Inside the Daily Press: Recent Episodes
Santa Monica Daily Press
So you live or work on the Westside of LA, but want some easily consumable news to bring up at your next dinner party? We will make you sound smart! Inside the Daily Press delivers a weekly podcast that dives deep into local news and commentary on Santa Monica, Venice Beach, West LA and the Silicon Beach areas of Los Angeles, CA. Interviews with local reporters, editors, business owners, celebrities, politicians and thought leaders.
Restaurant reviews, fine arts, and just about everything you need to be informed on the Westside of LA. Subscribe!
Ross sits down with Sam Stein, managing editor of The Bulwark, ahead of their live show at the Novo in downtown LA on May 21st. Two veteran news folks for the price of none — they get into the Bulwark community in SoCal, why live shows are suddenly everywhere, the food-and-comedy-to-politics pipeline eating the news business, the California governor's race, Newsom's posture toward Trump, the defensive-vote trap heading into the June 2nd primary, and yes — Spencer Pratt.
As California's current high-speed rail fiasco attests, big and ambitious public projects are hard. California's biggest project of all is housing development. Will it suffer the same fate? In this final episode, Brian explores the impediments to success, including the increasingly caustic "backyard brawl" between NIMBYS and YIMBYS, and asks his guests to pitch their versions of a successful housing future.
Santa Monica Daily Press Links:
https://smdp.com/business/high-speed-rail-2/
https://smdp.com/news/fresh-batch-of-yimby-housing-bills-clash-with-coastal-protections-again/
https://smdp.com/government-politics-2/abundance-meets-resistance-are-democrats-finally-ready-to-go-all-in-on-building-housing/
In this episode, Brian examines three housing development projects in Santa Monica – all of which have courted controversy. One is a large development that could replace a beloved grocery store, another is a supportive housing project a block from the city's shopping promenade, and the third is a project that was killed by community activism, with unintended consequences.
Santa Monica Daily Press Links:
https://smdp.com/news/public-stir-persists-for-gelsons-replacement-project/
https://smdp.com/business/development/plans-updated-for-122-unit-affordable-housing-development-at-1318-4th-street/
https://smdp.com/business/residents-want-a-reduced-bergamot-transit-village/
Building affordable housing is a big priority in Santa Monica. This episode investigates how affordable housing is built, and what "affordability" even means as the nationwide cost of living rises. Many fear that the push to build more affordable housing is leading to gentrification instead.
Santa Monica Daily Press Links:
https://smdp.com/business/development/race-is-on-to-shape-affordable-housing-near-17th-street-smc-metro-station/
https://smdp.com/business/development/santa-monica-puts-three-city-owned-sites-up-for-lease-as-part-of-affordable-housing-push/
https://smdp.com/business/development/community-corporation-celebrates-santa-monicas-first-modular-affordable-housing-development/
Santa Monica, like much of Los Angeles County, is a city dominated by neighborhoods of low-density, single-family homes. But low density has played a role in California's housing crisis. The state is responding with "Density Bonuses" for developers, which encourage more building, but at what cost? This episode crunches the numbers, explains the density bonus "matrix," and spotlights a planned density bonus building.
Santa Monica Daily Press Links:
https://smdp.com/news/density-bonus-rules-allow-developers-to-double-the-size-of-some-projects/
https://smdp.com/uncategorized/santa-monica-board-continues-review-of-132-unit-housing-project-over-design-concerns/
https://smdp.com/business/development/santa-monica-housing-pilot-program-reaches-capacity-within-days-planning-commission-seeks-extension/
Delays in the approval of Santa Monica's housing element lead to a historic punishment for the city: activation of a loophole called "The Builder's Remedy." Developers are now able to flood Santa Monica with construction – and the city is powerless to stop it.
Santa Monica Daily Press Links:
https://smdp.com/news/builders-remedy/
https://smdp.com/business/godzilla-next-door-how-california-developers-gained-new-leverage-to-build-more-homes/
https://smdp.com/news/development/
https://smdp.com/business/development/planning-commission-approves-18-story-housing-project-despite-environmental-appeal/
In the first episode of A Developing Story, host Brian Peter Falk introduces the idyllic beach city of Santa Monica, California and explores how a controversial state wide development mandate called "The Housing Element" is forcing the city to allow the construction of nearly 9,000 new apartments.
Santa Monica Daily Press Links:
https://smdp.com/news/hcd-rejects-citys-housing-element-demands-revisions/
https://smdp.com/news/after-housing-element-debacle-implementation-work-begins/
https://smdp.com/news/housing-element-becomes-hot-topic-at-local-leader-gathering/
Santa Monica plans to allow open-container drinking on its promenade as part of a new entertainment zone, following the passage of California Senate Bill 969. The idea was initially proposed for a few events but the city council wants to make it more permanent, from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., tied to business hours. People can buy alcohol in a special, non-refillable cup from venues and walk around with it. The council hopes this will attract more tourists and lead to new events like pickleball or line dancing. There are concerns about security and police presence, with the department wanting more officers than the council thinks is necessary. The policy could be in place by May or June, in time for Pride Month. It’s seen as an experiment that could be rolled back if it doesn’t work out.
Santa Monica will not host Olympic beach volleyball in 2028 despite initial plans. LA 28 approached Santa Monica due to its iconic beach and pier, and the city’s claim to inventing beach volleyball. The Olympic Committee covers costs directly tied to the games, but Santa Monica sought additional community benefits. A consultant’s report indicated the city would lose $1.5 million hosting the games, but could gain $5–7 million without hosting, through increased tourism. However, historical data from other Olympics shows non-Olympic tourism often drops significantly during the games. Santa Monica’s decision was criticized for lacking vision and outreach to cover the financial shortfall. Long Beach, which has been more welcoming to the Olympics, will now host the beach volleyball.
https://smdp.com/news/environment/wildfire-debris-build-up-on-our-beaches-could-equate-to-an-ecological-disaster/
Din Tai Fung link for soft opening: https://www.yelp.com/reservations/din-tai-fung-santa-monica-coming-soon-santa-monica?from_reserve_now=1
The January fire in Pacific Palisades is having a significant economic impact on Santa Monica businesses. On this episode, Daily Press publisher Ross Furukawa and host Brian Peter Falk discuss how the fire, road closures, and beach shutdowns have led to decreased foot traffic, with some businesses reporting a 60-80% drop in revenue. Jennifer Taylor from the City of Santa Monica shares efforts to support affected businesses, including fee waivers and partnerships with tourism agencies. Restaurateur Jenny Rush describes the struggle of local restaurants to stay afloat. The message is clear: now is the time to support local businesses.
