Damien Newton
341 POSTS
Damien is the executive director of the Southern California Streets Initiative which publishes Santa Monica Next, Streetsblog Los Angeles, Streetsblog San Francisco, Streetsblog California and Longbeachize.
Don’t Forget Our EOY Fundraising Drive, or the AMA Podcast with Me!
On Friday, I challenged readers to help us make a weekend fundraising goal of $2,500 and if we made it, I would do an...
State’s Fair Political Practices Committee Discourages Activists from Seeking Public Office
A ruling by the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) could have far-reaching implications for political activists seeking part-time political offices.Santa Monica Mayor Pro...
City Drops the Interim: Darick Jacob Appointed as Chief of Police
Santa Monica officials have appointed Darrick Jacob as the city’s next Chief of Police, marking the first time in more than 40 years that...
Applications Open for County Rental Relief Program
Los Angeles County residents affected by the January 2025 wildfires or by sudden income loss tied to federal immigration enforcement can now apply for...
New Proposals for City World Cup/Olympics Events Shows 2023-2024 Council Got it Right by Rejecting Beach Volleyball
In 2024, the Santa Monica City Council faced a tough decision. The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic organizing committee (LA28) presented the city with a...
Latest
Council to Consider School Funding Parcel Tax for November Ballot
The Santa Monica City Council will officially decide Tuesday...
Santa Monica Forward Endorses Torosis, Gill, and Morrow for City Council
The following is a submission from Santa Monica Forward.Santa...
SMC’s Emeritus Acting Troupe to Perform July 18, “Conversations: Scenes from Film and Theater”
The following is a submission from SMC.Santa Monica College’s...
OPA Update 7/9/26: Ocean Park Summer Picnic Series Kicks Off Tonight, 2026 Most Loved Businesses, City Issues Fines in Automated Bike Lane Enforcement Program,...
OPA Membership Drive: If you enjoy this newsletter and all the...

