“Everything inside was replaced so that our yacht guests can have the time of their lives. We cater to special occasions, milestones and events you want to remember, lifetime experiences,” Levkowitz said. “We’ve been officially licensed for charter since 2019.”

Under the amazing San Diego skyline, a private setting and customizable options, Champagne Yacht is ready to help you create a one-of-a-kind lifetime experience with your friends or family or workplace.

“Private rentals on Champagne are so fun and full of life, no one ever regrets investing in a private celebration, you are creating lasting memories. Some of my favorite moments are when guests are amazed at the skyline or sunsets that we can see from the yacht,” said Levkowitz. “Champagne helps elevate the

celebration even more. Guaranteed the best time for you and your guests.”

The yacht departs and returns from Point Loma Sport Fishing in San Diego. For additional fees, groups may board at the Marriott/Hyatt marina in downtown San Diego. Charters are scheduled in four-hour increments from 12-4 p.m. or 5-9 p.m. On select weekends, 10 p.m. night cruises are available.

“We’re the only private yacht in San Diego that has a commercial license, and we love hosting groups of all sizes up to forty for any occasion,” Levkowitz said.

Champagne cruises downtown, the Super Yacht dock, past the USS Midway, under the famous Coronado bridge, by the Hotel Del then anchors near the Coronado Golf Course in the scenic Glorietta Bay so guests can swim, play on the floaties, drink, dance and lounge in the boat.

A licensed captain, bartender and deckhand is included on the boat to ensure a safe voyage and excellent service. Champagne Yacht has a wide range of catering options for events, but guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverage items, Levkowitz said.

“Anytime you book a private yacht, especially Champagne, you’re planning to have the time of your life. It’s a special, unique way of celebrating those milestones.” said Levkowitz.

Charters start as low as $3,500 for a threehour cruise Monday through Thursday, or $4,500 for a four-hour cruise Friday through Sunday, excluding holidays, peak summer

weekends and special events.

Arrangements for your special occasion such as a DJ, saxophonist, catering, private chefs, specialty cakes, balloon decorations, party buses or limousine transportation, photographers and videographers are available for booking, as well.

“We’ve had guests propose to their significant other surrounding loved ones and friends on Champagne and we’ve had some celebrate 75th and 90th birthdays, the possibilities are limitless. We’re here to help make your celebration that much more special,” said Levkowitz. “A party on

Champagne is one you’ll never forget.”

Champagne hosts corporate events, team building activities, birthdays, wedding celebrations, anniversary parties, family reunions, graduation parties, proposals and celebration of life/burials at sea and more upon request.

Champagne Yacht reservations for the summer season are filling quickly. More information and vibrant photos from Champagne parties can be seen here. Reservations can be made here.

Online Program Invites Spanish Learners to Dive Into Culture

By Susan Payne

Learning a new language can be difficult, but with the right tools, it can be a complete learning adventure.

ChidoLingo Language School combines private online lessons with cultural experiences, founded by Uriel Benitez of Mexico City and Ryan Brown of Los Angeles, who believe the best language learning techniques are one-onone lessons with a native teacher, coupled with immersion excursion abroad.

With ChidoLingo’s private online tutoring and personalized lessons, the programs give you individual attention and exposure to a variety of accents and styles of conversation.

“We both know the struggles of learning a new language, so we get how hard it can be. We’ve built ChidoLingo from the ground up with a focus on understanding and relating to students’ needs,” said Brown. “You can learn at your own speed and get instant feedback, which helps you understand faster.”

Most students start with private online tutoring. ChidoLingo offers a free 30-minute Spanish trial class in which you will meet the teachers ahead of your private lessons — experienced, qualified native-level speakers who love to teach.

Lessons focus on language competencies

including speaking, conversational skills, grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing. With these skills, Spanish learners are able to speak confidently in any situation, understand native speakers from across the globe and feel comfortable building simple to complex sentence structures.

As you progress, you’ll delve into more advanced topics like ser, personal pronouns, nouns, adjectives, prepositions, verbs and conjugations. Beginner, intermediate and advanced courses are available.

For those who like a challenge, ChidoLingo has a challenge course that exposes students to a variety of different accents and styles of conversations within a three-month time period, packed with 36 different lessons and three different teachers. As a bonus, if you complete your classes in under three months, ChidoLingo offers a 30% refund.

Through ChidoLingo, students can sign up for an Immersion Excursion — a trip to Mexico City where you put your new language skills to the test in a real-life environment. Each day is packed with learning opportunities, personalized Spanish lessons and activities and tours designed to show you the Mexican culture.

“By immersing yourself in the vibrant Mexican culture, you’ll not only gain a deeper

A Favorite Among Frequent Travelers: H. Savinar Luggage Co

By Susan Payne

For all your travel and exploration needs, H. Savinar Luggage Co. is a dealer you can trust.

Serving Los Angeles with two brick and mortar locations, H. Savinar has been helping generations of family find brand name, quality luggage since its inception in 1916 — over 100 years ago — and is one of the oldest luggage stores in the United States.

Whether you are looking for luggage with multi-terrain maneuverability or security and durability for peace of mind while traveling, your next destination should be an H. Savinar Luggage Co. in either Culver City, which opened in February of this year, or Canoga Park.

“Our warehouse is filled with one of the largest selections of nationally advertised brands of luggage, briefcases, laptop cases and travel accessories at the guaranteed lowest prices,” said Joey Diamond, owner of H. Savinar.

Diamond has had a 39-year relationship with the company, starting out as a monogrammer, then moving into sales, and eventual ownership of the company in 2016, after the 2010 passing

of Lewis Savinar, son of former owners Hyman and Harold.

