A rundown of holiday parades p. 2 Nevermind Trump’s denials — climate change is here p. 7 A Pride and Prejudice for just about everybody p. 11
By James Preston Allen, Publisher
[See Dear America, p 16]
The Case for Shopping Secondhand First
By Leslie Belt, Contributing Writer
Report (conducted by online reseller thredUP), one in three women age 18 or older, as well as a whopping 40 percent of millennials reported that they had shopped resale [read: retro retail, vintage, second hand and thrift] over the past year. Do the math and it is no big surprise that the same study found that resale is growing at nine times the rate of legacy retail. So if not slick advertising, what is the driving force behind this market disrupting trend? Industry watchers suggest it’s a growing consumer awareness of many factors related to the impact of retail.
The spend-versus-value proposition factor
‘Tis the season to get your shopping on. Recent data from the National Retail Federation sheds light on exactly what is at stake. Retailers report that fully
30 percent of their annual sales now occur between Black Friday (consumerism speak for the Friday after Thanksgiving) and Christmas. In fact, shoppers in the United States spent a record $5 billion in the 24 hours of Black Friday in 2017! With average household credit-card debt now topping $15,000 (which costs more than $900 in interest annually), who can afford to ignore the spendversus-value proposition that resale offers? When it comes to clothing, electronics, and furniture alone, thredUP estimates that buying used instead of new for just one year would save you nearly $2,500. Still not convinced? Try this fun fact on for size: resale apparel typically sells at a 70 percent discount compared to retail price. Perhaps not coincidentally, the same data
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Along the avenues of the San Pedro arts district and beyond there has emerged a kind of home-grown market for all things retro and vintage— timeless, one-of-a-kind fashion to collectible records, books, and ephemera to antique furniture and used (but still useful) housewares. To be clear, these are not the kind of items that flash across our digital screens in advertisements by the big-box stores. Nor are these the kind of shops frequented by those looking for the latest, greatest or most desirable fads of the moment (as defined by corporate marketers). In fact, these establishments and their wares are valued by an increasing number of treasure hunters/shoppers for being just the opposite. According to the 2018 Resale Market and Trend
Shopping at House 1002 on Pacific Avenue.
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His flight from New York arrived late at LAX, delayed by the smoke from the fires in Malibu, but Jose Antonio Vargas finally arrived on 6th Street in San Pedro with a flurry of excitement. Linda Nietes, the owner of Philippine Expressions Bookshop, was relieved and all smiles, for the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist was the biggest literary figure to come for a book talk inside the historic Arcade Building. Vargas defies the stereotype of what some Americans think of someone is defined as “being Filipino.” He is tall and stout and talks as fast as a newscaster — and because of his name, he’s often mistaken for Hispanic. In explaining his name, why Jose doesn’t have an accent on the “e,” he says, “It’s because of the imperial legacy of United States taking over from the colonial Spanish after the war, the Americans showed up but their typewriters didn’t have accent keys.” And yet, his name is inherited from the Spanish colonial era – sin acento. (Remember that the Philippines was captured in the Spanish American war, just like Puerto Rico, but it never became an American territory and only regained independence, sort of, after the defeat of the Japanese in World War II). Vargas’ story started amid circumstances familiar to many immigrants who find out later in life that they were brought here “illegally” by their families as children. He arrived from Manila at the age of 12 with a
[See Secondhand, p. 10]
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Thinking about holiday shopping yet?
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
For the Holidays
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38th Annual Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade
With an annual event like the Holiday Spirit Parade that’s been around for more than three decades, it’s pretty easy to get complacent about it. Fortunately, the San Pedro’ Chamber of Commerce has continued to find ways to draw more people to this annual holiday event. This year, more than 9,000 people are expected to line the streets to view this parade of holiday floats, equestrian units, and volunteers through downtown San Pedro to celebrate the holiday season. This year, Timmy, the beloved Rubber Ducky who first made an appearance at the Tall Ships Festival in 2014, will make his Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade debut. Lacking water to float through, he will ride through the parade
on a float for all to see, so make sure you get there early for prime selfie-taking seating at this year’s parade. The parade will carry this inflated creature of cuteness through the streets of San Pedro, starting at 13th and Pacific and ending at 6th and Palos Verdes. Fans can take pictures with Timmy the Rubber Duck in front of Crowne Plaza Hotel immediately after the parade. Parade-goers will also be treated to a battle of the bands featuring local youth rock bands. The latest winners of the Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair Battle of the Bands, XYZPDQ will be performing on the 11th Street Stage to kick off the 38th Annual Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade on Sunday, Dec. 2 [See Spirit, p. 3]
[Spirit from p. 2]
XYZPDQ is made up of talented teenagers from the South Bay, Nicolette Obuljen, 13, Salem Meade, 12, Dax Corcoran, 14, and Julian Bailey, 14. They have been performing at live venues like Brouwerij West and other local events for over a year now. Time: 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 2 Cost: Free Details: www.spholidayparade. com Venue: 13th St. and Pacific Ave. to downtown San Pedro
Spirit of San Pedro 2018 Parade Line Up San Pedro High School Golden Pirate Regiment San Pedro High School Drill, Flags and Cheer San Pedro High School Varsity Football Team GRAND MARSHAL Mark Wallengren KOST 103.5 FM On-Air Host Los Angeles Port Police - Interceptor
Los Angeles Port Police Port of Los Angeles - Harbor Commissioner Anthony Pirozzi Port of Los Angeles’ “Timmy the Duck” Los Angeles Police Department Captain McManus Los Angeles Police Department - Harbor Cadets Folklorico dancers make their way down the parade route. Photos by Jessie Drezner.
Harbor L.I.T.E.S COMMUNITY GRAND MARSHAL Honorary Mayor Domenic Costa SP High School Lady Boosters, baseball and volleyball team, and Science Marine Magnet Congresswoman Nanette Barragan International Children’s Peace Choir CA Highway Patrol South Los Angeles Area LA City Councilman Joe Buscaino Pedro Pet Pals MOMs Club of San Pedro San Pedro Co-Op Nursery School Encore Theater Group - Peter Pan LA Air Force Base Honor Guard Boys and Girls Club of the Los Angeles Harbor AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles Los Angeles Maritime Institute San Pedro Bay Historical Society LAFD Historic Bandwagon with Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas LAFD - Fire Truck Station 48 LAFD Historical Society Hummer LA Harbor College Harry Bridges Span School Band, Drill Team and Cheer and Pep
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LA Air Force Base Commander Colonel Igl
Beach Cities Shrine Club with WWII lifeboat and Motorized Camels Christians 4 Salvation
Crowne Plaza LA Harbor Hotel [See Line Up, p. 4]
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Timmy the Duck will ride again in this year’s parade.
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Victorian Christmas at Banning Museum
The Spirited History of the LA Harbor Holiday Afloat Parade Carries On By Melina Paris, Staff Reporter
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
As far back as 1934, the Los Angeles Harbor has participated in spirited holiday festivities. On Dec. 24, 1934, United States naval ships in San Pedro were transformed into a fairyland of giant trees and scenery for the annual Christmas fiesta. On the 25th of December, 1934, Santa Claus traveled by seaplane between the ships in a Navy benefit for 1,500 low-income youth. Since that time, the passing years have been bestowed with plenty of festive activities. In the 1950s, Christmas carolers sang to crew members aboard ships throughout the harbor. In December of 1962, boat owners cruised through the port’s Main Channel with their decorated boats shouting holiday greetings to each other and any passers-by on the waterfront. The first official Christmas Afloat parade was Dec. 23, 1963. An estimated 40,000 people came to see 57 boats competing for awards. The 2018 holiday boat parade sponsored by the Port of Los Angeles celebrates 56 years with a theme of Holiday Magic, to mark the start of the holiday season in Los Angeles Harbor. David Arian, vice president of the Port of Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners, is this year’s Grand Marshal. The Exy and Irving Johnson, the official Tall Ships and Maritime Ambassadors of the City of Los Angeles will participate, along
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Los Angeles Maritime Museum, 600 Sampson Way, San Pedro; the Cruise Ship Promenade at Harbor Blvd. and Swinford St. in San Pedro; 22nd Street Landing, 141 W. 22nd St., San Pedro; and Cabrillo Marina, 200 Whalers Walk, San Pedro. Time: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: Free Details: www.laharbor holidayafloat.org Venue: Los Angeles Waterfront, 504 Harbor Blvd., San Pedro Be dazzled by the decorated boats sailing up the Main Channel for the L.A. Harbor Holiday Afloat parade. Photo by Jessie Drezner.
