Bobby Grace for D.A.—Running on Open Governance and Progressive Ideals p. 6 Vice-mayor Suja Lowenthal Makes Her Case for Re-election p. 7 Smooth Jazz Giant, Paul Brown Releases Latest Album at 7th Street Chophouse p. 11
Think tank looks to link environment justice and labor issues By Paul Rosenberg, Senior Editor
Peter Peyton has been an activist within the ILWU for 20 years, both in Local 13 and Local 63—where he’s held every office, including president. He’s also done important work in the International, where he has served on the executive board, created the legislative program and the political action program in the late 1990s. Peyton, a one time city council candidate, also sits on the Harbor Community Benefit Foundation—a
T
foundation that was established as part of the TraPac settlement to administer mitigation funds to offset the negative impacts of port pollution. Now he’s engaged in creating a new entity, a think tank to deal with issues of labor and the environment in the ports, the wider community and transportation networks they are part of: the Aquamarine Institute. “It’s where blue meets green,” Peyton explained.
Aquamarine Institute/ to p. 3
Trayvon Martin, Troy Davis and the 2012 Election
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he idea for it developed specifically out of the combination of environmental concerns and the impact of the Great Recession. Others involved include Mark Vargas, formerly interim director at the Henri Cartier Bresson Foundation, Sean Arian, former director of Economic Development for the City of Los Angeles and David Hodgins, who has worked with the Clinton Global Initiative. The aim is to establish a sustainable regional economy that meets labor and environmental needs, while maintaining market share in the global economy. “We call it JEEP—jobs, energy, environment and profit,” he summarized. “Pre 2009 we had year-over-year double-digit growth,” Peyton recalled. “The problem then was how are we going to handle this growth... In the meantime, we had rolled out the clean trucks program, and a number of other environmental projects. At the same time, we were stalled on
By Bruce A. Dixon, Managing Editor, Black Agenda Report
Politics and Travon Martin/ to p. 5
Peter Peyton launches the Aquamarine Institute think tank to address environmental justice and labor issues at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Photo: Terelle Jerricks.
Aprl 6 - 19, 2012
When the president likened Trayvon Martin to his imaginary son, and said there ought to be a national debate about something or other, what did that mean? It might mean President Barack Obama wants the votes of those outraged by the murder, but isn’t prepared to do much of anything to deserve them beyond claiming to feel our pain. The world of U.S. politics and media is a twisted place where lofty words often cloak base intentions. It’s a world where Trayvon Martin’s parents, for instance, feel obliged to trademark phrases containing their son’s name to prevent economic exploitation of his case by canny entrepreneurs. But in a presidential election year, rampant political abuse,
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Community Announcements:
Harbor Area NWSPNC Stakeholder Meeting
The upcoming board and stakeholder meeting for the Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood. The meeting will be held on April 9. Venue: Peck Park Location: 560 N. Western Ave., San Pedro
LB Citizens Police Complaint Commission Opening
Sports Youth Camp Fundraiser
QFilms 2012
San Pedro City Ballet’s Masquerade Ball
Enjoy delicious cuisine, cocktails and wine, silent auction, a fast-paced live auction, dancing and opportunity drawings, the San Pedro City Ballet’s Masquerade Ball, starting at 6 p.m. April 14, at the DoubleTree Hotel in San Pedro. Wear your favorite costume and mask. Tickets are $75 in advance and $85 at the door. RSVP by March 30. Details: (310) 732-1861 Venue: DoubleTree Hotel San Pedro Location: 2800 Via Cabrillo Marina
Casino Night Fundraiser
Participate in the Casino Night Fundraiser for the Los Angeles Maritime Museum on April 14, at the museum. Details: (310) 548-7618
Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area
Long Beach Animal Care Services is offering free cat rabies vaccinations and microchip, April 14, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., at Houghton Park, and from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Details: (562) 570-7387; www.longbeach.gov/acs Venues: Houghton Park, Admiral Kidd Locations: 6301 Myrtle Ave., 2125 Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach
Learn mediation as an alternative to conflict resolution, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on April 10, at the Women’s Business Council Small Business Roundtable at Environ Join lively discussion with legal professionals and mediators to explore the pros Venue: Environ Architecture Inc. Location: 100 Oceangate, P-200, Long Beach The NeighborhoodLuv Foundation is raising money to buy sports equipment for One fundraiser is for a 32-inch flat-screen TV. Tickets are $5. Last day to buy tickets is April 13. Details: www.neighborhoodluv.org
April 6 - 19, 2012
Free Cat Rabies Vaccine, Cat Microchip
The Long Beach Police Citizen Complaint Commission is seeking to fill seats for the city’s District 1, 2, 8 and one at-large. In June there will be an additional 3 available position. The chartered commission receives allegations of police misconduct with emphasis on sexual overtones. The commission is independent; falling under the city manager’s office and neither advocates for the Long Beach Police Department nor the complainants. Details: (562) 570-6891
Women’s Business Council Small Business Roundtable
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Venue: LA Maritime Museum, Location: Berth 84, foot of 6th St.,San Pedro
Entry submissions are being accepted for the 2012 QFilm Festival in Long Beach through www. withoutabox.com. The QFilm Festival annually presents narrative features, documentaries and short films that embody the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community. Jury awards will be given to worthy films in several categories. In addition, a new Feature Film prize package valued at more than $10,000 that will include free use and a graphics package. The Burbankbased Greenhouse Studios will also award free use of an Offline Edit Suite for two weeks, 4 hours of free HD color correction and a graphics package. QFilm Festival 2012 will open at the Art Theatre on Sept. 14. All net proceeds from the festival will benefit The Center Long Beach and its programs. Details: (562) 889-2826; www.arttheatrelongbeach. com
Star-Studded Cast Headlines the City of Carson’s 20th Annual Youth Conference
Leading names in the music and movie industry Community Announcements/ to p. 7
HARBOR AREA
Committed to independent journalism in the Greater LA/LB Harbor Area for more than 30 years
Aquamarine Institute from p. 1
many of the environmental impact reports and they were just starting to come through in terms of really growing, in terms of what needed to be done in terms of capacity. “But then ’09 hit. The bottom drops out. And here’s my concern, shifts don’t take place over 10-year periods. Shifts take place overnight. And, that’s exactly what happened with ’09. We knew that we had lost some market share but we didn’t feel the market share that we lost because we were [having] year-over-year double-digit growth. “But when you get to a situation where all of the sudden the bottom drops out, economically, and you realize the game has now changed, and you have a Prince Rupert [Port in British Columbia], you have Lázaro Cardenas [Port] in Mexico, Maersk is going to go to invest a billion dollars, when you have a Panama Canal [expansion due to open in 2014], when you have all these things happening, it’s very simple math to figure out that our economy, our community could be affected greatly if we lose market share beyond certain levels—or at all. “So what we did is we started a ‘Beat the Canal’ program,” Peyton said, “We did a video and we put together a lot of support, SCAG [Southern California Association of Governments], all of the major agencies, understanding we can’t afford to lose market share, because transportation is one of the most important things in LA—set aside San Pedro, Wilmington—because a billion dollars a year from our negotiated contracts goes into these communities.” A 30 percent loss of market share would mean “you’re $300 million short going into your com-
munities and you’re losing jobs left and right.” “So we started Beat the Canal to be able to look at how can become more competitive, which there are 62 projects that are out there, that are funded that are stuck in the mud somehow, because there just--bureaucracy. These 62 different projects represent 100,000 jobs that are good paying jobs, transportation build-out jobs, so we were pushing to get these projects going,” Peyton explained. This position is bound to cause friction with some in the environmental and public health communities, since it includes projects like the offdock railyard projects of Union Pacific and BNSF railroads, which still have numerous problems, as far as community activists, environmentalists and public health officials and advocates are concerned. But other projects do have broader support and could be accelerated without controversy. What’s more, Peyton’s next concern is an obvious consensus-builder: laying the groundwork for a dramatically cleaner and greener high-tech future, specifically developed with an eye toward maintaining market share and creating good jobs. For one thing, “Energy is critical, if we’re going to get to the next stage,” Peyton said, “because we took the long-hanging fruit on what we could do environmentally” with earlier steps, like the Clean Trucks Program. He pointed to the Marine Exchange’s Green Energy Project—with 286 solar panels and a wind tower to make it fully energy self-sufficient—as an example of the direction that Aquamarine wants to help pioneer. “The Marine Exchange is a little project, but it’s a great project, because it’s a project that
shows you can go with renewables, it takes it off the grid for security reasons, it has a cost—return on investment is measurable, it has jobs being created, which are measurable,” Peyton said. The next challenge was to amplify it with other examples, and begin developing other models that can also be replicated without having to reinvent the wheel. “I want to get a training center and—not manufacturing, but assembly—for the future of where the ports are going, with renewables, with energy-saving projects because there’s a whole new world that we can train to in a new market of where we’re going,” Peyton elaborated.
He’s already gotten Councilman Joe Buscaino interested on the one hand and unions as well— “I’ve got a tie-in with the IBEW, who are the electricians, they have one of the best training centers, up in Commerce... It’s completely off the grid. We want to do an annex down here that would be an IBEW-ILWU training center that will be for community and for training for on-dock…” The pre-2009 shotgun approach is over, as Peyton sees it. The intention is to combine concrete examples with an over-arching approach to how all the pieces can fit together, as Aquamarine Institute seeks academic collaborators as well. Expect to hear more from them soon.
Army Corps of Engineers Tours White Point Slide
On April 2, Rep. Janice Hahn led Col. R. Mark Troy of the Army Corps of Engineers, center, on a survey tour of the White Point landslide area along with Councilman Joe Buscaino, City District Engineer Lawrence Cuaresma and members of the Coastal Neighborhood Council. Col. Troy noted that the federal government needs to find that wave-induced erosion was the cause of the Nov. 20, 2011 landslide to justify federal funds. Coastal president June Smith asked Col. Troy if the federal government would get involved if it were found that any of the Nike missile silos were in any way complicit in the slide. Col. Troy said he would have to get back to her because he wasn’t familiar with the preserve’s history as a military base. A city commissioned survey is scheduled to be completed this month followed with a public presentation of the survey’s findings in mid-May. Photo: Branimir Kvartuc.
The Local Publication You Actually Read Aprl 6 - 19, 2012
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Port’s Annual Waterfront Update the Most Positive Ever By Paul Rosenberg, Senior Editor On March 29, Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Geraldine Knatz presided over POLA’s most up-beat annual Waterfront update. Knatz was at her cheery best and Councilman
Joe Buscaino contributed to the mood, welcoming the crowd who came to hear about the port’s progress. But the upbeat mood was also supported by more complicated reasons beneath the surface, deriving, at least in part, from the adversity the port, the community and the nation have faced within the past 3-plus years. The most obvious example of this was the completion of work on Harry Bridges Boulevard, which Knatz announced had just been accomplished the same day. The project was fully funded with $22 million from the federal stimulus program. A more common theme was the multitude of specific accomplishments on smaller projects— either completed, passed through the planning process, or on the boards for action in the coming year. These were bolstered as well by the brief but energizing discussion of the port’s developing yearround schedule of events and entertainment, which now seem less like window-dressing than they once did. With more contentious, ambitious and/or grandiose aspects set aside in the face of adversity (the Outer Harbor cruise terminal, for example), focus has intensified on more modest and immediate projects and for a combination of reasons more progress is being made on them as well. In reviewing the past year, the opening of the Wilmington Waterfront Park stood out as the shining example—more modest than the entire Wilmington Waterfront, yet still a major project— of a product of decades of struggle now being enjoyed by young and old alike. Although little time was spent discussing the larger project—or anything else in Wilmington—the long-awaited opening of the Waterfront Park imbued everything else Wilmington with an aura of possibility not widely shared before. It even seemed to take some of the sting out of news that the Avalon Triangle Park remediation process—begun with a groundbreaking in 2004—would take yet another couple of years longer than expected.
