A beloved pizzeria known as a hub because it hosted a biweekly "trans pizza party" was sadly engulfed in flames during last week's wildfires in Altadena, Los Angeles. This heartbreaking loss was shared by pizzeria owners via social media over this past weekend, leaving their tight-knit community in shock and sadness.
A devastating blow
On Instagram, Pizza Of Venice's owners posted a poignant image that showed what remained after: two picnic tables once bustling with chatter and laughter, alongside what was left from their iconic pizza oven chimney. This image starkly captures what many saw as a lively community spot.
The wildfires not only claimed Pizza Of Venice but also forced a beloved lesbian bar in LA out-of-operation, further shrinking safe havens in town. Right now, that bar's switching gears and serving as a drop-off spot, helping gather needed donations in support.
The wrath unleashed by Southern California wildfires
These brutal fires have claimed at least 24 lives within Los Angeles County and destroyed upwards 12,000 structures in places like Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and yes—Altadena. Ferocious winds fanned flames that tore through more than 60 square miles across Southern California.
Altadena's turn
Altadena endured severe devastation; countless homes and businesses were lost. Amidst charred remains, only lingering chimneys and singed trees stand—dim reminders alluding what once was.
Pizza Of Venice found space within an unassuming strip mall along Fair Oaks Avenue, widely recognized as place where welcoming vibes thrived—most notably when trans pizza parties filled every corner before spilling out joyfully onto parking lots.
Grateful For Community
Sean St. John and Jamie Woolnder expressed gratitude regarding those vibrant gatherings: "It's been such an honor hosting Trans Pizza Party here at Pizza Of Venice. It always clears us outta limeades while filling our spot brimful with pride. We've loved being that safe space where self-expression and community blossomed endlessly. Thank y'all so much!"
A bittersweet goodbye
Watching everything vanish so suddenly left Sean and Jamie flabbergasted. On Saturday, they shared, "As many know, Pizza Of Venice fell among countless homes/businesses consumed in Altadena firestorm. What seemed improbable days ago materialized cruelly...leaving souls devastated/displaced."
Sure—their community suffered deeply; fortunate everyone from Pizza Of Venice team emerged alright even if some dealt with losing homes. "Our hearts ache alongside all affected," echoed owners' sentiments.
Hopeful Glimpses Of Rebuilding
Reflecting on their past, owners felt immense gratitude toward unwavering community support spanning nearly 12 years—from launching at farmers markets, growing small restaurant, onto embracing beer/wine offerings. Their success was undoubtedly intertwined with collective belief in their dream.
Though this chapter closes painfully, optimism remains alive within them. St. John & Woolnder insisted,"Together we will rise from this tragedy." Safeguarding everyone affected tops priority list yet, they cling tightly onto hope—bouncing back alongside loved community members someday.
The essence felt around Pizza Of Venice doesn't just vanish. It pulses through LGBTQ+ kinfolk and allies standing strong, united. Such loss runs deep, but so do bonds which spark continued resilience/inspiration.
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