with vessels of all shapes and sizes, including power boats, sailboats and harbor working craft. The entries will be judged and trophies awarded for a variety of classifications, including originality, theme, and type of entry. The parade will be televised via LA36, Los Angeles Community Television cable channel 35. Visit www. lacityview.org for air times. The parade will be in the port’s East Basin. Viewing locations along the parade route include Wilmington, the San Pedro Waterfront, San Pedro Fish Market, Warehouse #1, California Yacht, Cabrillo Way, and Holiday Harbor Marinas, offering spectators unencumbered views of elaborately-decorated boats. Prime locales for taking advantage of the many restaurants and clubs, or even
an evening picnic. Officials and community leaders will be judges or passengers on approximately 50 parade boats. You can view the parade map at www.laharborholidayafloat. org/parade-route-2. Join in making the 56th LA Harbor Holiday Afloat parade magical and celebrating the holiday season in the nation’s largest international trade gateway. Usual parade route and view spots: Starts at East Basin near Banning’s Landing Community Center in Wilmington and takes approximately 90 minutes to cover the entire parade route up the Port’s Main Channel. Several viewing points along the Main Channel, include the Banning’s Landing Community Center, 100 E. Water St., Wilmington; the
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[Line Up from p. 3]
Line Up
Providence Aztec Dancers Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church - 2018 Parish Fiesta Queens Mary Star of the Sea High School Pep Band Mary Star of the Sea Preschool, Elementary School and Jr. High School
Visitors can enjoy entertainment, visit Santa Claus, go on Museum tours, enjoy refreshments, children’s crafts, a blacksmith, a horse-drawn trolley ride between The Banning Museum and Drum Barracks Civil War Museum, and local food and craft vendors. The holiday season is the one time during the year visitors can see the museum in its Christmas splendor. In addition to the authentically-decorated mansion, visitors will also enjoy visiting the Harlyne and Kenneth Norris Visitor Center, the Harlyne and Kenneth Norris Museum Shop, and the beautiful Howard Rose Garden’s “garden-within-a-garden,” featuring antique roses of the Victorian era. Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 1 and 2 Cost: Free Details: www.thebanningmuseum.org Venue: The Banning Museum, 401 E. Main St., Wilmington POLA High School
Christ Lutheran School
Charros de Jerez Zacatecas
The Palace Banquet Hall by KIS Events
Pacific Battleship - USS Iowa Hummer
Beach Cities Roller Derby
POLAHS JROTC
Lions Club of San Pedro
United States Sea Cadets
New Harvest Christian Fellowship
San Pedro Packages for Patriots
Knights of Columbus Angels Gate Council Improved Order of Redman Wilmington Middle School - Wilmington Marching Jaguars Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council San Pedro Girl Scouts Dodson Drama Boosters Newsies Feed & Be Fed Garden Church Harbor Occupational Center San Pedro Neighbors for Peace & Justice Toberman Neighborhood Center Dance Tech Pt. Fermin Elementary West Coast Reign All Star Cheer Cub Scouts of America Pack 234, 500, and 1203
Award winning San Pedro High School Golden Pirate Regiment will start the parade. Photo by Jessie Drezner
The Hitchens Team
Harbor Youth Soccer League
Journeys Martial Arts
Salvation Army San Pedro Corp
DJ Midnight Magic Fantasy Spa and Mobile Pet Grooming Haley Clark Dance Company Palos Verdes Junior Drill Team - Horses Ballet Folklorico Alma de Oro Alliance Alice M Baxter College Ready High School San Pedro CPR Clean Up Crew
Fax 310-833-9124
Keller Williams
HOURS: Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
South Bay Divas
Carson High School Marching Band
Cabrillo Beach Contingent
Chase Bank
DoubleTree by Hilton San Pedro San Pedro PBID Trolley San Pedro FC San Pedro City Ballet Nutcracker Dana Middle School Marching Band San Pedro Rotary Club HERE COMES SANTA! Santa and Mrs. Claus Banner Carriers from San Pedro HS Police Magnet
Community Announcements:
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Harbor Area Stepping in the Right Direction Black College Fair
All students are invited to learn more about historically black colleges and universities and meet with recruiters, alumni and students. Representatives from more than 50 schools will be in attendance. Students will have an opportunity to attend workshops and forums on some of the common questions about the college admissions process. Please bring your transcript if you are a senior in high school or a community college student. Time: 1 to p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: Free Details: https://tinyurl.com/black-college-fair2018-ticket Venue: Long Beach Convention Center, Seaside Room, 300 Ocean Blvd., Long Beach
Public Meetings Input on 2020 Vote Centers
LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County RegistrarRecorder/County Clerk (RR/CC), Dean C. Logan, announced that 33 community meetings will take place across Los Angeles County to give residents opportunities to discuss potential Vote Center locations to be placed within their neighborhoods in 2020. In March 2020, Los Angeles County will implement a new voting model utilizing vote centers in compliance with the California Voter’s Choice Act passed in 2016. Vote Centers will offer an 11-day voting period in convenient and accessible locations within the County and allow all voters to visit any site in the County to vote regardless of their residential address. View the full list of community meetings here: www.tinyurl.com/https-www-lavote-net
Long Beach Community Meeting on Housing
City of Carson Senior Information Fair
Cruces Neighborhood Cleanup
Annual Leadership/Nuestra Imagen Awards
The Long Beach Community Hispanic Association invites you to celebrate the work of community leaders who impact the lives of youth and contribute to revitalizing neighborhoods and businesses in Long Beach. Time: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 6 Cost: $150 and up Details: RSVP (562) 612-1424; Adriana@centrocha.org Venue: The Grand Long Beach, 4101 Willow St., Long Beach
Truck drivers protesting wage theft and other unfair labor practices in 2016. File photo
expressed consternation, confusion, and helplessness. “We all in the commission feel very sad about the current situation,” Commissioner Ed Renwick said, summing up the mood of all. “We completely support worker dignity and worker rights; we also completely support jobs and continuing to work.[ But]“we’re largely, at this point, out of the decision-making process.” “I share in the dismay and disappointment and sadness of my fellow commissioners that we’re in this position,” said Commission President Jamie Lee, who then demonstrated how little she understood about her office, which she has held since April. “You all seem to understand the issues very
clearly of what is been going on here.All we can say is that we stand beside the decision we made to preserve over 700 jobs.” But when the City Council vetoed the lease, it stated that it wants any new lease contract to require the retention of the current workers, in line with existing municipal law. “The city has a worker retention ordinance,” Teamster spokesperson Barbara Maynard pointed out. “If the company is required to leave the property, then those jobs have to be [kept] available, given to whoever comes into the property next. What’s more, Cal Cartage had a “really, really, sweetheart deal being on the property — [See Cal Cartage, p. 6]
Ports O’Call Restaurant Demolished
The structure that housed Ports O’ Call Restaurant for more than five decades was demolished Nov. 20. The restaurant was shut down for good this past summer after a lengthy fight between Ports O’ Call tenants and the Port of Los Angeles over the rephasing of redevelopment plans. Some have argued that given the length of time it took to begin demolishing, the landmark restaurant could have stayed open a little longer. Those arguments are now moot. Photo by Ray Carofano
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Meet and park at the corner of Watson Avenue and O Street in Wilmington. Time: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 8 Cost: Free Details: (310) 720-5249; slara@sbaycenter.com Venue: Pocket Park, 1401 Watson Ave., Wilmington
