A drunk driver drove down the Venice Boardwalk on Monday, he hit a pedestrian who was walking his dog. The man flew onto the windsheild, with his back busting the windsheild.

After several people try to stop the car, LAPD finally shows up and tries to get him out of the car. After he refuses, several bystanders get invovled as the efforts of the officers was not appearing to be successful.

Video by Venice Gallerie

A weekend of surfing at this popular Los Angeles surf spot with some of it's regulars.

Footage taken from our Instagram Stories.

After several months of being unofficially ridden, on Sunday September 24th, the Inglewood Pumptrack has officially opened to the public.

The openeing day ceremony was a bike only event, since this pump track was actually built for bikes, not skateboards or scooters.

Fortunately, the city has decided to allow skateboards on the track on certain days. 3 days of the week have been designated as Bikes Only. The other for days will be bikes and skatebooards. Scooters are not allowed at all.

Here's everything you need to know about the pump track:

It is actually 2 different pump tracks, one designated for Beginner/Intermediate, and one for Intermediate/professional users.

Woodlands Track
Beginner / Intermediate


World Championship Track
Intermediate / Professional




Pumptrack Rules

Schedule:

- Inglewood Pumptrack was purpose-built for bikes, but we also love all things skate. Please be mindful of the days when bikes take priority and observe the community guidelines. Good Vibes Only!
- Monday: Bike & Skate
- Tuesday: Bike Priority
- Wednesday: Bike & Skate
- Thursday: Bike Priority
- Friday: Bike & Skate
- Saturday: Bike Priority
- Sunday: Bike & Skate



General Rules:

- Use: Bikes and skaters please use at appropriate times. No scooters, e-bikes, motorized vehicles or RC cars.
- Safety: RIDE AT YOUR OWN RISK! Riding can be extremely hazardous! Helmets REQUIRED for people under 18 (California Vehicle Code §21212). Additional protective gear recommended. Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t obstruct entries or the riding areas. Stay in control; be courteous and share the park.
- Hours: Open during park hours only.
- Care: No waxing, ramps, installations of any kind. No damaging or modifying features of the track. No throwing skateboards, bikes or objects.
- Prohibitions: No private events, food, music, pets, firearms, alcohol, smoking, vaping, or drugs. No camping, fires, fireworks, graffiti or tagging. Violation of these prohibitions may result in immediate removal from the premises and penalties imposed by the City of Inglewood.
- Environment: Keep the park clean and beautiful. Respect what was created for you to enjoy, including native vegetation and wildlife.
- Professional Filming: All professional filming requires advance City of Inglewood legal permit. Contact pumptrack@growcyclingfoundation.org for details. Violation of permit prohibitions may result in immediate removal from the premises and penalties imposed by the City of Inglewood.
- In Case of Emergency: Dial 911.

Riders:

- Ride in one community direction at all times.
- Do not block the track. Always move off the track when not in motion.
- Ride safely and within your ability. Start small, progress gradually.
- Ensure your equipment is in good working order.

Pedestrians & Spectators:

- No loitering in the riding area.
- Spectators are to stay outside the riding area unless aiding someone.
- Parents/guardians, supervise young children at all times.

Community Guidelines:

- Respect Each Other: Take turns and keep a safe distance. Be mindful of others, adjust your speed when the track is busy, and be courteous to everyone.
- Inclusivity: This Pumptrack is for bringing people together to build community and to share joy. Treat others with dignity and kindness, regardless of skill level or background.
- Belonging: This Pumptrack was built as a place of belonging. Help foster a sense of community by engaging positively with others and encouraging new riders. Share tips, offer assistance if wanted, and make connections.
- Stewardship: Participate in keeping the pumptrack clean and in good condition. If you see litter or damage, please address it if you can or report it to pumptrack@growcyclingfoundation.org.
- Teaching & Learning: Encourage safe riding by example. If you see someone struggling, be respectful and supportive. Be the friend you wish you had made when you started out.
- Communication: Keep the dialogue open and respectful.

The track is inside Edward Vincent Jr. Park at 700 Warren Ln, Inglewood, CA 90302

For directions to the park, Click Here

A couple of crowded morning sessions at what some call the angriest spot in Los Angeles.

Mike, aka German in Venice, vlogs about daily life in Venice Beach, and the nearby communities.

"I had a chance to interview Thomas, a local homeless person from Venice Beach recently. Lately, he has been living in the Venice Beach restrooms. He is telling his story."

If you would like to support German in Venice with some gas money or you want to buy him a coffee, you are welcome to donate to his paypal account: https://paypal.me/germaninvenice

Checking the Los Angeles' new pump track over in Inglewood. Even though it was made for bicycles, it's being used more by skateboarders.

2nd annual classic car show on the Santa Monica Pier hosted by the Santa Monica Police Officer Association (SMPOA).

Kevin from Ocean Park 26 takes us on a visit to Bay Street Boards in Santa Monica, CA. A local family-owned surf & skate shop.

Bay Street Boards
3216 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica,
CA 90404, United States

From Brad Jacobson:

"I finally figured out if a snowboard could be surfed. It was worth the wait. My friend Julian Willams was kind enough to assist me even though it meant paddling out on a soft top with a snowboard at one of the most crowded line-ups in the world."

