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Brentwood News / Century City - Westwood News: Dec 2025

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CenturyCity-WestwoodNews.com

September December 2025

Nick ReinerRallies Appears in Court, Arraignment Brentwood Against State Wildfire Delayed in Parents’ Rule Requiring Tree Killing and Plant Removal Son Reportedly Critics Argue Checked Into a Vegetation-Clearing Santa Monica Hotel Mandate Ignores After Local Leaving Needs Home

Nick Reiner appeared briefly in court out of in large onBrentwood Wednesdayresidents on twoturned counts firstnumbers Thursday to oppose proposed state degree murder in the deaths of his parents, wildfire regulations harm but did not enter a they plea,say as would his defense team requested and additional time to review neighborhoods the environment while evidence in to theprevent case. future disasters. doing little Reiner waived held his right to California a speedy The meeting, by the arraignment, and the court agreed to Board of Forestry’s Zone Zero Committee, postpone formal arraignment until January was the only one scheduled in the region 7, attorney, Alanfrom Jackson, told and2026. drewHis strong criticism Westside the judge it wasThe “tooproposed early” forrules his client to communities. would plead guilty or not guilty while the defense require homeowners in high-risk areas to continues to gather information. clear vegetation within five feet of their homes, creating what the state calls an “ember-resistant defensible zone.” Speakers at the meeting argued that

faceadopt was anot shown during theReiner’s regulations “one-size-fits-all” the court that hearing. appeared approach fails He to reflect thewearing unique aneeds suicide-prevention jumpsuit Many after of individual communities. being on suicide watch resources Tuesday, urged placed state officials to focus instead on authorities said.home hardening, brush clearance, and County landscape maintenance Los Angeles District Attorney rather than widespread treeTuesday and plant Nathan Hochman announced that removal. Reiner was charged with two counts of firstSurvivors Fire degree murderofinthe the recent killingsPalisades of his parents, shared firsthand accounts, sayingSinger their filmmaker Rob Reiner and Michele homes,innot nearby vegetation, provided Reiner a press conference. theAccording primary to fuelABC for News, the blaze. Several investigators emphasized that healthy trees, hedges, and believe Reiner checked into the Pierside landscaping actually helped slow the fire’s Hotel on Colorado Avenue in Santa spread inlate their neighborhoods. Monica Saturday night or early Sunday Opponents alsothe warned that removing morning, after killings allegedly trees and plants would damage the region’s occurred. Reiner was arrested Sunday urbanincanopy, harmPark, wildlife habitats, and night Exposition roughly 15 miles increase hillside erosion. They argued southeast of the family’s Brentwood home, that local governments should have the police said. flexibility to craft fire-prevention strategies that balance safety with environmental preservation. Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci

Park, through her legislative deputy Sarah Flaherty, read a letter supporting residents’ concerns. Similar letters were submitted by Supervisor Lindsey Horvath and Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, voicing opposition to the state’s current plan. The Brentwood Community Council, along with member groups such as the Brentwood Homeowners Association, Brentwood Park Property Owners Association, and Mandeville Canyon Association, has been vocal in calling for changes to the proposal. Residents are encouraged to submit comments to the Board of Forestry Zone Zero Committee by emailing publiccomments@bof.ca.gov before the end of the year, when the regulations are expected to be finalized. 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

can be requested by contacting local neighborhood associations while supplies last.

