Ursula’s Costumes Closure
Ursula’s Costumes, a renowned local wardrobe store, is on the brink of closure. The owner, Ursula Boschet, anticipates shutting down permanently and has initiated a “Closing Down Sale.” The store is a fascinating experience akin to a Hollywood wardrobe museum, offering a vast array of costumes and accessories spanning different eras and cinematic chapters.
City Hall Mural Controversy
Santa Monica City Hall discussed its controversial 1939 murals by Stanton Macdonald-Wright. The depictions of Native Americans sparked a recent dispute over historical framing. The City Council unanimously approved the Reframe: City Hall Mural project, initiating the implementation phase to address concerns. New artwork and expanded signage were part of the proposed changes.
Support for Bergamot Station Arts Center
Santa Monica City Council unanimously approved an economic support program for Bergamot Station Arts Center, intending to maintain its role as a cultural hub. Specific measures were yet to be confirmed, but strong public input indicated the community’s concern for the center’s future.
Traffic Chaos Due to Parking Garage Fire
Downtown Santa Monica experienced traffic chaos as a block of 5th Street closed for a parking garage fire investigation. Black smoke emerged, leading to a two-hour street closure. Emergency services responded to a reported car fire, later upgraded to a “structure assignment” by the Fire Department.
Storm Alert and Safety Advisory
The area faced a strong storm with heavy rain, mountain snow, and potential hazards like flooding, rock slides, and power outages. The advisory recommended staying safe, avoiding low-lying areas, and being prepared for coastal flood impacts during the storm’s peak.
Citywide Rent Registry Proposal
Santa Monica considered creating a Citywide Rent Registry to track all rental units, including both controlled and market-rate options. The registry aimed to monitor rent increases, ensure compliance with rent ordinances, and provide regular data updates to both owners and tenants.
Sunset Vibes Silent Disco at The Waterfront Venice
Adam Malovani organized the Sunset Vibes silent disco at The Waterfront Venice, transforming beachside entertainment. Participants wore wireless headphones connected to various DJ channels, offering a personalized musical experience. The silent disco trend had gained popularity for its immersive and diverse music offerings.
Samohi Performing Arts Presents The Phantom of the Opera
Barnum Hall transformed into the Paris Opera House as Samohi Performing Arts presented The Phantom of the Opera. Directed by Jeffe Huls, the musical showcased the students’ theatrical, visual, and audio talents, promising a spectacular performance.
Wonderful Pistachios Get Crackin’ Eating Championship
Pacific Park will host the second-annual Wonderful Pistachios Get Crackin’ Eating Championship, featuring competitive eaters like Joey Chestnut. The event, coinciding with World Pistachio Day, challenges participants to ingest large quantities of pistachios in a unique and entertaining competition.
Barefoot Dutchman’s Cross-Country Trek for Mental Health
Anton Nootenboom, known as “The Barefoot Dutchman,” embarked on a 3,000-mile cross-country trek from Santa Monica to New York City. Walking barefoot, he raised awareness and funds for male mental health through the #BraveMenTalk campaign, supporting charities like Movember and We Are Mind.
Burger King’s Million Dollar Whopper World Pop-Up
Burger King hosted the Million Dollar Whopper World pop-up on the Santa Monica Pier, offering a unique experience with games, DJ sets, and the unveiling of the exclusive Santa Monica Whopper. The event promoted the Million Dollar Whopper competition, encouraging fans to suggest their dream Whopper sandwich.
Saint Monica Athletics Semi-Final Outcomes
Saint Monica’s girls soccer and girls basketball teams faced semi-final defeats in their respective CIF Southern Section championships, marking the end of impressive runs. The soccer team’s 20-game winning streak concluded with a 3-2 loss to Maranatha.
SMMUSD’s Mid-Year Update on Learning Goals
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District received a mid-year update on the Local Control and Accountability Plan, focusing on goals related to college readiness and social justice. The report detailed progress, expenses, and priorities, including a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.
Clean California Initiative’s Edu-tainment Collaboration
The California Department of Transportation collaborated with the Los Angeles County Central Library Children’s Division to educate children about the Clean California initiative. A coloring book titled It’s Our Home Too! was distributed to libraries, enhancing environmental awareness and promoting community engagement in litter reduction efforts.
ross@smdp.com