May
Brentwood home invasion interrupted on Montana Avenue; LAPD hunting 3 suspects
Brentwood Rallies Against State Wildfire Rule Requiring Tree and Plant Removal
Critics Argue
Vegetation-Clearing Mandate Ignores Local Needs
Intruders smashed a front window before fleeing when they realized the residents were inside.
Brentwood residents turned out in large numbers Thursday to oppose proposed state wildfire regulations they say would harm neighborhoods and the environment while doing little to prevent future disasters.
Home invaders wielding a crowbar targeted a residential property on Montana Avenue on Monday night, fleeing the scene after realizing the occupants were inside, as reported by KTLA News.
Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to a burglary call in the 12700 block of Montana Avenue at approximately 8:45 p.m. Investigators determined that three suspects shattered a large front panel window to gain entry, but abruptly aborted the break-in when they encountered the residents.
The meeting, held by the California Board of Forestry’s Zone Zero Committee, was the only one scheduled in the and drew strong criticism from Westside communities. The proposed rules would require homeowners in high-risk areas to clear vegetation within five feet of their homes, creating what the state calls an “ember-resistant defensible zone.”
that local governments should have the flexibility to craft fire-prevention strategies that balance safety with environmental preservation.
Speakers at the meeting argued that
The front window of the home remained boarded up Tuesday morning following the
“When
attempted heist. No injuries were reported, and it remains unclear if the intruders managed to steal any property before escaping.
Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci
LAPD Officer Lee told KTLA that
the suspects fled eastbound on Montana Avenue toward Bundy Drive in a white Mercedes-Benz sedan with its headlights turned off.
Additional resources and information about the Zone Zero proposal are available at www.zonezerofacts.org. The Brentwood Community Council said in their newsletter that yard signs opposing the regulation
Detectives described all three suspects
can be requested by contacting local neighborhood associations while supplies last.
as wearing black clothing, noting only that the getaway driver was heavy-set. No further physical descriptions have been released.
The Los Angeles City Council votes to clear path for Barry Building demolition
You Can’t Do Anything, Do Something”: An Interview with Carla Liber on the SAMI Foundation
After
the
Vote to deny environmental appeal moves the controversial midcentury landmark one step closer to the wrecking ball.
Sudden Loss of
Her Daughter Sami, Carla Liber Launches the Sami Foundation to Bring Art, Music, and Hope to Kids Who Need It Most
A demolition permit for the historic Barry Building, at 11975 San Vicente Boulevard, could be issued as early as late May, following a unanimous decision by the Los Angeles City Council to deny an environmental appeal.
The council voted 10-0 on its consent calendar on April 21 to uphold an earlier 5-0 recommendation from the Planning and Land Use Management (PLUM) Committee. The move effectively rejects a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) appeal filed by neighbors and preservationists who sought to block the removal of the midcentury landmark.
In the wake of an unthinkable loss, Carla Liber has channeled grief into purpose with the SAMI Foundation, Supporting Art, Music & Imagination, created in memory of her daughter, Sami. The nonprofit moves quickly to put brushes, canvases, and instruments directly into kids’ hands through art kits inspired by their daughter, classroom supply grants, and partnerships
photography, fashion, and makeup; she had a natural eye and shared it generously
Did that visual sense show up at
our schools and community; Rod worked in film and later in real estate so he could be present for the girls. We’re speaking from Miami, where we just dropped Ava at college.
DQ: Tell me about Sami, especially her
Under city regulations, the denial of the appeal clears the administrative path for the property’s owners to secure a demolition permit. Barring the filing of a formal lawsuit by opposing parties,
a few classes, but mostly she was selftaught: sketchbooks, YouTube clips, and hours with music on and a pen in hand.
officials indicated that the permit could be authorized approximately 30 days after the final council vote.
The Barry Building, completed in 1951, is recognized by architectural historians for
We’re still finding her work—beautiful ink studies tucked into grandparents’ houses and old notebooks. She also loved
Absolutely. She joined the yearbook in eighth grade and, by 10th grade, teachers asked her to apply for editor-in-chief, a role usually reserved for seniors. She had a real gift for layout and making a blank page sing.