Meals on Wheels West LA Urgently Seeks Holiday Volunteers Meal Deliveries “When You Can’t Dofor Anything, Do Brentwood-Based Something”: An Interview with Carla Liber Program Needs Help Delivering Meals on the SAMI Foundation During the Holidays with schools and community programs. After the Sudden Meals on Wheels West Los Angeles is In this conversation with reporter Dolores urgently additional volunteers to Quintana, Liber reflects on Sammy’s Lossseeking of Her help deliver meals during the holiday season, quiet and natural artistic brilliance, why as many regular volunteers are unavailable creativity is essential for young people, Daughter Sami, and how remembrance can live on as during this time, organizers said. The nonprofit operates out of the Village access and opportunity. Carla Liber “This is just the beginning,” Rodney Church at 343 S. Church Lane in Brentwood and delivers meals to residents Monday adds. “We want every child with a Launches the Sami through Friday, including Christmas Day. creative spark to feel seen, supported, and The service will not take place on January 1 celebrated—just like Sami always made Foundation to Bring others feel. We’ll never stop missing her, or January 2. Volunteer delivery shifts typically run but through this work, her spirit continues Art, and from 10:00Music, a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and organizers to make the world a more beautiful place.” Dolores Quintana (DQ): For readers said even a single day of service can make Kids aHope meaningfulto difference. NewWho volunteers are meeting you for the first time, could you paired with experienced drivers and are not introduce yourself? Need It Most Carla Liber (CL): I’m Carla Liber. My connection to art. asked to complete routes on their own. The organization encouraged participation In the wake unthinkable Carla from adults ofofallanages, as well loss, as college Liber has channeled grief into purpose with students home for the holidays. Volunteers the SAMI Foundation, Supporting Art, may bring a friend or family member to assist. Music & Imagination, created in memory Those interested in volunteering can of herthedaughter, Sami. West The LA nonprofit contact Meals on Wheels office at moves quicklyor to put mealsonwheelswla@ brushes, canvases, 310-208-4028 email and instruments into kids’ gmail.com with directly their name and hands phone through art kits inspired their daughter, number. Volunteers may by also stop by the classroom supply grants, and partnerships office in person to offer assistance.

husband, Rod, and I are native Southern Californians—we’ve been married 20 years and have two daughters, Ava and Sami. I was a stay-at-home mom active in 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

CL: From the time she could hold a pencil, she drew—flowers, faces, little scenes—completely absorbed. She took a few classes, but mostly she was selftaught: sketchbooks, YouTube clips, and hours with music on and a pen in hand. We’re still finding her work—beautiful ink studies tucked into grandparents’ houses and old notebooks. She also loved

photography, fashion, and makeup; she had a natural eye and shared it generously with friends. DQ: Did that visual sense show up at school? CL: 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. Continue on page 10


2 | December 2025

Brentwood News

BRENTWOODNEWSLA.COM

Brentwood Weekly Crime Report: November 30, 2025 – December 06, 2025 Holiday Period Begins With Minimal Crime Activity, LAPD Reports

Crime reports in the area remained limited last week, with only two incidents reported, according to Los Angeles Police Department Senior Lead Officer Matthew Kirk. SLO Kirk submitted this report before the deaths of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner. Kirk also announced he will be on vacation through Jan. 5. During his absence, Senior Lead Officer Brian Espin will oversee the area. Espin can be reached at 37430@lapd.online or 310-444-0737. Residents were encouraged to remain vigilant during the holiday season, and Kirk extended wishes for a safe and happy holiday and New Year. Reported Incidents: Burglary/Theft From Motor Vehicle • Nov. 30, 6:30 p.m. — 13100 block of West Boca De Canon Lane. Suspect or suspects removed the front license plate from a vehicle, police said.

Grand Theft Auto • Between Dec. 4 at 6 a.m. and Dec. 5 at 8 a.m. — 2300 block of Westridge.

A 2016 Kia SUV was stolen from the street and recovered approximately one block away the following day. The vehicle

sustained visible damage to the driver’s side door, according to police.


Brentwood News

BRENTWOODNEWSLA.COM

December 2025 | 3

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Brentwood News

4 | December 2025

BRENTWOODNEWSLA.COM

Brentwood – a Happening Place

Recently I bumped into someone who remarked that Brentwood was now a “happening” place. I think of Brentwood as being a pretty sleepy place, so I asked her what she meant. She marveled about all the new restaurants and coffee shops opening up all around Brentwood. I hadn’t really considered this, but she is absolutely right. I took a long through Brentwood over the course of two days and took several photos of many of Brentwood’s new hangouts. I started in Brentwood Village, then walked down to Barrington and turned left, or east. Later I headed west on San Vicente. For my birthday, my wife took me to

The Wilkes, which opened in Brentwood Village recently. It’s where the Brentwood Inn used to be (where Barrington Ave. and Barrington Place come together, across from the post office). It’s very modern now, very clean. The food was outstanding, as were the waitstaff. Wilkes is the name of the architect who designed this building back in the 1950s. Executive chef and owner of The Wilkes, Dana Slatkin, is on the left. Host Cody Epperson is on the right. There’s a new “smash burger” place in Brentwood Village, next to the UPS Store. It’s called “For the Win.” All Roads is a relatively new Italian place, also in Brentwood Village. I still miss Maria’s. That location remains vacant, for rent. A new Italian eatery, Terroni, is coming soon to Brentwood Village, on Barrington Place. La La Land Kind Cafe, a coffee shop

at the SE corner of Barrington and San Vicente, seems to be an instant hit. This picture was taken in the evening, when things had slowed down a bit. I’ve seen it quite crowded. To see more new restaurants in Brentwood, go to brentwoodnewsla.com