“I quickly jumped into Lewis’s shoes to keep the business running. This was especially difficult because of how close we were. Lewis treated me like a son, and he was widely respected in the industry. Not easy to fill those shoes,” Diamond said.

H. Savinar carries most major brands such as Briggs & Riley, Victorinox, Bric’s, Samsonite, Delsey,Travel Pro, Pacsafe, High Sierra, McKlein, Roncato and Swiss Army, and is an authorized dealer for every line.

“We have the lowest prices in the industry. Whatever your travel needs are, we have the right bag at the right price and we’re here to service it if anything goes wrong,” Diamond said.

Throughout H. Savinar’s 106 years of business, the company has forged excellent relations with a number of manufacturers and customers, giving you the best options for luggage that fit your need.

“We treat customers like family here. This is one of those stores that right when you walk in, you know you’re going to have a good experience. We don’t just try to sell you a piece

understanding of Spanish, but also experience an incredible opportunity of a lifetime,” Brown said. We don’t just teach you the language, we open the door to the amazing and vibrant Mexican culture.”

Immersion Excursion is a safe and fun experience that includes a private teacher to guide you as you learn about the culture while practicing Spanish. You’ll visit places like Frida Kahlo Museum, Xochimilco, Chapultepec Castle and more.

ChidoLingo’s affordable and accessible classes gives students the freedom to customize their study plan, schedule classes at their convenience and access 24/7 virtual tutoring.

“We believe that learning Spanish is the key

to appreciating our wonderful mouthwatering food, incredible music, diverse traditions and super friendly people,” said Brown. “We’re excited to be your partners on this incredible Spanish-learning adventure. Let’s go amigo!”

Class packages for adults and children start at $17 per hour. Each class lasts 60 minutes and most students progress through ChidoLingo’s levels at around 40 hours.

ChidoLingo is designed to push your learning boundaries, but many former ChidoLingo students have testified that the effort in learning Spanish is it worth it for language skills.

You can become a ChidoLingo student — learning Spanish or English in a fast and effective way — by registering online.

of luggage. We find out your traveling habits and needs to find you the right bag. Once we find it, we’ll make sure you know all the features,” said Diamond.

Before a piece of luggage leaves H. Savinar’s warehouse, each item is inspected for quality. The company is also an authorized repair center for many manufacturers.

“We’ve seen a lot of changes in the 106 years we’ve been in business, but one thing that hasn’t changed is our dedication to our loyal customers,” Diamond said.

MONGRAMMING AND CORPORATE SALES

In addition to a numerous selection of luggage, H. Savinar offers personalized monogramming and embroidery services — initials, names or company logos. For luggage, this is essential in differentiating your personal belongings from another while traveling.

For companies looking to treat their employees, H. Savinar offers company logo monogramming or embroidery and individual labeling and shipping direct to your customers.

H. Savinar Luggage can be found in Culver City at 10730 Washington Boulevard (323-9382501), open Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Canoga Park at 6931 Topanga Cyn Boulevard (818-703-1313), open Monday through Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

More information can be found on savinarluggage.com.

Explore Pacific Ocean Views and Recreation at Ventura Harbor Village

By Susan Payne

Getaway to scenic Ventura Harbor Village

and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast nestled in Ventura, just an hour up the coast from Malibu and Los Angeles and right off Highway 101/1.

Come seek your “seaside state of mind” this summer at Ventura Harbor Village to unwind and relax on the water, land, or mix of both for the weekend.

“We are thrilled to welcome in guests this summer to enjoy our sandy beaches just steps from the vibrant waterfront attraction of Ventura Harbor Village and the wonderful Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center,” said Santa Monica native Jennifer Talt Lundin, the marketing manager at Ventura Harbor and Ventura Harbor Village.

Whether with family, friends, or a galcation, so much to choose from between casual and sit-down waterfront dining options at 15 restaurants to savor American, Cuban, French, Greek, and Mexican cuisines. Ventura Harbor Village is known best for fresh seafood markets and seafood dishes with a variety of choices from mouth-watering Fish N’ Chips, fish tacos, handcrafted clam chowders, oysters, ceviche, salmon salads, and much more!

Plus, fun boardwalk style sweet treats await like FishZookie ice cream cones, the famous Dole Whips, personalized chocolate bars, cupcakery, and colorful cocktails by the sea. Check out Wild Local Seafood’s brick & mortar store at Ventura Harbor Village to take home fresh sustainable catch! You can find them weekly at several of the local Farmers Markets.

This coastal seaside playground gives guests the opportunity to shop one-of-kind coastal boutiques, artisan spaces, galleries, and specialty stores. Ventura Harbor Village is the perfect getaway for waterfront relaxation.

WHAT TO DO – Worth the Drive

Deep Sea Wine Tasting: This new wine room offers wine lovers to toast the coast with unique blends of reds and whites, each produced in small bath production. Daily tastings offer a selection of both Conway and Deep Sea wines from Santa Barbara and compliment a variety of palates. Overlooking the boats, Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room also hosts weekly special activities.

On The Alley: “OTA” is the more casual sister-venue to popular Brophy Bros. Restaurant & Clam Bar in Ventura Harbor Village, boasting wonderful harbor view seating, outdoor patios, surf videos and photography artwork that showcases the local landscape. Stop by OTA for a quick, casualfriendly breakfast line up including smoothies, breakfast burritos, bowls and French toast sticks. Lunch and dinner menus are available for casual favorites like Fried Avocado Taco, burgers, and seafood dishes and make sure to try Brophy’s award-winning Bloody Mary.

Ventura Boat Rentals: It’s summer, so why not spend time on the water! Rent kayaks, electric boats, stand up paddle boards, or a mix of character pedal boats that include ducks, swans, flamingos, and dragons in a selection of colors of the rainbow at Ventura Harbor Village.

Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market: Visitors come from miles away weekly for Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market’s famous Fish N’ Chips, seafood dishes, stacked onion rings, warm clam chowder in sourdough bowl, and so much more! Such generous portions and so delicious!

Island Packers: Cruise all five of the islands that make up the Channel Islands National Park and National Marine Sanctuary. From half and full day trips, camping, kayaking, and hiking, Island Packers suits all ages and interests. This summer, one-hour evening harbor cruises are available on select Saturdays in June, July, and August, thru October, and catch a glimpse

of whales in the channel with summer whale watching excursions.

Ventura Harbor Village has an abundance of activities to choose from including The Ultimate Escape Room, Frenchies Modern Nail Care, beach volleyball courts, scuba dive lessons and trips via Ventura Dive and Sport, live music from Rock N’ Roll to Bluegrass, nighttime entertainment like comedy or dancing. Pro-tip : Weekdays in the summer are great too for ease, peace, and relaxation!

UPCOMING SUMMERTIME FUN

Weekends in July & August feature the summer tunes with a live DJ from Noon to 3 p.m. every Saturday on the Promenade Stage. On Sundays, be whisked away on a tropical

Family-Friendly Business Provides Sport Fishing in

The Company Offers Whale Watching, Open Party Fishing Trips and More.

By Zach Armstrong

Serving the coastal edge of Los Angeles since 1965, Marina Del Rey Sportfishing Inc. provides all walks of life from around the world the experience of sport fishing in the

Marina Del Rey

Pacific Ocean.

The company offers whale watching, bait dock and dock fishing, open party fishing trips, and more. Most trips happen within a 20-mile radius of Marina Del Rey. The types of fish caught depend on the season, such as Halibut or Sea Bass in the Spring and Red Snapper, Grouper or Lingcod in the Winter.

“Fishing is great in this area and really consistent. People can really enjoy a nice experience on any one of our boats, whether it’s a half day or three-quarter day public trips, our rock cod red snapper trip, or one

of our many private charters that we run,” said Rick Oefinger, president of Marina Del Rey Sportfishing. “We’re the legitimate sport fishing company of Marina Del Rey.”

Private business will often book with the company for fishing events either for celebrations or business trips. Private birthday parties often take place with Marina Del Rey Sportfishing as well, with smaller fish being caught for those at younger ages.

The company has been under the management of Captain Oefinger since 1990. Working on boats and running sportfishing is

vacay with the smooth sounds of steel drums on the water in July & August.

Relax, sit back, and watch an outdoor movie under the summertime sky on the last Saturday of the month - June, July and August -at sunset. “Jaws,” “Goonies” and “Moana” are all in the line up! Grab dinner here seaside and join in the pre-movie fun! (Bring chairs and blankets) Seek the good vibes this summer with a day trip up the coast to Ventura Harbor Village. Complimentary parking and admission. Unwind, connect & SEA.

For visitor info & updates visit www. VenturaHarborVillage.com or follow @ VenturaHarbor. Ventura Harbor Village is located at 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura.

something Rick says he’s done his whole life since the age of 14. Rick distinguishes Marina Del Rey Sportfishing from other similar businesses by being safe, affordable and family-friendly.

Paddle Pub Offers New Sightseeing Experience in Marina Del Rey

“Experience the Marina Like Never Before: Paddle Pub Introduces Pedal-Powered Boat Tours”

Paddle Pub is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated grand opening of Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey, set to take place in June 2023. As the largest man-made harbor in the United States, Marina Del Rey provides the perfect backdrop for this exciting new venture.

Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey offers 26-passenger pedal-powered boat tours that allow guests to bring their own beverages and snacks while immersing themselves in the beauty and sights the area has to offer. Lasting approximately two hours, these tours provide ample opportunities for sightseeing, observing sea life, admiring magnificent vessels, and even dancing, among other experiences.

One of the key features of Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey is the presence of a Licensed Captain and an event host aboard the Duchess Pub. The Captain ensures the vessel keeps moving when

guests grow tired of pedaling, while the host ensures a memorable time for all.

“Paddle Pub has dedicated over a year to meticulously planning our launch in Marina Del Rey, and we are thrilled to finally hit the water and offer both locals and tourists a unique way to celebrate,” remarked Paddle Pub Management.

Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey will be conveniently located at 13645 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, providing easy access for visitors.

About Paddle Pub: Paddle Pub is a one-ofa-kind 26-passenger pedal-powered pontoon boat, designed to create the ultimate party on the water. Complete with a state-of-the-art sound system, 12 pedaling stations, a spacious backbench, and vibrant party lighting, Paddle Pub allows guests to pack a cooler with snacks and drinks while pedaling their way through the renowned Marina Del Rey Harbor.

With its upcoming opening, Paddle Pub

Your Surprise Guide to Quintessential California Road Trips

By Susan Payne

If creating memorable travel experiences is on your bucket list for 2023, One California Day, a sustainably minded experiential travel company based in Los Angeles, should be your first destination.

Boasting a handful of curated surprise daytrip itineraries to California’s most alluring and lesser known destinations, founder Trina Hendry created One California Day as a road trip reimagined.

One California Day is as easy as choosing a themed trip, receiving an itinerary through the mail or digital download and then heading out on your adventure.

“People are looking for reasons to get out of the house and these curated one-day trips make it so easy to do just that,” Hendry said. “Planning a trip, even a day outing, takes personal time and research, which is something we are all running short on these days. At One California Day, we’ve done the legwork, handpicked and vetted each location, and crafted self-guided itineraries that lead you to many of California’s best destinations, one surprise stop at a time.