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unusual courtyard layout and midcentury design by architect Milton Caughey, has been the subject of a protracted debate between residents and developers over the future of the site.
ORGANIC CAFFEINE | ZERO SUGAR | VIBRANT FLAVORS
Effective Dates: 5/31/2026 – 6/30/2026
Serving the Community For 78 Years
Brentwood School students sweep honors at Monarch Invitational Middle School Model United Nations
The
fourteen delegates
secured Best Delegate and Outstanding Research awards.
Fourteen Brentwood School students earned a wide range of top honors last weekend at the Monarch Invitational Middle School Model United Nations (MUN) Conference held at Mater Dei High School.
Representing the school in multiple highlevel committees, the delegation addressed a variety of international challenges, from the weaponization of space to global health crises. In the Advanced United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, Chander V. ('30) secured the Best Delegate title, while Disha R. ('30) was named Outstanding Delegate for her analysis of space-based conflict.
The delegation’s success extended to the UN Security Council and the World Health Organization. Emerson C. ('32) received the Outstanding Delegate award for her work regarding conflict and food security. Calvin M. ('32) took home the same honor for his contributions to the debate on global health emergencies.
In the Economic and Financial Committee (ECOFIN), Ashwini R. ('31) was recognized as an Outstanding Delegate for her research on post-conflict economic recovery. Marella P. ('30) received a dual distinction, winning both the Best Position Paper award and the Outstanding Delegate honor.
The students also demonstrated strong historical research and negotiation skills in the Advanced Historical Crisis committee, which focused on the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor:
● Daniel F. ('30): Named Best Delegate representing the interests of Belgium.
● Chloe A. ('30): Awarded
Outstanding Delegate for her role as the Soviet Union representative.
● Ryan H. ('30): Received the Research Award for his position paper on the crisis.
The Model United Nations program encourages students to develop skills in public speaking, diplomacy, and international relations by simulating the proceedings of the United Nations.
Four months after the Brentwood murders, prosecutors await final autopsy reports.
Legal proceedings for Nick Reiner, accused of killing his parents, acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and producer and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, moved forward Wednesday as a judge scheduled a pivotal fall hearing.
Nick Reiner, 32, made a brief appearance in Los Angeles County Superior Court before Judge Sam Ohta. Appearing in a yellow jail smock with a shaved head and goatee, the defendant remained largely silent, providing only a one-word confirmation to the court regarding future dates, according to multiple media reports.
The Reiner’s son faces two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances involving the use of a knife. The charges stem from the December 2025
stabbing deaths of his parents inside their Brentwood residence.
During the hearing, the defense agreed to a general time waiver, effectively pausing the clock on his right to an expedited trial. Both sides are scheduled to return to court on Sept. 15 to establish a date for
a preliminary hearing. At that time, the court will determine if there is sufficient evidence for the 32-year-old to stand trial. Prosecutors noted Wednesday that they are still awaiting final autopsy reports four months after the killings. Though he pleaded not guilty in February, Nick Reiner’s mental health is expected to be a central element of the defense; court records currently include a sealed medical order regarding his condition.
Reiner continues to be held in the Los Angeles County jail without bail.
Layla’s Bagels enters final phases of preparation before launching new Brentwood storefront
Co-founder Sammi Tarantino confirms that the highly anticipated bagel shop is closer to opening.
By Dolores Quintana
Layla’s Bagels, the incredibly popular sourdough bagel shop, was first rumored to be opening a Brentwood location six months ago. Today, co-founder and chef Sammi Tarantino gave bagel fans in Brentwood a very exciting update. The new shop will be located at 908 S Barrington Avenue, and we last heard about the shop’s progress on April 27. Tarantino posted a video that showed the inside of the new space, which looked like it needed some time to be ready to open.
In today’s video update, Chef Tarantino announced that she was waiting for the Los Angeles DWP to install an electric meter that they had been waiting for three weeks for the installation, and added that since the restaurant was “100% electric”, it was a key part of being able to open. In a comment on the post, Layla’s Bagels confirmed that the installation had taken place. What does that mean for the eventual opening? Tarantino further explained that the shop would have to pass Los Angeles city inspections and then go through a week of training for the new staff. Inspections for a restaurant can take a while, so while we don’t know exactly when Layla’s will open, the finish line is in sight.
