Hands Off the Phone: SMPD Launches Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign 3:13 AM (last hour)
One Text Could Cost You: SMPD Goes Into Heightened Alert in April
The Santa Monica Police Department is stepping up enforcement efforts throughout April to crack down on distracted driving. As part of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the department urges motorists to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.
Officers will be on heightened alert for drivers violating California’s hands-free cell phone law. This law prohibits holding or using electronic devices while behind the wheel—even when stopped at a red light. Repeat offenders may face increased penalties, including points on their driving record.
“Staying focused behind the wheel is something we can all do,” the department said in a statement. “Distracted driving is not only risky — it is deadly.”
The enforcement push comes amid growing concerns over the dangers of distracted driving. According to the 2024 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, 74% of respondents cited texting while driving as their top traffic safety concern. In 2022, 148 people were killed in crashes involving distracted drivers across the state. Authorities believe the actual number is likely higher, as a distraction is often difficult to confirm after a collision.
Common distractions while driving include texting, eating, adjusting the radio, and using apps. Officers are reminding drivers that even a brief lapse in attention can have devastating consequences.
To promote safer driving habits, the department is encouraging motorists to follow a few key steps:
- Silence notifications and keep phones out of reach.
- Program GPS and adjust settings before starting the car.
- Avoid eating, grooming, or multitasking while driving.
- Set an example for others, especially teen drivers.
- Speak up as a passenger if the driver becomes distracted.
- Pull over to a safe location if urgent matters arise.
Funding for the initiative is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Board of Supervisors Votes to Break from LAHSA, Create Independent County Homeless Department 1:29 AM (3 hours ago)
With Billions on the Line, LA County Moves to Centralize Homeless Response
Los Angeles County is making a dramatic shift in how it addresses homelessness. On Tuesday, the County Board of Supervisors voted to establish a new standalone department tasked with overseeing regional homeless services. The move will ultimately redirect hundreds of millions of dollars away from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), a joint city-county agency that has long been criticized for inefficiencies and a lack of financial accountability.
The Board of Supervisors approved the measure in a 4-0 vote, paving the way for the new department to take over funding and service coordination by July 1, 2026. The announcement coincided with the implementation of a new half-cent countywide sales tax increase under Measure A, which raises the rate from 9.5% to 9.75%. That tax is expected to generate $1 billion annually for homelessness prevention and housing services.
Under the approved plan, LAHSA will gradually lose its funding, with roughly $300 million set to be reallocated to the new department over the next two years. Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, who led the initiative, said the department will be modeled after the county’s Department of Health Services Housing for Health program, which she touted as having the highest success rate for housing placements.
“Los Angeles County is leaving the status quo behind and embracing a model for homeless services that centers accountability and results,” Horvath said in a statement. “This isn’t making the system bigger; it’s making it work better, which our communities have been demanding for years.”
Supervisors Janice Hahn, Kathryn Barger, and Hilda Solis joined Horvath in supporting the measure, while Supervisor Holly Mitchell sat the vote out without taking a side.
The decision drew criticism from several Los Angeles City Council members, who expressed concern that dismantling LAHSA would jeopardize recent progress made in addressing the homelessness crisis. Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, whose district includes parts of West Los Angeles, warned against fracturing collaboration at a time when federal support is diminishing.
“When the federal government is taking everything away, we need to be united,” Yaroslavsky said.
Councilmembers Monica Rodriguez and Nithya Raman, along with Mayor Karen Bass, also opposed the plan. In a letter to the board, Bass and Raman argued that LAHSA had made measurable strides over the past two years and cautioned against unraveling the city-county partnership.
“We must keep building on this and confronting our challenges together,” they wrote.
Despite the pushback, the county is moving forward with plans to establish the new agency by January 1, 2026, setting the stage for a full transition of services and funding from LAHSA by the following July.
Montalvo Custom Tailors Offers Complimentary Wardrobe Recovery Services to Fire Victims 1:09 AM (3 hours ago)
Tailoring Confidence: Montalvo Helps Residents Rebuild Wardrobes with Grace
Montalvo Custom Tailors, a staple of luxury menswear in Los Angeles since 1988, is stepping in to assist clients affected by recent fires by offering complimentary wardrobe consultations and priority tailoring services to those who lost essential clothing.
The family-run business, originally founded on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica, has since relocated to Brentwood, where it continues to serve a high-profile clientele that includes actors, executives, and professionals.
Third-generation owner Nader Astanboos, who succeeded his father Esmail Astanboos and who now operates the business alongside his brother Naseer, says the shop’s mission is rooted in personal service, precision craftsmanship, and community support.
Montalvo Custom Tailors is now offering specialized wardrobe recovery services to help clients rebuild their personal collections.
