Issuu

INSIDE INSIDE

smmirror.com smmirror.com smmirror.com

September 26, 2025 - October 2, 2025 Volume CXXIII Issue 214 September 26,26 2025 - October31, 2, 2025 December - December 2025 Volume Volume CXXIII CXXIII Issue Issue 214 214

YOVENICE.COM BEST OF 2025

Thousands Equipment Stolen Santa Monicain Darrick Jacob From Police Thousands inNames Equipment Stolen From Filmmaker’s Santa Monica Home Chief After Decades With Department Filmmaker’s Santa Monica Home Known for his work Longtime SMPD Known for his work across cinematography, Veteran Becomes across cinematography, directing, and First Internal Chief directing, and editing, editing, Ruiz-Healy returned Appointment in Ruiz-Healy returned home to find his house Moreto Than 40 Years home find his house occupied by squatters occupied Santa Monicaby hassquatters named longtime

department veteran Darrick Jacob as its Indie filmmaker and award-winning Indie and award-winning next chieffilmmaker of police, elevating the acting cinematographer Fidel Ruiz-Healy is cinematographer Fidel Ruiz-Healy is chief to thefrom permanent role following recovering a devastating home recovering from a devastating home more than two decades of service with the robbery that left his Santa Monica residence robbery that left hisstripped Santa Monica residence department. uninhabitable and of nearly all his uninhabitable andOliver stripped nearly all the his City Manager Chiofannounced professional equipment. professional equipment. appointment, effect Dec. 14. Ruiz-Healy, which knowntook for his work across Ruiz-Healy, foracting his and work across Jacob, who hasknown served as chief since cinematography, directing, editing, cinematography, directing, and editing, August 2025, becomes first internal returned home on Sept. 16the from a work trip returned home onransacked Sept. 16 from areportedly work trip candidate selected as Santa Monica police to find his house and to find his house ransacked and reportedly chief in more 40 years. occupied by than squatters. According to a occupied bycampaign squatters. According to a Jacob joined the Santa Monica Police GoFundMe launched by friends GoFundMe campaign launched by friends Department in 2004 and single has held a wide and collaborators, “every crevice” of and collaborators, of the home been“every turnedsingle over.crevice” Alongside range ofhadoperational and leadership the home over.left Alongside trash and had discarded weapons behind, positions. He been was turned promoted to deputy trash and2020 discarded weapons left behind, extensive damage was done to the chief in and later assumed leadership extensive damage was done to His the plumbing, includingascutinterim wires, chief. rendering of the department plumbing, including cut wires, rendering the home unlivable. background includes assignments in patrol the home unlivable. Most concerning for the filmmaker is the operations, investigations, organizational Most concerning filmmaker is the loss of virtually all offor histhe camera equipment loss of virtually all of his camera equipment — the tools that form the backbone of his — the and toolssole thatsource form of theincome. backbone his career Theoftheft career andhigh-end sole source of income. theft included gear such asThe a RED included high-endpackage, gear such as aR RED Dragon camera Leica and Dragon camera package, Leica R and Nikon AIS lenses, tripods, lighting meters, Nikon AIS lenses, lighting meters, hard drives, and a tripods, MacBook Pro. Several hard drives, and a MacBook Pro. Several

management, and citywide public safety coordination. Before joining SMPD, Jacob worked for the California State University, Northridge Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. He is also a veteran of the U.S. Navy. As acting chief, Jacob emphasized four department-wide priorities: crime reduction, homelessness, traffic safety, and community and youth engagement. City officials said those priorities have guided deployment strategies, enforcement decisions, and partnerships throughout Santa Monica. A key component of Jacob’s leadership approach has been increasing officer visibility through expanded foot beats, bicycle patrols and high-visibility deployments in residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors and pedestrianheavy areas. City officials stated that these strategies are designed to deter crime, enhance response times, and foster stronger relationships between officers and residents. items belonging to colleagues that RuizUnder Jacob’s leadership, the department items belonging colleagues that Healy was were also among the reached full storing sworntostaffing for the firstRuiztime Healy was storing were also among the stolen equipment. in nearly 20 years, following City Council stolen equipment. Compounding the over-hire loss, positions. insurance approval of additional Compounding the loss, insurance coverage on the equipment had lapsed just coverage on the equipment had lapsed just weeks earlier, on August 30. weeks earlier, on August 30. Ruiz-Healy, who has since found Ruiz-Healy, whois still has taking since onfound temporary housing, film temporary housing, on film work, but friends sayisthestill losstaking of equipment work, butafriends the loss of livelihood. equipment presents serioussay barrier to his presents a serious barrier to his livelihood. “Any filmmaker understands that your “Any filmmaker expected to debut inunderstands fall 2026. that your While final contracts have not yet been approved, city officials said the partnerships are intended to draw visitors, generate business activity, and increase Santa Monica’s visibility during a period when the region will be hosting some of the world’s most-watched events. When approachedisand Amongofficers the proposals a attempted Michelob When andthe attempted to detain officers the man,approached he became uncooperative ULTRA Pitchside Club on Santa to detain the he became uncooperative and repeatedly toward the center Monica Pierman, inreached June 2026, coinciding and toward center console, police said. A brief struggle with repeatedly the start ofreached the World Cup.the The beer console, police said. A brief struggle followed before tournament the suspect sponsor, fled on plans foot. brand, an official followed before the suspect fled on foot. Officers him afan short distance to createapprehended a 21-and-over experience Officers apprehended him a short distance away. combining match viewing with interactive away. A search ofprogramming, the vehicle merchandise revealed a soccer-themed A search the vehicle revealed loaded handgun positioned between thea sales, and ofguest appearances. City loaded handgun positioned between the driver’s seatindicate and center console, within the documents the company also plans driver’s seat and center console, within suspect’s reach.lease Authorities also recovered to temporarily the Viceroy Hotelthe to suspect’s reach. Authorities also psilocybin recovered asupport significant amount of cocaine, event operations. a significant amount of cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, anddiscussion marijuana. The council’s is available here: mushrooms, marijuana. The h t t psuspect, s : / /and w wwhose w . y oidentity u t u b ewas . c o not m/ identity released, inc vcustody l i The v e / 5suspect, Rremains H 6 kwhose ML b M ? s was ipending = u not Ureleased, remains in police custody said. pending further investigation, No kEfDnzOld_2vs&t=9222 further investigation, police said. additional details immediately The council also were approved staff No to additional details were immediately available. continue negotiations with Goldenvoice, available. a division of AEG Presents, to produce