Twice this year the Los Angeles Harbor Commission has voted to give special treatment to corporate criminal Cal Cartage, only to have its decisions overridden by the City Council. On Nov. 15, the company struck back, sending a contingent of workers to the Harbor Commission meeting to harangue Los Angeles City Councilman Joe Buscaino and the Teamsters, neither of which had anything to do with the company’s long history of lawless behavior, which the Harbor Commission has done nothing to curb. On April 5, 2018, the LA Harbor Commission approved a one-year Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Operating Agreement with the company. On May 8, the City Council unanimously vetoed it. On Sept. 20, the Harbor Commission granted Cal Cartage a new lease, which the City Council unanimously vetoed on Oct. 12, after which the port issued a 30-day notice to terminate possession. Between the two actions, on Sept. 13, the United States Department of Labor announced that Cal Cartage must pay $3,573,074 to more than 1,416 employees for violating federal contract provisions of the McNamara-O’Hara Service Contract Act by failing to pay prevailing wages, as well as health and welfare benefits. The company has also been sanctioned by CalOSHA. Cal Cartage was purchased in October 2017, by international giant NFI, which has done nothing to substantially alter its business practices. But the Cal Cartage workers echoed the company line in ignoring the legal and laborrights issues involved, and casting themselves as victims, setting upon Buscaino and the Teamsters without engaging in specifics. “Traitor Joe is what I call him,” said Eric Hope, the first to testify. “It’s about the people; we are the people, he’s not listening to us.” Hope said the Teamsters are “ sabotaging the new owners. They’re not giving them a chance to fix this situation at hand; we just need them to renew the grant or the lease so that we can fix the problems that are going on.” But Hope gave no details about the charge of sabotage, the problems, or what the new owners might try to do to fix them. “We want our voices to be heard; we want our vote counted,” said Brandon Atkins, a forklift operator. “I’ve never been mistreated or discriminated,” said Tony Cervantes, a Cal Cartage employee for 29 years. But a couple of dissident voices were heard, too. “I feel like the company is manipulating these people to come out here and speak against what’s better for them,” said Duane Wilson, who maintained that the issue is labor peace an end to illegal harassment and intimidation. “Labor peace does not even equal union; they just want the company to stop breaking the law. “Why are people pushing back against lawbreaking, and discrimination? And wage theft?” At the close of comments, the commissioners
Quality information for seniors including but not limited to information on transportation, healthcare, nutrition, respite care, housing, age related challenges. Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dec. 6 Cost: Free Details: (310) 835-0212 Venue: Juanita Millender-McDonald Community Center, 801 Carson St., Carson
By Paul Rosenberg, Senior Editor
Real News, Real People, Really Effective
The City of Long Beach is developing a proposed inclusionary housing policy to help create housing options for residents at various income levels. The policy would require that all new housing developments include some percentage of affordable housing. The process includes a study to determine how an inclusionary housing policy could help improve access to affordable housing in Long Beach. The public is invited to join one of two upcoming community meetings on Dec. 5 and 8 to learn more about the study. Time: 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 Venue: Long Beach Polytechnic High School, Cafeteria Dining Room, 1600 Atlantic Ave., West Long Beach Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dec. 8 Venue: Silverado Park Community Center, 1545 W. 31st St., Long Beach Details: (562) 570-6710; www.lbds.info/inclusionaryhousinglb
Cal Cartage Charade Fools Harbor Commissioners, but Nobody Else
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Labor Dispute:
School District Claims It’s Going Broke By Lyn Jensen, Carson Reporter
district already has an annual operating deficit of nearly $500 million, so it can’t afford to spend an additional $800 million annually, the district’s estimate of what the union’s demands would cost. The union argues if less money were spent on charter schools and “over-testing,” the money could be found to meet labor demands. Carson and San Pedro schools will be affected should the teachers’ union strike. The district’s website provides a “Family Resource Guide” about what may happen during a strike. It says schools will stay open with instruction “provided by qualified L.A. Unified staff, which includes certificated and classified staff, qualified substitute employees, or reassigned administrators.” UTLA President Alex Caputo-Pearl. File photo
in the country in per-pupil spending, and the district claims it can’t afford to meet the union’s demands. On the union website, Caputo-Pearl responds, “The district, while repeatedly claiming that financial collapse is around the corner, continues to deny UTLA’s requests for basic information that the public has a legal right to receive. UTLA has filed three Unfair Practice Charges against LAUSD.” According to the district’s website, where a link titled “Just the Facts” is devoted to labor updates, UTLA’s final offer would increase the district’s deficit by $813 million, creating a $1.32 billion deficit and quickly exhausting the district’s reserves. On a district website link titled, “In Support of Students – FAQ’s (Nov. 15, 2018)” the response to the union is described in detail. It argues the [Cal Cartage from p. 5]
Cal Cartage
it’s part of how Bob Curry was able to grow that company, because he was paying practically nothing to be there,” Maynard explained. So the new lease agreement gave the port a golden opportunity to redress years of company wrongdoing– an opportunity they simply ignored. “There’s minimum wage violations, there’s
November 29 - December 12, 2018
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School “Networks” Proposal
On a related issue, Los Angeles school district superintendent Austin Beutner has his own idea about how to reduce the district’s deficit. He’s expected soon to propose dividing the entire district into 32 “networks,” which is something the district has been considering off and on since at least 1993. Beutner wants to replace the district’s central authority with neighborhood “networks,” which he is claiming will offset the budget deficit. Caputo-Pearl responded in a statement, “There is no evidence that Beutner’s network approach would save any money — in fact, it would likely would cost millions of dollars more as each network builds its own bureaucracy … Once this plan is enacted and the protections for our students are compromised, it will be open season for the privatization [charter school] industry.” The district is presently decentralized, with six regional offices. misclassification, there’s Cal OSHA issues, and not only that, the City Attorney is suing the company,” Maynard said. “Why would you just go ahead and grant the lease to a company without using that as leverage to resolve the ongoing property problems on the property?” Maynard said NFI could have taken steps to redress Cal Cartage’s lawless record when he took over last year. But instead it has chosen to double down, she said. “When NFI came in, they did something that
Join us for our Holiday Party! Monday, December 10, 6 to 9 p.m. at
Babouch Moroccan Restaurant & Lounge
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA), representing more than 35,000 teachers and support-service personnel throughout the massive Los Angeles Unified School District, is organizing what its Facebook page calls a “Los Angeles March for Public Education” to be held Dec. 15 at Grand Park, 200 N. Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles. The event’s hashtag is #strikeready and the site promises, “We’ll either be celebrating a great bargaining victory if the district meets our demands between now and then, or sending LAUSD and Beutner an irrefutably powerful message that a strike is going to happen if they don’t.” Labor negotiations have been in progress between the district and the teachers’ union for many months, and most of the alternatives to a strike have been exhausted. “The district thinks they can buy us off with a modest pay raise, but our fight has never been just about salary,” UTLA President Alex CaputoPearl states on the union’s website. Caputo-Pearl’s statement continues, “UTLA is fighting to reinvest in our schools by lowering class size; adding more nurses, counselors, and librarians; ending over-testing to free up instructional time; investing in Community Schools, addressing charter co-location impacts; and supporting programs that serve a broad swath of our students, including Early Ed, Adult Ed, Special Ed, and Bilingual Ed.” The union submitted its last, best, and final offer to the district on July 24. It’s on the union and district websites. The district made a counteroffer on Sept. 25, which was not accepted. Then the two sides went to mediation, but that ended Oct. 12. At the end of August, the union voted to authorize a strike, but whether one actually happens depends in part on the outcome of a “fact finding” process as required by state law. As this story goes to press, the district and union are awaiting a state panel’s determination of the facts in the dispute. Los Angeles is home to the nation’s second-largest school district, with more than 640,000 K-12 students in approximately 1,100 schools spread out over 720 square miles. The state of California — even at $16,000 per-pupil —ranks among the lowest
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Random Volunteer Opportunities Throughout the Holiday Season Harbor Interfaith Clients Have an Immediate Need for Toiletries
If you can help, please donate the following: toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, bar soap or gel, deodorant and razors. Harbor Interfaith thanks you in advance. You can drop them off at our administrative headquarters, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the loading dock in the back. Details: www.harborinterfaith.org Location: Harbor Interfaith Services, 670 W. 9th St., San Pedro
Toberman House