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All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Park’ To Open At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate Eerie Historic Past
The ‘Toonerville Funhouse,’ originally located at Ocean Park Pier and Pacific Ocean Park amusement parks, is inspiration for the newest attraction inside Pacific Park
SANTA MONICA, Calif., (September 10, 2025) --- Guests to the all-new “Funhouse at Pacific Park” will explore a lost world of spooky, chilling, and haunting experiences.
The legendary “Toonerville Funhouse” appeared in two eras of Santa Monica amusement history – first at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Ocean Park in 1958 – thrilling and unnerving guests for decades. Hidden away for years, its spirit has been resurrected inside Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. Over time, storms and renovations buried its memory, until the entrance to the abandoned funhouse was mysteriously uncovered inside Pacific Park. With a little polishing, it has reopened for guests as a nod to local Santa Monica history and nostalgic fun. In all the tinkering and perfecting of the 'Funhouse at Pacific Park,' the sinister magic of coin-operated fortunetellers and the eerie presence of a dessert-wielding clown have once again been unleashed. With a sidelong glance, an animatronic fortuneteller seated inside its dusty glass cabinet lures unsuspecting guests into a dizzying adventure—one that may land
them in the back of Sprinkles the Clown's ice cream truck freezer. Will guests make it out unscathed, or will they be lost in this labyrinth of curiosities for another 100 years?
The 2,800-square-foot “Funhouse at Pacific Park” includes nine mysterious rooms and attractions designed to disorient, amuse and entertain visitors with optical illusions, tricky layouts, and unexpected surprises. From giant ice cream cones to disorienting mazes, the Funhouse offers a buffet for the senses full of unexpected twists and turns.
"Pacific Park is excited to bring a fresh take on a classic idea to the millions of visitors who enjoy the Pier each year," said Nathan Smithson, Senior Director of Business Affairs at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. "This is a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of the original Toonerville Funhouses while crafting a future filled with mystery and awe in the all-new Funhouse at Pacific Park."
The “Toonerville Funhouses” were whimsical, cartoon-themed attractions inspired by the popular "Toonerville Trolley" comic strip, which was widely recognized in the early 20th century. The first version opened at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s, while a second debuted in 1958 at Pacific Ocean Park, which replaced Ocean Park Pier on the same site at the end of Ocean Park Boulevard, just about two nautical miles south of today’s Pacific Park, near the Santa Monica–Venice border. Both became icons of seaside amusement before disappearing in the 1970s.
Park in 2024 and committed $10 million in capital investments over the next five years in Pacific Park’s food and entertainment programs, supporting park operations and keeping it a fun and friendly destination for tourists, families, and the community.
eternities in a day several
SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific
Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park, offers 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, Snackville with five fun food offerings and retail beach shops. Pacific Park’s signature rides include the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, the Pacific Wheel, and the West Coaster, a steel roller coaster that races 55 feet above the Santa Monica Bay. For additional information and hours of operation, call
Swastika Found Near Beverly Hills Elementary School Ahead of Rosh Hashanah
Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism
Outside El Rodeo Elementary
Authorities are investigating after a swastika was discovered outside a Beverly Hills elementary school on Monday, according to My News LA.
The symbol was found just outside the
grounds of El Rodeo Elementary School, according to the Beverly Hills Unified School District. The district noted that the act of vandalism occurred as Jewish families were preparing to observe Rosh Hashanah, which begins Monday evening, making the incident especially disturbing.
District staff immediately removed the swastika and notified the Beverly Hills Police Department. Police have launched an active investigation to identify those responsible.
No additional details about potential suspects or motives have been released.
310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram. com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.
Westwood Village announces free ‘Love Out Loud’ Pride Festival on Broxton Avenue
All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Park’ To Open
At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate Eerie Historic Past
The June 13 afternoon block party features live music, neighborhood vendors, and community programming
The ‘Toonerville Funhouse,’ originally located at Ocean Park Pier and Pacific Ocean Park amusement parks, is inspiration for the newest attraction inside Pacific Park
Westwood Village will host an allages community festival next month at Broxton Plaza to celebrate Pride Month, neighborhood organizers announced Monday.
