
January
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January
Critics say the plan raises questions about accessibility and safety.
Federal plans to expand the use of tiny homes for homeless veterans on the West Los Angeles VA campus are facing mounting criticism, with veterans and advocates questioning whether the Department of Veterans Affairs is complying with court orders or simply repeating a stopgap approach that has already drawn complaints.
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.
The meeting, held by the California Board of Forestry’s Zone Zero Committee, was the only one scheduled in the region 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.”
Speakers at the meeting argued that
During a federal court hearing this week, VA officials disclosed plans to install as many as 800 small prefabricated units on the campus this year, according to testimony cited by the Los Angeles Times. The structures, measuring roughly 8 feet by 8 feet, resemble sheds currently in use near San Vicente Boulevard.
Veterans who have lived in or near the existing units say the housing is poorly suited for long-term use and fails to meet basic accessibility standards. More than
the regulations adopt a “one-size-fits-all” approach that fails to reflect the unique needs of individual communities. Many urged state officials to focus resources instead on home hardening, brush clearance, and landscape maintenance rather than widespread tree and plant removal.
100 tiny homes already on the site have generated concerns about wheelchair access, fire safety, and structural durability, particularly for residents with mobility impairments.
The expansion proposal comes as the VA remains under judicial oversight to address chronic homelessness among veterans in Los Angeles. In 2024, U.S. District Judge David O. Carter ordered the agency to build more than 2,500 housing units, both temporary and permanent, after finding earlier efforts insufficient. That mandate followed an earlier order requiring 1,200 permanent units and was upheld by a federal appeals court in December.
Survivors of the recent Palisades Fire shared firsthand accounts, saying their homes, not nearby vegetation, provided the primary fuel for the blaze. Several emphasized that healthy trees, hedges, and landscaping actually helped slow the fire’s spread in their neighborhoods.
Opponents also warned that removing trees and plants would damage the region’s urban canopy, harm wildlife habitats, and increase hillside erosion. They argued that local governments should have the flexibility to craft fire-prevention strategies that balance safety with environmental preservation.
Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci
At Tuesday’s hearing, Carter openly questioned whether relocating homeless veterans from Skid Row to compact sheds on the Westside would represent a meaningful improvement in living conditions. He also raised concerns about whether public funds are being directed toward solutions that comply with the intent of the court’s orders.
Complicating the issue is a separate directive from President Donald Trump, who in May issued an executive order

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
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.

calling for the creation of a National Center for Warrior Independence on the West Los Angeles campus. That initiative envisions housing for as many as 6,000 veterans. VA officials have yet to explain how the proposed tiny homes align with that project, or whether they are intended to satisfy court requirements, advance the presidential initiative, or serve as a temporary substitute for permanent housing.
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
Under the current plan, the new units would replace a parking lot and grass field adjacent to the existing tiny home village along San Vicente Boulevard. While the VA has sufficient funding authorized to complete the temporary housing by the
“When You Can’t Do Anything, Do Something”:

can be requested by contacting local neighborhood associations while supplies last.
end of 2026, it does not yet have funding in place for the permanent units ordered by the court, Robert Fleck, the VA’s acting principal general counsel, told the judge.
the SAMI
Police activity in the area remained limited over the reporting period, with several categories showing no reported incidents and a small number of theftrelated cases documented, according to a crime report compiled by the Los Angeles Police Department.
with schools and community programs.
Below is a summary of reported incidents, listed alphabetically by category.
ADW (Assault With a Deadly Weapon):
None reported.
BFMV (Burglary From Motor Vehicle) /
In this conversation with reporter Dolores Quintana, Liber reflects on Sammy’s quiet and natural artistic brilliance, why creativity is essential for young people, and how remembrance can live on as access and opportunity.
TFMV (Theft From Motor Vehicle): None reported.
Burglary: None reported.
“This is just the beginning,” Rodney adds. “We want every child with a creative spark to feel seen, supported, and celebrated—just like Sami always made others feel. We’ll never stop missing her, but through this work, her spirit continues to make the world a more beautiful place.”
GTA (Grand Theft Auto): None reported.
Robbery:
None reported.
Dolores Quintana (DQ): For readers meeting you for the first time, could you introduce yourself?
Theft:
● Jan. 20, 10:30 a.m., 2300 block of North Westridge Road:
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
The report was authored and the data collected by Senior Lead Officer Matthew Kirk, who oversees crime tracking and community reporting for the area. SLO Kirk has announced that he will hold a Coffee with a Cop session on Monday, February 2 at the Coral Tree Cafe from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The Coral Tree Cafe is located at 11645 San Vicente Boulevard.
Carla Liber (CL): I’m Carla Liber. My 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.
A suspect contacted the victim by cell phone and falsely claimed that a family member had been arrested following a car accident and that payment was needed to cover damages. The victim withdrew money from a bank and met with the suspect, who took the funds. The suspect later called again and attempted to obtain additional money, but the victim refused.
DQ: Tell me about Sami, especially her
● Jan. 20, 2:50 p.m., 13000 block of

