Ken Genser, Santa Monica mayor was 59

Genser, in his third stint as mayor over 21 years on the Santa Monica City Council, had been ill since October and died on Saturday. The city's statement said, "Mayor Ken Genser passed away peacefully on January 9, 2010 with family and close friends by his side. The family appreciates everyone’s thoughts and condolences as they go through this difficult time. Once memorial service arrangements are made details will be released." Genser was a lifetime resident of Santa Monica.