April 6 - 19, 2012
Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area
Positive Waterfront Outlook/ to p. 6
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from p. 1
Politics and Trayvon Martin misuse, hand-in-hand with media disinformation and trivialization of Trayvon Martin and the meaning of his death are practically inevitable. Corporate media news did cover the “million hoodie march,” a hastily organized outpouring of popular rage and frustration, not just at the individual murder of Trayvon Martin, but at the universal American policy of hyperpolicing young black males. What the coverage left out, however, is
careers of elected Democrats that they dare not raise any demands which will embarrass their colleagues. So extending the dramatic demonstrations to, say, wearing a black ribbon until the nation’s prison population is cut in half, are utterly unthinkable. Despite their demands for Justice Department interventions here and there, the last thing the civil rights establishment wants in a presidential year, when their candidate is courting
easier than demanding your candidate stand up for you, and easy is what our black political class is about. As for the president, saying there ought to be a national debate without being willing to lead, it is a weasely cop-out. He’s not a pastor, he’s a president. If the president was seriously concerned with trying to prevent police and vigilante murders, he could have opened his mouth on the November 2006 murder of Sean Bell by New
York Police Dept. As a member of the powerful U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee and presidential aspirant, Obama was in an ideal spot to put both light and heat on that and many similar cases. He didn’t. If the Obama White House was the least bit interested in leading the way, it could have told the Justice Department to find a legal reason to take an interest in the case of Troy Davis. That’s all it would have taken to preserve Troy Davis’s life for months or years longer, as investigations, debates and political maneuvers continued. Talk is cheap. Expressions of concern are cheap. Even a federal investigation confined to the specific case of Trayvon Martin is a tiny thing, as there are a million mostly Trayvon Martin/ to p. 6
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Oakland — Federal agents on Monday targeted a San Francisco Bay area medical marijuana training school started by a leading pot advocate who was instrumental in pushing for ballot measures to legalize the drug. A museum connected to the school and a nearby medical marijuana dispensary operated by Oaksterdam founder Richard Lee were also raided. Lee spent more than $1 million as the main backer of a California ballot measure defeated in 2010 that would have legalized marijuana in the state for recreational use. Lee did not immediately return a message seeking comment. The school offers classes to wouldbe medical marijuana providers in fields ranging from horticulture to business to the legal ins-and-outs of running a dispensary. It does not distribute marijuana. The raid was the latest move by the federal government to crack down on California’s medical marijuana industry.
Marijuana-Laced Brownies Lead to Arrests
Trayvon Martin. File photo.
ne green lisi on lax exten
lveda pass i-405 sepuents project em v o r p im
w/lax crenshaorridor c t si n a tr
America Fast Forward is aimed at creating jobs the right way. Find out more at americafastforward.net. Metro Green Line to LAX > Metro awarded a $4.7 million contract to conduct environmental studies for a transit project to provide a connection between Los Angeles International Airport and two lines in the regional rail network – the Crenshaw/LAX and Metro Green lines. > Initial alternatives under consideration include light rail transit, bus rapid transit and an automated people mover. For more information visit, metro.net/greenlinetolax.
I-405 Sepulveda Pass Improvements Project > Preparation for construction is underway to build new on-and o=-ramps to the I-405 at Wilshire Boulevard as part of the I-405 Sepulveda Pass Improvements Project between the I-10 and US 101 freeways. > The project will add a 10-mile HOV lane, realign 27 on- and o=-ramps, widen 13 existing underpasses and structures and construct 18 miles of retaining and sound walls. For more information visit, metro.net/405.
Greuel Uncovers Millions In Unexplained Fuel Expenditures
Crenshaw/LAX Transit Corridor
12-1627kg_itw-sby-de-12-003 ©2012 lacmta
> The Federal Transit Administration has authorized Metro to go forward with the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Corridor project to construct a light rail line in the Crenshaw District, Inglewood and LAX areas. > The 8.5-mile line will run along Crenshaw Boulevard from Exposition Boulevard to the Metro Green Line. For more information visit, metro.net/crenshaw.
For more information, visit metro.net.
LONG BEACH—Long Beach Police officers responded to call of a student falling ill after consuming a marijuanalaced brownie at Poly High School on March 23. The brownies were sold to several students at the direction of an adult man. A subsequent investigation resulted in three arrests. The trouble began at about 8 a.m. when a 15-year-old student was escorted to the nurse’s office, after becoming ill and disoriented. Long Beach Fire Department paramedics were called. The boy was transported to a local hospital, where he was evaluated and released. Officers later arrested a 15-year-old student, who brought several marijuanalaced brownies to school that day to sell to other students. The detained juvenile had bought the brownies the night prior from an adult acquaintance, 48-year-old Guyl Givens of Long Beach, who purchased the brownies from a local dispensary. He is in the custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs, and being held on $70,000 bail.
LOS ANGELES—With gas prices near an all time high, Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel released a scathing audit of the city’s fuel use and uncovered millions of dollars of unexplained fuel transactions by city departments on March 29. Annually, the city purchases about 13.8 million gallons of fuel at a cost of approximately $28.6 million. Greuel found that during the 22month audit period, more than $7 million in fuel was taken without any information identifying the vehicle or purpose that the gas was intended for and that city departments ignored a $12 million fuel tracking system that the city purchased a decade ago to help prevent this type of abuse. Greuel cautioned that all fuel transactions should be for official purposes only and urged departments to enforce authorization procedures.
Aprl 6 - 19, 2012
“moderate” voters, is a deep and honest national discussion about hyper-policing and the prison state. For our cynical black political class, which we sometimes call the black misleadership class, Troy Davis was last year’s fundraising slogan, and this year’s get-out-the-vote watchword will be remembering Trayvon Martin. Sound far-fetched? It’s not. In the 2000 presidential campaign, the NAACP’s national voter action arm commissioned a mailer to millions of black households across the country. It featured whites waving confederate flags and the tag line “If they win, we lose,” and a drawing of a pickup truck dragging a chain, an obvious reference to the 1998 Texas murder of James Byrd by white supremacists. In fairness, the murder did happen when Republican presidential candidate Bush was governor in Texas, and Texas had failed to pass hate crimes legislation. But the black political class never bothered Al Gore about the fact that his home state of Tennessee, like Florida and other key states, banned from the voting lists for life anybody convicted of a felony, disenfranchising hundreds of thousands of voters in each of those two states alone. They never demanded he use his political capital to stand up for their actual constituents. Did it matter? Of course it did. 2000 Democratic presidential candidate Al Gore lost both Florida and his home state of Tennessee by margins far greater than the number of black voters disqualified by the felony restriction alone. In their defense however, using confederate flags and pickup trucks on campaign mailers is a lot
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that at least in New York, those thousands of hooded protesters ended their march by joining with Occupy Wall Street, where for the first time in six months the occupation was mostly African American, a fact that would have served the agendas of neither of the two corporate parties. African Americans are the Democratic party’s base constituency. Black politicians are long accustomed to making good-sounding but often empty statements against police brutality, stop-and-frisk, and similar practices. In keeping with the rising level of public anger, black state legislators in New York showed up for a Monday morning press conference in hoodies, and Democrat-supporting figures in the corporate media like Keith Oberman did at least one segment of his show wearing a gray hoodie. The problem, of course, is that the culture of over-policing African Americans is deeply rooted in thousands federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors offices, and courts. Aside from repealing a single odious Florida law, few of the public figures and politicians suddenly concerned have any proposals to offer that might begin to roll back the omnipresent culture of racist policing, like rolling back the ability of law enforcement agencies to keep confiscated assets, or ceasing to funnel federal money to police departments based on the number of low-level drug arrests. After all, that governing in the interest of the people stuff is hard. Showing up for work in a hoodie is easy. The 21st century civil rights establishment, unlike their predecessors a half century ago, are so tightly bound to the fortunes and
Federal Agents Raid Medical Pot School
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Race for D.A.—Bobby Grace
Running on Transparency and Progressive Ideals By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor
April 6 - 19, 2012
Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area
Deputy District Attorney, Robert “Bobby” Grace, is a quiet-spoken man with loud ideas about how justice should work. Originally from San Bernardino, he graduated from the University of California Los Angeles after serving a stint as student body president from 1982 to 1983. He went on to Loyola Law School and did his externship at the County District Attorney’s Office, where he has worked ever since. During his 23 years in the DA’s Office, he’s worked in the Hardcore Gang Division, family violence/domestic violence division and is currently assigned to the high-profile major crimes unit, where he’s served since 2005. Grace is a through-and-through progressive, but sees a number of Cooley’s initiatives worthy of continuing and furthering. He cited Cooley’s change in the application of Three Strikes, as an example in which he required that the third strike be a violent felony, so that an ex-felon with two strikes doesn’t get life in prison without possibility of parole for stealing a slice of pizza. “That was a good policy,” he said. “But there are some other things we should be doing to follow up on that, such as ending the practice of seeking the life without possibility of parole sentences for juveniles under the age of 18.” Grace believes juveniles should have an opportunity to earn their way out of an indeterminate sentence. If they are not 18 years old, no matter how heinous the crime, it is difficult for a person that young to have the same criminal pattern that an adult would, he said. The issues he’s running on include increased government transparency, state accountability in fully paying for prison realignment and operating a robust DA’s Office with fiscal restraint. “I think there’s a trend in all areas of government in the direction of transparency,” he said in an interview with Random Lengths News publisher James Allen. “The more transparency you have, the better you’re going to see the administration of justice... I’m for anything that sheds more light as opposed to darkens things.” Grace has made it a campaign issue to aggressively go after city employees who sign illegal consulting contracts with employers, directly referencing the issues the City of Vernon and the City of Bell have faced in recent years. “That’s probably one of the biggest areas of local corruption that we’ve seen in the last few years,” he said. “It definitely undermines the credibility of city councils and local agencies... The best way to deal with that is by enforcing the Brown Act and making sure that any business contracts are done in open city council session or open agency sessions so that the public and the press are aware of who signing these contracts.” When it was pointed out that employee contracts and real estate deals could be conducted in closed session, Grace replied that he believed that was bogus in the sense that the personal contracts, saying things like health care could be kept from public view but the actual size of the contract and the length of the contract are all matters that are fair game and people should know because it relates to the city budget. Grace is supportive of realignment, 6 though he believes much needs to be done
to ensure that the state follows through on paying local law enforcement agencies to deal with probation and re-entry issues. “I think the District Attorney has to get behind realignment, and the district attorneys and law enforcement agencies across the state need to hold the state legislatures feet to the fire with the promise they made to not only give money to local law enforcement agencies to reimburse them for the additional cost of parole and probation, but also to fund the rehabilitation and reentry programs that’s going to be necessary to see the reductions that they want to see,” he said. “That’s really the key ... that the state really comes through with that money for rehabilitation and reentry programs. There’s no way you’re going see crime reduction under realignment otherwise.” If he had his way he would build a program modeled after one in Hawaii, where first time offenders go through intensive supervision and reentry rehabilitation programs. He argues that since the majority of those caught up in the system are low level offenders related to drug use or property related crimes, it makes sense to devote resources toward first time offenders to break that criminal cycle and get them out of the system. “What we want to do is lower the recidivism rate,” he said. “And, that’s the best way we can work toward breaking the cycle of criminality among people that would be apt to do it again. On the juvenile side, we know from research that as soon as a juvenile gets into the system it’s almost impossible to get that kid out before they’re 21. “So, I want to create the same kind of program for juveniles, called the juvenile justice initiative, where we focus intensely on first time offenders within the juvenile justice system and really get those kids into school and get them into tutorial programs and into counseling programs so that we can stop that cycle.” The nonpartisan League of Women Voters and two prisoners’ rights groups sued California elections officials recently to restore the voting rights of tens of thousands of criminals being shifted to county jails and community supervision under realignment. When asked his position on the issue, Grace said he sees the continued disenfranchisement of ex-felons as a vote suppression tactic employed by states across the nation. “Nobody has ever shown me that because you’re convicted of a crime that means you can’t exercise your right to vote. This is what the 2000 and 2004 election were all about. The reason the course of history may have been changed is because of vote suppression efforts in the South.” In regards to environmental justice, particularly the Rancho LPG, Grace was asked if he would take a similar stance as Cooley or Trutanich in taking a hands off approach in challenging such companies with questionable environmental impact reports. “My position is to do an independent survey of my prosecutors and investigators who have been trained in environmental investigations and come up with my own viewpoint on the matter,” he said. “And, if it were determined that crimes were committed, we would use the full force of the county law to try to make them come into compliance with what county rules and if there any evidence that city law was broken, I would work with the city attorney and provide them with the information that seem to indicate the facility was in violation of city law.