Working with travel influencers and by the grace of her own travel experiences, Hendry releases a series of trip highlights and destinations on her website but doesn’t reveal the individual stops until you have purchased the mailed packet ($75) or downloadable PDF ($55).

== Trips departing from Los Angeles explore the most stunning themed destinations. They include:

Joshua Tree Area: Desert Oddities and Curiosities — a 10-hour excursion to unexpected places in the most unforgiving environment, the desert.

Ojai: A Taste of California Sun — an eighthour day to the southern edge of a national forest, showcasing culinary delights native to California.

Santa Barbara: Hot Springs, History & Healing — hiking to hot springs and cultural, culinary and mindful experiences in a 10- hour day.

Santa Ynez Valley: “S” is For Sideways — the beauty and serenity of the region made famous in the cult wine movie, Sideways, in a 10-hour day.

Santa Ynez Valley: A Day in the “Old West” — a glimpse into the past exploring native art in a 10-hour day.

Carlsbad/Encinitas: Sushi, Self-Realization & Sunset Sips — historic beach towns known for fresh seafood, craft beer and wine, and stunning sunsets in a 10-hour day.

Malibu: Where the Sky is More Blue — a quick jaunt up and down the Pacific Coast Highway discovering iconic landmarks, local beaches and fresh catches.

In addition to surprise road trips, Hendry also provides trip planning services and ways to give back through her company’s products.

To offset as many emissions as possible created by your automobile during these excursions, One California Day donates 1% of its annual revenue to 1% For the Planet, a certification given to businesses that meet high-bar commitment in donating 1% to environmental causes. Printable materials are also responsibly sourced. One-dollar donations are also available at checkout to plant trees in your name with One Tree Planted.

“Our mission is to showcase the splendor of California through well-crafted road trip itineraries that highlight unique attractions, support local businesses, encourage responsible and sustainable travel, and ultimately spread joy,” Hendry said.

Digital gift cards are available for the

One California Day surprise guides, and the itineraries make unique corporate gifts. Each itinerary via mail comes with a series of four sealed envelopes that you open as you go to reveal the stops, which could include attractions, restaurants and other local activities; a keepsake; and a curated list of local hotels in the area of your choice. For those who don’t like surprises, the downloadable PDF reveals the entire itinerary instantaneously. Additional costs associated with your trip, reservations and hotel accommodations are not included but can be arranged by One California Day’s trip-planning service.

Trips from San Diego and San Francisco can also be purchased. For more information, visit www.onecaliforniaday.co/

Marina Del Rey promises an unforgettable experience that combines

Improving Santa Monica’s Future: A Resident-Oriented Master Plan

SMa.r.t.

Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow

Santa Monica, like many cities, requires a well-defined master plan to guide its future development and growth. A master plan is a comprehensive long-term strategy that outlines the city’s goals and objectives for various aspects of urban life, including land use, transportation, housing, infrastructure, and environmental protection. However, the extent to which such a plan has been implemented in Santa Monica remains a question worth exploring.

Why Santa Monica Needs a ResidentOriented Master Plan

To make the case for a resident-oriented master plan in Santa Monica, let’s break down the specific reasons and raise important questions:

1. Managing Growth

Significant development growth in recent years has strained Santa Monica’s infrastructure and services. A master plan can effectively manage growth by ensuring that new developments align with the city’s vision for the future. How much progress has been made in this regard? Is there a plan in place to accommodate growth while preserving existing resources and infrastructure?

2. Creating a Vision

A master plan provides a comprehensive vision for Santa Monica’s future. It identifies the city’s strengths and weaknesses and establishes goals and objectives for longterm achievement. This vision should address crucial priorities such as affordable housing, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Can residents clearly articulate the city’s vision, and is there a plan to realize it?

3. Community Engagement

Developing a master plan involves active community engagement, enabling residents and stakeholders to provide valuable input and feedback on the city’s future. This ensures that the plan reflects the needs and priorities of the community. In the absence of a master plan, has the city effectively incorporated the community’s needs into its decision-making processes?

4. Coordinating Efforts

A master plan fosters coordination among various city departments, agencies, private developers, and other stakeholders. It aligns everyone’s efforts toward a shared vision for Santa Monica’s future. Has recent development in the city demonstrated effective coordination among these different entities?

5. Environmental Sustainability

A master plan plays a critical role in ensuring Santa Monica’s growth is sustainable and environmentally responsible. It sets practical goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy,

and protecting natural resources. Has the city demonstrated a commitment to these goals by discussing and implementing initiatives that benefit all residents?

Understanding the Land Use Element and Circulation Elements (LUCE)

While Santa Monica’s Land Use and Circulation Element (LUCE) provides suggestions for land uses, transportation strategies, and housing goals, it falls short of being a comprehensive master plan. It’s important to distinguish between these planning tools:

1. Master Plan: A comprehensive, longterm plan that outlines goals and objectives for land use, transportation, housing, infrastructure, and other urban life aspects. It involves community engagement and covers a wide range of topics that affect the entire city, the residents and other directlyinterested parties.

2. Land Use Element: A specific component of a master plan focusing on land use planning. LUCE also encompasses transportation planning. It establishes policies and objectives for land use and development within the city’s boundaries, including zoning, building codes, and environmental

regulations.

While a land use element is significant, a master plan provides a more comprehensive framework, incorporating a broader range of topics and implementation mechanisms such as funding strategies, partnerships, and performance measures. Santa Monica has made progress with the former, but what about the latter?