The staffing increase has enabled expanded patrol coverage, increased downtown presence, and enhanced coordination with specialized units, including the Homeless Liaison Program and the Downtown Services Unit. Jacob began his law enforcement career in 1996 with the CSUN Police Department and joined the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in 2001 before being hired by SMPD. During his career, he has served as a patrol officer, field training officer, motor officer, defensive tactics instructor, and property crimes detective. He was promoted to sergeant in 2008 and later to lieutenant in 2013, overseeing patrol operations, training, dispatch, the Santa Monica Animal Shelter, detectives, and specialized units, including S.W.A.T. Jacob was promoted to captain in 2018 and commanded both the Patrol Operations Division and the Strategic Services Division. Jacob holds a bachelor’s degree in health science and a master’s degree in public administration from California State equipment everything. this University, is Northridge. HeTherefore, has completed equipment is everything. Therefore, this situation requires immediate attention,” several executive leadership programs, situation requires immediate attention,” organizers wrote on the Block fundraiser page. including the Sherman Supervisory organizers wrote on the page. As of Friday, more than $20,000 has Leadership Institute, thefundraiser California POST As raised of Friday, more $20,000 has been through overthan 250 donations on been raised through donations on GoFundMe, putting over the 250 campaign within GoFundMe, putting the campaign within reach of its $22,000 goal. Supporters reach continued of its $22,000 have to sharegoal. the Supporters fundraiser, have continued to share reputation the fundraiser, highlighting Ruiz-Healy’s as a highlighting Ruiz-Healy’s as a generous collaborator and reputation “an all-around generous collaborator and “an all-around great guy.” great guy.” a large-scale music festival along the coastline near the Pier. Plans call for a one-day event with an estimated crowd of 30,000 to 35,000 people, featuring a dozen or more musical acts, food vendors, and art installations. Organizers have indicated the festival would return in 2027 and 2028 if the initial event moves forward. In early 2027, Santa Monica may also host an ESPN fan festival and broadcast presence on the Pier and adjacent beach. Preliminary plans include live productions set against the coastline, along with community programming and partnerships with local nonprofits and businesses. The final and most complex phase would arrive in summer 2028, when the Olympic and Paralympic Games are held across the Los Angeles region. One proposal would bring Club France, the official hospitality venue of the French Olympic team, to the Annenberg Community Beach House. Another concept under consideration includes a “Nations Village” and broadcast center at Crescent Bay Park and nearby parking areas. Mayor Caroline Torosis said, “The next

Executive Development Course, and the Senior Management Institute for Police. Jacob is a member of several professional organizations, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Police Executive Research Forum, the California Police Chiefs Association, and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. He is Monica scheduled to be in ona Santa police havesworn assigned Santa Monica police Wednesday, Jan.case, 14,and athave 10 assigned a.m. have Thea detective to the neighbors detective to the case, and neighbors have been alertedwill to report any leads.live Organizers ceremony be streamed on the been to report leads. Organizers shared photos of theany aftermath to show city’salerted YouTube channel. shared the aftermath the scalephotos of theofdamage and say to theyshow are the scale of the damage and say theygoal are continuing to adjust the fundraising continuing to adjust the fundraising goal to account for the full cost of replacing to account and for essential the full items. cost of replacing equipment equipment and essential items.can visit the Those wishing to contribute Those wishing contribute visitFilm the GoFundMe page totitled “Helpcan Indie GoFundMe page titled “Help Indie Film Legend After Home Robbery.” Legend After Home Robbery.”