Bobby Grace
High profiled cases: Blackwidow Murders—Two elderly women enlisted then murdered homeless men in a life-insurance scam; Chester “Grim Sleeper” Turner—A South Los Angeles serial killer in the 1980s who was captured when he was arrrested for rape in 2002. Turner was tried and convicted in 2007, one of the most prolific serial murderers. Awards/Recognition: Prosecutor of the Year, L.A. County Bar Association Criminal Justice System (2008) Pursuit of Justice Award, Association of Deputy District Attorneys (2002) Outstanding Community Service Award, L.A. County Board of Supervisors (1999) “We should get the state involved, because there are three different sphere of influence and the state has more resources.” When asked what he could do as County DA to ensure that Rancho LPG is adequately insured against a worst case scenario, Grace replied that he would coordinate with the state’s insurance office to demand that Rancho is adequately insured against a catastrophic accident or case of malfeasance on their part. “I’m not going to stand by and allow an environmental hazard occur and not make sure I’ve
Photo: Terelle Jerricks.
done everything I could do from my position to make sure that every government agency that may have a part in this do what they are supposed to.” With the current budget constraints, the DA’s office won’t be able to maintain a set number of people whose sole job is to investigate environmental crimes, Grace explained. But he pledged to form a cadre of lawyers who in addition to their regular jobs are trained to prosecute environmental crimes and free up the time necessary for those lawyers to prosecute such crimes.
from p. 4
Positive Waterfront Outlook Similarly, the somewhat lengthy San Pedro Downtown Harbor planning process has finally resulted in a ground-breaking ceremony—a slide of which was naturally shown—which in turn elevated the accomplishment of the subsequent planning process just to the south, where the 7th StreetHarbor-Sampson interchange was redesigned with community input to create a more flowing, more pedestrian-friendly design, reducing the sense of a barrier between downtown and the waterfront there—a long-time community concern that seems to have been successfully resolved. The overall challenge of balanced development, synergizing the waterfront and downtown, has no doubt become more formidable with the demise of the Community Redevelopment Agency, which again is why the focus on more immediate projects—such as the July 6 arrival of the USS Iowa—helped to bolster the mood. Although the port initially resisted the community’s groundswell of support for the Iowa, Knatz was enthusiastically on board in her presentation, spending several minutes discussing her own preview visit to it—again, with slides— and the benefits she foresees. Knatz also highlighted the opening of The Crafted a week earlier, on June 29, coinciding with Cars and Stripes. Knatz and two other Port staffers present wore advance feature jewelry items to help whet the public’s appetite. Beginning modestly, with a still substantial planned 100 slots for high-qualify craft-sellers, The Crafted’s strategy is consciously designed to fit like a glove into the new, more grounded development process which the port itself seems to have stumbled into. Public comments were generally quite favor-
able, and more limited, both in numbers and in scope than in previous years. Random Lengths publisher James Allen did raise the issue of remaining true to the vision of the seamless interface between downtown and the Harbor, while the Whale and Ale’s Andrew Silber, one of the most active downtown merchants in planning activities throughout the years, expressed a belated sense of satisfaction for the port’s efforts, “to make this a world-class waterfront.” from p. 5
Trayvon Martin
young black men in prison, and hundreds will be killed by sworn police officers, not pretenders like Zimmerman this and every year of the near future. For Obama and the black political class, interested only in their own careers, Trayvon Martin will be an empty slogan, a symbol. Their own careers are proof enough that rolling back the prison state won’t be accomplished at the voting booth. The few lonely voices hollering about Trayvon being the start of some new movement, while bemoaning the fact that the million hoodie march ended up at Occupy are aspiring members of the black political class afraid they won’t get their share of campaign dollars if the hoodie folks go with Occupy instead of the Democrats. But that’s the way it is. The movement for real change will have to begin somewhere else, and flow to and from some entirely different directions.
Long Beach District 2:
Lowenthal Makes Her Case for Re-election By Zamná Ávila, Assistant Editor
Those who have ever struck a conversation, or even been in the same room with Suja Lowenthal, know that she is a force to be reckoned with—whether you agree with her or not. The vice mayor of Long Beach, who represents District 2 and is running for re-election, is articulate, confident and not one to mince words when she has an opinion. Though rumors of her possible bid for the state assembly had circulated earlier in the past year, she denies ever publicly expressing such an interest. Assistant Editor Zamná Ávila recently conversed with the council member about her bid for re-election. Zamná Ávila: Why are you running for reelection? Suja Lowenthal: “I have decided to run for re-election to continue to serve the City of Long Beach in the way that I’ve been doing. It is a great district; it’s one that I enjoy living in but… I’ve been very effective in working on public policy items that are meaningful to [Long Beach] residents overall.” Lowenthal has played a pivotal role in longterm projects such as a parking development strategy that started five years ago and has, so far, resulted in more than 1,400 overnight parking spaces in her district. She also helped to start a water quality effort to address storm drain issues. Her background as an urban planner helped her be an integral part of the Mayor’s Water Quality Task force five years ago, working with scientists and Heal the Bay to go from failing to passing grades in the city’s beach report card.
Such might be the case with regards to the Downtown Long Beach Plan, a plan produced by the Downtown Long Beach Association, which some worry might lead to residential gentrification. But Lowenthal explained neither she nor the City of Long Beach have yet taken a position on the plan. SL: I’m actually a pretty dynamic policy maker because I don’t have my mind made up. I don’t go into things with my mind made up. So, I think that a couple of constituents are unhappy because I’m not prepared to indicate what position I will take. I’m still talking to constituents. I’m still talking with people who want to discuss the issue... This is a genuine process. It is a genuine fear, because I haven’t made my mind up yet. ZA: What would you do to address pollution, especially considering plans to expand the 710? SL: I work closely with the Port of Long Beach and council members that are 710/port adjacent to encourage clean technology strategies in trucks, ships and rail. For instance, I recently co-sponsored a motion with Council members James Johnson and Robert Garcia to create a comprehensive plan in what we’ve termed a Port Impact Zone. It would designate a three-tiered impact zone and offer a mitigation plan that
would be cohesive and effective vision for improving the quality of life for residents who have been negatively impacted by port growth. ZA: Are you satisfied with the decision from the council with regards to medical marijuana? Also, Councilwoman Gerrie Schiepske defended City Attorney’s continual reference to the authorship of Carl Kemp’s proposal, which you motioned, stating that lobbyist and campaign contributions should be a matter of public records. What is your response? SL: Yes, for the time being. However, I recently announced my intention to create a working group made up of resident and business groups, medical marijuana dispensary representatives, city attorney, city prosecutor, city staff and others to research and evaluate ordinances in other jurisdictions and make recommendations
Hit-and-Run Turns to Murder Investigation
LONG BEACH—At about 12:50 a.m. March 24, Long Beach Police responded to the 1100 block of Stanley Avenue in regards to a call that initially began as a hit-and-run incident, which police are now investigating as a murder. A male adult driving a green Dodge pick-up truck was traveling northbound in the 1100 block of Stanley Avenue when he struck a parked vehicle. A witness to the collision, identified as 27year-old Yon Chreng of Long Beach, attempted to wave down the driver to keep him from fleeing. At that time, detectives believe the driver aimed his vehicle at Victim Chreng, running him down and dragging him a short distance before striking three additional parked vehicles. The suspect then fled on foot, leaving the vehicle behind at the scene. The victim died at the scene. Anyone who may have any information regarding this incident is asked to contact Long Beach Police Homicide Detectives at (562) 5707244 or visit www.tipsoft.com
following a review and eventual ruling by the California Supreme Court...I remain hopeful that the issues surrounding medical marijuana will be addressed in the long term, but cities like Long Beach remain at the forefront of the discussion around patient advocacy and public safety.
Community Announcements:
Harbor Area from p. 2 will deliver inspirational remarks during the City of Carson’s Annual Youth Conference scheduled for April 14. Among the actors lined up is television actor, Sharif Atkins, best known for his role as Dr. Michael Gallant on ER and for his role as Jones, on White Collar, singer/songwriter Vicci Martinez and DJ Icy Ice of Power 106 are also expected to speak at the conference. The Youth Conference will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hundreds of Carson youth are expected to exchange views and address key issues faced by young people. The conference will feature workshops, special guest speakers, raffle, music and video games. Admission to the conference is free. The event will conclude with a dinner and teen fun night from 6 to 9 p.m. at Stevenson Park, located at 17400 Lysander Drive. Details: City of Carson Parks and Recreation Dept. at (310) 847-3570. Venue: California State University, Dominguez Hills Location: 1000 E. Victoria St., Carson
Carson’s Annual Parenting Conference
Learn new and innovative ways to strengthen your parenting skills at this year’s Parenting Conference hosted by the City of Carson on April 14. The conference is scheduled to start at 9a.m. at California State University Dominguez Hills. Admission is free. The conference theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Parents, Youth and their Community.” The event is comprised of several workshop sessions designed to help parents enhance their parenting skills and address issues faced by today’s youth. Workshops include social media, bullying, youth stress, youth violence intervention, and life skills after high school. The conference is limited to 75 attendees. Details: (310) 952-1759 Venue: California State University, Dominguez Hills Location: 1000 E. Victoria St., Carson
Aprl 6 - 19, 2012
Besides her work with storm water and beach water quality improvements, Lowenthal counts her efforts on mobility plans and noise pollution—particularly dealing illegally modified mufflers on motorcycles—as some of her greatest accomplishments. ZA:What would you say has been you greatest accomplishment? SL: We are giving more citations now than we ever had. Our police department now is taking it very seriously that that is a quality of life
Although Lowenthal’s often seen at neighborhood and community meetings or rallies, there are some who believe she’s lost touch with her constituents over the years. ZA: Do you feel you may have lost touch with some of your constituents? SL: I’m very engaged with the public… There might be people who have an expectation that I will take their position on a particular issue and that is not what public policy is about. Your elected representative isn’t going to agree with every constituent group at all times. There are some things that there is agreement on, there some things there might be compromise, and then there are some things where friends or people who work together have to say, “We agree to disagree.”
Long Beach Vice-mayor Suja Lowenthal speaks against hate crimes at a rally in Long Beach in August 2011. Photo: Zamna Avila.
The Local Publication You Actually Read
ZA:What are some things you still feel you need to accomplish? SL: A totally new project that I’d like to make sure that it at least gets started is…the waste to energy facility. We have a (Southeast Resource Recovery) Facility in Long Beach, which takes all of our municipal waste… We take waste from other haulers, not just long Beach. So it is a little more of a regional claim. That facility is almost at capacity as to how much it can take in. I would like to be sure that we target more of the regional waste from composite cities and having… it converting to energy… In order to do that I’d like to be sure that I work on the policy and the research funding to build such a site and that will involve work with the county. I started the investigation process already. About two years ago, I asked my council to support a motion that I introduced asking staff to explore the second generation of our SERRF facility. So I’d like to carry that out as well.
issue... The other thing is the bicycle infrastructure. When I came about five years ago, I asked my council to adopt a bicycle mobility plan into the general plan. I’m an urban planner by profession and education. So, infrastructure and development is very important to me. How do we assemble the pieces of the city to make sure that it is relevant to its residents today? And, the bicycle mobility improvement is something that I am very proud of as well. All of the bicycle infrastructure we’ve built over the last three years, I’m personally very proud of. It started with my efforts and certainly I’ve been the No. 1 champion of that in our city, at least from a public official standpoint... So, now we are working on including the complete street concept into our general plan. What it means… how are you working on your walkability, your bikability, all things that work into mobility not just cars… I feel very lucky that I get to work publicly in a city where I can exercise my expertise and craft.
