Hermosa To Host Social Media-Free Day To Encourage Connecting

HERMOSA BEACH, CA — The City of Hermosa Beach will host a social media-free day called "Hermosa Unplugged" on Oct. 22 to encourage more positive engagement in the community, the press release said.

Join the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, Councilmembers, City staff and others in the courtyard at City Hall for coffee and conversation from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Oct. 22 to discuss items on the City Council’s agenda and any other matters related to City business. City staff won't post on the City's social media accounts and residents are encouraged to take a one-day break from social media, too. City staff will be available by phone and email to answer questions and ensure City services continue uninterrupted, the press release said.

"As a frequent social media user, I appreciate its ability to educate and engage people," said Mayor Armato. "But I also see a growing trend to go to social media first with criticism and concerns, rather than having a conversation with a neighbor, City official or other person who might have easily addressed those concerns. Hermosa Unplugged challenges us all to unplug and connect with one another and demonstrate how easily conversation can resolve matters."

Researchers have found that too much time spent on social media can lead to depression, anxiety, problems with mental functioning, social isolation and more, the City said. One study found that even a one-week break from social media can improve a person’s sense of well-being, the press release said.

"As a former Hermosa Beach School Board President and member, I’m especially concerned about the potentially negative impacts of social media on our young people," said Mayor Pro Tem Campbell. "We have seen an effective national movement, launched in the wake of the Sandy Hook school shootings, that encourages young people to reduce social isolation by starting with a hello. As members of this wonderful small community of Hermosa Beach, we can start our own small movement by giving up social media for a day and demonstrating to our young people that having a conversation can be healthier, more effective and more personally rewarding than posting a photo or an update on a social media platform."

Beach Cities Health District is supporting Hermosa Unplugged and will be unplugging from social media for the day and engaging in conversation as well.

The City has been a great partner in Beach Cities Health District's wellness initiatives, Tom Bakaly, Beach Cities Health District CEO, said.

"Hermosa Unplugged gives us all an opportunity to focus on building relationships, which is among the key determinants of a happier and healthier life," Bakaly said.