SMMUSD Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator Tom Whaley conducted the finale of the 59th Annual Stairway of the Stars concert at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium on Friday, March 7. Over 1,000 students performed in front of a sold-out audience, including the All-District Elementary Honor Orchestra, Choir, and Band, the High School Jazz Ensemble, and the Middle and High School bands, choirs, and orchestras.
You might be interested in …

2026 Homeless Count: Unhoused population rises across L.A. City and L.A. County
New data shows interim-to-permanent housing placements dropped 36% over past year. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) released the numbers for its Greater Los Angeles 2026 Homeless Count on Friday, July 24. After two years of encouraging […]

Developer drops El Segundo data center plan after power consumption backlash
Eight Form withdrew its application to replace a Nash Street hotel following a three-hour public hearing dominated by resident opposition. The developer has withdrawn plans to construct a large data center in El Segundo following intense community […]

SM.a.r.t Column: Santa Monica’s Homeless Crisis: A City at Its Limit
Santa Monica has lurched from crisis to crisis over recent decades, yet one constant has endured: our homelessness epidemic. Approximately 6,000 unhoused individuals cycle through our city annually, with the majority staying less than a […]

Eight-story housing development proposed for commercial site near Downtown Santa Monica E Line
Project would replace existing structure with 133 apartments and subterranean parking. Property owner Kennedy Wilson has submitted preliminary plans to replace a two-story commercial building near the E Line in Downtown Santa Monica with a […]

Britannia Pub Says Goodbye After 30 Years (Video)
Paul and Sonya Cain opened the British pub on St. Patrick’s Day 1996

Appian Way to Close for One Week for Santa Monica Pier Bridge Demolition
Temporary closure begins July 27 to allow crews to remove portion of nearly 90-year-old bridge. A key roadway providing access to the south side of the Santa Monica Pier parking lot will close for one […]
Newsletter
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest news and events in Santa Monica and the surrounding areas!