Santa Monica Sets Stage for World Cup, Olympics, and New Beach Music Festival

City Council Approves Early Agreements Tied to Global Sports Events and a Proposed Suspect Flees Briefly Suspect FleesConcert Briefly Beachfront Before Police Recover Before Recover Series Police Cocaine, Mushrooms,

SMPD SMPD Arrest Arrest Man Man with with Drugs, Drugs, Loaded Loaded Gun Gun After After Traffic Traffic Stop Stop Cocaine, Mushrooms, Santa Marijuana Monica could become a focal and point for international sports fans and and Marijuana

festivalgoers over in theSanta next three yearsled after A traffic stop Monica to traffic in Santa Monica led to theASanta Monica City Council onaTuesday the arrest ofstop a man found with loaded the arrest aand ofslate a aman found with a loaded approved ofsignificant preliminary agreements handgun quantity of handgun andsaid a Thursday. significant quantity of tied to police major global events coming to the drugs, drugs, police said Thursday. Southern Santa California Monica region. Police Department Santa Monica Police The actions clear the way forDepartment a series of officers, patrolling the 00 block of Bay officers, patrolling the 00 block of large Bay fan zones, broadcast activations, and Street around 9:40 p.m. Wednesday, Street around public gatherings timedp.m. around 2026 observed a parked9:40 vehicle withWednesday, thethe driver’s observed a parked vehicle with the driver’s door open. The wasSuper seen handling FIFA World Cup,driver the 2027 Bowl, and door open. Theparaphernalia, driver was seen handling suspected drug according to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. suspected drug paraphernalia, according to aCouncil police statement. members also endorsed early aplans police statement. for a new beachfront music festival

few years are a defining opportunity to showcase Santa Monica at its best, from our beach and Pier to the heart of our downtown along our iconic coastline. This is exactly what our Realignment Plan was designed to do. We are ushering in Santa Monica’s Renaissance by delivering results, revitalizing our core, and setting the city up for its next chapter. Our best days are ahead.” City officials emphasized that none of the events would receive city subsidies. Instead, organizers would pay fees covering venue use, security, traffic management, and city services under a new cost-recovery model approved by the council. The votes allow city staff to continue refining the proposals and negotiating final terms, which will return to the City Council for approval. You can read the full staff report here and

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

$400M+ Loan Tied to Santa Monica Luxury Apartments Falls Into Default Pimco and the Witkoff Firm Default on Debt Linked to 249-Unit Park Santa Monica Complex

The Pacific Investment Management Company (Pimco) and the Witkoff Group have fallen into default on a loan topping $400 million tied to a luxury apartment complex in downtown Santa Monica, as reported by The Real Deal. The delinquent debt is linked to The Park Santa Monica, a 249-unit residential property at 500 Broadway, Bloomberg and other real estate outlets reported. A Witkoff representative told Bloomberg that Pimco holds 98.5% of the equity in the property and served as the primary capital partner overseeing investment decisions, while the Witkoff Group owns the remaining 1.5%. County records show the project was financed with a $324 million loan in 2021 from affiliates of Mack Real Estate Credit Strategies, with the balance later increased

to $405 million in November 2024. The note matured in July and had climbed to roughly $439.5 million as of last month when accrued interest and late charges were included. No reason for the default was disclosed in the public reporting. “Our focus is maintaining the high level of quality residents expect. While we would have preferred an ordinarycourse repayment, our team has extensive experience developing and owning luxury rental units and is well situated to step into

ownership,” a spokesperson for Mack Real Estate Credit Strategies Completed in 2022, The Park Santa Monica includes apartments and retail space and is marketed with amenities such as a rooftop park, pool, and fitness center. Studio rents begin around $4,000 a month, and three-bedroom units can reach roughly $19,000-plus, according to Bloomberg summaries. The default lands amid broader stress in commercial real estate since interest rates

rose in 2022, a shift that has driven more delinquencies and forced some owners to refinance at higher costs or face loan maturities. The Witkoff Group was founded by developer Steve Witkoff, who has held a U.S. envoy role in the Trump administration and disclosed selling a $120 million stake in his firm to address potential conflicts of interest, according to reporting tied to his financial disclosure.

December 26 - December 31, 2025

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

Store Hours: 7am-9pm Daily Christmas Day & New Years Day: 7am-7pm Prices are valid while supplies last. Prices Valid December 18, 2025 December 31, 2025

Delivery Hours: 7am - 3pm Call or Email before 2 pm for same day delivery! Not Available Sundays Curbside pick-up available 9am-5pm Daily (310) 452-2493 • www.bobsmkt.com

FEATURED THIS WEEK!

SERVICE DELI

SARATOGA WATER SPARKLING OR STILL

2 for 4 $

28 fl. oz.

+TAX +CRV

Product of Peru

Product of USA

SWEET POTATOES Product of USA

$ .99

$ .29

lb.

$ .99

lb.

FULL SERVICE MEATS

BOB’S OWN SWEET OR SPICY ITALIAN PORK SAUSAGE

lb.

Product of USA

PEPPER JACK OR MONTEREY CHEESE $ .99

$ .49

USDA PRIME T-BONE JUMBO SHRIMP OR PORTERHOUSE Peeled & Deveined 16-20 Count STEAK

lb.

.99

lb.

.99 lb.