The longtime menswear institution is extending complimentary wardrobe consultations, priority tailoring for urgently needed items, and the recreation of bespoke garments previously crafted for clients using original patterns and fabrics when available.
“When people lose everything, rebuilding starts with the essentials,” stated Nader Astanboos. “Clothing plays a crucial role in personal identity and professional presence. We are honored to help our clients restore their wardrobes with pieces that fit not only their bodies but also their lives.”
Montalvo’s offerings include custom alterations, bespoke suits and shirts, and ready-to-wear garments from their in-house label, Boos Boos Denim. All garments are crafted on-site with a focus on blending timeless elegance and modern sophistication.
“We understand that a well-curated wardrobe is more than just fashion — it’s an expression of identity, confidence, and professionalism,” said Nader Astanboos, third-generation owner of Montalvo Custom Tailors.
The tailoring house has become a go-to for Hollywood. Astanboos personally tailors for Tom Hanks and has worked with other notable names, including Judge Judy. Despite the celebrity clientele, Montalvo maintains a commitment to personalized attention for every customer.
“At Montalvo, we believe that a well-tailored wardrobe is more than just clothing—it’s an expression of self, confidence, and heritage. We take pride in preserving the art of bespoke tailoring while adapting to the needs of our community.”
Caruso Sets Expected Timeline for Palisades Village Reopening: Report 1 Apr 11:46 PM (4 hours ago)
Caruso recently told a local outlet that bringing life back to the village is essential
Palisades Village remains closed in the wake of January’s wildfires, but owner Rick Caruso has plans to reopen.
“We need to wait until the area is safe, roads are clear, and everything is refreshed,” Caruso recently told local news outlet ABC7. “The plan is to be ready by the beginning of next year.”
The upscale retail hub was largely unscathed by the disaster, thanks in part to private fire crews and water tenders brought in by Caruso’s company. However, surrounding neighborhoods were decimated, making reopening a complex process.
While the timeline may seem ambitious given the extent of the destruction, Caruso told the local outlet that bringing life back to the village is essential for the community’s recovery.
Palisades Village, which opened in 2018 using fire-resistant materials, served as an independent operation during the blaze, even loaning equipment to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Some tenants may not return, but Caruso expects most businesses to reopen.
Data from Palisades Village as reported by ABC7 shows 35% of its regular customers lost homes, but 65% live outside the area.
County Moves to Clear Fire Debris from Unresponsive Properties 1 Apr 11:40 PM (4 hours ago)
The County plans to launch additional efforts, using data and community partners to reach roughly 1,000 unresponsive owners
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a motion Tuesday to remove fire debris from properties where owners have not responded to cleanup efforts following January’s wildfires, Supervisor Lindsey Horvath announced.
Introduced by Horvath and Board Chair Kathryn Barger, the motion allows the County to step in and clear hazardous debris from non-responsive properties, particularly those near Pacific Coast Highway where structural instability and ocean pollution remain concerns. The Department of Public Works will also coordinate with the City of Malibu to address debris removal in coastal areas.
“Every property left uncleared is a threat to safety, the environment, and our ability to recover,” Horvath said. “With summer tides approaching and unstable structures near PCH, we cannot afford delays.”
The motion extends the deadline for property owners to submit Right of Entry (ROE) forms to April 15. The County plans to launch additional outreach efforts, using FEMA data and community partners to reach roughly 1,000 unresponsive property owners. More than 11,000 have already submitted forms to opt in or out of the government’s Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) program, which is federally funded and incurs no out-of-pocket costs for participants.
Board Chair Barger emphasized the need for clear communication and a balance between enforcement and support. “While they have the right to use private contractors or participate in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ program, we need their decision to move forward,” she said.
County officials will submit a report within seven days outlining their plan to ensure all properties are cleared. The report will include a timeline, abatement procedures, and potential enforcement measures for properties that remain uncleared beyond the deadline.
County Report Finds Malibu School District Proposal Fails to Meet Standards: SMMUSD 1 Apr 10:11 PM (6 hours ago)
The LACOE feasibility study stems from a 2017 petition by the City of Malibu to form its own school district from SMMUSD territory
A newly released feasibility study has determined that a proposal to establish a standalone Malibu Unified School District does not meet eight of nine California state criteria required for independence, according to a detailed report from the Los Angeles County Office of Education Division of Business Advisory Services.
The study, which stems from a 2017 petition by the City of Malibu to form its own school district from SMMUSD territory, warns that separating Malibu from the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District would have a significant negative fiscal impact on the remaining Santa Monica USD.
The report will be discussed at a County Committee meeting on April 2 at 9:30 a.m., either in person or via Zoom.