San Vicente Boulevard:
photography, fashion, and makeup; she had a natural eye and shared it generously with friends.
DQ: Did that visual sense show up at school?
A juvenile suspect struck a juvenile victim multiple times with a traffic cone before fleeing. The suspect returned approximately two minutes later and took the victim’s backpack.
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
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.
● Jan. 21, 10:40 a.m. to Jan. 22, 12 p.m., 11800 block of Kiowa Avenue: One or more suspects removed a delivered package from a building lobby. The stolen property consisted of clothing.
Community fundraiser has also extended invite to Palisades Presbyterian Church.
Brentwood Presbyterian Church will host its annual Chili Cook-Off fundraiser on Sunday, Feb. 1, with proceeds benefiting the church’s Youth Ministry and its programs for young people.
The event is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. at the church campus and serves as a community gathering designed to raise $5,000 for youth-focused initiatives, including service projects, leadership development, and faith-based programming.
Church leaders said the cook-off reflects the congregation’s long-standing emphasis on fellowship and collective support for the next generation. The fundraiser combines a shared meal with opportunities for parishioners and guests to contribute directly to youth activities throughout the year.
Members of the Palisades Presbyterian
Church community have been invited to attend, expanding the event beyond a single congregation. Organizers described the gathering as a chance for neighboring church communities to come together in a spirit of generosity and connection.
Participants may enter homemade chili, sample dishes, or simply attend to support the cause. Organizers emphasized that all are welcome, regardless of whether they contribute a dish.
In addition to the cook-off, a raffle will be held to help reach the fundraising goal. Raffle tickets are sold in bundles, with each purchase amount corresponding to a set number of entries rather than a one-to-one dollar value.
Ticket bundles are structured as follows: a $10 purchase equals 1 raffle ticket; $20 equals 3 tickets; $40 equals 7 tickets; and $50 equals 10 tickets. Church officials noted that buyers should rely on the bundle chart, as the checkout page displays only dollar amounts.
Raffle tickets may be purchased online here, and winners do not need to be present to claim prizes. Proceeds from every ticket sold will directly support the Youth Ministry.
























































For many people, conversations about the end of life feel distant, uncomfortable, or easy to postpone.
There always seems to be more time — more trips to take, more milestones to reach, more moments are still waiting to unfold.
That’s what Shirley believed, too.
She and her husband had built a life full of love, laughter and shared adventures. They raised their children together, traveled whenever they could, and cherished celebrating holidays and family events. Like many couples, they never spoke about what would happen “someday.”
Loss felt far away. Time felt endless. Until it wasn’t.
When her husband passed unexpectedly, Shirley found herself facing dozens of decisions she had never imagined making alone. In the midst of her grief, she wanted one thing above all else: for his farewell to reflect who he truly was — not to be defined by his death, but by the life he lived.
When the unexpected time came, she knew she would find comfort and clarity with the professionals at Hillside Memorial Park and Mortuary.
Hillside is known as a Jewish and interfaith cemetery, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and values. Its mortuary proudly serves families of all faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds.
From the moment Shirley arrived, she felt welcomed, heard and supported. She met with one of Hillside’s Family Service Counselors, who didn’t rush her or overwhelm her with logistics. Instead, they listened.
Shirley shared stories about her husband’s devotion to their children, his curiosity about the world and his love of travel. She laughed through tears as she recalled his sense of humor and the way he always made strangers feel like friends. Through these conversations, a service began to take shape. Not as a checklist of tasks, but as a heartfelt tribute. Family and friends gathered to celebrate a life well lived, offering stories, comfort and connection. In that shared space, Shirley felt assured, surrounded by love and reminded she was not alone.
In the quiet moments that followed, Shirley realized something she hadn’t expected: how much easier this journey could have been if the plans had already been made.
With so many decisions required in such a short time, she saw the value of planning ahead — not for herself, but for her children. She didn’t want them to face the same uncertainty, stress and emotional weight she had carried.