OSCAR MAYER ORIGINAL BACON 16 oz.

JIMMY DEAN PREMIUM PORK SAUSAGE 16 oz.

22 oz.

2 for $1

$ .99

HOT FOODS

PICK OF THE WEEK WINE & BEER Save THERE AFTER 10

39 .99

.99

HÄAGEN-DAZS ICE CREAM 14 fl. oz. Assorted Flavors

VANITY FAIR NAPKINS EVERYDAY OR ENTERTAIN 40 ct. Or 100 ct.

$ .99

We Accept

1650 Ocean Park Blvd. Santa Monica, 90405 Corner of 17th & Ocean Park Blvd.

.99

BEEF MEATBALLS

2020 Cabernet Sauvignon 750 ml. +Tax +CRV Save BORGO MARAGLIANO 3 2021 Italian Sparkling Wine +Tax +CRV

LEMONS

JESSIE’S PUMPKIN PIE

$ .99

.99

lb.

Product of USA

LOW PRICES FOR YOUR EVERYDAY NEEDS EQUAL EXCHANGE TEA 20 Ct. Box Assorted Varieties

8 lb.

$ .99

HONEYCRISP APPLES

BAKERY

FARM FRESH PRODUCE

RED GRAPES GREEN BEANS

Boar’s Head RARE ROAST BEEF $ .99

NATURAL ORGANIC SPECIALTY

$ .99

+Tax

.99 lb. +Tax

Hot and Ready to Serve!

PORK BABY BACK RIBS

.99 lb. +Tax

Hot and Ready to Serve!

Become a member of our Rewards Program

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

Santa Monica Indian Restaurant to Serve $105 Christmas Brunch Buffet Modern spot near beach offers spiceinfused dishes like Burmese khow suey, chaat and biryani, plus rotating holiday cocktail cart through December

Fitoor, a contemporary Indian restaurant that opened earlier this month on Ocean Avenue, will host a Christmas Day brunch buffet featuring a range of regional dishes. The buffet, priced at $105 per person, includes stations with Burmese khow suey, live chaat preparations such as pani puri and samosa chaat, frankies with fillings like chicken bhuna or paneer bhurji, dosas, mains including pav bhaji, egg roast curry, Hyderabadi dum ka murgh and mutton keema biryani, and desserts like chocolate flourless cake and prunes crème brûlée. The restaurant, at 1755 Ocean Ave., is also running a holiday cocktail cart throughout December that circulates through the dining room with changing

weekly specials, alternating between festive drinks and seasonal small plates or desserts. Fitoor, which specializes in wood-

fired modern Indian cuisine with coastal influences, launched in early December as an expansion from the Bay Area. The menu draws from various Indian regions, often

incorporating fusion elements. Reservations for the Christmas brunch can be made through the restaurant's website or platforms like OpenTable.

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

Scan to join us for a virtual open house E ACADEMY ASTEM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

“Meet Me Under the Fig Tree” Event Collects 2,800 Pounds of Food for Families Tree” event took place beneath the hotel’s historic Moreton Bay fig tree and included live music, children’s activities and a food and clothing drive benefiting the Westside Food Bank and the nonprofit Chrysalis. According to organizers, attendees donated about 2,800 pounds of nonperishable food, along with hundreds of clothing items and toys. More than $475 was also raised to support local assistance programs. The event featured performances by the Santa Monica High School Orchestra

appearances by local The event featured performances by the police officers Santa Monica High A holiday festival held Sunday at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows School Orchestra drew hundreds of residents and resulted in of pounds of donations for local and musician Jason thousands charities, organizers said. Pelsey, as well as The annual “Meet Me Under the Fig

and musician Jason Pelsey, as well as appearances by local police officers and firefighters. Families posed for photos with Santa, while children participated in crafts, cookie decorating and other activities. Several local restaurants provided food, and animal rescue group Wags & Walks hosted pet adoption opportunities. Organizers said the event has been held for more than a decade and has collected nearly 100,000 pounds of food over that time.

Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles Campus 55

JUNIOR PRESCHOOL Bilingual - French/English

MUST BE 2 YEARS BY DEC 31ST TO ENROLL

POTTY-TRAINED NOT REQUIRED

The way high school should be. Students achieve remarkable outcomes with our strong academics, small classes, and personalized learning. Learn more about our dynamic program and 4-year college planning support at an Admissions event.

Extended care available until 4:45pm

OPTION A: 5 DAYS/WEEK OPTION B: 3 DAYS/WEEK (M/W/F) LUNCH & SNACK INCLUDED 3055 Overland Ave, Los Angeles 90034 admissions@lyceela.org License #197404606

Vistamar is a private independent high school in the South Bay VM 2025-26 Mirror Media 4.917x5.75 v3.indd 1

8:00AM - 2:30PM

10/29/25 6:01 PM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

Santa Monica Releases Application Requirements Preview for New Cannabis Retailers The equity framework was developed through community input and data analysis examining the impacts of cannabis criminalization and obstacles to the legal cannabis industry