Podcast Summary: On this episode of Inside the Daily Press, we bring you the latest updates on the Palisades fire recovery efforts, including the lifting of evacuation orders and the start of the cleanup phase. We discuss the reported missteps in fire preparedness and response, from regulatory delays to equipment shortages, and examine how these failures may have worsened the disaster. Then, in non-fire news, Editor-in-Chief Matt Hall joins us for a deep dive into Santa Monica’s biggest controversy—pickleball. A heated legal battle is unfolding over a planned pickleball facility on 4th Street, and we break down the drama. Stay tuned!
To report price gouging visit Attorney General Rob Bonta's site OR BY CALLING (800) 952-5225
Fire resources and information referenced in the episode
Price gouging crowd sourced data: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/d/1RXWxLqTyWvAuq8A0PgaBuWeEn_G6qTLyTZ8lzfNEaNw/htmlview#
Where to report rental price gouging:
https://forms.gle/Zz5M74mUypXj2g458&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1736980430966865&usg=AOvVaw39p8SEKtMz3LPC9nNtpA1p
Inside the Daily Press provides crucial updates on the Palisades Fire, which has burned 23,713 acres and is 14% contained. Hosts Brian Peter Falk and Matt Hall discuss the lifting of Santa Monica evacuation orders and address widespread looting concerns in evacuation zones. They highlight a community clothing drive at Santa Monica College and conclude with a forecast of incoming Santa Ana winds, though less severe than the previous week's 100 mph gusts.
Host Ross Furukawa and journalist Brian Peter Falk discussed the ongoing Palisades Fire on January 10th, 2025. Cal Fire reported the fire has burned 21,317 acres with 8% containment and threatens 11,171 structures, while warning about false social media posts claiming cleanup work opportunities. In Santa Monica, evacuation orders remain in effect north of San Vicente, while the area between Montana and San Vicente has been downgraded to an evacuation warning, and the area between Wilshire and Montana has had evacuations lifted. Looting has become a major concern, with the Santa Monica Police Department reporting 573 calls for service, 240 of which came from the evacuation zone (representing only 4% of the city). In response, the National Guard has been deployed to support law enforcement, though they are unarmed. Access to evacuated areas is strictly controlled, with residents only allowed back briefly for essential needs like medication, requiring police escort. The weather forecast indicates weak to moderate Santa Ana winds through the weekend, stronger winds expected Tuesday, and a 20% chance of rain the following Friday.www.smdp.com/fire-resources
Voting is now open to determine Santa Monica’s Most Loved businesseshttps://smdp.com/mostloved2024/
Members of the police oversight commission level serious accusations against the police union and earthquake safety tips.
Continue the holiday fun with the Polar Bear Plunge this weekend or visit the Galley just because it’s great.
The coffee giant could be forced to reopen several stores, including one in Santa Monica
A conflict over student clubs and ongoing discussions of free speech drew the ire of federal officials.
The once popular outdoor retailer will leave Santa Monica at the end of February leaving locals with the recently opened location in Marina Del Rey.
New reporter Thomas Leffler gets you up to speed on the week’s news including a strange council meeting and new rules for posting bail.
A breakdown of recently submitted XXL projects coming to Santa Monica...and there is not much we can do to stop it.
Evan Meyer welcomes the Dean of Public Policy at New York University, Sherry Glied on this episode of Meyerside Chats.
Evan Meyer welcomes Former Texas State Representative, Kyle Biedermann (R-TX) on this episode of Meyerside Chats.
Editor Matthew Hall talks with the new CEO of RAND Jason Matheny about the role of RAND in Santa Monica and the wealth of research they produce.
Editor Matthew Hall talks with Andrew Thomas about his new role as CEO at Downtown Santa Monica
Editor-in-Chief Matt Hall and reporter Emily Sawicki (@emily_sawicki) sit down to talk about election results that have come out of the LA County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's office so far. Most local races can be called, but there are still some contests up in the air, including the third city council seat, the Measure SMC bond, the Third District supervisor seat, and the LA mayor race. Why is vote counting so slow? What might city council results mean for the next two years? Who are the 3,500 people who voted for Keith Coleman? We offer some answers, some analysis and just a little speculation.
Evan Meyer welcomes Wroclaw, Poland Councilmember Michal Kurczewski on this episode of Meyerside Chats. Interested in any of the civic topics below? Please tune in to Meyerside Chats on the Santa Monica Daily Press
Evan Meyer welcomes Wroclaw, Poland Councilmember Bartlomiej Ciazynski on this episode of Meyerside Chats. Interested in any of the civic topics below? Please tune in to Meyerside Chats on the Santa Monica Daily Press.
Reporter Grace Adams talks with Editor Matthew Hall about the news of the week, including the big deal between SMMUSD and Malibu to split the school district.
Evan Meyer welcomes Pete Peterson, the Dean of Public Policy at Pepperdine University on this episode of Meyerside Chats.
Evan Meyer welcomes Brian Dahle, California State Senator and Candidate for Governor on this episode of Meyerside Chats.
Editor Matthew Hall talks with West Hollywood Councilwoman Lindsey Horvath about her run for the Board of Supervisors.
Editor Matthew Hall talks with reporter Emily Sawicki about the lawsuits, tree vandalism and elections.
Reporters Emily Sawicki (@emily_sawicki) and Grace Inez Adams (@graceSMDP) talk news from the week, including SMMUSD test data and exciting changes coming to the Pier. The Montana Avenue Art Walk is happening Saturday, Sept. 24, read Grace's story to learn the details.
Editor Matthew Hall kicks off election season podcasts with Sen. Bob Hertzberg discussing his campaign for County Supervisor.
Reporters Grace Inez Adams (@graceSMDP) and Emily Sawicki (@emily_sawicki) discuss the news of the week, from beer milkshakes to safe syringe sites. Read more at smdp.com. Saturday, Sept. 17, is Coastal Cleanup Day. You can also learn more about Tyra Banks' Modelland, which opened at Santa Moncia Place this week, and Johnny Rocket Brew. Read Emily's story on the outdoor use permit program here.
"The politics are really not relevant to what I do," Doug Sloan says. "I can work for anybody."
This week, Santa Monica Daily Press Editor Matt Hall sits down with new Santa Monica City Attorney Doug Sloan, who was hired in June after a lengthy search to find a permanent replacement for former City Attorney Lane Dilg. Sloan is an avid cyclist who comes to Santa Monica after 16 years in the Fresno City Attorney's Office.