Creating a master plan for Santa Monica requires a genuine and inclusive collaboration among city staff, residents, and other interested parties. The plan should guide the city’s growth and development in line with the needs and aspirations of its residents. Santa Monica can pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future by following a systematic, transparent process and actively engaging the community. Consider the costs of not having a master plan, and its benefits become immediately obvious.

Just one more thing. It’s common knowledge that a well-thought-out master plan takes into account the specific factors, concerns, and problems of a local area, aiming to solve them in a structured and planned way. Unfortunately, in recent years, local communities have been facing challenges

because the State has started imposing requirements that limit their ability to create plans tailored to their own unique conditions. And now, there’s talk in Sacramento about new legislation that could make things even more difficult and restrict communities from engaging in effective planning. It’s disheartening to see that at a certain point, all the efforts put into local planning, which directly impact the daily lives of thousands of residents, become irrelevant when the State controls even the smallest local decisions. It’s important to have thoughtful and detailed input, as outlined earlier, to ensure that communities have a say in shaping their own futures.

By Daniel Jansenson for SMa.r.t. (Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow)

Mario Fonda-Bonardi AIA, Planning Commissioner; Daniel Jansenson, Architect, Building & Fire-Life Safety Commissioner; Michael Jolly, AIRCRE; Thane Roberts, Architect; Robert H. Taylor, Architect AIA: Sam Tolkin, Architect

LA City Council Vote To Rescind Permission For Bulgari Hotel Deadlocks

The Controversial Resort Planned In Benedict Canyon Was Challenged

By Dolores Quintana

Council District Five City Councilmember

Katy Yaroslavsky submitted a motion “requesting the Director, Department of City Planning (DCP), to consider rescinding the initiation of a General Plan Amendment (GPA) for the Retreat at Benedict Canyon Project.” On May 16, it went up for a vote in the Los Angeles City Council Chambers.

The proposed Bulgari Resort in Benedict Canyon would be the second resort Bulgari would open in the United States and they plan on opening it in 2026. It would be a 58-suite resort with eight estates on 33 acres set in a remote area of the Santa Monica Mountains. The first resort is planned for Miami, Florida, in 2025.

There is strong opposition in the community to the resort and since it is part of Los Angeles that is in Council District 5, Councilmember Yaroslavky’s attempt to stop the project isn’t a surprise. The vote was deadlocked, with seven council members voting no and seven council members yes.

Yaroslavsky posted her speech in the city council’s chamber on Facebook after the vote, which came with a statement that said, “Today’s vote on my motion to stop the Bulgari Hotel project was a disappointing outcome, but it is not the end. The Council today, in effect, gave tacit approval to the idea that if a developer has enough money and enough lobbyists, they can build whatever they want, wherever they want.

Instead of listening to the overwhelming outpouring of community support to end

this project now, the City will now waste hundreds more hours of staff resources on a project that, on its merits, will not be approved. I thank my colleagues who stood with me today and all of my colleagues for their time and consideration of this matter.”

Yaroslavsky also referenced one of the project’s ethical issues regarding one of the lobbyists, Stacey Brenner, for the project, who was married to Shawn Bayliss, who was the Planning and Land Use Deputy for CD 5 under Paul Koretz, in her speech.

The process of approving this project is still ongoing. There will be another vote on the matter in the next week and the release of the environmental impact report from the City Council’s Planning Department.

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA  COUNTY OF LOS

Petition of: Victoria Beth Entine-Redler, by and through Victoria Beth Entine-Redler for change of name. ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

To all interested persons: Victoria Beth Entine-Redler

Petitioner: filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Victoria Beth Entine-Redler to Victoria Entine Neril

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

Photo: Rendering of the Bulgari Resort Los Angeles. Credit: Saota

Meet The Incoming President of Venice Neighborhood Council

Brian Averill Will Serve Venice As President Of The Neighborhood Council.

By Zach Armstrong

After growing up on the East Coast and graduating from New York University, Brian Averill decided to make the move to California in 2002. He is a photographer by trade. His business does shoots for sportswear, beachwear, surfing and other sporting activities. Starting in July, Averill will serve the people of Venice as president of the Neighborhood Council as he tackles issues ranging from homelessness and development.

This Q and A was edited for clarity. What is your history with the Venice Neighborhood Council?

I was a board member on the council. In 2019 I was elected. So I have been a board member, and then I ran for president this year and was elected last month.

What would you list as your top priorities of things you hope to accomplish or topics you want to focus on the most?

The previous few councils have not had a good relationship with CD 11. 90% of the motions that we pass are through CD 11. I think it’s incredibly important to nurture a healthy relationships with council member Traci Park, because if we don’t, if we don’t have a good relationship, then we’re not really going to accomplish a lot.

There’s lots of different points of view here about bigger issues. In the past, the council hasn’t really functioned to bring all those points of view together to some consensus. So that’s definitely a goal of mine, to actually represent all the different perspectives. I think when it comes down to it, 90% of us here agree on the questions. So it’s just a matter of re-emphasizing that to people, and just going about things in a more positive manner than we have in the past.

House Of Pies Developer Could Be Fined By City For Tree Removal

The Los Angeles Police Department And Other Agencies Would Levy The Fines.

By Zach Armstrong

The Venice Neighborhood Council could potentially request the City of Los Angeles enforce agencies to levy fines against the developer of The House of Pies for removing trees on public property.

Under the motion, included in the council’s most recent meeting agenda, the Department of Public Works, the Department of Building and Safety, the Coastal Commission, the Los Angeles Police Department and the County Sheriff would levy the fines sufficient to replace the trees. The owner and developer’s certificate of occupancy and building permits could also be withheld until new trees are planted.

“These trees were 30 years old, of substantial size and installed and watered by the Venice community members in conjunction with the City, State and non profits organizations

including Tree People with our tax dollars and grant funding.” the agenda item stated.

