Venice Beach Local Jennifer Train Reflects on Her Past, Creative Journey, & Hopes for the Future

On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, Santa Monica Closeup's photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz spoke with Jennifer Train, a long-time local of Venice Beach who shared her remarkable life story from within her encampment. Jennifer, originally from Des Moines, Iowa, and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, recounted her childhood with warmth. “I had a great childhood,” she said, adding that she pursued higher education at the University of Arizona. “I’m a Wildcat, class of ’93,” she noted with pride. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Arts, emphasizing scenic design, a field in which she found her creative passion. Jennifer’s artistic pursuits led her to work as an art director in Los Angeles. “I did an Aimee Mann video,” she recalled, referring to the music video for *Voices Carry*. Reflecting on her time in the industry, she said, “It was a very toxic environment. We weren’t doing brain surgery, but the pressure was immense.” One of her last major projects was for the cult film *Leprechaun 6: In the Hood*, which she worked on as a set dresser in downtown Los Angeles. Beyond her work in film, Jennifer has lived an extraordinary life filled with creative endeavors. “I’m an artist, a poet, a musician, and a singer,” she shared. In her younger years, Jennifer was also a skilled skateboarder who once went pro, touring with the Phoenix Vans team at just 15. “Tony Hawk and I have a history,” she revealed, reminiscing about her time with the legendary Dogtown skaters. Despite her many accomplishments, Jennifer’s life has been marked by significant challenges. Now, she is candid about her current circumstances, living at Venice Beach and coping with health issues. “I’m HIV positive,” she said, while emphasizing the care she receives from local clinics. “If I take my medication every day, it keeps the virus non-detectable.” Jennifer shared a glimmer of hope for the future. “I got a house offered to me last night,” she said, with excitement in her voice. The opportunity to live in a house in Venice Beach with a local family marks a pivotal moment in her journey. “I’ll be packing up and moving in today,” she said, determined to make the most of the opportunity. Her story is a testament to resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. As she prepares to transition from the Boardwalk to a more stable environment, Jennifer remains optimistic. “I’m getting off the Boardwalk today. I’m ready for what’s next.”

Golden Hour Glide: A Bike Ride Along Santa Monica’s Stunning Sunset Shoreline

Santa Monica Closeup's latest video takes you on a serene bike cruise along the shoreline, framed by tonight’s breathtaking sunset. Experience the warmth of the sky and the rhythmic waves in this peaceful ride captured by SMCU’s own photojournalist. Don’t miss the glow of the day’s end on Santa Monica Beach. #SantaMonica #SunsetVibes #beachlife

Venice's Heroic Stroll: Spider-Man and Son Take the Boardwalk

On a sunlit Tuesday afternoon, Venice Beach's iconic boardwalk saw a unique moment of heroics and fatherhood as Spider-Man, known on Instagram as @qiojo, strolled along with his 7-month-old son securely in tow. The duo added a touch of superhero charm to the bustling boardwalk under the glow of the November sunset, bringing smiles to passersby. A true testament to balancing daily life and hero duties, right in the heart of Venice. #VeniceBeach #Fatherhood #SuperDad #SpiderManSighting

Veterans Day at Santa Monica Pier: Flyovers, Military Displays, and Keynote by Four-Star General

On Veterans Day, Monday, November 11, 2024, the Santa Monica Pier hosted its fifth annual Veterans Day ceremony, marking the event's most significant year yet. The free, public event, conducted in collaboration with the U.S. Army, drew crowds to celebrate and honor the nation’s veterans.

The ceremony commenced at 11 a.m. on the western half of the pier parking deck. Attendees were treated to impressive visual displays, including flyovers by Blackhawks, Chinook helicopters, and the Condor Squadron. A military convoy, led by former NFL stars Andrew Whitworth, Cade McNown, and Nate Boyer, showcased Army vehicles from the California Army National Guard.

The program featured the Posting of Colors by UCLA ROTC cadets and a dynamic drill demonstration by the West Point Drill Team. Music filled the air as the 300th Army Band performed, and Miss USO, Heidi-Marie Ferren, sang the national anthem and “God Bless America.” Military Humvees and LMTVs were on display, adding to the event’s atmosphere of patriotic pride.

One of the day's highlights was the swearing-in ceremony for future soldiers, led by Major General Dianne Del Rosso. Keynote speaker General Andrew Poppas, Commanding General of the United States Army Forces Command, delivered a compelling address. Additional remarks were shared by former NFL All-Pro and Super Bowl champion Andrew Whitworth, Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock, and Councilmember Gleam Davis.

The event was made lively with music and entertainment provided by 95.5 KLOS, courtesy of Meruelo Media. To further honor service members and their families, complimentary meals and ride tickets were distributed.

This Veterans Day gathering at the Santa Monica Pier showcased the community’s deep appreciation for the service and sacrifice of U.S. military personnel, blending tradition, heartfelt tributes, and memorable performances.

Trump Supporters Parade Through Santa Monica in Post-Election Celebration

On Saturday, November 9, 2024, supporters of former President Donald Trump gathered in a show of celebration along Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. The event, which featured a procession of vehicles decked out in American flags and pro-Trump signs, marked a symbolic victory lap following the presidential election results. Participants, many honking their car horns in solidarity, created a spectacle of red, white, and blue that made its way from Los Angeles to the iconic Santa Monica Pier. The convoy, which commenced from the Los Angeles Zoo at 9:30 a.m., continued its cruise at 11 a.m. and culminated in a "MAGA Swarm" at Santa Monica Pier's Beach Parking Lot 1 North at 1 p.m. The demonstration highlighted the continued fervor among Trump supporters, resonating through waves of patriotism and celebratory enthusiasm along the coastal route.