SANTA MONICA, Calif., (September 10, 2025) --- Guests to the all-new “Funhouse at Pacific Park” will explore a lost world of spooky, chilling, and haunting experiences.
Dubbed "Love Out Loud," the free public event is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 1036 Broxton Avenue. The outdoor celebration is being produced by the Prikli Agency on behalf of the Westwood Village Improvement Association.
The afternoon itinerary features live musical entertainment, curated programming from local community organizations, and a dedicated
The legendary “Toonerville Funhouse” appeared in two eras of Santa Monica amusement history – first at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Ocean Park in 1958 – thrilling and unnerving guests for decades. Hidden away for years, its spirit has been resurrected inside Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. Over time, storms and renovations buried its memory, until the entrance to the abandoned funhouse was mysteriously uncovered inside Pacific Park. With a little polishing, it has reopened for guests as a nod to local Santa Monica history and nostalgic fun.
In all the tinkering and perfecting of the 'Funhouse at Pacific Park,' the sinister magic of coin-operated fortunetellers and the eerie presence of a dessert-wielding clown have once again been unleashed. With a sidelong glance, an animatronic fortuneteller seated inside its dusty glass cabinet lures unsuspecting guests into a dizzying adventure—one that may land
marketplace showcasing neighborhood vendors and independent makers. A selection of regional food and beverage options will also be available on-site
throughout the day.
The “Toonerville Funhouses” were whimsical, cartoon-themed attractions inspired by the popular "Toonerville Trolley" comic strip, which was widely recognized in the early 20th century. The first version opened at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s, while a second debuted in 1958 at Pacific Ocean Park, which replaced Ocean Park Pier on the same site at the end of Ocean Park Boulevard, just about two nautical miles south of today’s Pacific Park, near the Santa Monica–Venice border. Both became icons of seaside amusement before disappearing in the 1970s.
SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific
While admission to the plaza grounds is free, coordinators note that attendees who register an online RSVP will be enrolled
Park in 2024 and committed $10 million in capital investments over the next five years in Pacific Park’s food and entertainment programs, supporting park operations and keeping it a fun and friendly destination for tourists, families, and the community.
Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park, offers 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, Snackville with five fun food offerings and retail beach shops.
Pacific Park’s signature rides include the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, the Pacific Wheel, and the West Coaster, a steel roller coaster that races 55 feet above the Santa Monica Bay. For additional information and hours of operation, call
Swastika Found Near Beverly Hills
Elementary School Ahead of Rosh Hashanah
Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism Outside El Rodeo Elementary
Authorities are investigating after a swastika was discovered outside a Beverly Hills elementary school on Monday, according to My News LA.
grounds of El Rodeo Elementary School, according to the Beverly Hills Unified School District. The district noted that the act of vandalism occurred as Jewish families were preparing to observe Rosh Hashanah, which begins Monday evening, making the incident especially disturbing.
District staff immediately removed the swastika and notified the Beverly Hills Police Department. Police have launched an active investigation to identify those responsible.
to receive localized event updates and occasional neighborhood communications from the business improvement district. You can RSVP at Eventbrite.
310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram. com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.
The symbol was found just outside the
No additional details about potential suspects or motives have been released.
Park."
Levain Bakery and Sweet Rose Creamery announce new summer dessert partnership
All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Park’ To Open At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate Eerie Historic Past
The collaboration debuts May 12 with a menu of mini ice cream sandwiches, affogatos, and rotating monthly
artisanal flavors
The ‘Toonerville Funhouse,’ originally located at Ocean Park Pier and Pacific Ocean Park amusement parks, is inspiration for the newest attraction inside Pacific Park
Levain Bakery will launch a first-time partnership with Brentwood’s Sweet Rose Creamery on May 12, introducing a new line of ice cream-based desserts across its bakery locations.
SANTA MONICA, Calif., (September 10, 2025) --- Guests to the all-new “Funhouse at Pacific Park” will explore a lost world of spooky, chilling, and haunting experiences.