Reporters Emily Sawicki and Grace Inez Adams discuss programs designed to keep local residents from losing their homes, plus our new weekly segment (yet to be named) about the election! Learn more about the Step Fund by reading Grace's story or visit their website. As always, you can find Emily on Twitter at @emily_sawicki and Grace at @GraceSMDP. For more information about CIOP, visit https://www.ciop4justice.org/.
We welcome new Daily Press reporter Grace Inez Adams and talk about the top stories of the week, including reporter Emily Sawicki's Saturday story about fundraising for local elections and Grace's coverage of the ongoing monkeypox situation in LA County. For information on monkeypox vaccines, visit publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/monkeypox. Find Emily on Twitter at @emily_sawicki and Grace at @gracesmdp for more local coverage!
Evan Meyer welcomes California State Senator, Ben Allen on this episode of Meyerside Chats. Interested in any of the civic topics below? Please tune in to Meyerside Chats on the Santa Monica Daily Press
Follow Marae Cruce at @SamohiPrincipal on Twitter to see goings on at Santa Monica High School, and Antonio Shelton at @DrAShelton as he takes on his new role as executive director of secondary education for the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. As always, Emily Sawicki can be found at @emily_sawicki.
BraverAngels.org is a nonprofit dedicated to political depolarization. The organization runs workshops, debates, and other events where "red" (conservative) and "blue" (liberal) participants attempt to better understand one another's positions and discover their shared values. Its mission is to bring Americans together to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen our democratic republic.
Businesses mentioned in this episode:
Pro Sup: 4175 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310-989-4350, https://www.prosupshop.com/
Marina Food Trucks: Parking Lot #11, 14101 Panay Way, https://visitmdr.com/events/beach-eats
Bagel Nosh: 1629 Wilshire Blvd, 310-451-8771, https://www.bagelnoshdeli.com/
TSNY Los Angeles: Santa Monica Pier, 310-394-5800, https://losangeles.trapezeschool.com/
Pacific Park: Santa Monica Pier, 310-260-8744, https://pacpark.com/
Santa Monica Pier: http://www.santamonicapier.org/.
Soda Jerks: Santa Monica Pier, 310-393-SODA (7632), http://sodajerksusa.com/
The Galley: 2442 Main Street, 310-452-1934, https://www.thegalleyrestaurant.net/
Go Get Em Tiger: 930 Montana Ave, https://gget.com/visit
Cayton Children’s Museum: 395 Santa Monica Pl Suite 374 Level 3, 424-416-8320, https://www.caytonmuseum.org/
Sand N Surf: 3rd Street Promenade, https://sandnsurfsm.com/
Marugame Udon: 2029 Sawtelle Blvd, 424-317-2222, https://www.marugameudon.com/locations/sawtelle/
Randy’s Donuts: 829 Wilshire Blvd, 42-231-7321, https://randysdonuts.com/
Benny’s Tacos: 915 Wilshire Blvd #1811, 310-451-0200, bennystacos.com
Perry’s: 2400 Ocean Front Walk, 310-452-7609, https://perryscafe.com/
Boba Tea & Me: 1328 Wilshire Blvd, 310-906-9914, bobateaandme.com
Matt and Emily talk teacher salaries, write-in candidates and what is going on with rent control in Santa Monica (that last one is still to be determined...)
Matt and Emily discuss new gun control legislation Gov. Gavin Newsom signed in Santa Monica on Friday and Emily gives a sneak peek at next Saturday's feature story about our local mountain lions. Plus: How much is too much to pay for a bowl of mac & cheese on the Pier?
A bittersweet Reporter's Notebook this week as we bid adieu to reporter Clara Harter. Hear about Clara's time with the newspaper and some of her best reporting, plus tricks of the trade. Follow along with Clara's burgeoning career by following her on Twitter at @_ClaraHarter. We will miss you!
In this episode of The Dive, Daily Press Reporter Clara speaks to the remarkable mother son duo Garrett Shaw and Cynthia Sirota about how they worked as a team to overcome 26 hospitalizations and a “helpless” mental illness diagnosis of Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. Now they both help run support groups and teach classes at the West LA chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI WLA) and have dedicated their lives to helping other individuals and families battling mental illness. They table for NAMI WLA at the Pico Farmers Market in Virginia Avenue Park on the second and fourth Saturday of every month. They will next be at the market on July 23. Resources mentioned in the episode: NAMI support groups: https://namila.org/supportgroups/ NAMI peer and family mental health classes: https://namila.org/classes/ Ending the Silence Program: https://namila.org/ending-the-silence/ Los Angeles Suicide Prevention Center 24/7 Helpline: 877-727-4747 LA County Department of Mental Health Crisis 24/7 Hotline: 800-854-7771. The NAMI Crisis Text Line: text NAMI to 741741. NAMI Warm Line: 310-889-7200
In this week's episode of The Reporter's Notebook, Emily discusses Santa Monica's specific voting patterns in the primary elections and Clara talks about what local measures may appear on the November ballot. Emily also discusses where the school district plans to send the 200+ students from John Muir Elementary School in the fall as the building is closed due to mold. Plus, exciting news regarding MLB All Star activities on the Pier and new restaurant openings.
Evan Meyer welcomes David White on this edition of Meyerside Chats. Interested in any of the civic topics below? Please tune in to Meyerside Chats on the Santa Monica Daily Press.
A discussion of the June primary results with the co-directors of SMC's Public Policy Institute Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein and Shari Davis.
In this episode of the Reporter's Notebook Clara and Emily are back in the studio together and give listeners a breakdown of the Primary Election results. They also discuss several other eventful happenings this week including the Most Loved awards ceremony, Samohi Graduation and Dr. Jill Biden's visit to Santa Monica.
Editor Matthew Hall talks with Shari Davis and Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein from SMC's Public Policy Institute about the upcoming Primary election.
Editor's Note: Richard is also a member of the SMMUSD Board but municipal elections are not part of the June primary.
In this week's episode of the Reporter's Notebook reporter Clara talks to Editor in Chief Matt about the different local revenue raising tax measures that could make their way to the November ballot. Plus, the preview upcoming community events including the opening of Tavern on Main, a new comedy club and the Animal Shelter fundraiser.
Read more about what we discussed:
Water issues at John Muir / SMASH
Olympic principal resigns
Universal Pre-K
COVID-19 increasing in LA County
In this week's episode of The Reporter's Notebook Clara talks about the City's new investments to fight homelessness and the prospect of a behavioral health center being built in Santa Monica. Emily talks about artistic happenings around town as well as the three part voter guide she and Editor in Chief Matt Hall have been preparing.
We talk with Jenna Grigsby from the Santa Monica City Attorney's office about her work prosecuting misdemeanor crimes for the City.