The Toberman House mission is a commitment to assisting the Harbor Area communities with life-changing services that encourage, inform, educate, and empower families to live healthy and purposeful lives. The goal of Toberman is to assist individuals and families to become self-sufficient. Opportunities include: Toberman Academy after-school program, enrichment activities, evening meal program, pantry, thrift Store, events and administrative. Details: (310) 832-1145; www.cvigil@toberman. org and www.toberman.org Venue: Toberman Neighborhood Center, 131 N. Grand Ave., San Pedro
Cabrillo Marina Toy Drive
Cabrillo Marina in conjunction with Pacific Unicomm, Toys for Tots, Harbor Interfaith Services and Toberman House in San Pedro, are pleased to introduce their Annual Cabrillo Marina Toy Drive. The goal is to bring joy to at least 200 children. Holiday donations delivered to the Marina Office in November or early December are most helpful. Your efforts to deliver toys early (by Dec. 15) will be greatly appreciated. Time: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: Free Details: (310) 732-2253 Venue: The Plaza at Cabrillo Marina, 2965 Via Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro [See Volunteer, p. 7]
we haven’t seen in these fights that have been going on forever –– they hired a big lobbyist” John Ek, who in turn hired a well-connected PR person. “Basically they’re bullies,” Maynard said. “What they’re doing is they’re paying workers to put on these red vests, and go to meetings and bully the workers who are standing up. So it’s classic union-busting, classic anti-union behavior. You really can’t call it much else.” Maynard said she had overheard conversations in which workers said they’d been paid to show up at the Harbor Commission meeting. That’s on top of the fact that workers have to line up for work everyday, just like longshore workers had to before the 1934 strike. They have no assurance of steady work whatsoever, so it’s hard to say ‘no’ to anything the bosses might ask for– which goes to the heart of the labor-law violations that have been found in the past. Due to its size, and favored warehouse position, the Teamsters think NFI is central to the struggle for workers’ rights. “The minute that they are ultimately required to follow the law, the rest of the industry will start to move,” Maynard said. “It’s very very difficult to compete against NFI when they’ve got a sweetheart lease, on basically property owned by the city, and nobody’s holding them accountable,” she explained. “The best ways to stop the striking is to require the company to follow the law, and also require labor peace on city property.”
T
wo months after Hurricane Florence hit the Carolina coast with record rainfall, and one month after Hurricane Michael hit the Florida Panhandle as the thirdmost intense hurricane in U.S. history, a string of wildfires across California revealed another facet of how global warming is already threatening and destroying whole communities via extreme weather events and their consequences. The Woolsey Fire, which burned almost 100,000 acres in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, was overshadowed by the Camp Fire, which destroyed the town of Paradise on Nov. 6, leaving 85 confirmed dead, so far, and hundreds still missing. But the future holds much worse, according to a paper published two weeks later in Nature Climate Change, which warned that by the end of this century some places could face as many as six climate-related crises at the same time. Florida and California are already getting a taste of that, according to the paper’s lead author, Camilo Mora of the University of Hawaii. In addition to Hurricane Michael, Florida recently experienced extreme drought, record high temperatures and wildfires, while California has experienced drought, extreme heat waves and degraded air quality in addition to its wildfires. The paper “found traceable evidence for 467
Climate Crisis is Already Here By Paul Rosenberg, Senior Editor
[Volunteer from p. 6]
Volunteer Harbor Interfaith Services
Adopt a Family for Christmas
The Heart of Ida
the wildfires: • Higher temperatures dry out vegetation and soil, creating more wildfire fuel.
[See Crisis, p. 19]
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Put your skills to use helping seniors in Long Beach. The Heart of Ida is a local non-profit agency helping older, low- to moderate-income seniors in Long Beach to preserve their independence. Volunteers are needed in the following programs, on varying days and times vary: Safe At Home Volunteers with minor-home-repair experience, tool skills, and tools are needed to· make minor in-home repairs and install grab-bars and other safety equipment. Details: (562) 570-3548; www.heartofida.org/ volunteer Venue: Long Beach Senior Center, 1150 E. 4th St., Long Beach
pathways by which human health, water, food, economy, infrastructure and security have been recently impacted by climate hazards,” and went on to warn that “GHG [Greenhouse Gas] emissions pose a broad threat to humanity by intensifying multiple hazards to which humanity is vulnerable.” The insurance industry has long recognized the threat. “We’re not in a crisis yet, but all of the trends are in a bad direction,” California’s outgoing insurance commissioner, Dave Jones, told the New York Times. “We’re slowly marching toward a world that’s uninsurable.” Industry insiders agree. The Australian Financial Review ran a story headlined, “Climate change on track to make world ‘uninsurable’: IAG” (IAG is Australia’s insurance giant). Of course, Donald Trump waved away all such concerns. “There is no reason for these massive, deadly and costly forest fires in California except that forest management is so poor,” Trump tweeted on Nov. 10. “Billions of dollars are given each year, with so many lives lost, all because of gross mismanagement of the forests. Remedy now, or no more Fed payments!” Trump’s infantile tirade drew sharp rebukes from firefighters, scientists and others. California Professional Firefighters President Brian Rice called Trump’s blame-laying “dangerously wrong” in a written statement. “Wildfires are sparked and spread not only in forested areas but in populated areas and open fields fueled by parched vegetation, high winds, low humidity and geography,” Rice explained. “Moreover, nearly 60 percent of California forests are under federal management, and another one-third under private control. It is the federal government that has chosen to divert resources away from forest management, not California.” At the Yale Climate Connections website, climate scientist Dana Nuccitelli listed the following ways climate change was exacerbating
For families in Harbor Interfaith Shelter, transitional housing program, and recent graduates of our housing programs, planning and getting ready for Christmas isn’t possible. They can’t afford presents or food for holiday meals. Harbor Interfaith brings Christmas to clients in a blocked street celebration in front of the shelter. Offerings include a free catered meal, Santa’s lap, children’s games, a decorated tree, and gifts. The gifts come from members of the community who adopt families and buy, wrap and present the gifts to them. If you would like to participate please go to this link, https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/YXDTQDP. Complete the form, and you will be contacted with family information, names, ages, and a wish list. You are asked to bring the gifts to the Holiday Block Party. Time: 11 am to 2 pm. Dec.15 Location: 663 W. 10th St., San Pedro Details: https://mradice8.wixsite.com/ holidaydonations
A firefighter surveying the encroaching fire in Butte County. File photo
Real News, Real People, Really Effective
Hundreds of people, foundations, community groups, and companies support Harbor Interfaith Services with gifts of all sizes. Giving only takes a moment but that moment could change a life. You can gift anything with a tangible value. The organization couldn’t operate without volunteers. They operate the food pantry and clothing closet. They tutor children in the children’s center and provide help with everything from cleaning to filing. Volunteering begins after orientation, on the second Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m. and the fourth Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. Details: (310) 831-0603 ext. 305; http://www. harborinterfaith.org/support-us-2/volunteer/
• Shortening the California rainy season. • Shift in the Santa Ana winds that fan particularly dangerous wildfires in Southern California. • Warming atmosphere is slowing the jet stream, leading to more California heat waves and high-pressure ridges in the Pacific. Those ridges deflect from the state some storms that would otherwise bring much-needed moisture to slow the spread of fires. The slowing jet stream was also responsible for prolonged cold on the East Coast, which Trump ignorantly cited over the Thanksgiving holiday as disproving global warming. “Brutal and Extended Cold Blast could shatter ALL RECORDS — Whatever happened to Global Warming?” he tweeted, drawing an avalanche of public ridicule. But the sharpest rebuke came from his own administration via a congressionally-mandated report — the National Climate Assessment — which he tried to bury by releasing it on Black Friday. The report is a joint product of scientists from 13 government agencies, including NASA, NOAA and the Department of Defense. In a worst-case scenario, the report warned, climate change could cut 10 percent from the nation’s GDP by 2100, while aggressive preventative policies, which Trump has been fighting against—could cut those costs substantially. “Global action to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions can substantially reduce climaterelated risks and increase opportunities,” the report states. But failure to act carries widespread bottom-up threats: “Without adaptation, climate change will continue to degrade infrastructure performance over the rest of the century, with the potential for cascading impacts that threaten
