History and Mystery of West LA's 'Smoking Deaths' Billboard

Billboards are not entirely uncommon in Los Angeles, or the Westside for that matter. But there is one that stands out: the digital billboard on the south side of Santa Monica Boulevard, representing the number of smoking deaths in the United States.

Of course we are all cautious drivers, but whether it was during a commute, or on your way to the Century City Mall, you have likely paused to watch the numbers tick away.

According to the Los Angeles Times, that sign appeared in its prime location in 1987. But the billboard doesn't only remind Angelenos of the dangers of cigarette smoking. Believe it or not, for some, it has become a tradition to gather around the billboard on New Year's Eve!

• For more on LA Times report about the billboard and the mysterious New Year's Eve tradition, click here.