It is not immediately clear what the total of the fines may be.

This comes as the developer is under speculation of being responsible for removing sycamore trees located on a public right-ofway sidewalk along Venice Boulevard where a new House of Pies is being constructed. The trees could not legally be trimmed without a permit.

The council canceled its May 16 meeting, postponing actions to June 20 when the motion will presumably be heard.

How do you specifically look to accomplish that in your upcoming role?

It really comes down to listening to people, making sure people feel heard, making sure all these different points of view are presented to us. Then having intelligent, constructive conversations about the issues. Then coming up with some sort of middle ground that makes sense to everybody, even if everyone’s not happy with whatever motions we’re passing, at least they feel heard, and at least they understand the other side of the equation.

How has Venice changed since you’ve been here? And how do you hope that it will look in the future?

In the future, I want it to be more of a real community. Like I said, there’s many different facets and types of people that make up what makes it so great, in my opinion. So just to listen, and to respect all of those different sides of that. We also have an incredibly rich cultural history here. I think that needs to be emphasized a little bit more. And it’s in our favor to preserve that stuff.

What’s getting in the way of accomplishing that?

The issues that are dividing the community. Obviously, our big issues right now are homelessness and crime. And, understandably, those get a lot of attention. And they deserve a lot of attention because they’re very serious. But I think it’s also okay to remember what makes us so incredible. Being a multicultural community that blossomed into this neighborhood that most of us love.

L.A. Council Bans

Overnight RV Parking In Certain Mar Vista Streets

Signs Will Signal “Tow Away, No Parking” For The Oversized Vehicles.

By Zach Armstrong

The Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed a resolution, introduced by Councilwoman Traci Park, that bans oversized vehicles (In excess of 22 feet in length or over seven feet in height) from parking along certain streets in Mar Vista and Westchester

from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Restriction will be enforced on both sides of portions of six streets, including Pearl Street between Centinela Avenue and Bundy Drive; Wade Street between Palms Boulevard and the end of Wade Street; Osage Avenue between Manchester Avenue and 83rd Street; Victoria Avenue between Grand View Boulevard and Mountain View Avenue; 88th Street between Emerson Avenue and Liberator Avenue; and Penmar Avenue between Venice Boulevard and Rose Avenue.

The city’s Department of Transportation will post signs signaling “tow away, no parking” restrictions for the oversized vehicles

VOLLEYBALL CAMP BEACH

SUMMER 2023

Week: $330

Day Rate: $80

Nick the Greek Expands Health-Focused Chain with New Marina Del Rey Store

The Menu Will Feature “Flavorful Rotisserie Meats, Charbroiled Skewers, Zesty Sauces, And Fresh Vegetables.

Nick the Greek, a fast-growing familyowned and operated chain known for its health-focused approach, is preparing to open another Southern California store. The new location will be situated at 4254 Lincoln Boulevard in Marina Del Rey.

Hany Ghattas, the proprietor of Nick the Greek’s recently launched West Hollywood establishment, will own and operate the upcoming Marina Del Rey outpost.

With a menu featuring “flavorful rotisserie meats, charbroiled skewers, zesty sauces,

and fresh vegetables,” Nick the Greek has established itself as a nutritious and satisfying dining option that never compromises on taste or satiety.

The company is rapidly expanding its presence across Northern and Southern California, with nearly 30 additional branches in the pipeline.

According to founder Nick Tsigaris who spoke with What Now Los Angeles, the Marina Del Rey franchise is scheduled to open this summer, further solidifying Nick the Greek’s growing footprint in the region.

Three Venice High School Seniors To Play College Football in The Fall

Camp Dates: June 12 - Aug 18, 2023 Time: 9:00am-12:00pm

Location: Will Rodgers State Beach in Pacific Palisades

Registration Opens: April 1

Registration Link: https://sunshinevolleyball.sportngin.com/ register/form/541609047

Registration Site: SunshineVolleyballClub.com

The Impressive Athletes That Helped The Team Are Moving Their Talents Somewhere Else.

By Zach Armstrong

Venice High School excels in sports as it does in academics, having produced eight graduates that appeared in Major League Baseball and NFL games in the last two decades. This past season, the Gondolier football team finished strong with a 8-3 record until losing in the playoffs.

Some of the impressive athletes that helped the team strong are moving their talents somewhere else after graduation. Here are the Gondolier football players who are set to play college football in the fall of 2023.

Rashawn Jackson (Wide Receiver) will be playing football at the University of

Nevada at Las Vegas as a Rebel. According to MaxPreps, Jackson had 1,043 receiving yards, 53 receptions and 22 touchdowns during the 2022-2023 season.

Robert Lamar (Running Back) will be playing football at Davidson College as a Wildcat. According to MaxPreps, Lamar carried 770 yards and had 5 touchdowns during the 2022-2023 season.

Oliver Welch (Defensive Back) will be playing football at University of Colorado, Pueblo as a ThunderWolve. According to MaxPreps, Welch had 39 tackles, four interceptions and two caused fumbles during the 2022-2023 season.

The Dodgers Reinstate LGBTQ+ Group’s Invitation and Honor At Dodger Pride Night

The Sisters Of Perpetual

Indulgence

Accepted The Baseball Team’s Apology

By Dolores Quintana

This morning, The Los Angeles Dodgers issued a statement and an apology to the LGBTQ group, The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. The Major League Baseball organization and Los Angeles team decided to disinvite The Sisters on May 17, who were to attend to receive the Community Hero award for their local services to the community, as we reported last week.