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Success Looks More Like Avoiding Disaster
Information Fair on Bridge Home draws interest and speculation By James Preston Allen, Publisher
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
Clearly there was some tension in the air as people gathered at the San Pedro Boys and Girls Club Nov. 27 for the Bridge Home Information Fair hosted by L.A. City Councilman Joe Buscaino. There were rumors that the Saving San Pedro antihomeless crowd was going to show up to protest. The Council District 15 United working group was ready with their “I Support Solutions” buttons, and there was a strong contingent of Los Angeles Police Department officers, a few L.A. Sheriffs and Port Police on hand, just in case. The protesters were no-shows and the several hundred people who did show up were quite civil. The homeless issue in the San Pedro Harbor Area is as contentious as anywhere else in Los Angeles, with all of the fear and loathing voiced from Venice to K-Town in every neighborhood council and town hall meeting. This “Information Fair” was not that and its success was predicated upon not repeating the disaster of the last town hall meeting held a few years ago in exactly the same building. That meeting about the proposed Navigation Center, was highlighted by a resounding rebuke of Buscaino’s unvetted plan that is only now being relocated, two years later, next to LAPD Harbor Division on Gibson Blvd. Still … more and more it seems like the bureaucracy can’t get out of its own way to quickly solve this problem, no matter how much money gets thrown at it. Leadership would go a long way if those who were elected weren’t afraid of being criticized. However the homeless crisis is a much bigger issue than just giving people shelter. The Los Angeles Times is running a series of stories by columnist Steve Lopez, on homelessness in suburbia and its impact on children. His most recent column documented the struggles of students at LAUSD’s Telfair Elementary in Pacoima. Lopez notes that some seven percent of public school students are homeless and he draws the significant connection between poverty and low performance in schools. He goes on to note that while the state of California is home to the fifth-largest economy in the world with hordes of billionaires who are among the one percent, our state is also home to the highest poverty rate in the country when factoring in housing costs.
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The problem is not just the growing population of homeless people, or the rising number of people living in a garage or their cars, or that public schools are not set up to be social service centers to combat poverty while educating children. The problem is way bigger than building one Bridge Home shelter or opening up safe parking at a church or temple. These are all symptoms of a greater economic injustice that we just now perceive as being the root cause — the shrinking number of jobs that provide a living wage. We see this down at the Port of Los Angeles, where the port truckers struggle over wage theft. We see this in the Inland Empire, where some 200,000 jobs have been created since the Great Recession but the majority of them don’t provide sustainable wages. We saw it in the Harbor Community Benefit Foundation report for this year, which showed that the economic benefit of the highest- paid jobs does not go to people living nearest to the port. In fact, the trade deficit with our largest trading partner, China, explains a significant amount of the problem as found by Economic Policy Institute in a report entitled, The China Toll Deepens: The growth of the U.S. trade deficit with China, which has increased by more than $100 billion since the beginning of the Great Recession, almost entirely explains why manufacturing employment has not fully recovered along with the rest of the economy. And the growing trade deficit with China isn’t just a post-recession phenomenon hitting manufacturing: it has cost the U.S. millions of jobs throughout the economy since China entered the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001, a finding validated by numerous studies. The report’s authors, Robert E. Scott and Zane Mokhiber, reported that more than 500,000 manufacturing jobs in California have been lost to trade with China and that our exports have not kept pace. Clearly the success of our global trade into the San Pedro Bay ports does not compensate for the loss of American manufacturing jobs that lead to greater insecurity in our domestic job market and higher poverty levels. Oddly enough, this analysis doesn’t support Trump’s tariffs or a trade war as a solution. Publisher/Executive Editor James Preston Allen james@randomlengthsnews.com Assoc. Publisher/Production Coordinator Suzanne Matsumiya
“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. XXXIX : No. 24 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 Harbor Area.
Managing Editor Terelle Jerricks editor@randomlengthsnews.com Senior Editor Paul Rosenberg paul.rosenberg@ randomlengthsnews.com
What studies like these indicate is that the growing number of people experiencing homelessness and increasing rates of poverty are tied to much greater economic factors related to the massive global trade economy that sits right at our front door to the Pacific Ocean. Providing Bridge Home shelter for a small fraction of our neighbors who lack shelter is a small step to alleviate their suffering but is in no way a cure for the root cause. Clearly, as the ports of the San Pedro Bay continue to experience record cargo increases, higher revenues and are challenged to reduce
air pollution levels to near zero, one might well ask, “What should their role be in addressing the homeless crisis?” Not only is the bilateral trade deficit with China an existential threat to American economic leadership, but it has real experiential implications right here in the communities that surround the Port of Los Angeles — implications we should not overlook in our efforts to take care of our most needy neighbors. Read Economic Policy Institute, China Toll Deepens at https://tinyurl.com/China-TollDeepens.
‘School Is Where the Kids Are’ is Still Our Standard By Ken Bowers, LAMI ship crew member
[Editor’s note: The following is a reply to a student letter to the editor that was published in the Nov. 15 edition of Random Lengths News, which was a reaction to a feature on the late Jim Gladson, founder of the TopSail program at the Los Angeles Maritime Institute.] I am writing in response to the letter in Random Lengths News, Nov. 15 to 28, 2018 issue titled, LAMI Topsail, Jim Gladson. Finley Kircher implies that LAMI has stepped away from the principles established by our founder Jim Gladson; however, this statement is not true. I have been part of LAMI for over 12 years and have over 950 sea days on the twin brigantines
Columnists/Reporters Lyn Jensen Reporter Richard Foss Restaurant Reviewer Andrea Serna Arts Writer Melina Paris Staff Reporter Send Calendar Items to: 14days@randomlengthsnews.com
Cartoonists Ann Cleaves, Andy Singer, Jan Sorensen, Matt Wuerker Design/Production Suzanne Matsumiya, Brenda Lopez Advertising Representative Justin Shahian Sales1@randomlengthsnews.com
Photographers Terelle Jerricks, Jessie Drezner, Benjamin Garcia, Raphael Richardson, Editorial Intern Casey Warren Beatrice Jimenez Display advertising (310) 519-1442 Contributors (310) 519-1016 Leslie Belt, Ken Bowers, Benjamin Classifieds Fax: (310) 832-1000 Garcia, Greggory Moore www.randomlengthsnews.com
Exy Johnson and Irving Johnson. I can assure you that Jim Gladson’s motto of “School is where the kids are” is still our standard. So what does happen on the typical LAMI day sail? It is quite different than the “worksheets” and “busy work” assertion made by Finley Kircher. After the students come aboard and stow their gear, they meet the captain and crew. The captain gives a safety speech about what to do in case of fire, man overboard and abandon ship. Students are then divided into watches and assigned crew to work with. The first thing students learn is line handling, such as getting a line ready for use or belaying, coiling and hanging. The next step is raising [See LAMI, p. 9]
Random Lengths News editorial office is located at 1300 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro, CA 90731. Address correspondence regarding news items and tips to Random Lengths News, P.O. Box 731, San Pedro, CA 90733-0731, or email: editor@randomlengthsnews. com. Send Letters to the Editor to james@randomlengthsnews.com. To be considered for publication, letters must be signed with address and phone number (for verification purposes) and be about 250 words. For advertising inquiries or to submit advertising copy, email: rlnsales@randomlengthsnews.com. Annual subscription is $36 for 27 issues. Back issues are available for $3/copy while supplies last. 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. Random Lengths News is a member of Standard Rates and Data Services and the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies. (ISN #0891-6627). All contents Copyright 2018 Random Lengths News. All rights reserved.