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Brentwood News

6 | December 2025

BRENTWOODNEWSLA.COM

40 Years Later: Delphi Remains Westside’s Landmark for Authentic Hellenic Cuisine Delphi Greek Restaurant Celebrates 40th Year Anniversary By Susan Payne Delphi welcomes all. For the last 40 years, Delphi Greek Restaurant and Bar has been more than a place to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine. It serves as a temple of culture, community and tradition. Inspired by the ancient Temple of Delphi, where Greeks once gathered to seek wisdom and celebrate life, Delphi Greek is Los Angeles’ own sacred house of hospitality. Five years after the emergence of the COVID-19, during which Delphi served 94,500 meals to seniors home locked due to restrictions, Delphi is celebrating its 40th anniversary — 40 years of authentic Hellenic cuisine and hospitality. Under the passionate ownership of Roozbeh Farahanipour, Delphi Greek has flourished as a living bridge between ancient traditions and modern Los Angeles as the hub for Hellenic life in Southern California. “We have customers that have been with us since day one still dining and enjoying the experience that we offer,” Farahanipour said. “We are delighted to remain a landmark for authentic Hellenic cuisine for years to come.” Over the last few years, Delphi Greek has added additional experiences that add

a touch of new to the restaurant while still cherishing the values the restaurant was founded on 40 years ago. Located in Westwood Village, diners experience more drink and beverage options through its full bar, in addition to affordable daily happy hour specials from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Delphi Greek has earned recognition from the Senate, the city of Los Angeles, several well-known review sites and magazines for doing what they do best — serving the best authentic Greek food around. With over 17 Zagat ratings, countless awards, and media features, Delphi Greek is proud to be recognized not just for its food — but for its unwavering spirit. The restaurant’s 40 years of excellence is a milestone that reflects its dedication to preserving and sharing the beauty of Greek culinary heritage. Friends of Delphi — both new and longtime — experience true Mediterranean flavors and a hospitable staff that speaks the Greek language, an ode to the culture and Farahanipour’s commitment to upholding authentic tradition. While dining, the white-washed stucco walls and lively blue accents channel the national colors of Greece. Made to feel as if you are in Greece, Delphi’s shark tank was installed to remind diners of the Mediterranean Sea. The menu, all Greek, has remained unchanged in the last four decades, only improved to reflect the delicacies of Greek cuisine — more authentic dessert and more authentic Greek ingredients. “From the menu to the people, Delphi Greek is an experience,” Farahanipour

said. For those wanting to share this experience outside of the restaurant, Delphi Greek offers catering for corporate events, weddings, and more. “We can share our food outside of these walls and that’s something we love to do — sharing our culture with others. It’s delightful to have the opportunity to serve one person, couples, families, groups and

even larger groups,” Farahanipour said. Delphi Greek is open daily from 11:30 a.m .to 10:30 p.m. Visit DelphiGreek.com to learn more.

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December 2025 | 7


8 | December 2025

Brentwood News

BRENTWOODNEWSLA.COM

Dry January in LA Without Missing the Nightlife: Kavahana Offers a New Way to Go Out

Kava Nectar “Starter Kit,” featuring Kavahana’s Relax Edition Pouch of Kava Nectar Powder

Dry January does not have to mean staying in. In Los Angeles, it simply means knowing where to go, and Kavahana has quietly become one of the city’s favorite places to hang out without alcohol, offering the kind of social energy many people miss when they skip the bar. Located on Pico Boulevard just blocks from the beach in Santa Monica, Kavahana is a late-night hangout that blends café comfort with the energy of a neighborhood gathering space. It is not a “traditional” bar, nor is it a coffee shop. It is a place where mornings turn into afternoons, afternoons turn into evenings, and people stay a little longer than they planned. At the heart of the experience is a neat drink called kava nectar. What is Kava Nectar? Kava Nectar is a natural, zero-proof drink made from the root of the kava plant, a member of the peppercorn family traditionally enjoyed across the South Pacific Islands and Hawaii in social and ceremonial settings. Kavahana’s kava nectar is coldpressed kava root nectar gently dried into a fine powder. The result is a drink that offers a subtle tingle on the tongue followed by a calm, uplifted, and social feeling. It supports presence and ease without intoxication, hangovers, or next day fog. If you’re curious about the coconut shell cups, that’s part of the point. In many Pacific Island cultures, kava is served exactly this way. Kavahana keeps that format, pouring traditional style kava nectar into coconut shells as part of the experience. For many guests, kava nectar becomes a natural alternative during Dry January because it still feels like going out. Their menu features thoughtfully crafted zero proof kava nectar cocktails made with real ingredients like mango, coconut milk, ginger, pineapple, and spirulina. Drinks like their “Beach Nectar” and “Paradise Nectar” are designed to mask the naturally earthy taste of kava while still offering the same tingly benefits. Beyond kava nectar, Kavahana serves Kona coffee sourced from Hawaii’s Big Island, along with ceremonial matcha,

