It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood...
Entries by Fabian Lewkowicz (6146)
Tragedy Strikes Santa Monica Beach: Victim Dies After Stabbing Incident, Suspect Arrested for Murder
A horrifying incident unfolded at Santa Monica Beach on July 31, 2023, at around 2:07 pm, when Santa Monica Police Officers responded to a distressing 9-1-1 call reporting an assault with a deadly weapon in the 2000 block of the beach. The officers discovered a single victim, a 27-year-old male, on the east side of the beach restrooms, suffering from at least one stab wound to his chest.
According to witnesses present at the scene, an argument erupted between the victim and the suspect in the breezeway adjacent to the men's restrooms. In a shocking turn of events, the suspect repeatedly stabbed the victim in the torso and chest.
Upon arrival, the officers found the victim unconscious and immediately provided him with aid. They performed CPR until the fire department arrived and rushed the victim to a local hospital. Tragically, despite their efforts, the victim succumbed to his injuries. The identity of the victim is being withheld until his family can be notified.
The suspect, identified as Juan Evarastico Bahena, was apprehended by witnesses and remained in the vicinity when officers arrived. Witnesses positively identified him as the perpetrator of the stabbing. Officers believe they located the weapon used in the attack inside the suspect's backpack.
Bahena, currently experiencing homelessness, was subsequently arrested for murder and booked into the Santa Monica Jail.
The Santa Monica Police Department's Investigations Division is actively working on the case and urges anyone with information about the crime or the suspect to come forward. They can contact the Investigations Division during business hours at (310) 458-8451 or the Watch Commander 24-hours at (310) 458-8427.
As the Santa Monica community grapples with the shock and grief of this tragic incident, authorities continue to seek answers and justice for the victim and his loved ones. Updates on the investigation will be provided as the case unfolds.
Santa Monica Beach Transforms into a Pole Dancing Paradise
In the midst of a picturesque Sunday on July 30, 2023, the sandy shores of Santa Monica Beach became the epicenter of an enchanting gathering, attracting an array of students and passionate pole enthusiasts. Among the spirited participants were members from the esteemed CoCreate Pole Fitness, who mingled harmoniously with other like-minded groups. With the sun shining brightly and the warm breeze gently caressing their skin, the day was destined for pole play and community building like never before. This one-of-a-kind event showcased the studio's unwavering commitment to fostering a close-knit and diverse group of individuals who share a passion for pole dance fitness.
The afternoon was filled with exuberant cheers as attendees took turns showcasing their mesmerizing routines on portable poles thoughtfully arranged on the beach. One couldn't help but be impressed by the studio's community-based approach, ensuring that everyone had ample opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment.
Student Olivia, beaming with enthusiasm, shared her experience, "Hi, I'm Olivia, and I'm proud to be a part of CoCreate Pole Fitness. Some of us at the studio wanted to get together and have fun at the beach, just a casual meet-up, you know? But it turned out to be so much more. We come out here regularly to support each other, inviting friends to join us and show off their moves. It's fantastic because even those who were hesitant to try pole dance before feel welcome and safe here. We can teach them a little spin or two if they want to give it a shot. Plus, it's not just our studio; different pole dance studios connect, and we all come together to hang out and have a great time. It's such a friendly environment, and pole dance has always been a supportive place for me. We find various ways to bond as a group – park days, beach days, you name it – setting up poles, playing music, and just enjoying ourselves."
CoCreate Pole Fitness has undoubtedly become a source of inspiration and empowerment for its dedicated community of students and enthusiasts. It fervently encourages each individual to chase their dreams, conquer their goals, and relish even the smallest victories. More than just fitness, the studio focuses on fostering strength and confidence through pole dance, transforming the notion of what it means to be fit and healthy.
Pole dancing, a dynamic and challenging form of fitness, offers a full-body workout while also allowing for self-expression and creativity. Events like this invigorating beach day epitomize the studio's mission to create a tight-knit community of strong, confident, and empowered individuals, all determined to achieve their fitness aspirations together.
CoCreate Pole Fitness sets a remarkable example for other fitness establishments by showcasing how a shared passion for pole dancing can unite diverse individuals under one supportive and encouraging umbrella. As the day came to a close, with the sun gently setting over the horizon, the sense of camaraderie and accomplishment was palpable among the attendees.