[LAMI from p. 8]
LAMI
RANDOMLetters Student Letters
Editor’s note: In the past few weeks, Random Lengths News received a group of Letters to the Editor from the students of San Pedro High School English teacher Michael Kurdyla. Students commented on stories covered in RLN from the past few months. Reading through the letters, the students did an admirable job following their teacher’s instruction to read and critique stories that piqued their interest. In the interest of space, we will be select a few of the letters for print while posting the remainder online.
RE: Democrats must retake the House to put the brakes on Trump
In Peter Olney and Rand Wilson’s article “Democrats Must Retake the House to Put the Brakes
on Trump,” they state the vile things Trump has done to corrupt our government. As a freshman at San Pedro High School, Trump’s actions are mentioned in many of my peers’ discussions and conversations. Some of his actions including his remarks about North Korea, building the wall, and his relation to Putin. This shows the impact that Trump has made in our society, an impact so big that citizens who aren’t even at the age to vote are talking about this topic. In this article, I believe that the authors overuse pathos, and not enough logos and ethos. This is due to the fact that the authors inserted quite a bit of charged language, such as “erratic”, “racist”, “misogynist”, and an “anti-labor monster” when describing Trump. Such strong vocabulary is used, yet there is no explanation for it. This makes this article not very credible, as no evidence is used in the first place. The authors speak
as if the Democratic Party has no faults compared to the Republican Party, which was twisted to be seen as appalling and untrustworthy. Because of this, the article turns into a sea of propaganda that advertises the Democratic party. Personally, I am not for or against either party, because of the fact that I am not very knowledgeable when it comes to politics and topics around this subject. What I do agree with, however, is that Trump is not a good person. The topic of Trump’s faults hits deeply for me, since I had once been a victim of racism, and it definitely was not a good experience for me. However, this does not make me believe that this article is a reliable source, because of the lack of evidence. Claire Cho San Pedro Magnet High School
Re: Carson golf course
I live in the city of Carson and I occasionally go to Carson park just to have fun and walk around.
When I go to the par, I usually go on the swings and walk around to observe nature. Citizens of Carson join our society at Carson Park by just going to the park and experiencing the fun. I never had any complaints about any park. This new change had happened in Victoria County Regional Park in the city of Carson. In the article, it points out that there are proposals to reconstruct the golf course into something new so the whole community can use. The construction of this new project is going to be using 87 acres of land. They are going to use it to build a recreation center and multipurpose room. The main purpose of this project is building very high-quality sports, training, instruction, competition activities, and education to help people in need of help so the whole city can use it. The new multipurpose room community recreation center is called Carol Kimmelman Sports and Academic Campus but I think [See Letters, p. 19]
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the sails. On a square-rigged vessel, with 90-plus lines and 13 sails it takes everyone to help and participate. Throughout the day students will be called on to assist in sail maneuvers. Once the sails are set the students report to a mini-station. There are generally 3-5 stations which the students rotate through during the day The type of stations is determined by which one of our programs the school and teacher chooses: STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), or our traditional Topsail. The stations during a STEM sail could involve marine biology, ecology, human impacts and the effects of macro and microplastics on the marine environment, water chemistry, mathematics, and navigation, physics and mechanical advantage plus all youth have a chance to steer the ship from the helm and often climb the rigging or bowsprit. The Topsail program has such stations as: helm navigation, marlinspike seamanship, and the chance to go aloft, either on the bowsprit or up in the rigging. This is far from any “basic school work” I ever did in middle school or high school. Unfortunately, a small percentage of children come on board with the wrong idea. They might have expected a day of being waited on by the crew. Jim Gladson’s idea was not that every youth gets a free boat ride while the crew brings them ice cold drinks, pillows and a free day to text their friends on cell phones. His idea was taking school out of the classroom, giving kids a chance to challenge themselves and to see that there is more to
the world than the few blocks surrounding their community they know. I’ve seen the good done by LAMI over the years. The youth who lacks confidence and the resulting pride, when how they conquer fear by going aloft or the student who struggles in math and how they light up when geometry and trigonometry finally click with them in real-life settings doing Marine navigation. I often hear them say that this was the best field trip of their lives. The proof is that 7,000 youth were taken on board the two ships during this past year. Spots fill rapidly. Many come back as members of the Youth Crew which is free of charge and which trains them further in sailing. I have seen kids who were failing in school turn around and go to college on scholarships. Jim Gladson brought me into this organization and I learned what kind of man he was. He worked hard, set goals, took chances and did not take “no” as an answer. He taught students to believe in themselves and that anything was possible. We are currently restoring two schooners, American Pride in Long Beach and the Swift of Ipswich in Wilmington to continue advancing his vision and expanding the number of students we can serve. As a non-profit, we always need volunteers and financial support to do this! If you doubt any of what I am saying, Mr. Kircher, take a look at what Jim Gladson accomplished, come to our office at Berth 73 in San Pedro and chat with us; see the legacy he left behind, and help us continue it.
November 29 - December 12, 2018
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[Secondhand from p. 1]
Secondhand First
also suggests that 13 percent of the most active thrifters — those spending upwards of $10,000 per year — are millionaires.
The save the planet while saving a buck factor
Every Friday in December
Live Jazz duo, no cover 7 to 9 p.m.
Every Saturday
Jazz Guitar with Markus Carlton from 6.30 p.m.
Wednesday, December 12th
Los Cancioneros choir will sing from 6 p.m.
Happy Holidays from The Whale & Ale! December 24th December 25th Open on Christmas Day 1 to 7 p.m. Full à la carte menu served from 1 to 6:30 p.m., Reservations essential— be sure to make reservations early
December 31st
New Year’s Eve – plan an early dinner Open 5 to ? – Reservations essential
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
Open on Christmas Eve 5 till late – Make reservations now. Full menu; full bar.
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327 W. 7th Street San Pedro • 310 832 0363 www.whaleandale.com
Although the popularity of thrifting began to surge with the 2008 recession, there is no question that environmental cost is increasingly a factor in purchasing decisions. Millennials lead the way; 35 percent say they are shifting away from retail for environmental reasons. Good thinking, especially when it comes to clothing. It takes approximately 2,700 liters of water — about what one person drinks in 2 ½ years — to make one cotton shirt. While easier on land and water, a polyester shirt has more than double the carbon footprint of a cotton shirt. And thanks to cheaper retail clothing options (think Walmart, T.J. Maxx, etc.) millennials as well as more than one third of women now discard items of clothing after wearing them less than five times. Buying a used garment extends its life by more than two years, which translates into a 73 percent decrease it its carbon, waste and water footprints. If everyone bought used clothes instead of new for just one year, the planet would eliminate as much CO2 as removing every car from the roads of Los Angeles for four years, while saving as much electricity as is consumed by 32 million households annually, as well as enough water to quench California’s thirst for 14 years.
and designers. Occupying a 6,000 square foot showroom in a historic 1920s building, House 1002 offers one-of-a-kind pieces for the home, including vintage items, artisanal jewelry, architectural salvage, collectibles, garden accessories and fine art. Unlike traditional retail spaces, House 1002 celebrates both individuality and community, the new and the old, the traditional and avant-garde. Fiercely devoted to San Pedro, the members of the House Collective point out why they call it home in this excerpt from their website: “San Pedro is one of those cities that has remained largely under the radar. Tucked away, and easily overlooked by its brassier neighbors to the north and south, San Pedro has a long and proud history and boasts a tight-knit community.” JDC Records (447 W. 6th St., San Pedro) As previously noted by Random Lengths News reporter, Lyn Jensen, JDC [See Retro Treasures, p. 17]
The ‘cool’ factor
Think fast, what do beatniks, hippies and hipsters all have in common? If you said the Salvation Army or Goodwill you are on the right track. But seriously, it is time for you to start thinking local. Random Lengths News recently took a closer look at four of San Pedro’s many vintage/thrift/retro shops on the leading edge of the growing consumer trend of shopping second hand first. House 1002 (1002 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro) House 1002 is a uniquely curated home emporium founded by a collective of local artists
Rows and rows of vinyl at JDC Records on 6th Street in San Pedro. Photo by Raphael Richardson.