Republican Donald Trump secured victory in the United States presidential election with 312 electoral votes, surpassing Democrat Kamala Harris, who received 226 electoral votes. Trump successfully won the pivotal states of Georgia (16 electoral votes), North Carolina (16), Arizona (11), Nevada (6), Wisconsin (10), Michigan (15), and Pennsylvania (19). Additionally, Trump achieved a win in the popular vote.

Spreading Hope: Mark Shares Words of Encouragement at Venice Beach Homeless Food Distribution

On November 9, 2024, the Oasis Network continued its vital work on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, distributing groceries to the unhoused community. Now under the leadership of Mark, who has stepped in to oversee operations while founder Dan Hubbard is ill, the nonprofit has maintained its mission of providing nourishment and support.

Mark, who is also homeless, starts his day at 5:30 AM, driving to four markets in the South Bay—three Whole Foods locations and one Vons—to collect donations. “We transfer the food from their red plastic totes into boxes and categorize it to make setup easier,” Mark explained, emphasizing the importance of organization in ensuring a smooth distribution process. He noted that he and fellow volunteer Ruben handle these tasks on both Saturdays and Sundays, describing them as “my two favorite days of the week.”

Beyond coordinating food pickup and distribution, Mark brings a sense of community and spiritual guidance to those waiting in line. Before handing out food, he often leads a prayer, encouraging everyone to open themselves up to gratitude and hope. “I smell some joy in the air today,” Mark said. “Let’s feel the joy of giving and receiving.”

The food distributions are orderly, thanks in part to Mark’s leadership and the cooperation of volunteers. “We try to make sure that people aren’t really jumping in with their hands, and we hand everything out to individuals,” he stated, underscoring the effort to maintain fairness.

Despite challenges, Mark remains committed to growing the organization’s outreach. He mentioned that more donations and support would be welcome to enhance their services. “We’re hoping the line gets bigger and the food gets greater,” Mark said. He also expressed a need for more resources, including a vehicle to help with transportation. “Right now, there’s no 501(c)(3); everything’s out of pocket. But with help, we can really grow.”

Mark’s dedication and positive spirit have made him a pillar within the Oasis Network and the Venice Beach community. “I used to stand in this line. Now I’m fortunate to be on the other side,” he reflected. “Trust me, when you change the frequency, everything changes.”

Serving Hope: Unhoused Volunteer Tom Distributes Food to Homeless on Venice Beach Boardwalk

On November 9, 2024, volunteers from Oasis Network continued their vital work of distributing groceries on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, extending their support to the unhoused community. Oasis, founded by Dan Hubbard, is renowned for providing food, emotional, and spiritual assistance. Although Hubbard, the former CEO, is currently unable to oversee operations due to illness, volunteers have maintained the organization's commitment to uplifting those in need. Among them is Tom, who is unhoused himself but exemplifies resilience and leadership.

The Oasis team starts their mornings early, collecting food from four different markets in the South Bay, including three Whole Foods locations and one Vons. Tom plays a critical role in preparing for the food distribution, sweeping the area before the food truck arrives and assisting with unloading and organizing. “I try to clean all the debris from the night before so that everything is ready when people show up,” he shared while sweeping the grounds and speaking with Santa Monica Closeup photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz. The truck typically arrives between 8:30 and 9:00 AM, bringing the generous food donations that sustain the effort.

Tom also manages the line of people waiting for food, ensuring fairness amidst the crowd. However, the task comes with challenges. “We’re supposed to have some added security because there have been a couple of fights up here,” Tom mentioned. He recounted incidents involving altercations and noted the presence of law enforcement teams like the Circle and SAFE teams to maintain order.

Despite difficulties, Tom takes pride in the community effort. “This is for the needy, not the greedy,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect among those waiting for food. “Some people line up at 4:00 in the morning to secure their place, and it’s not fair when others show up later and try to cut ahead.”

Tom’s dedication goes beyond managing food lines; he also cleans and maintains public spaces, including the boardwalk bathrooms. “I buy my own bleach and alcohol to sanitize the area. At the end of the day, this is our home,” he said.

A military veteran, Tom’s journey to this point has been marked by personal battles, including overcoming addiction and health challenges related to chronic kidney disease (CKD). He shared, “I was diagnosed with stage 4 CKD. Insurance only covered so much, so I chose to fight it on my own terms, even if it meant living out here.” Despite adversity, Tom continues to lead by example, inspiring others in the community to maintain cleanliness and order.

Tom also highlighted the underlying struggles that contribute to addiction among the unhoused. “It’s easy to say, ‘I’m an addict,’ but harder to admit, ‘I gave up on myself.’ Many out here have given up on life and use drugs as a way to cope,” he reflected. Yet, he remains steadfast in his recovery, acknowledging the support from friends, fellow veterans, and even some police officers who encourage him.

His commitment to positive change has earned him respect, even among those who may not always agree with him. “Some people hate me for standing out, but at the end of the day, we’ve got to take the good with the bad,” Tom said before resuming his volunteer duties.