Pop-Ups Galore | Pollution Solution: Santa Monica Year In Review

SANTA MONICA, CA – Santa Monica had a busy year. As 2019 comes to a close, Patch is looking back on the stories that got readers talking.

From an inventive solution to plastic water bottles, to pricey real estate and pop-ups galore, Santa Monica saw a variety of news this year.

Here are 10 of the top stories in Santa Monica this year:

CA Couple Dreams Up Solution To Water Bottle Pollution

The founders of KOPU Sparkling Water believe if a water bottle has to be single-use, it should be packaged in aluminum.

$5 Million Will Buy 600 Sq. Ft. In Santa Monica

Does this tiny house pack a punch? The listing says it's all about location, location, location.

'Stranger Things' Pop-Up Will Turn Santa Monica Pier Upside Down

The pier will be transformed into a Hawkins, Indiana fair — with carnival games and The Curiosity House (Demogorgons included).

Gary Stewart, Longtime Rhino Records Music Executive, Dead At 63

Stewart died in a fall from a parking garage in Santa Monica, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.

'Friends' Central Perk Pop-Up To Open In Santa Monica

Sit on the iconic orange couch and order "Friends"-themed drinks to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the hit sitcom.

2 Santa Monica Burger Joints Named 'Best In LA'

Top chefs picked a dozen restaurants that serve the best burgers in LA – more than one is from Santa Monica.

Swingers Diner To Close Santa Monica Location

The company cited rising business costs as the main reason for closing their Santa Monica location. The Hollywood diner will remain open.

Person Killed By Metro Expo Line Train In Santa Monica

Paramedics pronounced the victim dead at the scene Tuesday morning.

Cheap Gas Promo Snarls Traffic In Santa Monica

A promo for the TV series "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" is offering gas for 30 cents a gallon at a Chevron Station in Santa Monica.

19-Year-Old Shot To Death In Santa Monica, Brother Arrested

An eyewitness told a local news station 20 to 30 police officers wearing bulletproof vests descended onto the scene.