INSIDE
Gov. Newsom: “New Offshore Drilling Has No Place in California” smmirror.com
January 10 - January 16, 2025 Volume CXXIII Issue 214
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Santa Monica Issues Emergency Order, Imposes Nighttime Curfew Amid Pali Fire Approximately 2,472 Households in Northern Santa Monica Are Currently Under Mandatory Evacuation, With an Additional 8,338 Households Under Voluntary Evacuation Warnings
In response to the ongoing impacts of the Palisades Fire, the city of Santa Monica has declared a local emergency and enacted several measures, including a nighttime curfew in evacuation zones. City Manager David White signed the emergency order late Wednesday, which must be ratified by the Santa Monica City Council within seven days. The order imposes a curfew from sunset to sunrise in areas under a mandatory
evacuation. Approximately 2,472 households in northern Santa Monica are currently under mandatory evacuation, with an additional 8,338 households under voluntary evacuation warnings, city officials said. “This emergency order assists our first responders and protects residents as we navigate this regional crisis and prepare for recovery,” said Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete. The curfew aims to deter unauthorized access to evacuation zones, preventing looting and ensuring public safety, White said. “Our first responders are patrolling and coordinating efforts to protect life and property. This order is another tool to maintain safety and order in impacted areas.” Additional Emergency Measures The emergency order also includes: • School and childcare relocation: Displaced schools and childcare facilities can temporarily operate in non-residential zones without prior approval. • Parking enforcement: Preferential parking rules are suspended for residents sheltering evacuees. • Price gouging protections: Emergency and recovery goods, services, and housing costs are shielded from price gouging. • Eviction restrictions: Landlords cannot evict tenants hosting evacuees, including pets. • Construction pauses: Building permits
in evacuation zones are suspended, with deadlines extended. Fire Details and Regional Impact The Palisades Fire, which began on Jan. 7, has burned over 15,800 acres, fueled by high winds, low humidity, and dry conditions. A rare “Particularly Dangerous Situation” Red Flag warning remains in effect for the Los Angeles region, with winds up to 80 mph expected. The fire threatens homes, critical infrastructure, and transportation routes, prompting mandatory evacuations and
widespread emergency response efforts. Enforcement and Penalties The curfew, enforceable by Santa Monica police and mutual aid law enforcement, includes exemptions for emergency workers, those traveling to work or medical appointments, and media representatives. Violations may result in misdemeanor charges or fines of up to $1,000 per incident. The emergency order remains in effect until Jan. 15, 2025, unless extended by the City Council.
Beloved Westside Restaurants Destroyed in Palisades Fire Iconic eateries like Moonshadows Lost to Destructive Blaze
Sadly, several historic and well-loved restaurants were lost in the Palisades Fire. Some of the structures were where many have so many memories, but the eateries have been destroyed. Moonshadows reposted photos and videos on their Instagram page informing customers that the iconic restaurant and bar is gone. An IG stories video from Instagram user maddzak, shared by Moonshadows, showed the devastation. It is a particularly sad blow for the Westside since the restaurant was a wellknown institution that has had many challenges in the last few years.
Reel Inn is another casualty of the Palisades Fire. On its Instagram page, the owners posted that its staff was safe, that it is grateful for the 35 years it has spent in the community, and that it is heartbroken and unsure what is left. The owners have expressed the hope that they can rebuild and have launched a GoFundMe campaign on behalf of their staff. The campaign page says, “Our deepest concerns are for our incredible staff and their ongoing support until we know when and if we are able to rebuild and reopen. These hardworking individuals are more than employees— they’re family. They’ve supported us through thick and thin, and now we want to ensure they have the financial stability they need during this difficult time. We’re asking for your help to raise funds to provide 3 months of wages, benefits, and support for our team as we navigate this
challenging period.” Cholada Thai, from the restaurant’s Instagram account, posted the following message, after their Malibu restaurant was lost in the fire, “We are heartbroken to announce that our first Cholada location on the Pacific Coast after serving since 1999 due to the Palisades Fire.” The post added that customers “kindness and solidarity mean the world to us.” Cholada Thai, like Reel Inn, has launched a GoFundMe to rebuild the restaurant. The owner, Nick, says on the campaign page, “Cholada Thai has always been a place of warmth, laughter, and community. Together, we can rebuild it stronger than ever. I deeply appreciate every bit of support, whether financial or emotional, as we work to get Cholada back on its feet.” and that he appreciates whatever help anyone can give. Rosenthal Wine Bar and Patio was also
lost on the horrific first day of the fire. Rosenthal’s IG post said, “The incredible support from our community and all of you have helped through the past 24 hours. All staff were reported safe and they are said to be unsure of their “next moves” but said that they would keep their customers informed when they know more.