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It Always Takes Seven Years in Los Angeles The challenge of planning the next steps on the Waterfront By James Preston Allen, Publisher
April 6 - 19, 2012
Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area
The majority of attendees at the Crowne Plaza Hotel greeted the Los Angeles Waterfront update held on March 29 with resounding approval. The update began with the Downtown Harbor, then continued along the waterfront, explaining that the Ports O’ Call segment is yet to come. Gone were the acrimonious attacks from Noel Parks on Mates II pollution studies. Missing was Peter Warren’s critique of Pier 400 and not even in the plan was the contentious new cruise terminal at the south end of Miner Street across from Cabrillo Beach. And almost missing was the discussion of the “seamless interface” between the Port and the community, which I felt the need to remind both the Port and the audience was still a factor. What I didn’t say in the public comment period was something that I’ve said many times before: It takes seven years to get anything done in this city. It doesn’t matter whether it is on Wilshire Boulevard or in Wilmington. Getting almost anything accomplished beyond fixing a few potholes or repairing a broken water main takes seven-eighths of a mayoral term to get done. And that’s if the mayor gets re-elected for the second term. Mayor James Hahn was perhaps the only contemporary example of moving the city forward in something other than slow motion, as he and the city were motivated by the secessionist sentiments from both the Valley and Harbor residents. During his first and only term the first leg of the waterfront promenade was built as was the new Harbor division LAPD station and the modern LA Animal Shelter—both were long overdue. Mayor Villaraigosa took his time with both Wilmington and San Pedro waterfront projects, finally gaining momentum with the 29.2 acre $55 million Wilmington Waterfront Park completion on Harry Bridges Avenue the past year and now the new $35.5 million harbor at the foot of Fifth Street. However, the getting-it-right part has really been the sole responsibility of Port of Los
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Angeles executive director, Geraldine Knatz. In her presentation of the future of the San Pedro waterfront, Knatz was aglow in her exuberance for the things to come. Though the vision is pared down, it is one she feels can get done now before the next mayor is elected, unless everything not already in process grinds to a halt. My advice for Dr. Knatz and our new Councilman, Joe Buscaino, as well as the public at large, is that if everything takes seven years to accomplish, we should begin discussing phase II (or is this phase III) of waterfront development now with the continued focus on bridging the divide between the port and the communities. Citizens needs to focus on the collection of candidates running for office and get their support up-front for the continuation of the bridge-to-breakwater concept and to providing the historic access to the water that has been a basic right of the locals here since before Richard Henry Dana wrote Two Years Before the Mast. The next steps to this rather lengthy debate needs to be started today, based upon what was left on the table from the previous rounds, but not included in the current plans. These include the extension of the Red Car Line to Cabrillo Beach to the south and to Banning’s Landing to the north in Wilmington. The Marine Science Institute, a parking solution that addresses both the waterfront and downtown uses, and ultimately answering the question of what to do with Ports O’ Call Village. There is also that lingering question of the “seamless interface” and knowing exactly what that means, which to my mind would be giving the community something other than a dirt pathway from Harbor Boulevard down to the SP Slip by Utro’s restaurant. A staircase would seem to be a good idea. It’s something that shouldn’t take seven years to figure out but does in real time of how things get done––three years to plan, three years to approve, and one year to build. Like I said, it always takes seven years to do anything in Los Angeles, except to pick up the trash or issue a parking ticket.
Published every two weeks for the Harbor Area communities of San Pedro, RPV, Lomita, Harbor City, Wilmington, Carson and Long Beach. Distributed at over 350 locations throughout the seven cities of the Harbor Area.
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Pay Attention San Pedro! By Lonna Calhoun, CEM
I’m still grieving the loss of Paseo Del Mar due to the landslide. Our unique vistas, walking path and scenic drive are just gone. Because I’m a San Pedro resident and a Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), I became alarmed when I learned that the Clearwater Sanitation projects’ preferred route would bore through San Pedro and exit in Royal Palms 2000 feet from the recent slide. My concern is based on my experience in hazard analysis and risk mitigation specifically through 2010-2011 as a consultant for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes where I became interested in landslide activity on the Peninsula. When I delved into the Draft Clearwater EIR, what I found did not encourage me. I learned that four route choices were in consideration with Alternative No. 1 and Alternative No. 4 ranking highest and Alternative No. 4 being preferred. Alternative No. 1 runs under Wilmington and Terminal Island to a site 10 miles south offshore. Alternative No. 4 would bore a tunnel 6.9 miles long and 22 feet in diameter through San Pedro and exit at Royal Palms. The Clearwater Draft EIR states: Alternative No. 4 “could expose people, structures, or property to major geologic hazards such as landslides, mudslides or ground failure.” Alternative No. 1 “would not cross ancient landslides and would not result in renewed landslide movement during construction. Deep-seated ground failure is considered a low geologic hazard during construction. Impacts would be
Columnists/Reporters Lyn Jensen Carson B. Noel Barr Music Dude John Farrell Curtain Call Assoc. Publisher/Production CoGretchen Williams Entrée ordinator Calendar Suzanne Matsumiya 14days@randomlengthsnews.com info@graphictouchdesigns.com Photographers Managing Editor Terelle Jerricks, Slobodan Dimitrov, Terelle Jerricks Diana Lejins editor@randomlengthsnews.com Contributors Assistant Editor Lonna Calhoun, Bruce A. Dixon, Zamná Ávila Danny Simon, reportersdesk@randomlengthsnews.com Cartoonists Ann Cleaves, Andy Singer, Senior Editor Paul Rosenberg Matt Wuerker Publisher/Executive Editor James Preston Allen james@randomlengthsnews.com
“A newspaper is not just for reporting the news as it is, but to make people mad enough to do something about it.” —Mark Twain Vol. XXXIII : No. 7
Landslide Risk vs. Infrastructure Improvements—
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less than significant.” Knowing that landslides can be caused by man-made activities, the question for me became landslide risk vs. no landslide risk. I considered previous landslide history: 1929—Sunken City, 1956—Portuguese Bend, 1974—Abalone Cove, 1981—Klondike Canyon, 1983—Flying Triangle, 1999—Ocean Trails Golf Course, 2001—The Peninsula Center, 2009—1800 block of West Paseo Del Mar, 2010—Sunken City Cliff Area, 2011—Paseo Del Mar. Most notable is the Portuguese Bend Landslide that was triggered by man-made activities. It cost $14.6 million in the first year, millions since and the land continues to move at about 3 feet per year. It’s not reassuring that the full scope/cause of the Paseo Del Mar Landslide is still undetermined and the majority of the environmental impact report was completed prior to that event. The EIR states that the Royal Palms site “consists of Altimira Shale.” Our landslide vulnerability is due in part because the majority of the Peninsula is underlain by shale and siltstone units of the Monterey Formation. San Pedro News Pilot reported that Mark Pestrella, Assistant Director of Public Works told visiting officials evaluating the Paseo Del Mar slide, “The whole area is unstable”; “This is what we call coastal bluff landslide”; “The material here, because it does not have high cohesion, wants to slip into the ocean.” continued on following page
Random Lengths News editorial office is located at 1300 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro, CA 90731, (310) 519-1016. Address correspondence regarding news items and news tips only to Random Lengths News, P.O. Box 731, San Pedro, CA 90733-0731, or email to editor @randomlengthsnews.com. Send Letters to the Editor or requests for subscription information to james @ randomlengthsnews.com. To be considered for publication, all Letters to the Editor should be typewritten, must be signed, with address and phone number included (these will not be published, but for verification only) and be kept to about 250 words. To submit advertising copy email adv@randomelengthsnews.com or reads@ randomlengthsnews.com. Extra copies and back issues are available by mail for $3 per copy while supplies last. Subscriptions are available for $35 per year for 27 issues. Random Lengths News presents issues from an alternative perspective. We welcome articles and opinions from all people in the Harbor Area. While we may not agree with the opinions of contributing writers, we respect and support their 1st Amendment right to express those opinions. Random Lengths News is a member of Standard Rates and Data Reporting Services and the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies. (ISN #08916627). All contents Copyright 2012 Random Lengths News. All rights reserved.
RANDOMLetters Waterfront Vision a Visionary Affront
So, San Pedro is finally getting a new waterfront… What took so long? What was Congresswoman, er… Councilwoman Janice Hahn up to during her 10-year tenure on the Los Angeles City Council? When she wasn’t running for higher office, she approved raising higher parking fees in Downtown San Pedro, she missed opportunities time and again to entice businesses back to the Port region, while pushing environmental standards which may throttle business expansion. In effect, Councilwoman Hahn and her confederate
Community Alerts
Notice of Availability: Clearwater Program Draft EIR
Mr. Schaper, I will let Ms. Hahn defend her own actions as I am sure she is quite capable of doing so, but the dead can’t speak beyond what they’ve already said and you, no matter how much you may have read about the poet Bukowski, surely don’t understand much of his irony or acerbic wit. You understand even less about the role of government in our economy and the critical function it plays in stimulating economic growth. I, too, am frustrated with how long it takes to make the wheels of governance turn, but if private enterprise was going to save the Harbor Area it would have done so a long time ago. Since the time of the Banning family the vast majority of the infrastructure of the two harbors has been financed by public investments—from the federal breakwaters, to the dredging, to the bridges and the freeways, to the very terminals themselves. It has been the investment of public money that has made this the largest port enterprise in the nation. Now is the time to give the citizens back access to a portion of their waterfront. The frustration that we have in the Harbor area is that we have too
much government and not enough democracy. Thanks for your comments. James Preston Allen Publisher
SA Recycling’s 50th Celebration
Re: Daily Breeze’s “Port officials celebrate SA Recycling 50th year on Terminal Island. I’m sorry. Is this the same SA Recycling that was recently cited by US EPA for unlawful discharges into the San Francisco Bay? Is this the same SA Recycling that recently settled a civil case with the Los Angeles County District Attorney that should have been filed crimi-
nally? Anyone bother to read the NY Times article of two weeks ago that documented what auto shredders in this state have been allowed to get away with for years. Really, Mr. Adams? Really? And the comment from the President of the L.A. Harbor Commissioners? Priceless! A decade ahead? The case filed by the L.A. DA started with an explosion on the premises. Evidence showed that SA Recycling operated in violation of SCAQMD rules related to air emissions from their premises. I think that the journalist from the Daily Breeze who wrote this drivel ought to do a bit more research. John Fentis San Pedro
Do you smile or cringe?
Pulling the wool over your reader’s eyes and laughing at their ignorance; or cringing at the fact that your job is to Bullshit readers. You are smart but maybe just can’t see forest through the trees. All the fires you liberals want to put out are BECAUSE of liberal “fixes.” You are like firemen, saving people from a smoky building, when next door is a smokehouse. Helping everyone, day after day, installing smoke alarms, putting up warning signs, even condemning the property, while NEVER adMore Letters/ to p. 10
from previous page
Landslide Risk
Aprl 6 - 19, 2012
Our community has suffered a devastating loss with the Paseo Del Mar Landslide. Are we willing to take the increased risk of further landslides when a viable alternative exists? Maybe the substantial cost difference between Alternative No. 1 ($1,360 million) compared to Alternative No. 4 ($550M) is a valid enough reason to take the risk, or maybe the environmental concerns of more truck emissions, and increased construction difficulties with Alternative No. 1 also outweigh the risk. These are important considerations and difficult questions. I do support the Clearwater Project and understand the vital importance of improving aging infrastructure but our landslide risks should be fully considered. San Pedro residents—our voices need to be heard. Only one poorly attended public comment presentation was made in San Pedro on March 8 and no questions were allowed at that forum. Many residents are still unaware of the potential impact of this project. We need more time for public education and public comment that is due to end on April 10. We may decide that Alternative No. 4 is the best, even considering the landslide risk, but personally and professionally I’m not convinced yet. We may ask that Los Angeles County Sanitation Department mitigate the risk to our community by requesting some compensation to San Pedro. While we all benefit from infrastructure improvements this project will not be used by San Pedro residents but will used by Los Angeles County residents who will also bear some of the cost. Our potential cost is to our coastline and to our neighborhoods that will be subjected to increased noise, vibration, truck volume and pollution. All these issues are important and need more public vetting. My mind is not closed, I understand that risk is part of progress yet this particular risk feels very personal and too close to home. I miss Paseo, I love our coastline. If we have to take this risk I hope we do so with all eyes open and with all citizens aware.
