Santa Monica Pier to Honor Two Families Who Helped Preserve Its Past—and Shape Its Future
By C. Lee Cutchen
Published on August 3, 2026.
The Santa Monica Pier Corporation will award the 2026 Santa Monica Awards to the Gordon Family, owners of Playland Arcade for over seven decades, and the Whiting Family, direct descendants of the Newcomb Family, for their dedication to preserving the Pier's history and ensuring its future. The awards will be presented during the second annual A PIERfect Benefit, a fundraising gala for the nonprofit organization that curates the pleasure pier experience for locals, visitors and admirers. The event will also feature a Casino Night featuring signature cocktails, live entertainment, immersive casino gaming, and exclusive auction experiences. Proceeds from the event directly support the Santa Monica pier Corporation, an independent 501c3 organization committed to preserving and enhancing the Santa.
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