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Kavahana partnered with Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty Impact Fund, serving their craft “Paradise Nectar” zero proof kava nectar cocktail, along with strawberry matcha and traditional style Kava Nectar. roasted hojicha, and other delicious drinks. The team is friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to guide first time guests through the menu. Open Late - a rarity on the Westside! What makes Kavahana especially unique in LA is its late night energy. While many cafés and restaurants close early, Kavahana stays open into the evening and often until 1 AM on weekends. It is a place where you can meet friends after work, go on a date, or enjoy a night out without alcohol, while still feeling connected to the city’s social rhythm. Many brands and spaces claim to be community driven, but Kavahana backs it up with action. Tuesdays feature the Santa Monica Open Mic Night with local musicians, poets, and storytellers. Wednesdays bring Comedy Night, drawing a relaxed, welcoming crowd. Both events are free and open to everyone, whether you are performing or just listening. And if you’re reading this and not local to LA, you can still be part of the Kavahana experience. Kavahana ships its kava nectar powder nationwide, making it easy to enjoy at home as a relaxing alternative or to create your own zero proof cocktails. Orders ship to all 50 states and Canada, so Dry January does not have to end at city limits! Visit Kavahana 306 Pico Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405 Open daily (morning to late night) Tuesdays: Open Mic Night Wednesdays: Comedy Night Website: Kavahana.com Instagram: @kavahanabar

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BRENTWOODNEWSLA.COM

Brentwood News

December 2025 | 9

Best Real Estate Agent/Broker Shelton Wilder Group 310-997-7059 www.Sheltonwilder.com Our mission is to elevate every real estate experience with integrity, creativity, and heart. We serve our clients like family, deliver results with transparency and strategy, and curate every listing and transaction with the highest level of care. At the Shelton Wilder Group, we create lifelong relationships, build community, and help people move into the next chapter of their lives with confidence and joy.

Best Restaurants Baltaire Restaurant 11647 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049 (424) 273-1660 • www.baltaire.com Baltaire is a modern steakhouse in Brentwood offering prime steaks, premium seafood, an exceptional wine program, and one of LA’s most popular weekend brunches. Known for refined

service, a lively bar scene with live music, and an elegant dining room, Baltaire delivers a polished yet energetic dining experience ideal for celebrations, business dinners, and nights out.

Best Coffee Shop Coral Tree Cafe Brentwood 11645 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049 (310) 979-8733 • https://www.coraltreecafe.com/brentwood-ca/ Coral Tree Café Brentwood is a welcoming neighborhood café serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, alongside expertly crafted coffee and premium catering services. Known for fresh, house-

made food and a commitment to seed-oilfree cooking, the café offers a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere ideal for meetings, casual dining, or enjoying live music on their open-air patio.


10 | December 2025

Brentwood News

BRENTWOODNEWSLA.COM

VOTED #1 REAL ESTATE AGENT IN BRENTWOOD BY BEST OF BRENTWOOD

SHELTON WILDER | 310.997.7059 | SHELTON@SHELTONWILDER.COM | SHELTONWILDER.COM | DRE 01979656 Christie’s International Real Estate Southern California is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527644. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. If your property is currently listed for sale this is not a solicitation.