The apology and re-invitation were released to the public via the team’s social media pages yesterday and said, “After much thoughtful feedback from our diverse communities, honest conversations within the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, and generous discussions with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the Los Angeles Dodgers would like to offer our sincerest apologies to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, members of the LGBTQ+ community and their friends and families.

We have asked the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to take their place on the field at our 10th annual LGBTQ+ Pride Night on June 16th. We are pleased to share that they have agreed to receive the gratitude of our collective communities for the lifesaving work that they have done tirelessly for decades.

In the weeks ahead, we will continue to work with our LGBTQ+ partners to better educate ourselves, find ways to strengthen the

ties that bind, and use our platform to support all of our fans who make up the diversity of the Dodgers family.”

The teams also made a commitment to grow from the experience and better work with the LGBTQ+ community.

The Sisters’ response was released this morning on their social media, and it said, “We, the Los Angeles Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, are proud to accept the Community Hero Award from the Los Angeles Dodgers for our twenty-seven years of service to the LGBTQIA2S Community.

This morning our Abbess, Sister Dominia, and another Board member, Sister Bearonce Knows, met with the Dodgers President and CEO Stan Kasten, heads of leading Los Angeles LGBT community organizations, and members of government from West Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and the State of California Legislature.

A full apology and explanation were given to us by the Dodgers staff, which we accept. We believe the apology is sincere because the Dodgers have worked for 10 years with our community, and as well they have asked us to continue an ongoing relationship with them. In the future, if similar pressures from outside our community arise, our two organizations will consult and assist each other in responding, alongside our colleagues at the Los Angeles LGBT Center and others from the LGBTQIA2S community, now more closely tied with the LA Dodgers than ever before.

This affair has been an opportunity for learning with a silver lining. Our group has been strengthened, protected, and uplifted to a position where we may now offer our message of hope and joy to far more people than before. With great love and respect, we thank each person and each organization that have spoken up for us. Thank you, and may your hearts be blessed with pure joy.

May the games be blessed!

May the players be blessed!

May the fans be blessed!

May the beer and hot dogs flow forth in tasty abundance!”

Three major groups reacted immediately to The Dodger’s decision last week, strongly supported the Sisters, and said they would not attend Dodger Pride Night without them. Today, those three groups reversed their decisions.

The Los Angeles LGBT Center responded via its website. Their response said, “Today’s decision by the Dodgers to publicly apologize to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and roll back their exclusion from next month’s Pride Night is a step in the right direction, and we support the Sisters’ vote to accept their much-deserved Community Hero Award.

Last week’s debacle underscores the dangerous impact of political tactics by those who seek to stoke the flames of anti-LGBTQ bias at a time when our rights are under attack. We must continue to stand together as a community in defense of the rights and recognition of LGBTQ+ people in Los Angeles and beyond.

The Center is filled with gratitude to our Los Angeles community, who mobilized to support the Sisters, all of which compelled the Dodgers to ultimately do right by LGBTQ+ people everywhere. We are proud to stand with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and will join them at Pride Night to honor their many important contributions to our movement.

The Dodgers’ course correction and the conversations we have had with the

organization’s leadership since last week demonstrate the version of allyship we have come to expect from the team over the years. The Center will always strive to hold our corporate partners accountable—which means so much more than waving a rainbow flag.”

LA Pride, the LGBTQ+ group that heads up and organizes the Los Angeles Pride and was a partner with The Dodgers in their Pride event until the disinvitation, also responded via social media. Their statement said, “The Los Angeles Dodgers have taken a good first step towards their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community by renewing their invite to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence at next month’s Pride Night.

We fully support the Sisters receiving their much-deserved Community Hero Award and will stand in solidarity with them at Pride Night. They continue to inspire us with their grace. We are always stronger when we stand together.”

The ACLU of Southern California also accepted the olive branch and issued this statement today via social media, “The @ LADragnuns have displayed heroic courage in service to the LGBTQ community.

We’re grateful for the @Dodgers’s apology and re-invitation to the Sisters. In unity, we will join them at Pride Night.

LGBTQ families deserve love, care, and joy. We the people means all of us.”

Medical Office Building On Arizona Avenue Sells

For

Almost $5M

Downtown Santa Monica Property Is Located At 520 Arizona Avenue

Avison Young, a real estate firm, announced the completion of the sale of a 3,049-square-

foot medical office building located at 520 Arizona Avenue in downtown Santa Monica.

The transaction, valued at just under $5 million, was facilitated by Mitch Stokes, a principal at Avison Young based in the firm’s West Los Angeles office. Stokes acted as the sole broker in the deal. The seller of the property was 520 Arizona Ave. LLC, while the buyer was US 528 Arizona Owner, LLC.

Stokes stated, “This property is strategically situated in downtown Santa Monica and

was acquired as part of a land assemblage for a mixed-use project. The buyer needed additional time to assess and evaluate the feasibility of the new development, which resulted in an extended escrow period. We are pleased to announce the successful closing of this transaction.”

It is worth noting that the initial listing was handled by Stokes during his tenure with Madison Partners.

As Federal Covid Reporting Comes To An End, LA County Reporting Will Continue LA

County Will Still Monitor Covid Transmission Trends And Severity

By Dolores Quintana

The Federal Covid Public Health Emergency officially ended on Thursday, May 11, and with the end of that declaration, Federal Covid reporting ended after 97 weeks. However, Los Angeles County Public Health has announced that they will still collect and monitor local Covid information and trends in an effort to continue to protect the vulnerable citizens of the county.

According to their press release, Los

Angeles County Health intends to use “timely local data will be used to identify trends and provide appropriate guidance and resources, giving residents the tools to make informed decisions about personal and community risk when needed. Public Health will utilize the CDC’s hospital admission levels and guidance to inform Los Angeles County’s local public health response.