The City of Santa Monica has posted an online preview of application and operational requirements for prospective cannabis retailers ahead of the opening of the city’s application process next month. The preview is intended to help businesses prepare for the Jan. 26, 2026, launch date, when applications for adultuse cannabis retail licenses will be accepted and processed on a first-come, first-served basis. City officials said applicants can use the materials to review eligibility criteria

and assemble required documentation in advance of the application opening. The requirements stem from a comprehensive cannabis program approved by the Santa Monica City Council in September. The program authorizes new adult-use cannabis retailers and updates permitting, compliance and operational

standards for cannabis retail and delivery businesses. The program also includes a social equity component designed to reduce barriers to entry for qualifying applicants. City officials said the equity framework was developed through community input and data analysis examining the impacts of

SANTA MONICA LOCALS DO YOU NEED AN EXTRA BEDROOM THIS SEASON? Stay local and save with Santa Monica Resident Rates this holiday season

BOOK YOUR EXTRA BEDROOM santamonica.com/extrabedroom

cannabis criminalization in Santa Monica and obstacles that have limited access to the legal cannabis industry for certain communities and individuals. Adult-use cannabis sales in Santa Monica are subject to a cannabis business tax set at 4 percent of gross receipts.

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow Wish you the Happiest Holidays and a Wonderful New Year

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 25SMCP00599 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles 1725 Main St. | Santa Monica, CA 90401 Petition of: Amelia Rose Mockett by and through Amelia Rose Mockett for change of name. ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME To all interested persons: Amelia Rose Mockett Petitioner: filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Amelia Rose Mockett to Amelia Rose Mockett Wieshofer The court orders that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 01/16/26 | Time: 8:30AM | Dept: K A copy of this ORDER to SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: SANTA MONICA MIRROR | Dated: December 10, 2025 Judge Lawrence Cho Published: 12/12/2025, 12/19/25, 12/26/2025, and 01/02/2026

A TASTE OF

Hawaii Front Row L to R: Dan Jansenson, Charles, Andrews, & Jack Hillbrand Back Row L to R Mario Fonda-Bonardi, Bob Taylor, Phil Brock, Sam Tolkin, & Heather Thomason. Not Shown, Michael Jolly, Cheryl Rhoden & Matt Hoefler

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF JOHN MICHAEL MURPHY To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: JOHN MICHAEL MURPHY A Petition for Probate has been filed by CHRISTOPHER MURPHY in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 25STPB13513 The Petition for Probate requests that CHRISTOPHER MURPHY be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in Los Angeles County Superior Court as follows: Date: JANUARY 12, 2026, Time: 8:30 am. Dept.: 62 The address of the court: 4 Main St. – Ste. 20, Los Altos CA 94022 If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statues and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner Attorney for Petition: Janet L. Brewer, 4 Main St. Ste. 20, Los Altos, Ca. 94022 Published in the Santa Monica Mirror, 12/05/25, 12/12/2025, and 12/19/2025.

IN SANTA MONICA

December 26 - December 31, 2025

Welcome to Urban Jungle Immerse yourself in a sanctuary where nature’s tranquility meets the vibrancy of city life. Urban Jungle is more than a plant store it’s a communitycentered oasis bringing a lush slice of paradise to your urban lifestyle. Here, we passionately believe in the power of plants to transform spaces and elevate well-being.

Explore Our Urban Collections

SERVING.... KAVA NECTAR 100% HAWAIIAN KONA COFFEE CEREMONIAL MATCHA SHOW THIS FOR

20% OFF A DRINK

VALID UNTIL 01/01/2026

306 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica KAVAHANA.COM

sales@urbanjungleplantsandpottery.com 310-744-1220 3113 Lincoln Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90450 Hours: M-F 11-6, Saturday and Sunday 10-6

December 26 - December 31, 2025

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

Best Children's Program and Service

Best Happy Hour

School of Rock West LA 12020 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025 (310) 442-7625 • westla.schoolofrock.com

Santa Monica Brew Works 1920 Colorado Ave. Santa Monica, CA 90404 (310) 828-7629 • santamonicabrewworks.com

School of Rock West LA has been enriching the lives of students and adults for 15 years, proudly serving the Santa Monica and West LA communities. We offer a revolutionary, performance-based music education. Our signature Song First approach is not just about scales and theory; it's the fastest and most fun way to learn music on the planet. This

method combines individual instruction with exciting group rehearsals and live performances on real stages. Our comprehensive classes welcome students as young as 4 and continue all the way through adulthood. We are committed to fostering a supportive environment to help every student find and amplify their musical voice!

HAPPY-HAPPY-HAPPY HOUR! Santa Monica Brew Works has been voted Best Happy Hour three years running. Enjoy weekday draft specials until 5PM, and all day Monday! Plus,

late-night bites after 9:30PM on Friday & Saturday. Tasting Room open daily at noon. Now, that’s something to smile about.