BRENTWOODNEWSLA.COM

Brentwood News

December 2025 | 11

Best Restaurant Baltaire (Advertiser)

⭐

Best Nail or Hair Salon Bellacures

Best Local Boutique Madison Brentwood Gardens

Best Gym / Workout Facility Natural Pilates

Best Real Estate Agent / Broker Shelton Wilder Group (Advertiser)

⭐

Best Preschool Brentwood Sunshine Preschool Best Coffee Shop Coral Tree Café (Advertiser)

⭐

Best Medical Spa / Day Spa / Massage Milk & Honey Best Jeweler Luna Skye Jewelry Best Children’s Program / Service Brentwood Art Center

Best Home Improvement & Home Design Design Within Reach Best Pharmacy Brent-Air Pharmacy Best Dentist Smile Lab LA – Brentwood Best Dry Cleaner / Tailor Fazio Cleaners Best Dessert Belwood Bakery Best Hospital / Urgent Care St. John’s Physician Partners

Best Pre-School The Sunshine Preschool 11942 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049 (310) 472-2212 • www.brentwoodsunshinepreschool.com


Century City/ Westwood

12 14

NEWS

CenturyCity-WestwoodNews.com

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. SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific

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. 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.


Century City/ Westwood

13 14

NEWS

CenturyCity-WestwoodNews.com

All-New Pacific Park’ To Open Caltrans‘Funhouse Schedulesat Major I-405 Lane Reductions in December At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate Through Sepulveda Eerie Historic Past Pass Two Extended The ‘Toonerville Weekend Closures Funhouse,’ originally Will Limit Traffic in located at Ocean Park Pier Pacific Ocean Bothand Directions

Park amusement Major lane reductions are set to continue through the Sepulveda Pass next month as parks, is inspiration for Caltrans advances its long-term pavement rehabilitation projectattraction on Interstate 405. the newest The agency announced that the inside Pacific Park freeway will be limited to three lanes

in each direction during two extended SANTAclosures MONICA, Calif., (September weekend in December. The first 10, 2025) --Guests the all-new is scheduled from 10 p.m.toFriday, Dec. 5, “Funhouse at Pacific Park” will through 5 a.m. Monday, Dec. 8. explore A seconda lost world of spooky, chilling, haunting closure, originally planned forand Dec. 12–15, experiences. has been shifted to Dec. 19–22. Caltrans The legendary “Toonerville Funhouse” is urging drivers to avoid the area and appeared in two eras of Santa Monica consider alternate routes or public transit. amusement history – first at Ocean Park Lane Reductions and Ramp Closures Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Ocean Northbound I-405 Park in 1958 – thrilling and unnerving ● Reduced to three lanes from just guests for decades. Hidden away for years, south of the Getty Center Drive/Sepulveda its spirit has been resurrected inside Pacific Boulevard to just Pier. northOver of Bel Air Park on theoff-ramp Santa Monica time, Crest Road storms and renovations buried its memory, ● the Gettyentrance Centerto Drive/Sepulveda until 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 closed the Pier each year," Boulevard off-ramp said Nathan Smithson, Senior Director Southbound I-405 of ●Business Affairs at Pacific Park the on Reduced to three lanes from the Santa Monica Pier. "This is a unique Skirball Center Drive/Mulholland Drive opportunityto tothehonor the Center legacy of the on-ramp Getty Drive/ original Toonerville Funhouses while Sepulveda Boulevard on-ramp crafting a futureCenter filled with mystery and ● Getty Drive/Sepulveda awe in the all-new Funhouse at Pacific Boulevard on- and off-ramps closed Park." ● Skirball Center Drive/Mulholland The on-ramp “Toonerville Drive closed Funhouses” were whimsical, cartoon-themed attractions Suggested Detours inspired by the popular "Toonerville ● To northbound I-405: Travel north on Trolley" comic strip, which was widely Sepulveda Boulevard, then east/north on 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

Skirball Center Drive to the northbound on-ramp ● To southbound I-405: Travel south on Sepulveda Boulevard, then south on Church Lane to the Sunset Boulevard onramp Caltrans notes that similar weekend lane reductions will occur roughly every two weeks along varying stretches of the freeway, withand approximately 25 million extended Park in 2024 committed $10 in closures planned over the course the capital investments over the next fiveofyears project. mayandchange due to in PacificSchedules Park’s food entertainment weather or supporting operational park needs, includingand the programs, operations 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

number of lanes closed and the timing of work. Nearby residents and businesses may experience noise, dust, and vibrations related to construction. Motorists can check current conditions through the Caltrans QuickMap. The closures are part of a $143.7 million I-405 pavement rehabilitation effort between Van Nuys and Westwood, intended to improve safety, mobility, and pavement durability alongvisit the busy corridor. and go 310-260-8744, pacpark.com, Caltrans is reminding drivers to “Be to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram. Work Zone Alert” and “Slow for the Cone com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark. Zone.”