In this week's episode of the Reporter's Notebook Clara and Emily discuss the results of the 2022 Santa Monica homeless count and their implications for the city. Plus, Emily talks about the police department's new drone technology and Clara shares the story of the foreign dancers who fled Russia and are performing in Santa Monica this weekend.
In this week's episode of the Reporter's Notebook reporter Clara Harter chats with Editor in Chief Matt Hall. Clara talks about the sudden resignation of the Executive Director of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority and why the County is questioning the entire organization's structure. Matt talks about the closing of a local Rite Aid and the opening of a new Trader Joes. Plus, they both talk about the passing of beloved community leader Iao Katagiri. Reporter Emily Sawicki will be back next week.
In this episode of the Reporter's Notebook Clara shares the story of one family's journey to escape Ukraine by plane, train and foot and find shelter in Santa Monica. To support the family visit https://gofund.me/c191bbe8. Emily talks about US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm's tour of Santa Monica's sustainable infrastructure, confusion over the mask mandate on public transit and Santa Monica College's unique food pantry model. If that wasn't enough, Clara also shares the scandalous story of Sameday Health's $26 million settlement for sending fake COVID test results to customers.
In this week's Reporter's Notebook Emily talks about the national headlines made by the post office's decision to suspend service to some Santa Monicans and what some of the media coverage got wrong. Clara talks about an investigation she conducted into the future of Venice's Centennial Park homeless encampment.
Visit https://www.santamonicarugby.com/ for more information.
Read the full story at smdp.com.
In this week's Reporter's Notebook Emily breaks the news of the soon-to-open subterranean Trader Joe's in Downtown as well as a quirky new sculpture. Clara chats about a controversial study listing Santa Monica as one of the most dangerous cities in California as well as her experience riding along with a new unit of the fire department that is working to break cycles of repeat 911 calling.
Evan Meyer talks with Santa Monica's former Communications Director Debbie Lee about her time in the city and her future plans.
In this week's episode of the Reporter's Notebook, Clara and Emily talk water. Emily's covering water conservation and the ongoing drought. Clara's more focused on the Samohi surf team shredding waves (and their competition). There's also talk about the Santa Monica History Museum's newest exhibition: "Broadway to Freeway: Life and Times of a Vibrant Community" and the results of a Malibu City Council discussion on creating homeless housing — outside Malibu.
Vote for your Most Loved Business at smdp.com/ml22.
If your business has been the victim of a scam, contact the City Attorney's office at andrea.cavanaugh@santamonica.gov.
Reporters Clara Harter and Emily Sawicki talk about the news of the week. Warning: this podcast does mention suicide and anyone in distress can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
Sgt. Lewis Gilmour discusses the role negotiators play in SMPD's response to critical situations. This story mentions suicide and anyone in distress can contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255.
The news brief is back! Reporters Clara Harter and Emily Sawicki re-introduce the weekly news round-up and give listeners a glimpse into their most exciting investigations with some podcast-exclusive information and opinions. This week's episode is full of action: it looks into how Santa Monicans are rallying around the Ukraine, discusses the complicated dynamics at play in the CD-11 election, examines Governor Newsom's mental health court proposal and provides a long-awaited answer to the culprit behind a mysterious bird die-off witnessed on local beaches.
Evan Meyer talks with Councilwoman Lana Negrete about her family, history and time on City Council.
Serious crime is down this year but residents still feel unsafe. Police Chief Ramon Batista talks about the perception of crime and his plans to address resident concerns.
In this episode reporter Clara Harter interviews Traci Park, a public attorney and Venice resident who is running to represent a significant portion of the Westside on LA City Council. She was driven to the ballot by her disappointment in Mike Bonin's response to the growing homelessness crisis in Venice and the associated problems with crime and pollution. Park is advocating for what she calls a common sense approach to public safety and homelessness that focuses on targeted and expedient interventions.
In this week's news brief reporter Emily Sawicki talks about a mysterious slew of dead cormorants on the beach and reporter Clara Harter shares the exciting news that the Super Bowl Pregame Show is coming to the Santa Monica Pier. Other topics covered include upcoming political events, Black History month and the shortage of psychiatric beds in local hospitals.
In this week's news brief reporters Clara Harter and Emily Sawicki dive into the most exciting stories they covered recently and what future investigations are at the top of their agenda.
Something new this week! Evan Meyer takes a long form interview with Kathleen Rawson on community, Downtown Santa Monica and some insights into what remains important.
With the new year around the corner, reporter Clara Harter is thrilled to introduce listeners to SMDP's new superstar reporter Emily Sawicki. Emily joins the Daily Press from the Malibu Times where she worked for eight years and served as Managing Editor since 2016. With her she brings a wealth of SMMUSD School Board knowledge and a passion for environmental reporting. In this episode Emily talks about her background and love of reporting and the pair share the topics they are looking forward to digging into in 2022.
In this episode reporter Clara Harter discusses Santa Monica's new organic recycling mandate with Resource Recovery and Recycling Administrator Yvonne Yeung. Starting Jan. 1 all residents and businesses must put all of their organic waste into their green bin, which means no more food waste in the trash. Together they explain exactly what constitutes organic waste and discuss some helpful tips to help residents adapt to the new rules.
Editor in Chief Matt Hall is joined by Chuck Todd, renowned journalist and host of America's longest-running TV show Meet the Press, to discuss the news program's upcoming documentary film festival.
Chess Park will soon become chess-less. Years of crime, drug use, pollution and lewd behavior has led Rec and Parks Commissioners to throw in the towel and vote to temporarily shut down Chess Park. In this week's episode, Editor in Chief Matt Hall and Reporter Clara Harter discuss how the situation came to be, what the future of the park might look like and what its unfortunate closure says about the state of the City.
Reporter Clara Harter speaks with James Carroll, the former Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, known colloquially as the Drug Czar, about the dangers of fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid deadly in quantities as small as one grain of sand. In light of the tragic death of Santa Monica teen Sammy Berman Chapman, they discuss the rise in sales of lethal fentanyl-laced pills over social media and what can be done to combat it.
Matt Hall talks to Santa Monica Police Sargent Cody Green about catalytic converter thefts, where they are happening, what cars are targets, and what you can do about it.
Fourteen Santa Monica restaurants were recognized in this year's Michelin guide and in this week's podcast Reporter Clara Harter speaks with Chef Andy Doubrava about exactly what it takes to make that Michelin mark. Andy is the Executive Chef at Rustic Canyon, which is one of three local restaurants to achieve a Michelin Star. Together they discuss the turbulence the restaurant industry has faced in the last year, the meaning of a Michelin and Rustic Canyon's philosophy of a living, breathing menu.