So, Shirley made a choice. She met with Hillside again. This time to thoughtfully plan her own final arrangements. With time, clarity and guidance, she was able to express and document what mattered to her: her values, her wishes, and how she wanted her life to be remembered.
Now, she carries a sense of peace knowing her children will one day be spared difficult decisions, free to focus on love and remembrance instead.
Today, Shirley has returned to her routine. She goes to her weekly bridge class, meets friends for coffee and continues to honor her husband’s memory in quiet, meaningful ways. When she thinks about the future, she feels calm and secure, comforted by the thought that one day, she will rest beside the man she loved so deeply.
Planning ahead, she learned, isn’t about preparing for loss. It’s about protecting the people you love.
At Hillside Memorial Park and Mortuary, advance planning is viewed as an act of compassion — a way to honor your life, your values and the family you leave behind.
Whether rooted in Jewish tradition or
guided by other faiths and beliefs, every family is supported with dignity, care and respect.
“When we plan ahead, we spare our loved ones from making difficult decisions in moments of deep emotion,” says Rafael Ochoa, Hillside’s General Manager. “It’s a simple gift: clarity instead of chaos, peace instead of pressure, and space for healing when it matters most.”

With thoughtful guidance, families can make meaningful choices about services, traditions and personal touches that reflect a life’s story. These conversations, held in calm moments rather than times of crisis, allow wishes to be honored with intention and love.
For Shirley — and for many others — planning ahead becomes a final gift of love.
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Toddler storytime will return, Lego play continues weekly, and Councilwoman Traci Park joins the celebration
Programming at the Brentwood Branch Library is set to resume its regular rhythm in early February, alongside a grand reopening celebration that will mark the completion of recent improvements to the children’s area.
Library officials said toddler storytime will not be held this Wednesday but is scheduled to return on Wednesday, Feb. 4. By that date, the branch’s elevator is expected to be back in service, allowing programs to move from the children’s area downstairs to the community room. The weekly storytime features songs, books, and interactive activities for young children and caregivers.
Brick Building Playtime will continue as scheduled on Thursdays at 3 p.m. The weekly program invites children to create Lego structures using guided prompts or their own designs. Completed creations can be displayed in the library’s miniature Lego museum and revisited during future sessions. While the Lego bricks are recommended for children ages 5 and older, alternative building materials are available for younger participants.
The library will host a Grand Reopening Celebration on Saturday, Feb. 7, with activities planned throughout the day.

Giveaways and refreshments will be available for visitors, with two featured events highlighting the celebration.
At 11 a.m., the Living Treasures Reptile Show will bring The Reptile Family to the library for an educational presentation that allows children to safely interact with a variety of live reptiles. The program is designed to introduce young audiences to wildlife through hands-on learning.
Later that afternoon, at 1 p.m., Councilwoman Traci Park of Council District 11 will lead a special storytime in the newly redesigned children’s area. Library staff said the event is intended to celebrate the updated space and reinforce the library’s role as a community gathering place for families.
All programs are free and open to the public.