The LACOE study analyzes the nine state-mandated conditions, finding that the proposed Malibu USD would not maintain the required 1,501-student minimum, with current enrollment at 1,063, per LACOE’s Average Daily Attendance data. It notes Malibu’s 70-year history within SMMUSD undermines claims of a separate identity, and unresolved financial divisions raise solvency concerns, according to the SSC analysis in the LACOE report. The study also warns of ethnic shifts, increased state costs, program disruptions, and rising facilities expenses, while fiscal management would suffer, particularly for Santa Monica USD, as detailed in the LACOE and SSC findings. The only condition met is that the proposal isn’t primarily about property values, though values might rise, the LACOE report states.
The only condition met, per the LACOE report, is that the proposal is not primarily designed to increase property values. While Malibu’s already high property values might rise further, the study finds no evidence that this is the driving motive behind the City of Malibu’s petition.
The SMMUSD Board of Education, as stated in their announcement, has consistently opposed the 2017 petition, aligning with the LACOE findings.
“This report mirrors concerns repeatedly expressed by the SMMUSD Board,” the email notes, emphasizing years of mediation to find a fair solution. Jon Kean, a board member, underscored this effort in the announcement, saying, “We have worked diligently for years toward a fair, equitable and viable solution to unification.” He added that the board plans to discuss three mediated agreements on April 23, 2025, urging collaboration over conflict, according to the SMMUSD email.
LACOE staff recommends that the County Committee deny the petition on April 2, as outlined in the feasibility study. If denied, Malibu or other parties could appeal to the SBE; if approved, SBE review would still be required, the LACOE report explains.
Nonprofit Warns of Heavy Metal Contamination in Santa Monica Bay 1 Apr 8:59 PM (7 hours ago)
The contamination is linked to storm runoff carrying toxic debris from burned structures and scorched land in the Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu
Marine life in Santa Monica Bay faces significant risks from heavy metals that leached into the water following January’s Palisades wildfires, according to new water-quality testing results released by environmental nonprofit Heal the Bay.
Testing conducted at 10 sites across the bay found elevated levels of beryllium, copper, chromium, nickel, lead, silver, arsenic, and zinc, among other contaminants. Heal the Bay scientists warn that these metals, even in low concentrations, can disrupt biological processes, damage cells, and harm reproductive and immune functions in marine species. Additionally, pollutants can accumulate through the food chain, posing potential risks to humans who consume contaminated seafood.
While initial fears of immediate human health risks from runoff pollution were eased by the findings, Heal the Bay remains cautious. “We cannot definitively say that the water is safe until we have additional data and risk-thresholds for recreational contact,” the organization stated.
The contamination is linked to storm runoff carrying toxic debris from burned structures and scorched land in the Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Waves lapping against fire-damaged buildings along Pacific Coast Highway continue to introduce harmful metals into the ocean.
Heal the Bay is urging authorities to accelerate the removal of fire-related debris along the shoreline. Delays have persisted, with 45 homeowners opting out of federal cleanup programs and nearly 100 failing to respond. “Every day that hazardous debris remains along the coast, more harmful contaminants flow into the sea,” said Tracy Quinn, Heal the Bay’s president and CEO.
Areas showing the highest levels of contamination include Topanga Beach, Malibu’s Big Rock section, and Will Rogers State Beach. However, Santa Monica Pier and Dockweiler State Beach also showed increased heavy metal levels, indicating a need for further investigation into contaminant movement offshore.
Though current conditions remain uncertain, Heal the Bay recommends that beachgoers avoid fire-impacted areas, including those south of Montana Avenue in Santa Monica, until more comprehensive testing is completed.
(Video) Spending an Afternoon at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier 1 Apr 7:03 AM (21 hours ago)
Go To Pacpark.com For Tickets and More Information.
Go To https://t.co/PUWlOc89JQ For Tickets and More Information.#amusementpark #rides #rollercoaster #summer #spring #santamonica #losangeles #california #fun #summervacation pic.twitter.com/ngVx0TNuId
— Santa Monica Mirror (@SMMirror) April 1, 2025
Matū Kai to Debut in Brentwood With Grass Fed Wagyu and Global Flair This Week 1 Apr 4:44 AM (23 hours ago)
Farm-To-Fork Beef, Wood-Fired Flavors, and Sustainability Meet on San Vicente
The team behind Beverly Hills’ acclaimed steakhouse Matū will soon expand west with the debut of Matū Kai, a new steak restaurant at 11777 San Vicente Boulevard in Brentwood. The restaurant, which will open on April 6, is dedicated exclusively to serving 100% grass-fed Wagyu beef from New Zealand’s First Light Farms.