In this week's news brief reporters Clara Harter and Daniel Farr share what they have been working on and what topics readers should have their eye on next week. Daniel talks school board's proposed vaccine mandate for students and his new role on the bakery beat, while Clara discusses complaints around homelessness Downtown and the upcoming expiration of the eviction moratorium.
Ross and Matt discuss the current state of the potential split of Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District.
Reporter Clara Harter speaks with Dr. Va Lecia Adams Kellum, the CEO and President of St. Joseph's Center, who oversaw the massive effort to provide 211 people living on the Venice Boardwalk with a pathway to permanent housing in just six weeks. They discuss how the program was planned, what led to its success, and what is next for both the Boardwalk and the hundreds of people who are no longer living on it.
Clara and Ross discuss some of the latest news items that will affect you this week. Protest at the Pier on Sunday, illegal vendors on the pier and beach, stormwater runoff.
Reporter Clara Harter speaks with pro-reform Sheriff candidate Cecil Rhambo, who makes his case for running against controversial L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanueva. The pair dig into tough questions around the role of law enforcement in addressing homelessness, the defund the police movement, and where the limits of the Sheriff's jurisdiction should lie.
A deep-dive discussion with newly appointed Santa Monica City Councilmember Lana Negrete.
Reporter Clara Harter talks to Congressman Ted Lieu about his newly proposed Fighting Homelessness Through Services and Housing Act. Lieu, who represents California's 33rd District, explains why he believes its time the federal government breaks with tradition and provides direct support to local governments tackling homelessness. Together they discuss the merits and challenges of permanent supportive housing and how likely it is that money from this potential bill makes its way to Santa Monica.
Reporters Brennon Dixson and Clara Harter recap the week's news with a preview of their upcoming stories.
Leana Greene owns Santa Monica Studios, a video production company offering TV shows, Commercials, Satellite Media Tours, Live Streams, Broadcasts and Studio Rental (https://www.santamonicastudios.com).
Reporters Clara Harter and Brennon Dixson recap their most interesting stories from the week and preview what's next on their list.
Matt interviews Heidi Roberts and Alan Resnick about their efforts to organize a recall of Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Bonin.
Reporter Clara Harter gets into the nitty-gritty with former Santa Monica Mayor and current State Assemblymember Richard Bloom on his upcoming run for the LA. County Board of Supervisors. Together they discuss some of the most pressing challenges that will be facing Angelenos in the coming years including homelessness, housing affordability, and climate change. Assemblymember Bloom shares what he thinks should be done to decrease the number of people living on the streets and why he fears there may be a mental health epidemic following the pandemic.
Matt and Ross talk about the final few weeks of the Santa Monica Most Loved Business contest, and why you should vote for your local favorites. www.smdp.com/ml21
Matt Hall discusses the challenges with policing the homeless in Santa Monica with interim Police Chief Jackie Seabrooks, and Deputy Chief of Police Darrick Jacob.
Reporter Clara Harter talks with State Senator Ben Allen about the messy political process of getting 2021 legislative priorities accomplished. Together they dig into how the L.A. Board of Supervisors is partially responsible for holding back school reopenings and why it may be time to rein in the Board's governing power by making its members more accountable to their constituents. The two also chat about what happens when the eviction moratorium expires and new strategies for tackling the Westside's growing homelessness crisis.
A deep dive into the facts and opinions around the reopening of in-person instruction at the Santa Monica Malibu School District. Ross Furukawa and Matt Hall interview parents, the Superintendent, and the President of the teachers union.
Reporter Clara Harter discusses the current state of dining with Hunter Hall of the Main Street Business Improvement Association. She interviews Jeffrey Merrihue from Heroic Italian to talk about his experience while doing business in Santa Monica. Clara finishes with a discussion with Haley and Jesse Feldman of Chez Tex about their experience of running a restaurant in the City of Los Angeles during the pandemic.
AUDIO QUALITY NOTE: The cellular connection gets a little rough at 13:20. We felt there was enough good content to keep it in...but if it gets annoying the issue resolves at 25:30.
www.andrewgumel.com Twitter: @andrewgumbel
Matt has a discussion with Jodi Low about the evolution of the Santa Monica Farmers Markets.
Ross and Clara talk about 5 impactful stories from 2020 and play a game of 2020 Santa Monica trivia. They discuss some hopeful stories they would like to see this coming year.
Ross, Matt, and Todd discuss the recent rules of lockdown that were presented this week by Governor Newsom and the LA County Board of Supervisors. They play a game of Coronavirus Lockdown Trivia.
Ross and Todd discuss the lack of science and data the LA County Board of Supervisors used to inform their decision to close outdoor dining.
Mikes participants in the discussion include
Angela Scott, Steering Committee for Racial Justice, Intercultural Equity and Excellence Committee,and Special Education District Council for SMMUSD.
Robbie Jones, Coalition for Police Reform, Committee for Racial Justice, and the Black Agenda. Attorney
George Brown, who participated in the Christopher Commission, and is an expert on Policing Best Practices with the Leadership Conference for Civil Rights in Washington DC. That work was published in the New Era of Public Safety, which informed their recommendations regarding Use of Force.
Mike Schotton, Financial Advisor and brings his experience in finance to Police Reform in Santa Monica.
Ross Furukawa, Todd James, and Matt Hall discuss the surprising 2020 election results for City Council, Board of Education, SMC Board, and Rent Control.
Matt Hall has a discussion with returning Police Chief Jackie Seabrooks. They discuss the current climate of policing, the police response on May 31st, preparation for election day, and Shoop's deli.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with appointed (2009) incumbent Gleam Davis, who is running for her third full term on Santa Monica City Council.
Davis was appointed to fill the vacant set of Herb Katz, and subsequently earned her seat on City Council in 2012 and again in 2016.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with recently appointed incumbent Ana Jara, who is running for Santa Monica City Council.
They discuss crime, homelessness, and covid. Ana's pressing issue is bicyclists not coming to a complete stop at stop signs.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with former Mayor and incumbent Ted Winterer, who is running for his third term on Santa Monica City Council.
He is the only incumbent running that earned his seat by winning an election, compared to the 4 others who were all appointed to their Council seat at different times.
Ted talks about listening to residents, connection to government, police response to looting on May 31.
They discuss homelessness, economic recovery, and how Santa Monica can help local businesses start and restart again.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Tom Ciszek, who is running as a challenger for Santa Monica City Council.
Tom comes from the Ocean Park neighborhood, has worked in data analytics for Rand Corporation, launched a tech startup, worked at Twitter, and currently works for Bird.
He is the only candidate that looks at the city through the lens of the Silicon Beach community.