Interceptor 007 captured tons of trash heading for the Pacific Ocean as Tropical Storm Hilary hit the US.




Despite the extreme conditions, the Interceptor remained operational in Ballona Creek, LA County, and will be fully functional again after a few minor repairs.

A decent swell hits one of Los Angeles' most crowded surf spots, Sunset Point.

Video highlights from the Skateboard Contests at the Venice Beach Games.

Mike, aka German in Venice, vlogs about daily life in Venice Beach, and the nearby communities.

"Lots of classic cars, low riders vans trucks, and all timers. The most beautiful cars in the world and all this underneath the sunshine, palm trees and an ocean breeze every car lovers dream."

If you would like to support German in Venice with some gas money or you want to buy him a coffee, you are welcome to donate to his paypal account: https://paypal.me/germaninvenice

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"Enthusiasts of classic automobiles were treated to a spectacular showcase at The Classic Car Show held on Saturday, August 12, 2023. The event, which drew crowds from far and wide, kicked off with a heartwarming blessing by Mike Bravo and Calpulli, setting the tone for a day filled with automotive nostalgia and community spirit.

Hosted by the Venice Brand Agency, the highlight of the event was the captivating Bathing Beauty Pageant, where timeless elegance met the charm of vintage cars. Attendees were captivated by the fusion of glamour and automotive history as they admired the stunning contestants and their accompanying classic vehicles.

For those with a penchant for two-wheeled marvels, the Westside Motorcycle Collection contributed to the event's allure with an impressive display of 20 exquisite bikes. Motorcycle aficionados were treated to a diverse range of designs and styles, celebrating the artistry of these mechanical masterpieces.

Adding an extra layer of excitement, Carrotos Customs brought an element of surprise to the event. One fortunate attendee walked away with a fully customized and hand-painted trike, the grand prize of a thrilling raffle. The meticulously crafted creation left no doubt that the event was a celebration of both history and innovation in the world of automobiles.

The Classic Car Show at Venice Beach stood as a testament to the enduring allure of vintage automobiles and the vibrant community that gathers to appreciate their beauty. With a day full of remarkable displays and engaging activities, attendees were reminded that the past can seamlessly merge with the present in the world of classic cars."

Support Santa Monica Closeup/Fabian Lewkowicz with Venmo or PayPal to help earn money to make these videos:

https://venmo.com/u/santamonicacloseup

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/fabianlewkowicz

Here's surfing photos from the GRLSWIRL / Textured Waves Surf Skate Fest Group Paddle Out.

This set of surf photos was shot by Six12 Media and brought to you by Bodyglove. And use prmom code SWIM15 to save 15% Off swimwear at Bodyglove.com.



These are just a few of the 350+ photos from this event. If you were out there, you probably got some surfing shots, probably multiple photos, they will be in the complete photo gallery for this day, check them out, the link to the complete gallery is down below.

















You can find 300+ more photos from this session, all full size and in high-resolution, in this photo gallery:

Surf Skate Fest Group Paddle Out Photo Gallery


If you were out there, we probably got some cool surfing shots of you, go check them out!

From Brad Jacobson:

"Yes, I've said Malibu can be an absolute nightmare to surf but... when filmed from above it looks a bit more dreamy."

Video recap from They Will Skate Again adaptive skateboarding event by Life Rolls On held at the Venice Beach Skatepark.

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"On Tuesday, July 25, 2023, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) took action against individuals violating the smoking regulations at the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk. Smoking, whether it be tobacco or marijuana, is strictly prohibited on the boardwalk and the beach, in accordance with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44.b,24 and California Health and Safety section 11362.3.

As per the Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44.b,24, the use of tobacco products and smokeless tobacco is banned, and violations of this regulation are considered infractions. The code specifically states that no person shall light, ignite, or otherwise set fire to, or smoke, carry, throw, or discard any lighted tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, or smoking tobacco within the area.

Moreover, California Health and Safety section 11362.3 emphasize that cannabis or cannabis products may not be smoked or ingested in any public place unless authorized by the local jurisdiction. Violation of this section is also deemed an infraction. It is further clarified that smoking cannabis is prohibited in locations where smoking tobacco is disallowed, which includes the Venice Beach Boardwalk and its adjacent beach area.

The LAPD has been actively enforcing these regulations to ensure the health and safety of residents and visitors to the city. The ban on smoking at popular outdoor spots like Venice Beach aims to protect the public from secondhand smoke exposure and maintain clean and enjoyable recreational spaces.

Authorities urge everyone to comply with these laws and respect the designated non-smoking areas across the city. Failure to adhere to these regulations may result in citations and fines. It is essential for the public to be aware of these rules and to act responsibly to preserve the well-being of all individuals in Los Angeles.

The LAPD remains vigilant in upholding these smoking regulations and will continue to monitor and enforce the ban to uphold public health standards and promote a cleaner, smoke-free environment for all."

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

Support Santa Monica Closeup/Fabian Lewkowicz with Venmo or PayPal to help earn money to make these videos:

https://venmo.com/u/santamonicacloseup

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/fabianlewkowicz