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

Best Coffee Shop Santa Monica Urth Caffe (818) 634-3133 • https://www.urthcaffe.com/

Urth Caffé is a European-style café known for its organic heirloom coffee— lower in acid and healthier for all—fine teas, farm-fresh cuisine, and exquisite desserts. Coffees are sustainably sourced globally and roasted daily at Urth’s Hawthorne facility, ensuring exceptional quality & freshness. All baked goods are made in-house daily using ancient heirloom grains and premium European

butter. Each location is unique and designed as a community oasis using natural stone, wood, glass, and handpainted tiles. The Santa Monica café offers a cozy, inviting space with indoor and outdoor dining highlighted by an expansive patio and a curved, handtiled fountain crafted from emerald-blue Amazonite.

Best Pharmacy Central Pharmacy (310) 395-3294 2008 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA, 90403 www.mycentralpharmacy.com/

Central Compounding Pharmacy is proud to be named Best Pharmacy in Santa Monica! We’re grateful to our patients and community for trusting us with your healthcare. Visit us to experience personalized service and see why we were chosen as “The Best” and “Most Loved.”

ONA M D N A N A MARJ tiful and our beau armacists. brilliant Ph

We specialize in custom compounded medications using only high quality ingredients. Our highly experienced staff is trusted in

helping you prioritize your health and wellness. We celebrate 20 years in compounding and hope you will put your trust in our hands.

December 26 - December 31, 2025

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

New Roads School is honored to be voted Best Private School in Santa Monica in the Santa Monica Mirror's "Best of 2025" Discover New Roads School, a K-12 child-centered progressive school celebrating 30 years of preparing students for college and lives well-lived. At New Roads, academic excellence is paired with curiosity, creativity and connection, in a community as diverse as Los Angeles itself. Discover a school where joy and learning go hand in hand at newroads.org.

December 26 - December 31, 2025

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

A PLACE TO SHINE CONNECT BELONG BE HAPPY In an independent study commissioned by School of Rock, 76.4% of parents said their children felt more encouraged to be themselves, more comfortable discussing feelings and problems, and more valued and supported since joining our programs.* Our students gain far more than music skills. They build confidence, form lasting friendships and become part of a supportive community.

SCHOOL OF ROCK

West LA

12020 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025 (310) 442-7625 westla.schoolofrock.com *Statistics from survey commissioned by School of Rock and administered by a third-party consultancy from 4/26-5/7/2025. Distributed to parents of currently enrolled students under the age of 18, with 1,443 parents completing the survey out of a total population of 19,302 minor students. This corresponds to a margin of error of ±2.48% at a 95% confidence level. Survey data based on a sample population’s self-reported experience. Results intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute a guarantee of future outcomes. Visit schoolofrock.com/signup for more.

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

Best Private School

Best Jeweler/Jewelry

New Roads School 3131 Olympic Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404 310-828-5582 • https://www.newroads.org/

YALE JEWELERS 310-829-0605 • 2839 Wilshire Blvd www.yalejewelers.com Yale Jewelers has been proudly serving Santa Monica since 1978. Yale’s philosophy is simple: find something that speaks to you. Yale Jewelers specializes in engagement rings, wedding rings, custom design, restoration, repairs, and estate jewelry. Custom re-design of your existing pieces or restoration of your unique jewelry and watches is our

passion. Our main goal at Yale is not only to provide our customers with beautiful jewelry, but also to deliver incredible service from start to finish. Please come in and see for yourself.

Best Pet Store/Service/Vet Santa Monica Pet Medical Center 1534 14th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90404 310-393-8218 • www.petmedical.com

New Roads School is honored to be voted Best Private School in Santa Monica for two consecutive years. New Roads is a K-12 progressive school celebrating 30 years of preparing students for college and lives well-lived. At New Roads, academic excellence is paired

with curiosity, creativity and connection, in a community as diverse as Los Angeles itself. Students explore ideas, challenge assumptions, and develop the skills to thrive in our rapidly changing world. At New Roads, joy and learning go hand in hand. Learn more at newroads.org.

Thank you, Santa Monica! We’re incredibly grateful to be chosen as one of the Best of Santa Monica. Serving this

community for over 60 years has been our honor, and we’re thankful for your trust in our team.

December 26 - December 31, 2025

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

Best Restaurant Monica Café

Best Coffee Shop Urth Caffé – Santa Monica

Best Happy Hour / Bar Santa Monica Brew Works

Best Medical Spa / Day Spa / Massage JOIE Spa

Best Local Boutique The Farms – Santa Monica Best Hospital / Urgent Care Providence Saint John’s Health Center Best Real Estate Agent / Brokerage Compass – Santa Monica Best Private School New Roads School Best Health Store Co-opportunity Market – Santa Monica FINE JEWELRY • CUSTOM DESIGNS • FULL SERVICE REPAIR • WATCHES • GEMSTONES ESTATE PURCHASE Thanking the community of Santa Monica for voting us the Best Jewelers for 5 years in a row 2839 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica • (310) 829-0605 • yalejewelers.com

THANK YOU, SANTA MONICA,

Best Art Gallery 10 Women Gallery

Best Jeweler Yale Jewelers Best Children’s Program / Service School of Rock – Santa Monica Best Nail or Hair Salon Salon Republic Best Home Improvement & Design Service Snyder Diamond Best Pharmacy Central Compounding Pharmacy Best Dentist 26th Street Dental Best Dessert Sweet Lady Jane

Best Pet Store / Service / Veterinary Santa Monica Pet Medical Center

Best Hotel Hotel Casa del Mar

Best Auto Dealer / Service Joy Automotive Service & Repair

Best Bakery Jyan Isaac Bread

for selecting Santa Monica Pet Medical as the Best of Santa Monica! For more than 60 years, our privately owned, AAHA-accredited pet hospital has been dedicated to delivering high-quality veterinary medicine with the warmth and personal touch our community deserves. Your trust is what inspires us to stay progressive, compassionate, and uniquely Santa Monica.