His priorities are economic recovery and public safety and thinks that much of our decision-making in the City needs to be more data-driven.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Oscar de la Torre, who is running as a challenger for Santa Monica City Council.
Oscar is known as the founder of the Pico Youth and Family Center and his work as a SMMUSD school board member. De la Torre is also suing the City of Santa Monica to change the way we elect our City Council.
49:15 Oscar talks about crime, development, homelessness, economic development, the oncoming wave of evictions. They discuss Oscar's reasons why he brought the CVRA lawsuit.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Mario Fonda Bonardi, who is running as a challenger for Santa Monica City Council.
Mario is currently serving as a Planning Commissioner and has served on the Landmarks Commission.
Matt and Mario discuss crime, homelessness, the job the City Council, City Manager, and Police Chief did on the May 31st looting event, unfunded pension liabilities, spending habits of the City, and he offers a sustainability analogy.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Todd Mentch, who is running as a challenger for Santa Monica City Council.
Todd is an Ocean Park resident, is self-funded, and has some very strong opinions on the way he thinks the City of Santa Monica should manage its fiscal responsibility, crime, homelessness and development.
He is a registered Independent.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Chip Martin, who is running as a challenger for Santa Monica City Council.
Chip is not an incumbent, but also not part of a slate. He lives in Downtown Santa Monica, so he has a different perspective on life in Santa Monica. They discuss crime, safety, economy, development. Chip believes e-scooters should be outlawed in Santa Monica.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Terry O'Day, who is running for the Santa Monica City Council.
They discuss market-rate and affordable housing, covid recovery, walkable and bikeable streets, tourism, commuter workforce, crime. O'Day recounts his on the ground experience of the looting events on May 31st.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Christine Parra, who is running as a challenger for Santa Monica City Council.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Phil Brock, who is running as a challenger for Santa Monica City Council.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Caroline Torosis, who is running for her 2nd term on the Santa Monica Rent Control Board.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Aishah Newson, who is running for the Santa Monica Rent Control Board.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Robert Kronovet, who is running for his 2nd term on the Santa Monica Rent Control Board.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Anastasia Foster, who is running for her 2nd term on the Santa Monica Rent Control Board.
An overview of the candidates running for the Rent Control Board in the City of Santa Monica. This is a truncated version of the complete interviews, which will be published through this channel.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Jen Smith, who is running for the Santa Monica-Malibu Board of Education.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Keith Coleman, who is running for the Santa Monica-Malibu Board of Education.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Steven Johnson, who is running for the Santa Monica-Malibu Board of Education.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Esther Hickman, who is running for the Santa Monica-Malibu Board of Education.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Jon Kean, who is running for her 2nd term for the Santa Monica-Malibu Board of Education.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Jason Feldman, who is running for his 1st term for the Santa Monica-Malibu Board of Education.
Matt Hall has a long-form interview with Maria Leon Vazquez, who is running for her 6th term for the Santa Monica-Malibu Board of Education.
Ross and Matt talk about the upcoming Santa Monica College Board of Trustees election. Matt has a chat with two of the candidates, Susan Aminoff and Rob Rader.
Ross and Matt discuss recent COVID updates. Ross has a chat with Dr. Yariv Rothman of the Vitality Health Center in Santa Monica. They discuss COVID safety, tech neck, immune health, stress relief, and why you should throw your gloves away after you shop.
www.thevitalityhealthcenter.com
Matt and Ross discuss recent homeless encampment issues reported in the Santa Monica Daily Press. Matt has a talk with Sergeant Erika Aklufi of the Santa Monica Police Department and Nicole Gougis of the City of Santa Monica Attorneys office.
Ross Furukawa and Todd James discuss the new reopening rules for California. Ross talks with Laurel Rosen of the Santa Monica Chamber about the current business climate, leases, and how we can support our local business community during the pandemic.
Ross and Matt start to discuss how other cities are dealing with COVID-19. They share some thoughts and observations about how homelessness presents differently in different cities. They wrap with some mask and social distancing shaming.
Ross and Matt talk about the recent lawsuit to change voting laws in Santa Monica.
Mike Feinstein chats with Santa Monica Interim City Attorney George Cardona and Election Law Attorney Gautam Dutta.
They chat about the recent California Voters Rights Act, and how these laws affect how we elect local government.
Todd James and Ross Furukawa have a chat about the state of commercial real estate, some discussion about not paying residential rent, and some new ideas on the Plaza development in Downtown Santa Monica.
Ross introduces Clara Harter, our new reporter at the Santa Monica Daily Press. They discuss her background, how she got here, and some interesting story ideas.
Feel free to send story ideas to clara@smdp.com.
Reporter Brennon Dixson has a chat with newly appointed Santa Monica City Council Member Kristan McCowan. Edited by Mari Kubani
120 residents applied for the vacant Santa Monica City Council appointment. Ross and Matt talk shop about what they think the Council will be looking for and what variables apply to the decision. A list of candidates can be found at https://www.smgov.net/Departments/Clerk/Boards_and_Commissions/City_Council_Appointment.aspx
This episode was edited by Mari Kubani.
A quick COVID update for 4th of July Weekend, then Matt has a discussion with Scott Francis, Cofounder and CEO, and Johnny Wardell, Marketing Director from Santa Monica Brew Works. www.santamonicabrewworks.com.
Santa Monica waterman Mike Vaughan dies suddenly. Fireworks in neighborhoods, DEVMO drops a Santa Monica track, Main Street going outdoors.
https://soundcloud.com/devmomusic/santa-monica
Guest host Mike Feinstein has a discussion with local black community leaders about the Black Agenda, what needs to change and what it's like to be black in Santa Monica.
Main Street will be changing things up to allow for more pedestrian traffic, more parklets, and outdoor dining. A discussion with Hunter Hall, the director of the Main Street Business Improvement Association. This was originally recorded just before the Santa Monica looting and riots.
Ross talks with Elleana Clark and Amani Lawrence about surfing, race, and the recent worldwide paddle out organized by Black Girls Surf.
Ross and Matt talk about the ongoing protests happening on a daily basis in Santa Monica following the looting and rioting, and why so many people are still angry, confused, nervous or just downright angry. Where is the city and police communication failing?
Ross Furukawa and Matt Hall describe the state of the city after the riots and looting, and the questions that listeners and readers are demanding answers. Matt has a discussion with Chief Renaud and Interim City Manager Lane Dilg on their accounts of what they saw that day, where they were, and how decisions were made in the deployment of Santa Monica police, neighboring police forces and the National Guard.