The collaboration marks the first time the two brands have joined forces to create a seasonal menu. The lineup features a rotating monthly calendar of artisanal ice cream flavors designed to pair with Levain’s signature high-stack cookies. While Madagascar Vanilla will be available throughout the summer, June will feature Strawberry, followed by Salted Caramel in July and September, Cherry Chocolate Chip in August, and Blueberry Muffin in October.
ways for customers to experience the partnership:
them in the back of Sprinkles the Clown's ice cream truck freezer. Will guests make it out unscathed, or will they be lost in this labyrinth of curiosities for another 100 years?
● Mini Ice Cream Sandwiches: A new handheld treat featuring a scoop of Sweet Rose ice cream sandwiched between two smaller-format Levain cookies.
● Cookies à la Mode: A classic combination pairing a warm, six-ounce signature cookie with a scoop of the monthly featured flavor.
● Affogatos: A premium pick-meup where bold, hot espresso is poured directly over a scoop of velvety ice cream.
The 2,800-square-foot “Funhouse at Pacific Park” includes nine mysterious rooms and attractions designed to disorient, amuse and entertain visitors with optical illusions, tricky layouts, and unexpected surprises. From giant ice cream cones to disorienting mazes, the Funhouse offers a buffet for the senses full of unexpected twists and turns.
"Pacific Park is excited to bring a fresh take on a classic idea to the millions of visitors who enjoy the Pier each year," said Nathan Smithson, Senior Director of Business Affairs at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. "This is a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of the original Toonerville Funhouses while crafting a future filled with mystery and awe in the all-new Funhouse at Pacific Park."
The debut menu introduces several
The legendary “Toonerville Funhouse” appeared in two eras of Santa Monica amusement history – first at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Ocean Park in 1958 – thrilling and unnerving guests for decades. Hidden away for years, its spirit has been resurrected inside Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. Over time, storms and renovations buried its memory, until the entrance to the abandoned funhouse was mysteriously uncovered inside Pacific Park. With a little polishing, it has reopened for guests as a nod to local Santa Monica history and nostalgic fun.
the 'Funhouse at Pacific Park,' the sinister magic of coin-operated fortunetellers and the eerie presence of a dessert-wielding clown have once again been unleashed. With a sidelong glance, an animatronic fortuneteller seated inside its dusty glass cabinet lures unsuspecting guests into a dizzying adventure—one that may land
Sweet Rose Creamery, known for its small-batch, organic approach to classic American flavors, will provide all the dairy components for the new offerings and is located at 225 26th Street, Suite 51, in Brentwood. The partnership is set to run at all Levain Bakery outposts, in Beverly Hills at 130 S Beverly Drive, in Larchmont Village at 227 North Larchmont Boulevard, and in Venice, at 1661 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, through the fall season.
The “Toonerville Funhouses” were whimsical, cartoon-themed attractions inspired by the popular "Toonerville Trolley" comic strip, which was widely recognized in the early 20th century. The first version opened at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s, while a second debuted in 1958 at Pacific Ocean Park, which replaced Ocean Park Pier on the same site at the end of Ocean Park Boulevard, just about two nautical miles south of today’s Pacific Park, near the Santa Monica–Venice border. Both became icons of seaside amusement
SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific
310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go
Instagram. com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.
programs, supporting park operations and keeping it a fun and friendly destination for tourists, families, and the community.
Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park, offers 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, Snackville with five fun food offerings and retail beach shops.
Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism
Outside El Rodeo Elementary
swastika was discovered outside a Beverly Hills elementary school on Monday, according to My News LA.
The symbol was found just outside the
grounds of El Rodeo Elementary School, according to the Beverly Hills Unified School District. The district noted that the act of vandalism occurred as Jewish families were preparing to observe Rosh Hashanah, which begins Monday evening,
District staff immediately removed the swastika and notified the Beverly Hills Police Department. Police have launched an active investigation to identify those
No additional details about potential suspects or motives have been released.
Khatri International Inc. has been working with property owners for 42 years experience providing Structural Engineering, Civil Design, Drainage/Water Damage, CM-PM, and Architectural Design/Repair/Renovation.
Pacific Park’s signature rides include the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, the Pacific Wheel, and the West Coaster, a steel roller coaster that races 55 feet above the Santa Monica Bay. For additional information and hours of operation, call
Swastika Found Near Beverly Hills Elementary School Ahead of Rosh Hashanah