One of the oldest continually operating American diners on the Westside, founded by husband-andwife duo Mary and Robbs Singleton in 1947, continues to preserve the authentic diner experience and deliver outstanding customer service.
In a city where restaurants come and go, Mary & Robb’s remains a constant — complete with hearty portions, familiar favorites and the kind of service that keeps families coming back.
The menu strikes a careful balance between classic diner staples — chili dogs, burgers, New York steak and eggs — and thoughtful variety. Alongside the return of a German hot dog served on a French roll are turkey, veggies, impossible and salmon burgers, corned beef and mushroom burgers: something for every appetite. While dining for breakfast or brunch, enjoy unlimited bottomless mimosas with colorful flavors including pomegranate, cucumber, mango, watermelon, peach or blueberry.
Mary & Robbs began as a charming neighborhood soda shop in the late 1940s where locals gathered for simple treats and conversation. By the late 60s, it had grown into a full-service restaurant, cementing its role as a Westwood favorite for heart meals and friendly service.
As time would have it, ownership has changed twice since its initial opening, but its Westwood legacy has remained remarkably intact for decades.
“For generations, families have enjoyed Mary & Robbs and its authentic diner experience. Passing down this tradition is the longtime commitment of our chef who has served the same, well-loved meals that
With a menu rooted in consistency, Mary & Robbs Westwood Cafe is held together by tradition, loyalty and the simple promise of good food at the right price.

everyone loves for the last 40 years,” said Roozbeh Farahanipour, the current owner of Mary & Robbs since 2020. “We are proud to call our staff family.”
That sense of family is evident the moment you walk through the door. On weekdays and weekends alike, people fill the booths — students, longtime residents, families, and visitors all sharing the same space. The pace is unpretentious and welcoming, with staff who remember faces, orders, and stories.
To Roozbeh, this restaurant feels like coming home. Hearty breakfasts, classic
comfort plates and friendly smiles make every visit special. Whether you’re grabbing a quick take-out meal or settling in for a relaxed brunch, Mary & Robbs Westwood Cafe invites you to experience good food, genuine service and the spirit of a classic American diner.
Mary & Robbs Westwood Cafe is open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 1455 Westwood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90024. The restaurant can be reached by phone at 310-478-3822. Menus can be found online.



The real-life mansion used for exterior shots of the hit sitcom is hitting the
Television history and luxury real estate intersect in Brentwood Park, where the iconic home used as the exterior for “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” is being offered for sale at nearly $30 million.
Listed at $29.95 million, the 1937 Georgian Colonial estate is the actual residence featured in opening credits and exterior shots throughout the long-running Will Smith sitcom. Although the series was set in Bel-Air, the house is located a short distance away in Brentwood Park, one of Los Angeles’ most exclusive residential enclaves.
The two-story property includes six bedrooms and seven and a half bathrooms and spans about 10,000 square feet. It sits on a prominent corner lot measuring roughly 38,510 square feet, offering privacy and scale that are increasingly rare in the neighborhood.
The listing will mark the first time the home has been offered for sale in nearly
five decades. Built in 1937, the two-story estate includes six bedrooms and seven and a half bathrooms and spans about 10,000 square feet. The corner lot measures roughly 38,510 square feet.
Over the decades, the estate has been updated and remodeled while retaining its classic East Coast architectural character.
The home combines traditional design with the stature and presence of a property long associated with Los Angeles’ entertainment industry.
Beyond its connection to “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” the residence has appeared in numerous films, television productions, commercials, and media projects over the past 35 years, making it one of the most recognizable residential façades in the city. Sasha Rahban of The Altman Brothers holds the listing.
The property sits among other highprofile homes. In 2023, filmmaker Judd Apatow sold the neighboring house at 239 N. Bristol Ave. for $27 million. The estate is also located a short distance from the former Rockingham Avenue home of O.J. Simpson, a focal point of national attention during his 1990s murder trial. Former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan is also a resident of the surrounding area.
According to TMZ, the mansion is currently being used as a filming location for an unnamed Netflix production.


Police say a San Bernardino man is accused of beating and running over the victim.
struck the victim multiple times with a metal object, that might have been a hammer.
The ‘Toonerville Funhouse,’ originally located at Ocean Park Pier and Pacific Ocean Park amusement parks, is inspiration for the newest attraction inside Pacific Park
Police arrested a suspect Friday following a fatal daytime assault in a heavily trafficked area of Beverly Hills, authorities said.
The attack was reported at about 12:42 p.m. along Wilshire Boulevard near San Vicente Boulevard, according to the Beverly Hills Police Department. Officers responded to multiple emergency calls reporting an assault in progress.
Investigators said the incident began as a verbal dispute between two men. During the confrontation, the suspect allegedly
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.
Witnesses told police, and NBC 4 News said that the suspect then entered a vehicle and ran over the victim before fleeing the scene. The victim was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries, according to multiple media outlets.
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.
Police identified the suspect as Christopher Cornelius, 54, of San Bernardino. Cornelius was taken into custody and booked on suspicion of murder. Bail was set at $2 million.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the BHPD at (310) 550-4951. You can remain anonymous by texting TIP BHPDALERT followed by the tip information to 888777. You may also submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at lacrimestoppers.org.