Ross and Matt discuss the events of Sunday, May 31st. On the ground accounts of the riots and looting, some strong opinions on what went wrong and where we should have done better. This is a raw, very early account of what we saw as we covered this very dark day in Santa Monica history.
Lane Dilg discusses priorities for Santa Monica in light of the recent budget cuts.
She talks about what the city has done to shrink its workforce, and the methodology used in this challenging time.
Matt and Lane dive into some of the details of programs, jobs and other areas that will see significant reductions that will affect residents.
Matt and Lane talk about her experience, neighborhoods, and favorite restaurants. They discuss her qualifications, and her view of the role as City Manager, the current economic stress and finding solutions together as a community.
Josh Loeb talks with Matt Hall about his 8 independent restaurants and the decisions they had to make as a result of the current pandemic. They discuss alternative plans, keeping workers employed, the difficulty in opening a business in Santa Monica, some great thoughts around the greater role that independent restaurants play in our city. https://www.rusticcanyonfamily.com/
Ross and Matt discuss the Santa Monica budget crisis at a 30k ft level, then dive into discussions with former Chief Sustainable Officer Dean Kubani (17:46) about why environmental values should be considered essential, and insight to his hopes for how they will make decisions around the cuts. He also gives us a great nugget at (44:45) Former Michael Feinstein (47:02) discusses the decisions that had to be made as Mayor during 9-11, and some parallels to the current crisis. Mike talks about income inequality in city salaries, possible creative solutions, and philosophically how he would be looking at this if he were on City Council. Mike has spoken to many people in and out of the city, to unions, to council members, and has a unique, informed perspective.
Ross and Matt talk about the recent departure of the Santa Monica City Manager.
Michael Feinstein gives his perspective as a former mayor, and Dean Kubani talks about his experience as a department head and how the transitions have typically gone in the past.
Gary Rhoades, Deputy City Attorney
Eda Suh, Deputy City Attorney
https://www.santamonica.gov/coronavirus
City of Santa Monica 310-458-8400
City Attorney's Office 310-458-8336
How to access the online resources of the library, and some tips to create a better learning environment during these extraordinary times.
Matt Hall and Police Chief Cynthia Renaud discuss the Santa Monica Police Department's local response and adjustments to the coronavirus.
They discuss;
What the Santa Monica Police Department is doing differently during this pandemic
What the SMPD is doing to respond the the recent order to release inmates.
Will arrests still continue?
What about crimes related to the pandemic, what the SMPD is doing to ensure public safety against looting, behavior related to possible Safer at Home orders, etc.
Is she confident in the City of Santa Monica's ability to respond to this crisis?
Is SMPD going to do issue citations for walking outside during the Safer at Home order?
Matt Hall and Santa Monica Fire Chief Bill Walker discuss how the Fire Department is handling coronavirus preparation, handling of cases and any changes to their process as first responders.
They discuss;
What the fire department currently doing to adapt to the current coronavirus crisis.
How often actual coronavirus calls they are getting.
Have any calls come back as a positive COVID 19 patient.
What kind of training they have to deal with infectious patients.
How confident the Fire Chief is in the City of Santa Monica's preparedness for this current challenge.
Treatment and services provided to the homeless in relation to COVID 19.
Matt and Rick talk about:
- Measures the city has taken to coordinate with local, regional and national organizations.
-What city services are suspended.
-Some current predictions on timelines.
-What residents and can do to help slow the spread of the virus.
Matt and Ross discuss the coronavirus, and how much of the panic over the virus is based on what people don't know. They talk to experts from UCLA Medical Center, the City of Santa Monica and Downtown Santa Monica to discuss how the virus transmits, what the local emergency plan is and how safe it really is out there.
Hand washing or hand sanitizer? Masks or no masks? Panic or no panic?
Ross and Assembly Member Bloom talk about what initiatives he is working on in Sacramento, dive into the district which includes Malibu, Agoura Hills, Pacific Palisades, West LA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood and Hollywood.
Homelessness, housing, urban run off, AB5, and some new initiatives that will make sure all communities share the burden of these issues.
Brian Falk
What's Eating America, airing at 6pm on Sundays on MSNBC.
Santa Monica Bowlero
Local showrunner takes a bite out of politics in MSNBC series
Come by and visit the Santa Monica Education Foundation! They need your help.
1645 16th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 396-4557
https://www.smedfoundation.org
Better yet, donate!
Voting is open now! Vote for your favorite business here.
Matt Hall interviews Jennifer Taylor, Economic Development Administrator and Chair of the Buy Local Santa Monica. They talk about the Buy Local mission and the Most Loved contest, where you vote for your favorite local business.
Ross Furukawa and Todd James talk about scooters and micro mobility, then Matt jumps into a conversation with Francie Stefan, Chief Mobility Officer for the City of Santa Monica. They talk about what the City is doing to regulate the micro mobility companies, how the pilot program worked, how they manage devices and how they plan to manage the programs in the future.
Matt then interviews Karla Owunwanne head of Socal Community and Government Relations for Lime. They talk about how cities are regulating, how many people are riding, how some cities have done it right and why scooter companies are pulling out of some cities.
Subjects discussed:
Violence.
Mental illness.
Relationship with the cops they don’t want to touch them or put them in the car.
Where you can put a tent down.
What the cops will enforce and not enforce.
Entitlement of some of the homeless with food.
Life is good on the beach in Venice, pastry trucks, shower trucks, hot dog trucks.
Some pretty awesome conspiracy theories about what’s next for the homeless population, among the homeless population.
Where the homeless get their free smart phone.
What services are available, but they are too lazy to go get them.
How is the dating scene on the streets?
Where they can take a shower.
Ross talks with Charlie about his years on the street, and how it all goes down.
-Scooter charging and how to hack energy.
-Where his homeless hangouts
-Living with a prostitute roommate in a hotel room in the Valley
-Tells his story about how he became homeless, and how he got out of homelessness.
-Drug use, types of drugs and who's doing them.
-Safety on the streets, who is safe, how to stay safe.
-Homeless people don’t want to work, work is a 4 letter word to them.
-How to not appear homeless, stay clean and how to use some pretty interesting resources.
-His homeless cabana on Venice beach
-His friend, a former model lives in front of trashy lingerie in a tent, has been there for years.
-Why Legal Marijana is a gateway, and it's way too strong.
-Why Vegan homeless living on Venice beach is pretty easy.
-Daily pastries and food is delivered every day on the beach.
-A Wedding dress and mannequin story.
-His homeless neighbor on the beach.
-How it got a couch from Erhewon on Wilshre to the Pacific Palisades to live in the bushes.
-Where the hot homeless spots are today.
-Another homeless hustle...disabling GPS on scooters, selling them for $30
Ross and Matt talk about homelessness on the Westside of Los Angeles, Santa Monica and Venice.
When did it become such a problem? Where are they from? What can we do about it? Does it have anything to do with the Expo line?
Ross and Matt talk about AB5, the new bill that went into effect on January 1. AB5 eliminates the ability for many professions in the gig economy to operate as independent contractors.
Ross Furukawa and Matt Hall discuss what they see are the main topics of news coverage going into 2020.
Election year, voting districts, homelessness and some possible amendments to some of the propositions that are blamed with causing the increase in crime across the state.
With lots of retail square footage coming online while retail in general is declining will create news stories, and the changing use of retail space will also be very reportable.
Matt Hall discusses the most important issues we have tackled this year, and how they relate to larger, regional and national issues.
They discuss 2019 coverage on the districting of our city council elections, homelessness, the Eric Uller case at PAL (Police Activities League) and crime.
Other subjects include housing, development, traffic and what you may see on the front page shortly.
Todd James and Matt Hall talk shop about the most read stories in the Santa Monica Daily Press for 2019.
The most read story of the year was an obituary written by Tatiana Blackington James about the founder of Yogaworks passing while in Japan.
https://www.smdp.com/yogaworks-founder-dies-while-in-japan/177356
Some other stories that got lots of readership was the Target and Tesla opening stories written by Madeleine Pauker.
https://www.smdp.com/target-and-tesla-announce-santa-monica-locations/172417
Breaking news and crime watch do very well, as does feature stories about local businesses.
City Council coverage does not do well, but restaurant opening and closings do particularly well.
Matt and Brennon discuss the new gastro-publication, Flavor. It's the only dedicated food magazine in the Los Angeles area, produced by the team at the Santa Monica Daily Press.
Brennon and Matt talk about Hamburgers, Hornblower Dinner cruises, cocktails and new restaurant openings.
Jenny give the inside scoop on great places to go to celebrate the holidays, how to get a fast pass to take a photo with Santa, and some of her local favorites for shopping.
Ben and Ross sit down and catch up over his life as a new father.
They talk about his vaccination bill, and dive into the nuances and details on the needs for better legislation around keeping our population safe.
The discussion moves on to environmental bills he has worked on, then the recycling manufacturing policy he has introduced that will force packaging manufacturers to use earth friendlier raw materials.
Publisher Ross Furukawa interviews attorney Rob Lemle of Lemle Law Group.
They discuss the Surfing Lawyers, dog bites and who's responsible.
Scooter liability, what to do if you're injured.
Auto accidents, insurance and who's at fault.
www.lemlelaw.com
Fritto Misto will be moving to a new location, adding a bar, larger kitchen and bringing over some original items to the new location.
Pasjoli is the new restaurant on Main Street, serving up an elevated neighborhood French bistro menu where the food.
Kappo Osen is a new tatami style dining spot in Downtown Santa Monica.
Blake interviews Brennon Dixon who shares his reasons why he joined the Daily Press, what his background as a reporter included and what kinds of stories we can expect from him.
Downtown suicides have been on the rise, and the Santa Monica Daily Press has written several stories about this trend.
Fences, signs and other methods of intervention have proven to be effective in other high risk areas.
Madeleine Pauker interviewed top experts in the field, and updated what the Santa Monica City Manager, Rick Cole has addressed thus far.
The City of Santa Monica has been navigating how to regulate AirBnB, VRBO and other home share services. Madeleine takes us through a brief history and discusses new rules and regulations.
Matt discusses Santa Monica's version of Grand Central Market, which will be a mix of food, retail, office and a garden.
The former Fred Segal (ice rink) building at 5th and Broadway will become a mixed use housing project. 84' high, approximately 250 housing units, subterranean parking, restaurants and retail.
The other former Fred Segal building across the street on the west side of 5th will not change significantly, and will become a City Target.
The former Whole Foods location at 5th and Wilshire will become a CVS Pharmacy.
Matt discusses a historical account of bomb threats, frequency, reactions.
Hearing about threats vs actual bombs can help us understand what level of panic we should be have moving forward.
Senior Reporter Madeleine Pauker is interviewed by Blake. Discusses her journalism history, how she landed in Santa Monica and what she is looking forward to in the future.
Madeleine Pauker discusses some hot new restaurants in Santa Monica and Venice, dives into the history of the Michelin-starred chefs expanding on some recent coverage from the Santa Monica Daily Press.
Editor in Chief Matt Hall shares his background, some similarities that Santa Monica shares with other cities he's lived in, what makes Santa Monica special to him.
He dives into some restaurant news, data, and how Santa Monica has become home to a very competitive cheeseburger and ramen market.
For more information on any of the topics in this podcast, visit www.smdp.com or subscribe to the Current newsletter at www.smdp.com/signup.
Music is provided courtesy of the Brig Band, a LA based jam band comprised of professional studio and touring musicians, whom have performed with the likes of Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder to the Doors, Fishbone and Steely Dan. The Brig band plays every Tuesday night at the Brig on Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice, CA. www.thebrigband.com
From the newsroom of the Santa Monica Daily Press, Madeline Pauker gives insight to recent stories she's written about the Santa Monica Malibu School District, including Vandalism to SMASH and John Muir, new faciliites that are opening soon and the results of a settlement on a lawsuit.
They discuss the Vanlord story, regulations around sleeping in vehicles, recent fails in goverment to manage this issue, and a preview of some upcoming stories she is researching.
For more information on any of the topics in this podcast, visit www.smdp.com or subscribe to the Current newsletter at www.smdp.com/signup.
Music is provided courtesy of the Brig Band, a LA based jam band comprised of professional studio and touring musicians, whom have performed with the likes of Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder to the Doors, Fishbone and Steely Dan. The Brig band plays every Tuesday night at the Brig on Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice, CA. www.thebrigband.com
Blake interviews Ross Furukawa and Todd James, owners of the Santa Monica Daily Press. First Ross discusses how the Daily Press was started, the origins of the free daily newspaper model, and how the are managing the changing environment of local media. Next Todd discusses his involvment with the Daily Press, how he became and owner, and what he envisions for the future of the company.
Music is provided courtesy of the Brig Band, a LA based jam band comprised of professional studio and touring musicians, whom have performed with the likes of Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder to the Doors, Fishbone and Steely Dan. The Brig band plays every Tuesday night at the Brig on Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice, CA .
Inside the Daily Press is a weekly podcast that will encapsulate the news of the week, preview of upcoming coverage and give the audience additional insight to our news making and story selection decisions.
Music is courtesy of the Brig Band of Santa Monica and Venice, CA.