NOW ENROLLING TK - KINDERGARTEN Where curiosity blooms and a love of learning begins

Swastika Found Near Beverly Hills Elementary School Ahead Scan to join us for of Rosh Hashanah Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism Outside El Rodeo Elementary

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.

E ACADEMY ASTEM

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

a virtual open house


Century City/ Westwood

14

NEWS

CenturyCity-WestwoodNews.com

All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Cedars-Sinai Doctors Deliver Park’ To Open Healthy Baby Monica in Extremely Rare At The Santa Pier, Will Celebrate Abdominal Ectopic Eerie Historic Past Pregnancy them in the back of Sprinkles the Clown's More Than 30 The ‘Toonerville ice cream truck freezer. Will guests make it out unscathed, or will they be lost in this Specialistsoriginally Helped Funhouse,’ labyrinth of curiosities for another 100 Save Mother and located at Ocean Park years? The 2,800-square-foot “Funhouse at Pier and Ocean Pacific Child as Pacific Surgeons Park” includes nine mysterious rooms and attractions designed to disorient, Park amusement Removed a amuse and entertain visitors with optical tricky layouts, and unexpected parks, is inspiration 22-Pound Ovarianfor illusions, surprises. From giant ice cream cones to the newest attraction disorienting mazes, the Funhouse offers Tumor a buffet for the senses full of unexpected

inside Park Doctors atPacific Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

in Los Angeles delivered a healthy baby boy SANTA MONICA, Calif., (September while removing a 22-pound ovarian tumor 10, --- Guests to the all-new from 2025) his mother in what they describe as “Funhouse at Pacific Park” will explore an exceptionally rare abdominal ectopica lost world of spooky, chilling, and haunting pregnancy, according to Cedars-Sinai experiences. Medical Center. The “Toonerville Funhouse” Suze legendary Lopez, 41, an emergency room appeared in two eras of Santa Monica nurse from Bakersfield, had been scheduled amusement historyto–remove first atthe Ocean Park to undergo surgery cyst when Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Ocean a routine preoperative test revealed she Park pregnant, in 1958 according – thrillingtoand unnerving was Cedars-Sinai. guests Hidden years, Lopez for saiddecades. the mass had away been for growing its spirit has been resurrected inside Pacific for years, and she had learned to live with Park on themenstrual Santa Monica Pier. Over time, irregular cycles and chronic storms and discomfort. renovations buried its memory, abdominal 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

twists and turns. "Pacific Park is excited to bring a fresh take on aand classic to theAndrew, millionshad of Lopez her idea husband, visitors who enjoy the Pier each year," been trying to have a second child for 17 said Nathan Director years. She saidSmithson, the positiveSenior pregnancy test of Business Affairs at Pacific Park on was news she had long hoped for, but she the Santa Monica Pier. "This is a unique initially worried it might be a false result. opportunity to honor the legacy of the While sharing the news with her husband original Toonerville Funhouses while during a Dodgers game, Lopez developed crafting a future filled with mystery and severe pain. The couple rushed awe inabdominal the all-new Funhouse at Pacific to Cedars-Sinai, where a team led by Dr. Park." John medical Funhouses” director of Labor TheOzimek, “Toonerville were and Delivery, cartoon-themed worked to stabilize her high whimsical, attractions blood pressure and ordered MRI, blood inspired by the popularan"Toonerville work, andcomic an ultrasound. Trolley" 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

John Ozimek, DO, medical director of Labor and Delivery, said, “Suze was pregnant, but her uterus was empty, and a giant benign ovarian cyst weighing over 20 pounds was taking up so much space. We then discovered a nearly full-term baby boy in a small space in the abdomen, near the liver, with his butt resting on the uterus. A pregnancy this far outside the uterus that 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 LET’S CREATE SOMETHING HillsEXTRAORDINARY Elementary School Ahead custom kitchens to spa-inspired baths, of From Rosh Hashanah EZ Kitchen & Bath brings you the finest grounds of El Rodeo Elementary School, Police Launch appliances with personal guidance. according to the Beverly Hills Unified School District. The district noted that Investigation After the act of vandalism occurred as Jewish EZ Kitchen & Bath Disturbing Vandalism families were preparing to observe Rosh Hashanah, which begins Monday evening, Outside El Rodeo 310-652-2862 making the incident especially disturbing. District staff immediately removed the Elementary 8865 Wswastika Pico Blvd., and notified the Beverly Hills Authorities are investigating after a Police Department. Police have launched Angeles, 90035 an active CA investigation to identify those swastika was discovered outsideLos a Beverly Hills elementary school on https://www.ezkitchenandbath.net/ Monday, responsible. No additional details about potential according to My News LA. The symbol was found just outside the suspects or motives have been released.