In alignment with CDC, Public Health views hospitalization data as an important metric to track the severity of illness and the healthcare system’s capacity. Because hospitalization data is a lagging indicator, meaning it may take a few weeks of increased transmission for the count of hospitalized patients to increase, Public Health will also monitor other measures that reflect transmission levels.”

Weekly reporting of COVID-19 case counts, wastewater levels, and the percentage of COVID-related emergency department visits will continue. They will also track the seven Early Alert Signals, which are the warning signs of a major increase in the severity and increases of transmission of Covid among the local population. Some of

these indicators are increases in infections in nursing homes and among centers that render services to the unhoused.

Residents who want to observe the data can go to the Covid Response Plan website for Los Angeles County. LA County Health also stressed that vaccination is still one of the best tools to avoid Covid infection. Everyone ages six months and older should have at least one dose of the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine, which provides substantial protection against newer Omicron strains.

Residents can visit VaccinateLACounty.com or VacunateLosAngeles.com (en español) to find a vaccination location near them.

For the week ending 05/17/2023, these are the Covid totals for Los Angeles County:

Weekly cases reported: 2,323

SARS-CoV-2 wastewater concentration as a percentage of the Winter 2022-2023 peak concentration value: 10%

The 7-day average of the percent of Emergency Department (ED) encounters classified as coronavirus-related: 3%

The 7-day average number of COVIDpositive hospitalizations: 222

Weekly deaths reported: 20

The report also notes that “Case counts are an underrepresentation of the true number of infections, largely due to home tests which are not reported to DPH. Despite this, the trend in reported case counts from week to week is still an indicator of overall trends in transmission. Due to a transition in data source necessitated by the end of the federal public health emergency, this value represents the average number of hospitalizations for the 7-day period ending 5/14/23, rather than 5/16/23.”

Yoga Studio Event Aims To Inspire Kids

To Relax Mind, Body

and Soul

Event Offers

A Range Of Activities Aimed At Inspiring Children’s Fitness

Kids Wellness Day will take place at the AZ I AM Yoga studio in Santa Monica on Sunday, May 28th, from 1pm to 4pm.

The event offers a range of activities aimed at inspiring children’s fitness and wellness goals while promoting relaxation of the mind, body, and soul. Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in healthy treats, participate in free yoga and dance sessions, and explore a variety of discounted offerings, including fitness apparel at 70% off, crystals,

gemstones, geodes, mats, jewelry, malas, children’s books, and accessories at 25% off the retail price.

During the event, Alanna Zabel, the founder of AZ I AM, will read from her newly released children’s book, “Dharma Kitty Goes to Mars!”. By reserving your ticket, you will receive a link to book complimentary classes for the day of the event. Attendees are asked to bring their own yoga mats, although mats can be rented for $2.

There is a 90-minute free Santa Monica Public Parking structure located directly across the street from our studio.

For more information or to reserve a spot, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kids-wellnessday-at-az-i-am-free-classes-wellness-soundbath-more-tickets-636854588217.

Santa Monica Photographer Carol Summers

Captures Scenic, Colorful, and Compelling, Shots Dynamic, Colorful, Inspiring and Lovely Photos

Dynamic, colorful, inspiring and lovely.

Those are some words that describe the images found on Naturescape Photography from Santa Monica photographer Carol Summers.

At the age of 10, Carol could be seen with a camera around her neck, having a lot of fun, taking pictures of people and places. While being a script supervisor on various television shows was her primary career for many years, she returned to her life-long interest in photography and turned it into a successful business.

Naturescape Photography hosts a bountiful collection of 60+ photos for sale, taken in many different locations, including Santa Monica, Central California, Canada and the UK.

On a quick trip up the coast to Central California and the coastal city of Pacific Grove, Carol captured lots of fascinating images full of serenely scenic color and drama.

“If a location is popular with tourists and locals, you can assume that everyone has taken their picture of it. I create my version of the scene, which hopefully will stand out from others. It’s very satisfying as a photographer when people take a longer look at my images and ask questions about the story behind it. I don’t want a photo to be of something — I want it to be about something,” Carol explained.

Her photographs, such as “Crashing Waves on Asilomar State Beach” or the mesmerizing jellyfish images at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, evoke feelings of power, beauty, and even meditation. Carol discovered a love for aquariums and sea life behind the glass, which differ from her coastal favorites, but still capture her love of color, detail and mood.

“Rainbow Reef” at Ripley’s Aquarium of Toronto is a gorgeous display of eco-friendly sea life with a million moving parts. The sand tiger shark image showcases the strength of that life within the aquarium. The Pacific sea nettle jellyfish ignite a wonderous and colorful power and beauty, although you don’t want to be stung by them!

“Obviously, you can’t control every variable to make that ‘perfect photo,’ which, in the end, is largely subjective. But you learn to take advantage of what you can control, especially when you’re only at a location for a short time,” she said. “My favorite outdoor images are often the ones taken in dramatic weather –drizzly, windy, overcast, moody.”

While Carol loves her Fujifilm camera, she found a saving grace in her iPhone 14 Pro Max for those captures she would have missed when not having her camera nearby.

“The raw files that I get from the iPhone are full of detail that makes them easy to work with If I don’t have my camera, I always have my iPhone,” she said.

A long-time photography enthusiast, she likes to stay up to date with editing software, watch video tutorials, and take the occasional peek at what other photographers are doing.

“We all try to creatively capture and preserve stories in the form of images that will last for a very long time,” she said.

The landscape prints can be purchased from naturescape-photography.com, where you

can check out all the details. They could be a great complement to your home space, workspace, or commercial/residential staging space.

You may also contact Carol by email or by using the QR codes below: