Home Care In Santa Monica, CA

The Santa Monica Coalition has filed a lawsuit against County Health Director Barbara Ferrer, the Los Angeles County Health Department and the Venice Family Clinic in connection with the Needle Distribution Program, which has been conducted for a period of approximately four years at Reed Park, Palisades Park and Tongva Park.

In The Santa Monica Coalition, Inc., John Emil Alle Versus The County of Los Angeles, Barbara Ferrer in case number 24STCP00510, the Coalition alleges that on June 12, 2018, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Board of Supervisors authorized a needle distribution program, operated by RPI Venice Family Clinic, to prevent the spread of blood-borne viruses, including HIV. The program was initially approved for a three-year term, with options to extend for two additional one-year periods.

Petitioners claim that the authorization violated Health and Safety Code section 121349, pointing to several alleged infractions, such as failure to consult local law enforcement, exceeding the initial two-year operation limit and inadequate notice to law enforcement agencies.

Despite claims of legal violations, the suit says officials extended the program beyond the initially approved period. Allegedly, this was done without proper consultation and notice to law enforcement, further violating the Health and Safety Code.

The lawsuit says the County illegally authorized the program, allegedly utilizing taxpayer dollars for the unlawful initiative. The Petitioners request various forms of relief, including a writ of mandate to cease and invalidate the Needle Distribution Program, a permanent injunction against taxpayer funds for the program, a refund of expended funds, prejudgment interest, attorney’s fees, costs, and any other just and equitable relief deemed appropriate by the court.

A spokesperson for the City of Santa Monica told the Daily Press, “We are aware of an announcement distributed by a local advocacy group today regarding the syringe exchange program funded and operated by the county of Los Angeles,” adding, “The program that the coalition is referring to is not funded by the city and the city does not have oversight over the program.

“The City Council has taken a strong position on the program and conveyed that stance consistently to the county. The Council has taken action as far back as 2022 to urge the county to address concerns about program operations in Santa Monica. It is the city’s understanding that the program currently operates one hour per week, out of mobile vans.”

The lawsuit authors are longtime critics of City hall and the needle program.

In August 2023, the long-standing “Santa Monica Is Not Safe” sign that downtown business owner and Coalition co-founder John Alle hung at 1327 Third Street was replaced with another sign that said “Santa Methica Is Not Safe.” It also said “Our City Manager supports the Needle and Meth Pipe Distribution Program in Our Parks. and Public Spaces” and even featured a picture of City Manager David White along with his name.

The program has also been opposed by Santa Monica officials. In September of 2022, in an open letter to Los Angeles County officials, then Mayor Sue Himmelrich called for a halt to the program and “immediately [move] this program to a service rich environment (preferably indoors) where individuals in need of substance abuse, mental health, and other services can coordinate and work directly with service providers.”

The local lawsuit follows a similar action in Santa Cruz that prompted the City Council to take a new look at a local needle exchange program with an eye towards additional restrictions on local distribution. Consequently all seven councilmembers voted to direct the City Manager and City Attorney to investigate and analyze the processes employed by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and its syringe exchange program currently operating in Santa Monica.

The Daily Press reached out to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the Venice Family Clinic, the former said, “[we] cannot comment on pending litigation” and the latter declined to comment.

??The Santa Monica Coalition also alleges two former mayors of Santa Monica, Sue Himmelrich and Gleam Davis, former City Manager Lane Dilg and current City Manager David White, “covertly acknowledged and approved the program” and “will be served separate lawsuits in Federal Court.” No additional information regarding these has been made available yet.

What’s the deal with Santa Monica?

Take a walk along the palm and eucalyptus-lined bluffs and it becomes obvious why tourists flock to Santa Monica. With the sandy beach on one side and lush mountains on another, it’s the essence of that postcard picture of Southern California’s coastline. You’ll find more than just a beach town, though; there are plenty of things to do in Santa Monica without setting foot on the Pier or Third Street Promenade, from fresh dinners prepared straight from the farmers’ market to bars with a view.

What will you find in Santa Monica?

You’ll find Santa Monica’s incredibly walkable downtown district roughly between Wilshire Boulevard, Lincoln Boulevard, Colorado Avenue and Ocean Avenue. While the area’s retail activity and overall vibrancy have faltered over the past few years, there’ve been some recent signs of improvement. Regardless, no matter where you are within that grid, walk toward the ocean and you’ll stumble upon Palisades Park and pathways to the Santa Monica Pier.

Venture southeast of the area and you’ll encounter Ocean Park, with a hip, more low-key stretch of shops and eateries along Main Street that continues toward the Venice border near Rose Avenue. Meanwhile, northeast of downtown you’ll find posh spots along Montana Avenue.

Where exactly is Santa Monica?

Though most Angelenos consider Santa Monica part of L.A., it’s technically a separate city, surrounded on all land-facing sides by Los Angeles neighborhoods: Pacific Palisades to the north; Brentwood, West L.A. and Mar Vista to the east; and Venice to the south. Actually getting to Santa Monica is a challenge for most car-bound Angelenos thanks to rush hour gridlock on the Pacific Coast Highway and notoriously terrible traffic on the 10 freeway (traffic heading west into Santa Monica eases up a bit by 10am, while eastbound traffic out of the city is already starting to crawl by 2pm). Thankfully, the area is served by Metro’s E Line, with a station only blocks from the beach (though it’ll still take you about an hour to get there from DTLA).

If you only do one thing

For stunning views of the ocean and Santa Monica Mountains, Palisades Park is the spot. You’ll find thicker crowds of tourists in the section of the bluff-top park by the Santa Monica Pier, so instead keep toward the northern Pacific Palisades-adjacent end.

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Southern California, Santa Monica is a vibrant and eclectic city with a unique blend of beachside charm and urban sophistication. From the iconic Santa Monica Pier to the trendy shops and restaurants along Third Street Promenade, there’s always something new to explore in this lively beach community.

Whether you’re searching for apartments in Santa Monica, homes for sale, or are already a local, this Redfin article will be your guide. Here is Redfin’s list of the top 10 things to do in Santa Monica, for both newcomers and long-time locals alike.

1. Visit Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is a must-see attraction in the city. It offers a variety of entertainment options, including an amusement park, an aquarium, and a trapeze school. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline from the pier.

Your next home is just a tap away

Third Street Promenade is a popular shopping and dining destination in Santa Monica. It features a wide range of stores, restaurants, and street performers, making it a lively and vibrant place to spend an afternoon.

3. Relax at Santa Monica State Beach

Santa Monica State Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline that offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, or take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Santa Monica boardwalk.

4. Visit the Annenberg Community Beach House

The Annenberg Community Beach House is a historic beach club that offers a range of amenities, including a pool, a splash pad, and beach volleyball courts. It’s a great place for individuals to enjoy a day by the ocean.

5. Take a bike ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail

The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as “The Stand,” is a scenic bike path that runs along the coast of Santa Monica. It’s a fantastic way to explore the area and take in the breathtaking ocean views.

6. Visit the Santa Monica History Museum

The Santa Monica History Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. It features a variety of exhibits and artifacts that showcase Santa Monica’s past.

7. Enjoy a meal at a beachfront restaurant

Santa Monica is home to a wide range of beachfront restaurants that offer delicious cuisine and stunning ocean views. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, international fare, or classic American dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

8. Attend a performance at the Santa Monica Playhouse

The Santa Monica Playhouse is a renowned theater that hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows. It’s a great way to experience the local arts scene and be entertained by talented performers.

9. Visit Tongva Park and Ken Genser Square

Tongva Park and Ken Genser Square are beautiful urban parks that offer lush green spaces, public art installations, and stunning views of the city and the ocean. It’s a peaceful and serene place to relax and enjoy nature.

10. Explore the Bergamot Station Arts Center

The Bergamot Station Arts Center is a dynamic arts complex that features a diverse range of art galleries, studios, and cultural events. It’s a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the local art scene and discover new and exciting works of art.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

Marissa is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about real estate trends and home improvement. Her dream home is a contemporary-style house with ample outdoor space.

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Global Coffee and Tea Leader Continues to Grow its Footprint

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® brand, the iconic Southern California favorite, serving premium coffee and tea for the past 60 years has opened its newest location in the Medical Center of Santa Monica at 2021 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 103. This new location is through the company's franchise partner who operates four Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf cafés in the Los Angeles area.

"Our guests, doctors, nurses and other people visiting the Medical Center now have their favorite morning start and afternoon pick-me up easily accessible," said Jason Park, franchise owner, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. "The iconic café has been serving quality and innovative beverages for 60 years, and we are thrilled to be able to serve this community. As a locally owned franchisee of this global brand, I'm excited to continue to grow the brand the Los Angeles area."

The new location features the company's vibrant new design and layout, which includes ample indoor seating. The café also offers its guests several convenient ways to get their beverage and food of choice: order ahead through The Coffee Bean® Rewards app as well as delivery through the app and www.coffeebean.com.

As in all its locations, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf offers a variety of the finest grades of Arabica coffee from specially selected estates around the world that are custom roasted, in small batches, at its roasting facility in Camarillo, California. The store also offers a wide variety of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf whole leaf teas as well as fresh baked goods that include an array of muffins, cakes, specialty croissants, and oven-toasted breakfast items such as the Beyond Breakfast Sausage® Sandwich, Bacon & Egg Burrito, and the Chorizo Breakfast Burrito.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is widely credited for driving innovation to the coffee and tea industry with the invention of the iconic The Original Ice Blended® drink. They are also the first global coffee and tea retailer to offer cold brew tea. From its hero Brewed Coffee to its Lattes and Ice Blended® drinks, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf offers the craveable light and sweet taste profiles that loyal guests around the world love and demand.

New store openings represent a key growth initiative for The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® brand's parent company Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), who aim to be one of the top five restaurant brands in the world.

A one-of-a-kind Dr. Seuss Experience is open for your enjoyment at Santa Monica Place – but only until February 18th. Don’t miss out on the fun!

This playful installation has recreated beloved Dr. Seuss books in a larger-than-life format, bringing the author’s fantastical settings and characters to life right before your eyes through 9 dazzling displays. Ready to see it for yourself? Save your spot here!

Oh, the places you’ll go inside this imaginative Dr. Seuss Experience! Get tickets today before the interactive adventure leaves town.

Perfect for the entire family, the Dr. Seuss Experience features fan favorites such as The Lorax, The Cat in the Hat and The Grinch. Whether you want to swing from Truffula Trees, wander through a Sneetches Mirror Maze or test your skill at carnival games and hidden challenges to win prizes, this unique attraction has it all.

With Seuss-tacular surprises around every corner, you will truly feel as if you’ve stepped right into the pages of the stories. Prepare to meet characters including Thing 1 and Thing 2 and The Lorax, take a spin around a moving carousel inspired by If I Ran the Circus, shop exclusive Dr. Seuss merch and, of course, take plenty of stellar photos!

Snag tickets here and get ready to make core memories at this marvelous storybook experience.

The Santa Monica exhibit features a brand new reading room and a museum with original Dr. Seuss books and artwork. Brooklyn-based artist Michael Murphy’s perceptual sculpture artwork is also prominently displayed in The Dr. Seuss Experience, further adding to the whimsical experience.

Located at Santa Monica Place, this magical exhibit is open to the public until Sunday, February 18th. All ages are welcome, and weekday tickets begin at $31.