The Local Publication You Actually Read
The Clearwater Program is a comprehensive planning effort undertaken by the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles Count. Its purpose is develop a longrange master facilities plan for the Joint Outfall System, a regional waste water management system that serves 4.8 million people in 73 cities and unincorporated areas in Los Angeles County. The overall goal of the Clearwater Program is to identify a plan that protects public health and meets the needs of outfall system through the year 2050 in a cost effective and environmentally sound manner. The Clearwater Program master facilities plan recommends: The existing Joint Water Pollution Control Plant ocean discharge system be modified to accommodate projected flows and allow for the de-watering, inspection and any needed repairs or rehabilitation of the two existing effluent tunnels. A new tunnel would be built to convey effluent from the JWPCP to the existing ocean outfalls. The proposed tunneling would begin Harbor Regional Park on Figueroa Street, through North Gaffey Street and Capitol Drive, then further south under Western Avenue to the Royal Palms shaft site for a total distance of 6.9 miles. Visit www.clearwaterprogram.org for further details about the draft Environmental Impact Report. Pursuant to Section 21091 of the Public Resources Code, the draft EIR for the Clearwater Program Masters Facilities Plan will be available for public review during an extended 60day review period and close in April 10. Comments on the draft EIR should be sent to: Steven W. Highter, Supervising Engineer, Planning SectionSanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 1955 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601
Council ilk did pretty much little else beyond talking up job recovery to prod the Harbor Area back into economic recovery. Now recently installed Councilman Joe Buscaino, with Mayor Villaraigosa, really, really (they promise!) want to prosper the port region properly. If we have learned nothing over the past few decades, top-down intervention and investment does not work. Instead of grand and grabby visions—read, delusions—of grandeur, Buscaino and Company ought to lobby for greater autonomy for the Port of LA region, since the Harbor Area has been mismanaged for so long by downtown bureaucrats focused on office-seeking and constituentpleasing. San Pedro does not need anymore visionary assistance, especially from government. Private enterprise and local organization must take the helm, so to speak, if the Waterfront wants new vitality. Perhaps we will witness the realizations of the hopes and dreams of long-deceased, yet still famous San Pedro Poet Laureate Charles Bukowski: ““yeah,” I say, “and have you read the papers lately? They are going to construct a marina here, one of the largest in the world, millions and billions of dollars, there is going to be a huge shopping center, yachts and condominiums everywhere!” (Excerpt from Bukowski’s “Be Angry at San Pedro”) Bukowski was waiting for waterfront development with uncharacteristic enthusiasm, or signature cynicism.
Will the “Waterfront Vision” of today’s political class confirm this poet-prophet’s highest hopes? Only if public enterprise stops trying to micromanage everything through central planning, and let’s private enterprise in conjunction with local control take the initiative. Arthur Christopher Schaper Torrance
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NOM: An Astroturf Web of Deception By Zamná Ávila, Assistant Editor
April 6 - 19, 2012
Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area
Astroturf organizations are good at creating deceptive names for themselves and the “causes” on behalf of which they advocate. The term astroturf refers to the building of a grassroots program for the purpose of manufacturing public support for a point of view in which either uninformed activists are recruited or deceptive means are used to recruit them. Webster’s New World Dictionary defines “deceive” as an act to make a person “believe what is not true; delude; mislead.” And, like some people who be-
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lieve in the devil say, deception takes all sorts of shapes, forms and color. It can even come in a simple name. The National Organization for Marriage is perhaps one of the best at these term and technique. While the organization claims to be “for marriage” and even features a flash photo of a mixed race couple being married by Pope Benedict XVI on its website, the group’s main goal is deny and discriminate same-sex couples from the right to legally marry. Recently, the National Organization for Marriage barraged Random Lengths News with more than 60 Letters to the Editor faxes alleging that Starbucks Corp. has “begun a public campaign to rewrite laws to recognize same sex marriage.” Each letter was the same, with the exception of the name and a Southern California address affixed at the end without actual, signatures. Every fax came from the same La Jolla, Calif. fax number, (858) 795-8937. The letter writer accuses Starbucks of having a an “anti-marriage” political agenda and that he or she, along with others, will no longer buy coffee at the franchises. Then, it goes on to invite people to a website owned by NOM, that advocates a boycott on Starbucks. Pretty nifty, right? Starbucks drew NOM’s animus after the Seattle-based coffee retailer stated that it was joining other companies in the state of Washington to support legislation recognizing marriage equality for same-sex couples. At a shareholder meeting this past month,
CEO Howard Schultz, was questioned about the company’s stance on marriage equality. Some believe the questioners were NOM-planted people. Schultz restated the company’s commitment to diversity and equality, and that its decision to support same-sex marriage was “not something that was a difficult decision.” This infuriated NOM. Just like “One Million Moms” efforts— another one of those nifty deceptive astroturf names that claim 999,300 more supporters than it actually has—to force J.C. Penny’s to fire openly-gay talk show host, Ellen DeGeneres, as the company’s advertising campaign spokeswoman, NOM’s effort to hurt Starbucks bottom line for it’s public support will fall flat. In fact, the group’s efforts are already backfiring, if Starbucks online support is any indication. A Seattle Times article about the dust-up has received 18,334 likes, and shared 3,615 times, along with 1,433 overwhelmingly positive comments in support of the company. Starbucks could justifiably be criticized and called to task for many things, but its stance on Marriage Equality is not one of them. If anything, NOM is the one with a public image problem with the surfacing of secret documents revealing race-baiting tactics intended to pit communities
RANDOMLetters from p. 9
dressing the PR.
Dave Unvert Rancho Palos Verdes
Mr. Unvert, I think that your ire against all things liberal has gotten lost in your metaphors. All I can tell you is this, there is a battle going on in this country for the heart and soul of what this nation will be and if your side wins it will become more of a corporatocracy than it is today. Meaning a government paid for by the corporations, run by the corporations for the benefit of the corporations. If this is the kind of government you desire then let’s not fix anything, for sure private enterprise can run our country but they don’t know how to run a democracy. James Preston Allen Publisher
of color against queer activists. According to those leaked memos, NOM sought to target the “elite,” “unintelligent celebrities” and “Latino and Latina leaders,” to carry their message. Oh, what a tangled web we weave when at first we practice to deceive. Marriages for same-sex couples, as with biracial marriages in other times, do not threaten the marriage of anyone else. And, though the United States is culturally under-girded by Judeo-Christian beliefs, it should be remembered that our U.S. Constitution codified the separation of church and state to protect religious and nonreligious minorities alike. Limiting legal rights to heterosexuals, while denying taxpaying homosexual couples in equally committed relationships IS unfair and it’s simply wrong. Perhaps the solution to the marriage debate is less complicated than is perceived. Our states and country should probably adopt language into laws that clearly delineate legal marriages from religious marriages by making state or federal government the sole arbiter of marriage licensing as is done in other countries, rather than religious institutions acting on behalf of county registrars issuing marriage licenses. By vocalizing support for marriage equality, Starbucks has not just assured a large segment of their coffee loving customer base, the company also made sure that they are on the right side of history.
Letter from the NOMs
I have just learned that the Starbucks Corporation has begun a public campaign to rewrite our marriage laws and to recognize same-sex marriages. I was shocked to hear a major corporation willing to alienate such a large portion of their constituents in favor of a political agenda. I have decided that I will no longer buy my coffee at Starbucks—there are plenty of community coffeehouses that both support my values and need my business. While there’s little that I can do alone to make Starbucks reconsider their position, together we can make a statement. There are may in our community, I know, who believe in marriage and would be deeply offended to know that a portion of every cup Starbucks coffee they buy is being used to lobby in favor of same-sex marriage. It’s time to dump the Starbucks habit, at least for my family. And I invite others to join me by learning more. 60 unsigned names from (858) 795-8937 (See above for RLn’s response to NOM’s Starbucks’ campaign.)
Paul Brown performs April 27, at Levels Lounge. Photo by Terelle Jerricks
P
aul Brown blew the roof off The Levels Lounge on March 20, going blow for blow with DW3 in one of the best smooth jazz shows in recent memory. The evening was hosted by Pat Prescott and 94.7 The Wave. The San Pedro night spot was filled with smiling faces as DW3 kicked off the evening with some funky rhythm and blues flavored jazz. When guitarist – producer Paul Brown took the stage the set was off the hook. Brown elevated an already high standard of performance with his soulful guitar style. The dynamics of the affair kept peaking even as the band took a break. The house DJ smoked the room with some old school hip
hop. The floor was shaking when the second set kicked into high gear. Brown’s artistry lies in his intuitive style of playing. He plays like the giants of jazz guitar, Wes Montgomery and George Benson, playing within the context of a band member underpinning the group with very smooth melodic lines. Brown can also be funky and driven. At the gig with DW3 he made the event sizzle with his burning solo’s counter-parted by DW3’s solid groove and vocals. On April 27, Brown will be back with his band at Levels Lounge with guest saxophonist Darren Rahn in a show named “The Producers.” In a phone interview with the legendary smooth jazz producer and guitarist we asked about the upcoming gig.
“I won’t be just playing my music, Darren Rahn and I will be trading songs back and forth..” Both artists are promoting their new CDs, Brown’s recently released CD The Funky Joint and Rahn’s Speechless. Both CDs represent as artists and producers the best and latest in smooth jazz recordings. We talked about his early start in music playing in bands back in grammar school and we found Paul Brown was a bit of a “Deadhead” in junior high school. “On my first album, I indicated who my influences were. I said, ‘Wes Montgomery and Jerry Garcia.’ People would (ask), ‘How can you put Wes Montgomery in the same category as Jerry Garcia?’” he recounted. “I (replied),
Shop Local. Dine Local. Support Your Community. Shop Local. Dine Local. Support Your Community.
By B. Noel Barr, Music Writer Dude
Paul Brown to page 16.
April 6 – 19, 2012 April 6 – 19, 2012
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EntréeNews From Papadakis to Limani’s Taverna: A Grand Opening for the Ages
by: Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor
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ACE>> Arts • Cuisine • Entertainment
ilen Tsekov and his wife Mariana Artatchka opened Hummingbird House Café nearly three years ago in 2009 in one of the oldest buildings on San Juan Capistrano’s oldest streets, to rave reviews. The restaurant largely serves coffee, sandwiches, wraps, hummus dips and Mediterranean desserts. Tsekov’s opening of Limani’s was fortuitous in a couple of ways. For one, restaurateur John Papadakis got wind of the flavors coming out of Hummingbird Cafe and saw fit to entice Tsekov to come to San Pedro. Papadakis so liked what he saw after a couple of visits that he brought his family to dine at the restaurant. Two, Tsekov was already thinking about opening a restaurant that straddled Los Angeles and Orange Counties. It was first reported that Tsekov would be taking over the old Papadakis venue in September 2011 of last year. At the time he expected to be ready to open in 2 to 3 months, but bureaucratic hurdles delayed the grand opening until March 15, 2012. Almost like a wedding gift from Papadakis to Limani’s Taverna where something old and something new is offered, long time Papadakis Taverna server, George, is working as a server in the Taverna’s new carnation. The restaurant is open weekdays from 11a.m. to 11p.m. and from 11a.m. to 2a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Venue: Limani’s Taverna Location: 301 6th St., San Pedro
Buono’s Pizzeria restaurateur, Frank Buono, plans on hosting pizza tasting in Summer 2012. Photos by Terelle Jerricks
Buonos: on Making The Perfect Pizza By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor
April 6 – 19, 2012
When you ask a man who has been making
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pizza and Italian cuisine for as long as Frank Buono has, you’re bound to get answers that are at times bellyaching, funny but always enlightening. Random Lengths caught up with the restaurateur a couple of day before he unveiled his fruittidde marde pizza March 30. This is a seafood pizza that combines a spicy red and white sauce with shrimp, scallops, and clams. “It’s a high end pizza but for seafood lovers. It’s going to be hit,” he said. Buono actually has rolled this pizza out before in his menu some years ago. Playing the part of PT Barnum of Italian cuisine, he said he put the pizza back in the safe, “because we create excitement that way.” Buono’s Pizzeria menu has long ago expanded to incorporate a fuller variety of Italian cuisine, but it’s the pizza that has gained international currency, with locales from South East Asia to
was traveling with.” When Buono went to Italy, he had the experience of tasting pizza that was more ridiculously awesome than the next. “It was between the traditional pizza margarita which is my favorite which is just plain pizza,” Buono explained. “Prosciutto and shaved Parmesan cheese and arugula drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. That just made me want to kill myself it was so good. And it was pizza all over Naples and even Rome.” Buono’s taste buds aren’t entirely Buono-centric and found a few pizzerias in the Los Angeles area that rank among the best. “I like California Pizza Kitchen,” he said. “They have good product. There are some pizzeria’s in LA, like Pizzeria Mozza in the Wilshire … There are some great pizza restaurants that are higher end in Los Angeles.” Despite the varieties of pizza pies that are out there, Buono remains a traditionalist who rarely deviates from the criteria of being authentically Italian. But some deviations like chicken ranch are certainly not authentic Italian. The ingredients must be locally sourced and the heart of every recipe has been handed down from generation to generation. At Buono’s, the pizza evolves as a result of minute experimentation that just happens in the kitchen from working with the ingredients that already there. Buono cited the fan favorite pizza with eggplant as its main ingredient, the Pizza Giorgio, as an example. “We make eggplant Parmesan,” Buono explained. “We already have eggplant that we’ve already prepared which is time intensive and labor intensive. So if you had to make just that one ingredient for a pizza topping, it’s just not practical,” he explained. With the combination of thinly sliced eggplant, sauteed garlic, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil, and perhaps a bit of Buono magic, a signature pizza was created. Buono says that the Pizza Giorgio is their No. 1 signature pizza of their masterpiece series. The Pizza Andrea, a close second, is a Mediterranean chicken pizza that is sauceless. Buono places a high premium on freshness and simplicity. He noted that his personal favorite pizza was one that was plain with a thin crust. Buono’s to page 14.