“Matū Kai is, in many ways, Matū’s twin—they share the same DNA—but just like twins, they each have their own identity,” said co-founder Jerry A. Greenberg. “Here, we’re able to push the creative boundaries of how we prepare and serve our Wagyu offerings while maintaining a clear focus on sustainability and trust.”
Matū Kai is the latest concept from a team deeply invested in the source of its ingredients. Greenberg, who also co-founded HiHo Cheeseburger, is a longtime partner of First Light Farms and recently became a direct owner in Ngaruru, a farm within the First Light collective. This level of vertical integration gives the team full oversight of the entire beef supply chain—from pasture to plate—and ensures quality, humane treatment of animals, and regenerative farming practices.
The name “Matū Kai” draws inspiration from Māori, with “Matū” meaning essence or richness and “Kai” meaning to eat or devour. The restaurant honors both its New Zealand roots and the Japanese heritage of Wagyu, offering curated multi-course Wagyu dinners that showcase a variety of cuts prepared with techniques such as wood-fired grilling and plancha searing.
Exclusive to Matū Kai, guests can expect dishes like ribeye and New York brochettes with harissa spice, tenderloin satay with Crying Tiger sauce, spiced tahini Caesar salad, Wagyu meatballs in pomodoro sauce, and handmade maltagliati pasta tossed in ribeye ragù.
“The depth and complexity of First Light’s Wagyu comes from nature,” said co-founder Scott Linder. “It doesn’t need aging or sauces—just salt, pepper, and heat.”
Designed by architect Robert Tsurimoto Kirsten of A-RTK, the 75-seat restaurant transforms a former bank space with warm touches of walnut, bronze, blackened steel, and exposed brick. A bronze-clad bar offers lounge seating and will serve Cheesesteaks by Matū during dinner hours. A private dining room for 35 guests and an open dining room with patio views round out the design.
Reservations are available on Seven Rooms here, but the bar will remain open to walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis. Lunch service is expected to launch in the coming weeks. Matū’s Cheesesteaks is well known for its excellence in Beverly Hills and on the Westside.
Matū Kai 11777 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 134, and is open Monday–Thursday, 5:30–10 p.m., Friday–Sunday, 5–10 p.m. Valet parking is available during dinner
The Michelin Guide has previously recognized Matū for its thoughtful approach to steak and its commitment to responsible sourcing. Matū Kai continues that tradition, bringing health, flavor, and environmental stewardship to the Brentwood dining scene.
USC Launches Free Soil Testing to Assess Post-Fire Contamination 31 Mar 10:59 PM (yesterday, 10:59 pm)
Residents Can Submit Samples to Check for Lead and Other Toxins
A new program led by researchers at the University of Southern California (USC) is offering free soil testing to Los Angeles residents affected by recent wildfires. The initiative, known as the Contaminant Level Evaluation & Analysis for Neighborhoods (CLEAN) project, aims to assess whether lead and other toxic contaminants are present in fire-impacted areas.
The program comes in response to concerns that burned structures—many coated with lead-based paint—may have released hazardous materials into the surrounding soil. Despite these risks, federal agencies have opted not to conduct post-fire soil testing, leaving homeowners, businesses, and schools responsible for identifying potential contamination.
“Wildfires leave behind more than just destruction—they can create long-term environmental hazards,” said Josh West, professor of Earth sciences and environmental studies at USC Dornsife. “With agencies skipping post-cleanup soil testing, there’s a lot of uncertainty. Data will be key to protecting public health.”
The CLEAN project, managed by USC Dornsife’s Public Exchange, invites residents from affected areas in Los Angeles County to drop off or mail in soil samples for analysis. Testing is free, with results expected within one to two weeks. Findings will be anonymized and shared through a public database, as well as on an interactive map highlighting contamination levels across impacted neighborhoods.
Preliminary testing conducted in February found that lead concentrations were highest in burn zones in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, though most samples, even in these areas, fell within typical urban levels. In certain locations affected by the Eaton Fire, roadside dust samples exceeded the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) screening threshold of 200 parts per million (ppm) for residential soil, a limit lowered from 400 ppm in 2024. However, nearly all samples would have met the previous standard.
“We were relieved to find that the levels in and around burn zones, while above updated EPA standards, were still within the range found elsewhere in the city,” said Sam Silva, assistant professor of Earth sciences and environmental engineering at USC.
Residents can submit soil samples at designated collection sites in Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, and Altadena, or send them by mail to USC researchers. Plans are underway to expand the program to test for additional contaminants such as arsenic.
USC researchers emphasize that the CLEAN project provides an initial assessment and does not replace environmental remediation conducted by private firms or state and federal compliance testing.
For more information, go to https://publicexchange.usc.edu/la-wildfire-soil-testing/.