LEARN MORE

YOVENICE.COM T:10"

Venice Council Unanimously Opposes Four-Story Project on Main Street The project, proposed by developer Three on the Tree LLC, includes groundfloor restaurants (described in some accounts as four establishments with outdoor seating and a roof deck)

The Venice Neighborhood Council rejected a proposed four-story, 19-unit mixed-use development at 1410-1422 Main St. during a special meeting Dec. 10, citing insufficient community outreach, concerns over size and scale, and significant deviations from a smaller project approved in 2021. The project, proposed by developer Three on the Tree LLC, includes ground-floor restaurants (described in some accounts as four establishments with outdoor seating

and a roof deck), office space, residential units with four designated as very lowincome, and 28 underground parking spaces. It seeks density bonuses and waivers allowing increased height up to about 57 feet (including elevator overrun and solar trellis), reduced side yards, and other concessions under state affordability incentives. Board members expressed frustration that a city planning hearing proceeded the following day despite requests for delay, limiting community input. In a 12-0 vote with one recusal, the council highlighted issues including inadequate parking, narrow alley access for vehicles, excessive restaurants, composting questions, demolition of two existing single-family homes, potential noise and congestion impacts on nearby streets like Horizon, Market, Riviera and Toledo Court, sunlight blockage, privacy loss, and risks to the Venice Specific Plan’s integrity. Local homeowner Rick Garvey, a senior survey coordinator at RAND with expertise in large-scale data projects, presented opposition, distributing flyers at a recent Venice Sign Lighting event. The council’s Land Use and Planning Committee, chaired by Mark Mack and including members David Feige, Robin Rudisill and Sarah Wauters, recommended

denial. Critics also raised Mello Act compliance for affordable housing preservation in the Coastal Zone, lack of full coastal analysis, poor stakeholder notification, no CEQA environmental

review, and excessive waivers. A potential decision by the Los Angeles City Planning Commission is scheduled for Feb. 26, 2026. The architect is Venice-based Matthew Royce.

Better is helping our community breathe easier after a disaster. The Disaster Relief Pulmonary Clinic at Saint John’s was founded to help restore the lung health of our community after the January fires. The clinic offers specialized care to first responders and residents, focused on their long-term pulmonary health needs. Helping our neighbors heal is just one of the many ways we do everything for the better.

• Family owned business (Father/Son Team). • Serving Palisades & the Westside for 57 years. • Largest carpet remnants department on the Westside.

Palisades fire victims: Ask for Palisades Fire Survivor Discount!

310-390-7639

YOVENICE.COM

17 15

T:10"

Orange County Pizza Chain to Open Abbot Kinney Location

Other options include starters like garlic pull-apart bread and harissa-honey wings, focaccia sandwiches with mortadella or Calabrian-spiced Italian meats, seasonal salads and house-made soft-serve with toppings such as olive oil and sea salt. Co-founders Donna Baldwin and John Arena, a Las Vegas hospitality veteran and world-champion pizzaiolo, said the move to Venice was driven by the neighborhood’s mix of locals and visitors. A fourth location in Laguna Beach is also scheduled to open early next year. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner.

LET’S CREATE SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY From custom kitchens to spa-inspired baths, EZ Kitchen & Bath brings you the finest appliances with personal guidance.

EZ Kitchen & Bath 310-652-2862 8865 W Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035 https://www.ezkitchenandbath.net/

T:11.7"

The Venice spot will seat about 130 and serve the brand’s 12-inch round and airy square “grandma-style” pizzas Truly Pizza, the Orange County-based chain known for its three-day-fermented dough and thin, blistered-crust pies, will open a third restaurant at 1239 Abbot Kinney Blvd., the franchise announced. The 4,655-square-foot Venice location will seat about 130 indoors and outdoors and serve the brand’s full menu of 12inch round and airy square “grandmastyle” pizzas ranging from a $19 classic cheese to $30 loaded Suprema topped with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms and roasted peppers.

YOVENICE.COM T:10"

Best Happy Hour / Bar Hama Sushi 213 Windward Avenue Venice, CA 90291 310-396-8783 • www.hamasushi.com

Better is helping our community breathe easier Best Dentist / Orthodontist UCLA Venice Dental Center after a disaster.

