About Us
Founded in 2001 by Ross Furukawa, Dave Danforth, and Carolyn Sackariason—journalists with deep experience shaping the Aspen Daily News, Palo Alto Daily News, San Mateo Daily News, Burlingame Daily News, Redwood City Daily News, Conway Daily Sun and the Aspen Times, the Santa Monica Daily Press (SMDP) was created to serve a vibrant, complex city facing challenges and opportunities much like Aspen, Silicon Valley and the ski towns of New Hampshire. With housing issues, a deep divide over the city’s future, reliance on tourism, and an engaged, educated community, Santa Monica needed a dedicated, thoughtful news outlet. The SMDP rose to the occasion, becoming the go-to source for independent, balanced, and accurate reporting.
In 2019, Todd James joined as a partner, marking a new era of transformation. Carolyn Sackariason exited, and Todd and Ross set the sails toward an innovative future. Committed to meeting readers where they are, the SMDP rebuilt its technology stack, partnered with the Google News Initiative, and participated in multiple accelerators to future-proof the publication. By embracing digital tools and expanding platforms, SMDP remains at the forefront of local journalism in an ever-changing media landscape.
The Santa Monica Daily Press isn’t just the city’s primary source of news—it’s also the most effective advertising platform for local businesses to reach their best customers: those who live, work, and visit in Santa Monica. We believe deeply in the power of community and the idea that people care most about what’s happening close to home. Through this hyper-local focus, SMDP captures the attention of residents, workers, and visitors alike, making it an unparalleled resource for businesses that understand that local customers are the most valuable.
We offer a robust suite of advertising solutions, including:
Social Media & Podcasts: Dynamic platforms to engage audiences and extend your reach.
SMDP’s success is rooted in community support. Through our membership programs, we deepen connections with local residents who care about quality journalism. Members enjoy exclusive benefits, special offers, and opportunities to engage more meaningfully in the life of our unique city. This strong local support ensures that SMDP continues to thrive as both a trusted news source and a champion of the Santa Monica community.
Policies and Standards
The Daily Press strives to produce a newspaper that is fair, accurate and free from bias. We strenuously avoid the use of unnamed sources except in cases where personal safety is involved. We fact check and seek out multiple sources in our reporting.
We promptly correct significant errors brought to the attention of the editor. Online stories are corrected immediately after an error has been found. Stories containing a material error will have a correction published in the next print edition and immediately in our digital platforms.
To submit a correction, please email editor@smdp.com
Submitting Your Opinion
Opinions expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Santa Monica Daily Press staff. Letters will be published at the discretion of the paper and on a space-available basis. All letters and guest editorials are subject to editing for space and content. Preference will be given to those that are emailed to letters@smdp.com. All letters must include the author’s name, address and telephone number.
Submitting News Tips
Some of our best stories come from you, our readers! If you have a great story idea or are curious about something happening in Santa Monica, please share it with us by filling out this form. Be sure to include any details, such as contacts, references, or other information that could help our reporters investigate and bring the story to life. We appreciate your input!
Copyright © 2025 SMDP. All Rights Reserved.