"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."
longtime
near UCLA served its final customers in late December.
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
Broxton Brewery & Public House has closed its Westwood location, ending its run as a longtime neighborhood gathering spot.
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
Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles Campus 55
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.
SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific
The brewpub served its final customers on Saturday, Dec. 27, according to a message shared with the Westwood community. In the announcement, the owners thanked guests, neighbors, and local businesses for their years of support and shared experiences.
Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism Outside El Rodeo Elementary
Over the years, Broxton positioned itself as more than a brewery and restaurant, aiming to serve as a communal space for people from all walks of life. The venue hosted celebrations, trivia nights, karaoke, business events, and private gatherings, and maintained close ties to UCLA and the surrounding area.
The owners reflected on their original mission to create a welcoming environment built around hospitality, conversation, and craft beer, crediting their staff and loyal patrons for helping bring that vision to life.
Authorities are investigating after a swastika was discovered outside a Beverly Hills elementary school on Monday, according to My News LA.
In their farewell message, the brewery
The symbol was found just outside the

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
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,
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District staff immediately removed the swastika and notified the Beverly Hills Police Department. Police have launched an active investigation to identify those responsible.
expressed gratitude for the memories created inside the space and extended holiday wishes to the community.
No future plans for the former Broxton Brewery & Public House space have been announced.
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.


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.
Caltrans will reduce the freeway to three lanes in each direction.
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
Traffic through the Sepulveda Pass will be significantly restricted this weekend, from 10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, to 5 a.m. Monday, Feb. 2, as Caltrans moves forward with major pavement repairs along Interstate 405, one of Southern California’s busiest freeways.
Caltrans said the extended 55-hour closure between Wilshire and Sunset is necessary to replace approach slabs near Wilshire Boulevard and to allow crews sufficient time to address unforeseen conditions. Officials said performing the work over a full weekend helps ensure the freeway can reopen in time for the Monday morning commute.
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
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.
310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram. com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.
Alternate routes will be available for drivers traveling to and from Sepulveda Boulevard. For northbound I-405 access, motorists are advised to travel east on Santa Monica Boulevard and north on Sepulveda Boulevard to the Moraga Drive on-ramp. For southbound access, drivers can use Church Lane to Sepulveda Boulevard, then west on Wilshire Boulevard to the southbound on-ramp.
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
Caltrans said the freeway will be reduced to three lanes in each direction during extended weekend closures, and drivers are urged to plan their routes ahead of time, seek alternate routes, or consider public transportation. The lane reductions are part of the ongoing I-405 Pavement Rehabilitation Project, a large-scale effort aimed at improving safety, mobility, and roadway longevity between Van Nuys and Westwood.


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Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism
During the Jan. 30 to Feb. 2 closure window, motorists can expect the following impacts:
Northbound I-405:
Caltrans said similar extended weekend lane reductions will occur roughly every two weeks along various sections of the I-405, with about 25 such closures anticipated over the course of the project. Schedules may change due to weather or operational needs.
Outside El Rodeo Elementary
● Reduced to three lanes between Wilshire Boulevard and just north of Sunset Boulevard
● Getty Center Drive/Sepulveda Boulevard off-ramp closed
Authorities are investigating after a swastika was discovered outside a Beverly Hills elementary school on Monday, according to My News LA.
Southbound I-405:
● Reduced to three lanes between just north of Sunset Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard
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.
Residents and businesses near the construction zone may experience increased noise, vibration, and dust during work hours. Current road conditions and closure updates are available through the Caltrans QuickMap.
The pavement rehabilitation project represents an investment of approximately $143.7 million and is intended to extend the life of the freeway while improving travel conditions through the Sepulveda Pass corridor.
No additional details about potential suspects or motives have been released.
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