Best Med Spa / Salon / Beauty Studio The Disaster Relief Pulmonary Clinic at Saint John’s was founded to Venice The Salon A Venice staple since 1979, Hama Sushi help restore the lung health of our community after the January fires. is known for fresh rolls, quality seafood, Med and Sparesidents, / Salon / Beauty Studio The clinic offers specialized care to firstBest responders and one of the best happy hours in town. focused on their long-term pulmonary health needs. Helping Den our neighbors Mother heal is just one of the many ways we do everything for the better. Best Fitness / Gym / Workout Studio Best Restaurant Gold’s Gym — Venice Charcoal Venice Best Pet Service / Veterinary Best Happy Hour / Bar Centinela Feed — Venice Hama Sushi Best Wellness / Holistic Center Best Coffee Shop / Café Remedy Place The Cow’s End Café Best Dispensary Best Real Estate Agent / Broker Erba Venice Campbell Wellman Best Local Boutique / Shop Best Real Estate Agent / Broker Aviator Nation Terry Ballentine — Estate Properties

19 15

YOVENICE.COM T:10"

Community Rallies to Raise $5K for Venice’s ‘Piano Man’ After Instrument Confiscated Organized by Venice residents, a new fundraiser aims to replace the piano — ideally with a donated grand piano

A GoFundMe campaign has raised support for Nathan Pino, the 73-year-old street performer known as the “Piano Man” of Venice Beach, following the confiscation and damage of his piano during a city boardwalk cleanup last month. Pino, who is unhoused and has performed classical music on the Venice Boardwalk for more than two decades, lost his instrument and setup in the

November incident, prompting widespread heartbreak among locals who view him as a neighborhood icon. Organized by Venice residents Lindsey Klucik and others, the fundraiser aims to replace the piano — ideally with a donated grand piano — and cover related costs, including nightly storage and transportation to comply with city rules prohibiting large items from remaining overnight. Donations will also fund immediate needs for Pino, such as hotel stays, a car battery and registration, a solar power station, a gym membership, a motorized wheelchair, and grocery gift cards. The group met with Pino on Nov. 30 and reported he was “overwhelmed with gratitude.” They are coordinating with the Venice Neighborhood Council and city officials to address citations and prevent future issues.

22 Women Sue Salon Suites Over Sudden Eviction in Marina del Rey

Better is helping our community breathe easier after a disaster.

The Disaster Relief Pulmonary Clinic at Saint John’s was founded to help restore the lung health of our community after the January fires. The clinic offers specialized care to first responders and residents, August left them unable to access tools Attorney Jackie Rose Kruger of The focused on their long-term pulmonary health needs. Helping our neighbors Twenty-two women who rented salon and equipment, resulting in thousands Kruger Law Firm, representing the of dollars in losses from missed heal is just one of the many ways we do everything for the better. suites at a Phenix Salon Suites franchise in Marina del Rey have filed a lawsuit alleging the company locked them out without the required 15-day notice after failing to pay more than $170,000 in rent to the building’s landlord. The suit, filed Monday in Los Angeles Superior Court, names Phenix Salon Suites Marina Del Rey LLC, franchise owners Robert and Lindsay Lee, landlord Marina Marketplace and property manager Carlette Harvey as defendants. It accuses them of breach of contract, fraud, tortious interference and concealment. The plaintiffs — hairstylists, lash and nail technicians, and other beauty professionals — claim they were repeatedly assured by management that operations were normal, even as eviction loomed. They say the lockout in

appointments, storage fees and damaged client relationships. One plaintiff, Anabel Martinez, said she and the others “reached out to management and were assured it was ‘business as usual’ until the very last second.” The evictions followed months of unpaid rent by the franchisee, which continued collecting license fees from tenants, according to the complaint. This echoes an August incident that displaced more than 30 women-owned businesses from the same location at 13455 Maxella Ave., after the landlord terminated the master lease due to a failed renegotiation. At the time, affected business owner Elizabeth Tiku described the upheaval as “devastating,” saying she had no support and over 100 clients to relocate.

plaintiffs, said the women “did everything

right — they paid their rent on time, built their businesses and served their communities,” but were left scrambling without warning. Machine Learning Engineer (3) - Multiple Openings sought by Snap Inc. (Santa Monica, CA) *Hybrid work permitted - Snap practices a “default together” approach & expects team members to work in Santa Monica ofc at least 80% of time (avg 4 days/wk). Optimize neural ntwk models & deploy into production app. $118,000$176,000/yr. Eligible for discretionary performance-based bonus award. Eligible for equity in form of RSUs. Our Benefits: https://careers.snap.com/benefits. Email Resume: apply2snap@snap.com. Ref. Job Code #MLE3-SM-1125. EOE.

T:11.7"

The plaintiffs — hairstylists, technicians, and other professionals — say the lockout resulted in thousands in losses from missed appointments, fees and damaged relationships

WWW.SMMIRROR.COM

December 26 - December 31, 2025

S A N TA M O N I C A C O L L E G E

Boost Your Career at SMC! Classes start February 17 On-campus and online APPLY TODAY

smc.edu/spring

SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Dr. Sion Roy, Chair; Dr. Tom Peters, Vice Chair; Dr. Luis Barrera Castañón; Anastasia Foster; Dr. Nancy Greenstein, Dr. Margaret Quiñones-Perez; Rob Rader; Sophia Manavi, Student Trustee; Kathryn E. Jeffery, Ph.D., Superintendent/President Santa Monica College 1900 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405 smc.edu