So, if you're seeking a fitness community that embraces unity, empowerment, and pole dancing fun, CoCreate Pole Fitness is undoubtedly the place to be. Let's celebrate strength, confidence, and togetherness in achieving our fitness goals! #CoCreatePoleFitness #PolePlay #BeachDay #Community #fitnessgoals
Feeding the Unhoused at the Venice Beach Boardwalk
In a Heartwarming Display of Compassion and Dedication, Dan Hubbard, the CEO and Founder of Oasis Network Inc, led a moving prayer and feeding event for the unhoused community at the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk on Saturday, July 29, 2023.
During a video interview conducted amidst the feeding, Dan passionately shared the mission and vision of Oasis Network Inc. The organization actively reaches out to the homeless in Redondo on weekdays and dedicates their weekends to serving those at the Venice Boardwalk. Their ultimate goal is to create a healing environment by establishing a ranch that will aid homeless individuals in transitioning towards a better life.
To support their efforts, Oasis Network relies on generous food donations from various stores, including Whole Foods, Sprouts, Bonds, Walmart, and Grocery Outlet. Although they recently faced a setback with the loss of Trader Joe's as a food source, they remain hopeful of its return. Starting early in the morning at 6:30 AM, the team diligently collects and distributes the food to those in need, extending respect and honor to all, regardless of their circumstances.
The services offered by Oasis Network extend beyond mere food distribution. They actively foster relationships with the unhoused community, providing not only physical nourishment but also emotional and spiritual support. Biblical teachings are offered before the food distribution, and the team stays for extended hours to engage with and listen to members of the unhoused community.
The roots of Oasis Network can be traced back to an encounter that profoundly impacted Dan's life. He met Nicky, an evangelist and devoted advocate for the unhoused, at Redondo Pier in the mid-eighties. Inspired by her compassion and dedication, Dan joined Nicky's ministry, working to feed the homeless in Skid Row and visiting inmates in the LA County Jail System's Linwood facility. After Nicky's passing in 2020, Dan made a solemn promise to continue her legacy, expanding Oasis Network's reach to Redondo and Venice Beach.
For over two decades, Dan has remained unwavering in his dedication to helping the homeless. Through the strong relationships he has built with the unhoused community and his extensive connections with social service organizations, he serves as a valuable advocate, connecting individuals to essential resources. From aiding minors trapped in sex trafficking to supporting those escaping domestic violence and mental health challenges, Oasis Network's impact has been far-reaching.
One of the distinguishing aspects of Oasis Network's work is their inclusivity and empowerment of the unhoused community. Volunteers who are themselves facing homelessness actively assist in unloading the van, organizing the food distribution line, and serving their fellow community members. The organization strongly believes in the transformative power of involvement and recognizes that every act of kindness can have an immeasurable ripple effect.
As the feeding event on the Venice Boardwalk demonstrated, Oasis Network's dedication knows no bounds. Their services extend to anyone in need, including not only the homeless but also the elderly, unemployed, and those struggling to afford healthy food. Groceries are also supplied to individuals cooking hot meals for the homeless, as well as women's shelters and mental health centers.
Oasis Network's presence on the Venice Boardwalk provides a vital lifeline for the community. One community member expressed their gratitude, saying, "Especially on the weekends, this is one of the few places where we can stock up on food for the week. There are really no options on Sunday. There aren't as many resources available as during the week."
An essential aspect of Oasis Network's identity is that it is led and run by the unhoused community for the unhoused community. By fostering integrity, responsibility, and leadership among those they serve, the organization creates a cycle of support and empowerment.
In conclusion, Dan Hubbard and the Oasis Network Inc team continue to make a significant difference in the lives of the unhoused community. Their unwavering dedication, compassionate approach, and commitment to fostering genuine connections exemplify the true essence of a heart ministry. With the support of generous partners like Whole Foods, Grocery Outlet, Walmart, Vons, Chipotle, Interfaith, and Exodus Ministries, Oasis Network stands strong in its mission to provide sustenance, hope, and a path to change for those in need.
You can contribute to Oasis Network's mission by making donations here.