South America putting their own local spin on the pie. But Buono will be the first to tell you that not every pizza pie is alike. “I just got back from New York and had many, many pizzas, including going to the famous Lombardis in Little Italy,” Buono recounted from his recent business trip. “I must say, including the guests I was dining with, we all agreed that Buono’s was better.” Pop culturally speaking, places like Philadelphia, Brooklyn or some specific New York neighborhood where locals would swear the modern pizza was created, but never duplicated, didn’t, at least in Buono’s mind, meet the Buono standard. “I didn’t find any of the things that people rave all that great,” Buono admitted. “We were in New York, Brooklyn, we were in Philadelphia, I didn’t try any pizza in Philadelphia… The pizza was good but not great and none of it reach the level of Buono’s pizza in my opinion and the people I
Big Nick’s Pizza Tradition, variety, and fast delivery; you get it all at Big Nick’s Pizza. The best selection of Italian specialties include hear ty calzones, an array of pastas, and of course our amazing selection of signature pizzas, each piled high with the freshest toppings. Like wings or greens? We also offer an excellent selection of appetizers and salads. Call for fast delivery. Hours: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Fri. & Sat. 1110 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro. (310) 732-5800.
Fancy Melts “Fancy” barely begins to describe it. Our secret recipe old-world bread has been a San Pedro staple since 1975. Now we use it to create the most amazing grilled sandwiches you’ll ever try. Come taste what everyone has been talking about... Delivered right up to your car window if you wish. Fancy Fever... Catch it! Call your order ahead for made–to–order, no–waiting pick-ups! Hours: Tues–Fri 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat – Sun 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., closed Monday. 2331 Alma St., San Pedro. (310) 547-4331.
Boardwalk Grill
Iron City features a newly renovated dining room and wonderfully restored bar in a modern setting. The most comfortable restaurant/bar in San Pedro, Iron City offers a casual dining for lunch and dinner with food service at the bar. Watch all sporting events on five big screens in surround sound. (Iron City is a supporter of the Black & Gold.) Iron City features authentic Philly Cheese Steaks, various hot sandwiches and burgers, calamari steaks and a variety of Italian pasta dishes. Hours:10 a.m.2a.m. 7 days a week. Happy hour from 4-6 p.m. 589 W. 9th St., San Pedro, (310) 547-4766.
Dine in or on the heated patio for lunch and dinner at the Boardwalk Grill located on the Waterfront in scenic Ports O’Call Village. Known for the best ribs, fish and chips, charbroiled burgers, beer, and wine that you can find on the Waterfront. Hours: lunch and dinner, Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.7 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. Berth 77, Ports O’Call, San Pedro. (310) 519-7551.
The Chowder Barge
(25th and Western) 2420 S. Western Ave. , San Pedro, (310) 832-4471
Los Angeles 110 W. El Segundo Blvd., Los Angeles, (310) 527-7323 Gardena 13890 S. Normadie Ave., Gardena, (310) 327-5615
www.prontosmexgrill.com.
San Pedro Brewing Compnay SPBC has an eclectic menu featuring pastas, steaks, seafood, sandwiches, salads, delicious appetizers and great BBQ. Handcrafted ales and lagers are made on the premises. A full bar with made–from–scratch margaritas and a martini menu all add fun to the warm and friendly atmosphere. WIFI bar connected for web surfing and e-mail. Hours: from 11:30 a.m. daily. 331 W. 6th St., San Pedro (310) 831-5663 www.sanpedrobrewing.com SPIRIT CRUISES The only dinner cruise in the Los Angeles Harbor. Two-and three-hour Sunset Dinner cruises and charters for special occasions feature prime rib, pastas, ribs, and salad selections. Full bar and unlimited cocktails served. Call for times and reservations. Located in Ports O’Call Village, Berth 77, San Pedro. (310) 548-8080.
NIKO’S PIZZERIA Niko’s features a full menu of Italian specialties, as well as every combination of pizza imaginable. Niko’s has the feel of a neighborhood eatery, a great place to get a quick lunch or sit down and relax with family and friends. Niko’s features a wine and beer bar, with a wide selection of beers on tap or by the bottle. Watch sporting events on plasma TVs throughout the restaurant. Delivery service to all San Pedro, Port locations, and hotels. Hours: 10 a.m.-12 a.m. daily. 399 W. 6th St., San Pedro (corner of Mesa and 6th sts.) (310) 241-1400
Taxco Mexican Restaurant We are proud to serve our community for over 25 years. We offer some of the most unique Mexican dishes around, including the best fajitas in town in a great family atmosphere. Catering for every occasion. Beer, wine and margaritas to your taste. Tony and Vini Moreno welcome you. Hours: 9 a.m. to 10 .m. daily. Major credit cards accepted. 29050 S. Western Ave., San Pedro (at Capitol and Western). (310) 547-4554, www. sanpedro.com, click on RESTAURANTS
PORTS O’CALL WATERFRONT DINING Fine dining on the Waterfront, Early Bird Dinners and Happy Hour at this landmark San Pedro restaurant. Spectacular harbor vistas from each dining,
Southern Italian & California Cuisine • Bob and Josephine Trusela have been awarded the “Most Promising New Restaurant 2010” award and three
Trusela’s
stars 2011 and 2012, by the Southern California Restaurant Writers Association. Catering available for all ocassions. Hours: Sun 5–Close, Lunch: Tues–Fri 11:30–2:30, Dinner: Tues–Sat 5–Closing. 28158 S. Western Ave., San Pedro (310) 547–0993 www.truselas.com The Whale & Ale
San Pedro’s only British restaurant and pub offers comfortable dining in an oakpaneled setting. Dine on authentic pub fare such as shepherd’s pie and fish & chips, plus roast prime rib, fresh seafood and beef Wellington. Enjoy a great selection of wine, 14 European beers on tap and full bar. Live music on weekends and First Thursdays. Hours: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 5-9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro. (310) 832-0363, www.whaleandale.com. San Pedro’s Best Guide To —Fine Dining—
Brochure
Coming Spring 2012 (310) 519–1442
Call Today! 30,000 Copies!
Full Color • High Gloss Long Shelf life
To Advertise in Random Lengths News’ Restaurant Guide for the Harbor Area, Call (310) 519–1442.
April 6 – 19, 2012
L.A. Harbor’s famous floating restaurant, surrounded by boats in Leeward Bay Marina. Dine inside by our fire place, or outside on our deck . This unique spot ser ves great sandwiches, burgers, fish & chips, wings and of course, the BEST clam chowder anywhere! Try our sourdough bread bowl and daily specials. Wine and beer on tap or by the bottle, featuring our 34oz Captains Mug! The new owners have kept the “funkiness” of the old barge, and stepped it up several notches. Watch the games on our big screen TVs, utilize our WiFi and enjoy our XM tunes. THE place for your next party. Hours: Mon, Tues 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Wed, Thurs 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Fri, Sat, Sun 9 a.m.–8 p.m. 611 N. Henry Ford, (at Anaheim) Leeward Bay Marina, Wilmington. (310) 830-7937. www. ChowderBarge.com
Mishi’s Strudel Bakery Mishi’s is a fragrant landmark on 7th Street, where it is possible to find Nirvana by following your nose. The enticing aroma of baking strudel is impossible to resist, and the darling café is warm and welcoming like your favorite auntie’s house. Aniko and Mishi have expanded the menu to include homemade goulash soup and a variety of sweet and savory Hungarian strudels, crepes and pastas. The best indulgence is taking a frozen strudel home to bake in your own kitchen and create that heavenly aroma at your house. Mishi’s Strudel Bakery and Café, 309 W.7th St., St., San Pedro. (310) 832-6474. www.mishisstrudel.com
PRONTO’S FRESH MEXICAN GRILL & PRONTO’S BURGERS
Shop Local. Dine Local. Support Your Community.
Buono’s Authentic Pizzeria F a m o u s for exceptional awa rd - w i n n i n g pizzas, Buono’s was named one of the four best pizzerias in Southern California by Mario Martinoli of Channel 9 K-Cal News. Also voted “Best Pizza” in the Best of the Harbor Readers Poll. All ingredients prepared fresh daily. Dine-in, carry-out or delivery and catering. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.Thurs.; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri. & Sat. Three locations: San Pedro, 1432 S. Gaffey St., (310) 547-0655; Long Beach, 401 W. Willow, (562) 595-6138; Downtown Long Beach, 250 W. Ocean Blvd., (562) 432-2211, www. buonospizza.com.
Iron City Tavern
banquet room and the patio, create an unforgettable dining experience for lunch, dinner or Sunday Brunch. Full bar and lounge. Hours: Lunch: Mon.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Sunday Brunch: 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner: Mon.-Thurs. 5-9 p.m., Fri. 5-10 p.m., Sat. 3-10 p.m. Sun. 3-9 p.m. Berth 76, Ports O’Call, San Pedro (310) 833-3553. www.portsocalldining. com
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Continued from page 12.
• Happy Hour • Buonos Buono’s idea of plain pizza is a thin crust with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. He described the crust made at the restaurant as being between thick and thin, but his favorite
is thinner than flat bread. Buono insist there’s no way to market it because it’s so plain. “I like it paper thin, as thin as a tortilla. So thin that I have to bake the crust twice,” he explained.
Godmother’s Saloon • Live jazz from Mike Guerrero Trio: 7 p.m. every Wed. (310) 833-1589, 302 W. 7th St., San Pedro Iron City Tavern • Happy Hour 1/2-price appetizers & drink specials: 4 to 6 p.m. Mon. to Fri. 589 W. 9th St., San Pedro; (310) 547-4766 Ports o’ Call • Happy Hour: Mon. to Fri., 3 to 8 p.m. Taco Tuesdays. Oyster shooter & bloody mary Wednesdays. (310) 833-3553, Berth 76 Ports O’ Call Village, San Pedro San Pedro Brewing Co. • Happy Hour: 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., Mon. to Fri. (310) 8315663, 331 W. 6th St., San Pedro Whale & Ale • Happy Hour: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Mon to Fri., 4 to 7 p.m. on Wed. Late Night Happy Hour: 10 p.m. to Midnight, Fri. Only. (310) 832-0363, 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro Happy Hour Listings Are Paid Advertising
He would bake the crust for 30 seconds while popping all the bubbles that come up; pull it out of the oven; then put a little bit of tomato sauce on there and sprinkles just a little bit of cheese, and the sauce would have extra basil in it and extra chili flakes and drizzle a little of the remainder of the sauce with the extra basil and add a little more cheese then bake it one more time for three or four minutes. Buono notes that the crust is so thin that it would burn quickly. But then again, he loves that burnt little charred taste at the bottom. “If I were to die and eat in heaven, that’s what I would eat for the rest of my life, but most people wouldn’t like it,” Buono insists. This summer, Buono mentioned he’ll be hosting tasting parties featuring all of the restaurant’s pizzas, from the traditional to gourmet. “Everyone will be sitting together tasting everything,” he explained. He also said there will be an Italian night, “where everyone will be sitting at long tables together in family style dining format.” Appetizers will be brought out on big serving trays and people will freely help themselves to all the starters. He noted that this will be an opportunity showcase their pizza but out also their entire menu, all with live entertainment with Italian singers.
478 W. 6th St. • San Pedro 310.548.2493
ACE>> Arts • Cuisine • Entertainment
Tickets & Info: Williams Bookstore, www.WarnerGrand.org & www.WarnerGrandTheater.org
SUSHI BAR
LA Harbor International Film Festival • May 3 through 6—
Every 1st Thursday Izon Eden,
No Cover, Large Menu, Discounted Specials Celebrate the Arts 327 W. 7th St. • 832-0363 www.whaleandale.com
Civic Light Opera of South Bay Cities Saturday, Apr. 7, 7 p.m. cocktails - 8:30 p.m. program - $50 $35 $25
Japanese Restaurant Sushi Bar 380 W. 6th St. • 832-5585
Opening Night Friday • May 4 • 7:30 p.m. • POLA premiere of La Prima Cosa Bella {The First Beautiful Thing} (Italy, 2011, 122 min.; drama/comedy, in Italian with sub-titles). The film is not rated and intended for an adult audience (viewer discretion advised; mature themes, language). Saturday •May 5 • 12 p.m. • Old Fashioned Saturday Matinee Journey to the Center of The Earth , The film is being released in Blue Ray DVD on May 8, some “lucky winners” will recieve vouchers for the DVD. General admission is $5 with Read the Book See the Movie participants and their families invited to attend free.
