SM-Venice Christmas Run

The Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run drew more than 5,000 runners Dec 7 to one of the westside's largest running events. Long-time organizer and local realtor Bruce Mitchell said the fees and requirements imposed by the city of Los Angeles and Santa Monica are getting more and more prohibitive. Proceeds from the event go toward the Santa Monica women's shelter Harvest Home, which provides a safe refuge for pregnant women in crisis.