continues to develop is almost unheard of.” Imaging showed that Lopez’s uterus was empty. Instead, Ozimek said, doctors found a nearly full-term baby developing in a small space in her abdomen near her liver, hidden behind the large ovarian tumor. Roughly 30 specialists from CedarsSinai’s Level IV maternal care team coordinated the complex operation. Surgeons first removed the ovarian cyst to create safe access to the fetus, then Ozimek delivered the baby. The couple named their son Ryu. He weighed 8 pounds at birth and had very few health issues despite the unusual circumstances, hospital officials said. Both mother and baby are recovering well, and Cedars-Sinai has referred to Ryu’s safe arrival as a medical “miracle.” 310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram. com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.


Century City/ Westwood

15 14

NEWS

CenturyCity-WestwoodNews.com

Bel Air Break-In Caught on Camera All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Park’as To Open Suspects Escape Before Homeowners Return At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate LAPD Probing Bel Eerie Historic Past Air Burglary After The ‘Toonerville Intruders Flee Funhouse,’ originally Moments Ahead of located at Ocean Park Residents Pier and Pacific Ocean Shock awaited a Bel Air family Park last weekamusement when they discovered their home had been ransacked by a crew parks, is inspiration for of masked intruders who, according to police, left the property only moments the newest attraction before the homeowners arrived with inside Pacific Park their children.

The burglary occurred on December MONICA, Calif., (September 5, SANTA just before 7 p.m. Roughly ten 10, 2025) --Guests to the minutes after entering the house, all-new family “Funhouse at Pacifica Park” will explore members noticed shattered exteriora lost world of spooky, chilling, andbedroom haunting door connected to the primary experiences. and immediately called police, unsure The legendary “Toonerville Funhouse” whether any suspects remained inside. appeared in two eras of Santa Monica Officers instructed the parents to amusement history – first at Ocean Park gather the children and wait in a locked Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Police Ocean vehicle until authorities arrived. Park in the 1958residence – thrilling and25unnerving reached about minutes guests decades. Hidden away for later, for searched the home andyears, the its spirit has been resurrected inside Pacific surrounding area, and confirmed the Park on the Santa Monica Pier. Over time, suspects had already escaped. storms and renovations buried memory, Security footage from theits property until the entrance to the individuals abandoned captured four masked funhouse was hedges mysteriously uncovered emerging from at the rear of the inside Pacific Park. With a little polishing, home. One intruder scaled a side gate, it has reopened guestsand as aallowed nod to local opened it fromfor inside, the Santa history and nostalgicbelieve fun. othersMonica to enter. Investigators all thespent tinkering and perfecting of theIn crew approximately seven the 'Funhouse at Pacific Park,'a the sinister minutes inside, stealing safe and magic fortunetellers loadingof coin-operated additional valuables intoanda the eerie presence of a dessert-wielding laundry hamper taken from a bedroom. clown have once again beenthe unleashed. Cameras documented group With a in sidelong glance, an animatronic fleeing what appeared to be a Dodge 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 Challenger driven by a fifth suspect. Park." Although the intruders were heavily The “Toonerville Funhouses” were disguised, the homeowners told whimsical, cartoon-themed attractions inspired by the "Toonerville investigators they popular recognized certain Trolley" comicand strip, which voices, was widely mannerisms distinct and recognized in the early 20th century. The even heard one suspect call another by first version opened at Ocean Park Pier in name. the 1920s, while a second debuted in 1958 Los Ocean Angeles Police Department at The Pacific Park, which replaced Ocean Park Pier on the same site at the end is continuing its investigation. No of Ocean Parkbeen Boulevard, arrests have made. just about two nautical miles south of today’s Pacific Park, Authorities anyone border. with near the Santa urge Monica–Venice information or who may amusement recognize Both became icons of seaside details from the in footage to contact before disappearing the 1970s. SC Holdings, an investment firm with police. extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific

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. 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.


16 | December 2025

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SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

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