By Greggory Moore,Curtain Call Columnist
know the story? Elizabeth (Kimberly Connolly) is the second eldest of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet’s (John Phelan and Jill Clay Martin, respectively) five daughters. Because marrying well is the ultimate goal for an English girl — a sad fact that proto-feminist Austen both protests and has a good deal of fun with throughout her novels — the arrival of well-to-do young Mr. Bingley (Micha Lee) inspires a great deal of excitement. But while he and the eldest Bennet child Jane (Augusta Abene) fall in love, murkier relationships ensue. Central among these is between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy (Chaz R. Bright-Haup), two proud people who come to find that their initial presumptions about each other could not have been more wrong. [See Curtain Call, p. 17]
Real News, Real People, Really Effective
J
ane Austen’s writing is a funny thing. Although her novels have a strong narrative voice, the last quarter-century has produced dozens of smashingly successful adaptations that mostly, or even completely, eschew that narrative and focus solely on plot. Jon Jory takes a different route for his theatrical adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Rather than tucking the narrative out of sight, he cleverly doles it out to the cast in a continual series of asides that intermix freely with the dialog. The result resists comparison to the many fantastic film adaptations of Austen released over the last quartercentury because this is simply something different. And in Long Beach Playhouse’s hands, it’s utterly charming. You can probably skip this paragraph, because at this point in history who doesn’t
November 29 - December 12, 2018
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A
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
friend of mine used to work for a venture-capital firm, and part of his job were the initial interviews with hopeful entrepreneurs. He’s a soft-spoken fellow, but by all reports his meetings were terrifying. He would wave off the prepared visual presentations with their charts and graphs, affix a stare to the applicant, and ask mildly, “What do you do that needs to be done?” The ones who had a coherent answer got a sympathetic hearing, while all others were given the polite suggestion that they might want to come back when they had an answer. When any new business opens in a tough location, one might ask the owner the same question. Hopefully, they have an answer: if not, they won’t be around long. Deep Valley Drive in Rolling Hills Estates is one of those tough locations. It’s close to lots of shopping but has a low profile and little foot traffic; the signage on businesses is so minimal there’s no way of standing out with a flashy frontage. Workers at nearby office and medical buildings might find it convenient, but that’s not enough to build a business. The previous restaurant at number 767 was an entirely decent but unimaginative Mexican place, and given that the Red Onion is a few blocks away, it’s a safe bet that they would have failed my friend’s question. But the newcomer, Driftwood Wine Bar, seems to have an answer. Part of the strategy is in the name. There aren’t many places on The Hill with a good wine selection by the glass and a staff that knows anything about them. The wines are balanced with a menu of creative and eclectic food at relatively modest prices, which is also not something you see every day. They pass on concept, so can be judged on execution. The architecture of the space works against
Drifting With a Purpose By Richard Foss, Dining Columnist
Lobster nachos at Driftwood Wine Bar and Kitchen. File photo
them. The building follows the contours of the hill, so the interior is divided into multiple levels, each with a few tables inside and a like number on the outdoor patio. If your idea of a wine bar is a place where you can sit at an actual bar and chat with the person who is pouring, you’re out of luck unless you get one of the few seats on the bottom level where the bar is. On the day we visited our servers knew the wine list well, so you can get some informed guidance with your selections wherever you sit. You may want advice with your food choices, too, because the menu descriptions are so intriguing that deciding is difficult. Our party of three began with orders of deviled eggs with pickled jalapeno and bacon chive oil, clam chowder, salt and pepper calamari, and a small Driftwood house salad. On the day we
dined, the salad that was being made differently than described. Their arugula hadn’t come in, so it was baby spinach mixed with grapefruit, avocado and sweet corn tossed with citrus vinaigrette and topped with toasted almonds. They might consider offering it this way all the time, because the spinach worked harmoniously with the other flavors, probably at least as well as the more bitter arugula would have. We asked for a half-order and got enough to give each person a reasonable amount. A full portion would be an ample starter for four. The chowder was a little more interesting than the standard thanks to a few drops of chive oil that added a pleasing and slightly pungent herbal aroma. It didn’t greatly change the flavor, but was a good example of how a pleasant scent whets your appetite for whatever you eat. There
Two Great Choices for Dining featuring
$10 Lunch Menu
& Early Bird Specials 1420 W. 25th St. (25th & Western) San Pedro • (310) 548-4797
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Lunch & Dinner—Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.- 9 p.m. Sat. & Sun. from 4 p.m.
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Banquet Room up to 50 guests Heated Patio Dining Follow us at Think Cafe San Pedro and Sonny’s Bistro San Pedro @thinkcafesonny @sonnys_bistro
302 W. 5th St., San Pedro (310) 519-3662
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.- 9 p.m. • Sun. 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
was a mild bacon flavor along with the seafood, and I’d consider getting a bowl instead of a cup next time because I was still engaged with the flavor right to the bottom of the bowl. The calamari was a favorite item done particularly well, slightly more peppery and salty than usual in the Chinese restaurant style. It was a big portion well fried, and the zippy sriracha-lime aioli was a better dipping sauce than the usual cocktail sauce. Only the deviled eggs needed work and even there the flavors were excellent, but the concept wasn’t thought through. The two halved eggs were topped with bacon crumbles, baby greens, and a moderate portion of very mild jalapeno jam, with a generous drizzle of herbed oil and pesto zigzagging along the center of the plate. If you wanted a bit of the flavor of that oil, though, you were out of luck. Eggs aren’t suited to picking up an oily substance, being a.) not permeable by liquids, and b.) round on the bottom, so you can’t really get much surface area into a dip without dumping what is on top. This item really should be served with some bread so you can alternate flavors and enjoy that drizzle. Unfortunately, we couldn’t signal our server for some time because another drawback of the architecture is limited sightlines. Working multiple levels from a kitchen in the middle of the building must be challenging, as well as giving the staff quite a cardio workout. For our first beverages we selected a Golden State gingergrass cider, Strand Brewing “Driftwood Blonde” house draft, and a glass of Quady rosé wine. They may be a wine bar, but they do have a good selection of other beverages as well as sangria and a few low-alcohol versions of cocktails. The standout was the cider infused with ginger and lemongrass, which had only a mild ginger bite that balanced nicely with tart apple flavors. We hadn’t tried it before, but now that we have, we’ll be picking up a few cans for hot days when a little spicy sparkle will be welcome. For our mains we picked fish and chips, pan-seared chicken topped with prosciutto and havarti, and an order of grilled sirloin tacos. The tacos were a tasty mess because the meat was very juicy and heaped in the tortillas, along with avocado, queso fundido, pickled red onion, and baby herbs. I know the allure of good tacos but would actually suggest offering a tostada version, because eating these without wearing them required some acrobatics. They were served with Mexican cabbage slaw and a mound of seasoned rice, and were quite a fine meal. [See Driftwood, p. 14]
Brought to you by the artists and restaurants of the Downtown San Pedro Waterfront Arts District
Studio Gallery 345
DRAWINGS AND PAINTINGS
Pat Woolley, Venice Revisited, collage.
