From Santa Monica Close Up:

Daisy was observed today, February 3, 2024, engaging in the reconstruction of her tiny home project on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Despite recent setbacks, including the disposal of personal belongings and building materials by city clean-up crews, Daisy remains undeterred.

During the rebuild, she explained, "This new tiny home is more than shelter; it's about dignity for my friends who have been displaced." Outlining her vision, Daisy shared that the 4 by 8-foot vendor cart on wheels is designed for an unhoused couple known to the community, who've faced hardships on the boardwalk.

Daisy emphasized the practicality of her design, which allows for easy mobility, especially in areas she refers to as "no man's land" where larger wheels are unnecessary. She also mentioned plans to construct several more vendor carts, each 3 by 8 feet, tailored for unhoused individuals familiar to the local community.

Her initiative is not just a response to immediate housing needs but is deeply rooted in her philosophy of finding a balance with nature and reducing the ecological footprint. She contrasts the temporary nature of her tiny homes with the permanent structures that dominate urban landscapes.

Daisy's ultimate goal is to support her community while awaiting a societal shift back to natural living through the advancement of technology. "These tiny homes are about giving my friends the energy, time, and autonomy they need," she said.

With a clear vision, Daisy is set to continue her work, not just rebuilding homes but fostering a sense of community and connection to the environment among those who call the beach their home."

Click Here for more Stories about Venice Healer Daisy

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.

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Here's surfing photos from Saturday, February 2nd at the Venice Pier.

This set of surf photos was shot by Six12 Media and brought to you by Jack's Surfboards.

These are just a few of the 100+ photos from this session. 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 100+ more photos from this session, all full size and in high-resolution, in this photo gallery:

Venice Breakwater - Saturday 2-3-2024 Photo Gallery


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

Wanna see photos from previous days at this and other local surf spots from this photographer?
Click Surf Spot Galleries and look for the spot and then the date.

2024 is the Year of the Dragon. Pacific Park will join millions around the world in celebrating Lunar New Year. The Pacific Wheel will be lit red and gold and feature a green dragon design February 9 – 11.

Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations of the year among East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities, among others. This special lighting event will take place on the evening of Friday, February 9 to Sunday, February 11. The Ferris wheel lights can be seen from dusk until 11:35 PM each evening.

Step into the world of Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier! In this episode, experience the magic of opening the park, from the vibrant sunrise to the meticulous ride safety checks that ensure every moment is filled with joy and excitement.

Raw video of the Venice Breakwater on Thursday, February 1, 2024.

A fire engulfed this RV in Venice on Thursday. It that has been said that it has been parked parked here on Del Rey Ave for several years. Google Street View has it there in the 2022 image of the street (see image below).

Hazardous surf is happening now 🙴 will likely continue through well into this coming week. The next storm will bring additional gales, with storm force gusts possible.

February 1, 2024

An Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory has been declared for all Los Angeles County beaches. The advisory will be in effect at least until 5:00 am, Sunday, February 4, 2024. This advisory may be extended depending on further rainfall.

As the vibrant tradition of the Venice Beach Mardi Gras Parade marks its 25th year, participants are urged to don their most festive costumes and join the lively celebration.

Event Details:
Date and Time: Sunday, February 25, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Venice Beach Mardi Gras Parade Schedule:
11:00 a.m.: Pre-Parade Party
12:00 p.m.: Parade kicks off at ROSE AVE and the Boardwalk
2:00-6:00 p.m.: After Parade Dance Party at the Sidewalk Cafe featuring The Gumbo Brothers

Participants are encouraged to utilize street parking or park at the North City Parking Lot. The designated parking/start location is 300 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291.

Venice’s Mardi Gras legacy dates back to August 16-18, 1935, when the first annual Mardi Gras Festival was held, according to a post from Venice Paparazzi. Mirroring the festivities of New Orleans, the three-day event featured parades, costumes, contests, and entertainment. King Neptune’s arrival in an outrigger canoe, Queen Venetia’s coronation, and a royal procession along Ocean Front Walk marked the beginning of the celebration. The tradition continues, embracing the spirit of fun and frivolity, with the afternoon parade showcasing floats and costumed merrymakers wearing oversized plaster of Paris heads, crafted in Arthur Reese’s studio.

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.