Saturday • May 5 • Evening is the Hollywood Nostalgia Tribute (HNT): Rodgers & Hammerstein’s State Fair (1962; 97 min.) The film program at the WGT begins at 7 p.m. Gala: 5-6:30 p.m. at the elegant Arcade Building precedes the HNT film. Guests will enjoy a menu of all American cuisine and martinis. Tickets are $65 before April 18; $75 at the door space permitting. Included are film program, preferred seating, souvenir program and party bag. General admission for film only is $10.
April 6 – 19, 2012
Sunday • Closing Event • May 6 • 12:30 p.m. DocSunday: 15 minute program and lecture presented by Ed Steiner. 1:15 p.m. • POLA premiere of Kruzenshtern (Poland, 2010, 52 min.; Polish with sub-titles). “Q&A” to follow. 3 p.m. POLA premiere of One Lucky Elephant (U.S.A., 2010; 90 min.). “Q&A” will follow.
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RandomProfile
Kyle Mohan, Drifter By Danny Simon, Special to Random Lengths News
Editors Note: Kyle Mohan will race in the drifting competition on Saturday April 7 and drive a pace car for Indie car events April 13 through 15.
During his second run at the 2011 Formula
April 7
The Cerny Brothers Robert and Scott Cerny are scheduled to perform April 7 at Alvas Showroom. The Cerny Brothers self-released their album in 2011. Ticket price is $20. Details: (800) 403-3447 Venue: Alvas Showroom Location: 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
April 14
Ernie Watts Two-time Grammy Award winner Ernie Watts, is scheduled to perform April 14 at Alvas Showroom. Watts is one of the most versatile and prolific saxophone players in music. It has been more than 50 years since he first picked up a saxophone, and from age 16 on he has been playing professionally, initially while still attending school. Watts has been featured on more than 500 recordings by artists ranging from Cannonball Adderley to Frank Zappa, always exhibiting his unforgettable trademark sound. Bubba Jackson from KJZZ will be the MC for the evening. Ticket price is $20. Details: (800) 403-3447 Venue: Alvas Showroom Location: 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro Disney in Concert: Tale as Old as Time The Golden State Pops Orchestra performs Disney music at 7 p.m. April 14, at the El Segundo Performing Arts Center. As the 10-year-old nonprofit orchestra sought new spaces to produce their unique brand of entertainment, the city of El Segundo emerged as a perfect match with GSPO’s family-friendly approach to accessible orchestra music. Details: (310) 433 8774; www.gspo.com Venue: El Segundo Performing Arts Center Location: 640 Main St., El Segundo
April 15
Richard Smith & Julie Adams From Bach to Beatles and barn-burners to ballads, passion is guaranteed, when world renowned fingerstyle guitarist Richard Smith and cellist Julie Adams join forces, April 15 at Alvas Showroom in San Pedro. Ticket price is $20. Details: (800) 403-3447 Venue: Alvas Showroom Location: 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
Community/Family April 6
QSpeak Series Launches with Sister Spit The Center Long Beach presents the 2012 QSpeak Series, the only speaker series devoted to showcasing LGBTQ-focused artistic content in Long Beach, at 7 p.m. April 6, at the Art Theatre. Venue: Art Theatre Location: 2025 E. 4th St., Long Beach
April 8
Meet the Grunion The Aquarium will open at 8 p.m. and a film on grunion begins at 9 p.m. April 8 in the John M. Olguin Auditorium. Prior to the predicted run, everyone will gather on the beach to await the grunion. The program cost is $5 for adults and $1 for seniors, students and children. Details: (310) 548-7562; www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org Venue: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Location: 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro
April 13
Celebrating Women’s History Month The Center Long Beach is proud to present and host the 2012 Women’s History Month Speakers’ Series featuring Jeanne Córdova, a pioneering LGBTQ activist, organizer and writer at 6:30 p.m. April 13. She will be discussing her latest book, When We Were Outlaws: a Memoir of Love & Revolution. Details: www.centerlb.org Venue: The Center Long Beach Location: 2017 E. 4th St., Long Beach
April 14
Chandler Preserve Nature Walk Admire the flourishing 28-acre Chandler Preserve, from 9 to 11 a.m., featuring restored habitat for endangered blue butterflies and look for special native wildflowers. Details: (310) 541-7613 Community/Family Calendar to page 16.
April 6 – 19, 2012
Drift in Las Vegas, Kyle Mohan discovered that his car’s break lines had failed. “I thought about the car,” says Mohan of the seconds before the crash, “Oh, this isn’t gonna be good.” He slide sideways to avoid totaling the car and possibly killing himself. Mohan hit the wall at 100 mph. Not surprisingly, Mohan doesn’t remember the crash, but as doctors checked him out in a hospital trauma bay, he watched it again and again on his phone as videos poured in from friends and his support team. He’s thankful for his luck, but the experience didn’t dissuade him one iota from getting back in the driver’s seat. Crashing is a simply a reality of the sport that he’s dedicated himself to for a decade.
“The crowd gets going when they see the sparks, the billowing smoke, the burn outs, the almost crashes,” says Mohan with a mischievous grin, “The crashes are only part of it.” Mohan’s star has risen with the young sport popularized by the Fast and Furious film series — he performed as a stunt driver in one of the films — and he seems to have all the requisite qualities of a star; the good looks, an unflinching bravado and a mature media savvy, which he may have picked up on previous failed ascents toward fame. Before drifting, Mohan was a sponsored skate boarder and amateur musician poised for success until his band split up and he shattered his ankle. During his 8-month convalescence, Mohan attended the Long Beach City College studying fine arts and following in the footsteps of his grandmother, but he soon became frustrated with the high emphasis placed on computer graphics. Sensing that a career teaching high school art classes would be unsatisfying, Mohan left school and decided that whatever his fate, he would be in control.
Entertainment
Shop Local. Dine Local. Support Your Community.
Photo by Danny Simon
Through his father’s automotive industry connections, Mohan found a paid internship at Mazdatrix, an elite engine shop owned by retired racer, Dave Lemon. Initially, Mohan did office work and swept floors and eventually proved his worth to Lemon who offered the him a career saying, “We’ll make you into an engine builder.” Under the watchful eye of master motor builder John Kepler, Mohan learned every step of car mechanics and manufacturing, from molding fiberglass to building motors. And in the process, he realized that he wanted to be a race car driver. “My boss laughed at me, my boss’s wife laughed at me... Everybody laughed at me.” While he had always been a loyal fan of the sport, Mohan hadn’t shown interest in professional racing previously; he didn’t get his drivers license until he was 18 and he hadn’t studied or trained as a driver. But after placing fourth in his first event, people quickly changed their minds about his prospects. However, there was still a question of financing, because racing is an incredibly expensive sport often dominated by wealthy drivers. Mohan describes himself as middle class, meaning he has big dreams and a strong work ethic with which to realize them. It took a bit of time, but he eventually found solid sponsorship from his employer, Mazda and Nexen Performance Tires. Producing sensational sparks and smoke, drifters slide around the track holding their cars at the breaking point and literally burn rubber. “I’ll go through 30 tires in a weekend,” says Mohan pointing to Mazdatrix’s white trailer which transports the car, the tires and everything else needed for an event. In a few weeks, Mohan will make his fifth trip to China to compete amongst the world’s elite racers. But there’s much to do before he leaves the country. At the Long Beach Grand Prix, Mohan will drive a pace car and perform a drifting demo. In the time between the events, Mohan and his team will work around the clock to prepare his vehicles. “It takes about 300 hours to get a car ready to go,” says Joe Mohan showing me around one of his son’s purple Mazda RX-8 race cars; purple is the color of Nexen Performance Tires. Between races, the cars are stripped down and rebuilt in a garage located on Signal Hill in Long Beach. Including his father, Mohan leads a dedicated support team and he averages 14hour days, seven days a week, working by day at Mazdatrix and by night on his cars. Enthusiastic and energized like Thumper on Red Bull, he has a rare focus and it’s hard to picture him ever powering down. Once a year, he unplugs entirely for a week and escapes with his long term girlfriend and recent fiancee, Adrienne. At home he researches mechanics and racing and watches the Simpsons, “Growing up, it was the show. The father and son relationship … I caused my fair share of trouble” Like anything else worth doing well, racing takes a tremendous amount of practice. Occasionally, Mohan teaches at racing schools and the students that put in the time do progress, but beyond craft, racing requires an instinctual intelligence that’s comically referred to amongst drivers as the “pucker factor.” “You feel it in your ass,” laughs Mohan, “The seat of your pants tells you how close you are to the wall and the breaking point of the car.”
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Community/Family Calendar from page 15.
Theater/Film Searching for Elliot Smith Long Beach Cinematheque is proud to present an encore screening of the documentary Searching for Elliott Smith, with an in-person Q-and-A following the film with director Gil Reyes, starting at 10 p.m., April 6, at the Art Theatre of Long Beach. The evening will start with a half-hour set of acoustic Elliott Smith covers by local musicians and Smith fans. Tickets are $11. Details: http://tinyurl.com/elliottsmith-tickets Venue: Art Theatre Long Beach Location: 2025 E. 4th St., Long Beach
Continued from page 11.
Paul Brown
April 7
Space Oddity Space Oddity: A Tribute to David Bowie takes place at 8 p.m. at the Grand Annex in San Pedro. Tickets are $20 to $25 Details: www.grandvision.org Venue: Grand Annex Location: 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro The Love List Leon and Bill celebrate a 50th birthday by filling out a gypsy matchmaker’s wish list for the perfect woman in The Love List, playing at Little Fish Theatre in Long Beach. When that longed-for lady walks through the door, both of their lives are turned upside down and they quickly learn that their list could use a few revisions. General admission is $25, seniors and students pay $23. Details: (310) 512-6030; www.littlefishtheatre.org Venue: Little Fish Theatre Location: 777 Centre St., San Pedro
‘Those were my influences. What do you want from me?’” The aforementioned guitarists did not just run scales in a solo; there was meaning in each note and the space between notes in a song. Understanding this gives the player opportunity to infuse his DNA into the song. You can pick out certain styles and nuances of one artist and how this affects other artists playing. “You know?” Brown referenced Garcia particularly. “They are very, very different. You’ve been to a Grateful Dead concert, right? So typically we see the band is playing for 10,000 people and up. Tell me what other guitarist for 40 years, had his audience standing up during his solo night after night during his lifetime?” The melodic lines both Montgomery and Garcia play are apparent. These are subtle influences that may affect Brown’s playing, but this is his music. We had to know more about what drew Paul Brown in to smooth jazz. “I was working with Luther Vandross and doing more R&B back in the ’80s,” he said. “I have a recording engineer background. I
ACE>> Arts • Cuisine • Entertainment
April 13
Battle Royale See the original 2000 Japanese thriller Battle Royale finally being released to U.S. theatrical audiences after more than 10 years, starting at 11:30 p.m. April 13, at the Art Theatre in Long Beach. Shocking, controversial, and banned in many countries, director Kinji Fukasaku’s film based on the novel by Kōshun Takami - tells the story of a class of teenagers that are forced by the government to compete in a deadly game, where the students must kill each other so that only one may live. Sound familiar? It’s no surprise that the film is finally being released on the heels of the very similar series The Hunger Games. Details: http://tinyurl.com/battleroyale-tickets Venue: Art Theatre Long Beach Location: 2025 E. 4th St., Long Beach
April 14
Forbidden Broadway Previewing on April 13, curtain open for Theatre West’s production of Forbidden Broadway for 12 shows April 14 through 29, at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. Details: (562) 856-1999 x4. Venue: Carpenter Performing Arts Center Location: 6200 E. Atherton St., Long Beach On the Fritz! On the Fritz! Comedy with Fritz Coleman promises calm skies, light traffic and a mild chance of laughter, starting at 8 p.m.. Venue: Grand Annex Location: 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro
April 15
April 6 – 19, 2012
Hell & Back The popular Community Cinema documentary series from PBS returns for a second season, presented locally by ITVS and the Grand Vision Foundation. Hell & Back is scheduled for 2 p.m. April 15, at the Grand Annex. Tickets are free. Details: (310) 548-7672; info@grandvision.org Venue: Grand Annex Location: 434 W. 6th St., Los Angeles
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434 W. Sixth Street, San Pedro, Calif • 310-833-4813
Friday, April 27, 2012
(Every Fourth Friday of the Month)
Dance Class 7 p.m. • Band Starts at 8 p.m.
Come join Barry Anthony, Sylvia Rodriguez and LA’s hottest swing band, “The Swing Of Things” for SWING PEEDRO, an evening of wonderful music, friends and dancing to your favorite Classic Big Band Swing songs. You’ll hear the songbooks of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Harry James, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Nat Cole and many more while dancing and socializing with friends at the elegant Grand Vision Annex in the heart of San Pedro! New to dancing? Take the free one hour dance lesson with our pro instructor at 7, learn some steps and at 8, the music and the dance begin! Don’t have a partner? Come along and dance with our instructors, guests and suave Peedro staff dancers. Free light refreshments! Advance tickets available for $17, online at http://www. grandvision.org Tickets at door $20. Call (310) 833-4813 for info and tickets. Get your tickets early!
was mixing with Bobby Caldwell at the time.” Caldwell asked Brown to go to Japan to record and mix a live album. Brown decided to go for it, and went on the tour. In the band was Boney James who played the keyboards and a little bit of sax. “I heard him play his sax and thought, ‘My God this guy is a tremendous talent.’ This was before there was a smooth jazz genre,” Brown said. “We decided to do a Luther (Vandross) album with the sax doing the vocal parts. That is how we started the whole R&B based smooth jazz. “Boney was so successful right off the bat. His records were going platinum. Then all of the sudden other players were saying, ‘We want to do that.’ It inaugurated an era of a lot of copying,” Brown explained, “for a little while the whole thing became a parody of itself.” With success of the first Boney James recording in 1992 with the album Trust, Paul Brown became the in-demand producer. Shortly after that Brown became a full-time producer at Warner Brothers. During this period Paul Brown and Warner Brothers built up an unbelievable roster of talent including Boney James, Pat Metheny, George Benson, Al Jarreau and David Sanborn just to name a few. “Look it, the record company just started throwing a lot of money at me and gave me the freedom to do what I wanted to do,” Brown said. “I was given an opportunity without having to deal with the problems I would get from the labels when I was doing R&B. So that is how I got drawn into smooth jazz.” We asked about what is favorite song or album is. In asking that question it is like which of your children is your favorite. “You always usually think of the project you’re working on at the time, but by far my latest CD The Funky Joint is the best one I have done, just from a guitar point of view.” In listening to The Funky Joint one gets this soulful style that imbues the music through the entire disc with a warm feeling of joy on each of the tracks. Title track sets the tone and lives up its potential all the way through to the Johnny “Guitar” Watson, number “I Get a Feeling.” The Producers are Paul Brown and Darren Rahn at the Levels Lounge April 27.
Art Spotlight
Senior Capstone Art Exhibition Series Marymount College presents the Senior Capstone Art Exhibition Series featuring Marymount seniors from the arts and media division who will exhibit a weeklong one-person art show accompanied by an artist talk, at 7 p.m. Thursdays through April 26, at the Arcade Gallery. The exhibit is free. Details: (310) 303-7223; www.marymountpv.edu Venue: The Arcade Gallery Location: 479 W. 6th St., San
Pedro
Helen Frances Stark Allen, 1914-2012 Helen Frances Stark Allen was born near Stevensville, Mont., on the Burnt Fork of the Missoula River in the Bitterroot Valley on March 2, 1914. She was the second and only daughter of four siblings, three of whom survived to adulthood. Her father, Charles Stark, was a farmer and a jack-of-all-trades and her mother, Faye, a piano teacher. Helen rode her horse to class in a two-story red brick school house on the Burnt Fork. Later the family moved to Missoula, but hard times struck with the Great Depression and they migrated to Los Angeles. Helen was a graduate of Hollywood High School. Helen went to Los Angeles City College and then to university in Santa Barbara. She majored in education and minored in science and learned to play the cello along the way. In one of those episodes that you might imagine from a 1930s movie, she joined an all girl band, dyed her hair blond and toured the country. The group, Las Ingénues, performed at the 1936 World Exposition in San Diego and at the opening of the Long Beach Auditorium, eventually ending up on a tour in Mexico. While there, the group was quite popular but the producer was rather unscrupulous and left the girls stranded in a hotel with their instruments held hostage for rent. The women scraped together the money to pay the hotel without having to hoc their instruments and made the fare to get back home a little wiser but crestfallen. In the summer of 1941 just before World War II, Helen and her two cousins, Doris Bloomquist and Bobby Lee Miller, took off in a two-door Plymouth sedan to travel east across country with a 22-pistol in the glove box for protection. This epic later was called the Travels of the Buffalo Gals, which was chronicled in a self-published essay by cousin Doris. Upon returning to California, Helen was introduced to a young aeronautical engineer who graduated from Stanford University by the name of Fred C. Allen. They were married on Sept. 19, 1942 in North Hollywood. They lived in Lennox and then moved to Westchester, near the Douglas
a 91-acre ranch, raise horses and cattle, and plant and manage an orchard, along with their various social and political involvements. This is where Helen lived up until three months before she died on March 24, 2012. She is survived by her four children: Geri Hyatt, of Boise, Idaho; Fred Allen of San Pedro, Christine Boyd, of Sebastopol and James Allen, the publisher of Random Lengths News; 7 grand-
children, 9 great-grandchildren and an extended family throughout California and Montana. Memorial services are pending. Donations can be made in Helen’s name to the Earle Baum Center of the Blind, 4539 Occidental Rd., Santa Rosa, CA 95401 or to the Pacific Unitarian Church Education Fund, 5621 Montemalaga Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90274.
Aircraft plant where Fred worked. They became involved with local Democratic politics supporting a young unknown politician named Glenn Anderson. They supported him through the early years and by the 1960s Anderson was the youngest lieutenant governor ever elected. During the 1950s the family moved to the Palos Verdes Peninsula, where Helen had the space to raise four children and keep horses. She became the director of the Palos Verdes Coop Nursury School, was a founding member of the Peninsula Democratic Club and along with her husband, a founding member of the Pacific Unitarian Church. Helen and Fred were a team that was best expressed in their joint project of building a color TV from a Radio Shack kit. There was always a project. Helen was as good at swinging a hammer as she was being a homemaker. She could ride a horse, shoot a gun, kill a rattlesnake, teach school and be home to make dinner. She maintained a keen interest in social justice issues. Immediately after the Watts Riots in 1965, she left the safe confines of “the Hill” to work with a number of progressive Watts organizations. When the Fair Housing initiative came along in 1968, Helen stepped up to help the first black family purchase a home in all-white Rolling Hills Estates. What a scene that made, but she knew it was the right thing to do. In 1973, Fred retired from the aerospace industry and they moved to the as of yet undiscovered portion of Sonoma County called Sebastopol where the once again worked together to develop
The Local Publication You Actually Read Aprl 6 - 19, 2012
17
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Bulletin Board Don Marshall CPA, Inc.
Golden West Realty
(310) 833-8977
April 6 - 19, 2012
Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area
Don Marshall, MBA, CPA
18
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Bread & Hyacinths This is the book that explains why the city of Los Angeles is the way it is. Bread and Hyacinths: the Rise and Fall of Utopian Los Angeles is the gripping, little-known saga of the great battle between Job Harriman, the West Coast’s leading socialist, and General Harrison Gray Otis, publisher of the Los Angeles Times—a battle for the future of Los Angeles. Written by Lionel Rolfe, Nigey Lennon and Paul Greenstein, Bread and Hyacinths was originally published in 1992 by California Classics Books. It is reprinted by Random Lengths News and available for $15. Buy it now at Williams Bookstore, Random Lengths News office and The Tobacco Leaf at Western & 25th
The animals at the Harbor Animal Shelter have ongoing need for used blankets, comforters, pet beds.* Drop off at Harbor Animal Shelter, 957 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro.
888-452-7381, x 143
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Vintage Auto & Motorcycle Storage 25 indoor & outdoor stalls
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This duplex is located in the desirable Point Fermin area of San Pedro. It has two houses on one lot. One has two bedrooms and one bath, and the other has one bedroom and one bath. This property is a “fixer” and is priced for a quick sale. Offered at $250,000
LARGE 4 BEDROOM FAMILY HOME
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For more information call Golden West Realty
310.548.2881
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Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012022970 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) El Burger Luchador, 672 W. 20th St., San Pedro, CA 90731. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Alejandrina Curiel, 672 W. 20th St., San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above Jan. 18, 2012. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Alejandrina Curiel, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Feb. 9, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 02/23/12, 03/08/12, 03/22/12,
04/05/12
04/05/12
04/19/12
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012032483 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) The Nautimermaid Shop, 301 W. 7th St., San Pedro, CA 90731. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Diana Perry, 3157 Alma St., San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Diana Perry, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Feb. 28, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 03/08/12, 03/22/12, 04/05/12,
04/19/12
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012032486 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) Diaz Painting, 23412 Figueroa, Carson, CA 90745. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Vincent Diaz, , 23412 Figueroa, Carson, CA 90745. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Vincent Diaz, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Feb. 28, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 03/22/12, 04/05/12, 04/19/12, 05/03/12
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012042442 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) Reinvent Communication, (2) RNVNT, 937 W. 17th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Monica Elaine Barrera, 937 W. 17th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Monica Elaine Barrera, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 14, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 03/08/12, 03/22/12, 04/05/12,
04/19/12
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012042443 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) David’s Yacht Service, 241 Watchorn Walk Ste #1, San Pedro, CA 90731. PO Box 2784, Newport Beach, CA 92659. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Boat City Yachts Inc, 241 Watchorn Walk Ste #1, San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. David H. Grosse, President This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 14, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 03/22/12, 04/05/12, 04/19/12,
05/03/12
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 20120493646 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) Champion Autoworks, 760 W. 27th Street #1, San Pedro, CA 90731. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Bleu Box Events, 760 W. 27th Street #1, San Pedro, CA 90731. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1527, San Pedro, CA 90733-1527. This business is conducted by a corporation. Articles of Incorporation #:3320912. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Sandra Koerner, President This statement was filed with the County
Clerk of Los Angeles on March 23, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 04/05/12, 04/19/12, 05/03/12, 05/17/12
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012046456 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) Diabetic Medical, 255 W. 5th Street, Suite# 1212, San Pedro, CA 90731. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Rowena Cebian, 255 W. 5th Street, Suite #1212, San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Rowena Cebian, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 20, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 04/05/12, 04/19/12, 05/03/12,
05/17/12
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012046458 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) Tony’s Mobile Auto Detail, 678 W. Sepulveda St., San Pedro, CA 90731. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Sandra Pena-Lopez, 678 W. Sepulveda St., San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Sandra Pena-Lopez, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 20, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed
in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 04/05/12, 04/19/12, 05/03/12,
05/17/12
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012046455 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) Brotto Company USA, 28649 S. Western Ave., RPV, CA 90274. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Branko Tomasovic, 28649 S. Western Ave., RPV, CA 90274. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above March 5, 2012. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Branko Tomasovic, Owner This statement was filed with the County
Clerk of Los Angeles on March 20, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 04/05/12, 04/19/12, 05/03/12, 05/17/12
Aprl 6 - 19, 2012
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012032485 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) Coastal Broadnet Wireless, 2275 W. 25th St., #105, San Pedro, CA 90731. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Robert Brubaker, 2275 W. 25th St., #105, San Pedro, CA 90731. Roxanne K. Lawrence, 2275 W. 25th St., #105, San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by a husband and wife. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above Jan. 1, 2012. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. Robert Brubaker, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Feb. 28, 2012.
Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 03/08/12, 03/22/12, 04/05/12,
The Local Publication You Actually Read
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2012025313 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) El Gato Gateau, 750 W. 2nd St., San Pedro, CA 90731. County of L.A. Registered owner(s): Katie Peraudeau, 750 W. 2nd St., San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by an individual. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name listed above Jan. 18, 2012. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime.) S. A Katie Peraudeau,Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Feb. 13, 2012. Notice-In accordance with subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business name in violation of the right of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411et seq., Business and Professions Code). Original filing: 02/23/12, 03/08/12, 03/22/12,
LEGAL BUSINESS FILINGS
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April 6 - 19, 2012
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