Studio 345 presents drawings by Pat Woolley and mixed media work and paintings by Gloria D Lee. Open 5 to 9 p.m. on First Thursday and by appointment. Studio 345, 345 W. 7th St., San Pedro.
SIZE MATTERS
Size Matters presents an overview of Craig Antrim’s large format oil on canvas works. Antrim explores techniques and color, integrating his love of symbols and shapes in abstract combinations. Much of his work is influenced by his understanding of philosophy, Jungian psychology, Joseph Campbell and art history. Closing reception Sunday, Dec. 16, 1 to 5 p.m. Michael Stearns Studio @ The Loft, 401 S. Mesa St., San Pedro. Details: (562) 400-0544.
Cannery Row Gallery ENLIGHTENING EXPERIENCE
Cannery Row Studios presents Enlightening Experiences by John Teague. A lifetime resident of Hermosa Beach, Teague is a world class surfer and self-taught artist. His paintings tell him how they want to be made. The exhibition is open First Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m. or by appointment. The gallery will be open again on Dec. 15, 2 to 6 p.m. Cannery Row Studios @ The Loft, 401 S. Mesa, San Pedro . Details: (310) 291-5316; www. CanneryRowStudios.com
Real News, Real People, Really Effective
Details: (310) 545-0832 or (310) 374-8055; artsail@roadrunner. com or www.patwoolleyart.com.
Michael Stearns Studio@The Loft
November 29 - December 12, 2018
RLn BRINGS YOU DEDICATED COVERAGE OF THE ARTS IN THE HARBOR AREA. FORADVERTISING, CALL 310. 519.1442
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RANDOM Happening
Reverend Tall Tree, a Blues Opera in Two Acts For an entirely different evening of entertainment, the Grand Annex will present Chris Pierce, aka Reverend Tall Tree, in the leading role of his blues opera. Pierce and television writer Mark Malone follow the journey of a fictional street preacher many years ago in the lower Mississippi valley. It’s a story of love, sorrow, earthy humor and, finally,
redemption. Pierce created his opera across the past four years, and performed a few pieces from it during his show at the Grand Annex this past March. “The tension in the piece is as simple and universal as the human condition itself,” Pierce said. “Reverend Tall Tree is a man who searches for and yearns for love and a kind of
blessedness, but who is subject to human frailty and human passion.” Reverend Tall Tree stirs his audience with the stories he weaves through musical expression that’s inseparable from his religion. Pierce does the same with charismatic and emotive singing that’s backed by his harmonica and guitar and rooted in soul, jazz and blues. Time: 8 to 11 p.m. Nov. 30 Cost: $20 Details: www.grandvision.org Venue: Grand Annex, 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro
Reverend Tall Tree will perform his blues opera at the Grand Annex Nov. 30. File photo [Driftwood from p. 12]
Driftwood
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
The chicken was a twist on the traditional Italian saltimbocca, the main difference being the use of Havarti and herbs rather than mozzarella and sage. Havarti melts a little sweeter and softer, and along with delicate herbs rather than the sharper sage it made a more subtle version of the Italian favorite. What took it right out of Europe was the decision to pair it with cauliflower that had been dusted with curry before roasting, and it was a superb choice.
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Fish and chips at the Driftwood Wine Bar. File photo
The fish and chips was the only item that was served in classic style. It was very well executed, batter on fish crisp and flavorful, fries hot, obligatory coleslaw crunchy and fresh with a dash of pepper and herb zestiness. It’s a reminder that they don’t depend on novelty and can deliver on a classic. They stayed close to traditional on dessert too, a rich chocolate pot de crème and a bread pudding with whiskey-caramel sauce that was given a tropical touch with some white chocolate in the mix and a sautéed banana topping. It was a good end to a surprisingly successful meal in pleasant surroundings. Dinner for three with four drinks and maybe one more appetizer than strictly necessary ran $148, which is reasonable for this quality of food on the Hill. They have a concept that stands out from everything else in the area, the chops in the kitchen to deliver on it, and a staff who pitch in to overcome the limitations of the space. My friend the business consultant would give them an A, and I’m going to give them a return visit. Details: (310) 265-4055; www.DriftwoodonTheHill.com. Location: 767 Deep Valley Drive, Rolling Hills Estates
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NOV 29 - DEC 12 • 2 ENTERTAINMENT Nov 30
Robin Spielberg’s Holiday Sing-A-Long With an impressive tour schedule and hundreds of thousands of recordings sold, this Steinway artist has been winning listeners hearts around the world with her compelling melodies and sensitive piano techniques since her debut release of original solos, Heal of the Hand. Time: 8 p.m. Nov. 30 Cost: $25 to $35 Details: (310) 781-7171; www.torrancearts.org Venue: James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance
Dec 1
Merry-Achi Christmas The celebration returns with Sol de México de José Hernández, Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles, and DanzArts Sabor México Dance Company. Time: 7 p.m. Dec. 1 and 2 p.m. Dec. 2. Cost: $113 to $125 Details: www.cerritoscenter. com Venue: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts,18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos
Art and Study of Taiko Asano Taiko US and Los Angeles Taiko Institute present contemporary and traditionally inspired Taiko repertoire in the end-of-year recital. Time: 6 p.m. Dec.1 and 2 p.m. Dec. 2 Cost: $10 to $20 Details: (310) 781-7171;
First Thursday Art Walk The National Watercolor Society will be open for the December Artwalk Time: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 6 Cost: Free Details: (310) 8311099; www.nationalwatercolorsociety.org Venue: National Watercolor Society, 915 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro
Bobby Breton Winter Solstice Show A holiday variety show featuring jazz, pop and a few surprises with a host of special guests. Bobby Breton — drums, special guests: T.B.A. Time: 7 to 9 p.m. Dec. 2 Cost: $25 Details: alvasshowroom. tix.com Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
DANCE Dec 1
Dec 4
Dec 6 First Thursday at The Whale & Ale On the First Thursday of every month over 40 galleries and studios host public receptions for the First Thursday Art Walk. Live music at The Whale & Ale and other venues. Time: 6 p.m. Dec 6 Cost: Free Details: (310) 832-0363; www.whaleandale.com Venue: The Whale & Ale, 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro
Dec 7
Hiroya Tsukamoto A one of a kind composer, guitarist, singer- songwriter from Kyoto, Japan, Hiroya began playing the five-string banjo when he was 13 years old. Time: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8 Cost: $33 to $50 Details: (310) 781-7171; www.hiroyatsukamoto.com Venue: George Nakano Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Dr., Torrance Acoustic Soul Express at Babouch Catch Acoustic Soul Express at their monthly stop at Babouch Moroccan Restaurant on Second Fridays. Time: 7 to 10 p.m. Dec. 7 Cost: Free Details: (310) 831-0246 Venue: Babouch Moroccan Restaurant, 810 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro Harbor Groove Band Come and celebrate all our December birthdays with the Harbor Groove Band at Godmothers. Time: 9 to 12 p.m. Dec. 7 Cost: Free Details: (310) 833-1589 Venue: Godmothers Saloon, 302 W. 7th St., San Pedro First Fridays at First Rising star on New York City’s
San Pedro City Ballet’s annual holiday tradition, The Nutcracker will be performed Dec. 7, 8 and 9 at the Warner Grand Theater in San Pedro. Details: www.sanpedrocityballet.org/upcoming-events/ nutcracker music scene, cellist Ben Capps has appeared at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher and Alice Tully Halls, and at the Kennedy Center. Time: 12:15 p.m. Dec. 7 Cost: Free Details: (310) 316-5574 Venue: First Lutheran Church and School, 2900 W. Carson St., Torrance
Dec 8 TaikoProject + Sumie Kaneko in Concert TaikoProject collaborates with shamisen and koto virtuoso Sumie Kaneko for one night only. This is a rare opportunity to see the ensemble in an intimate setting, up close and personal. Time: 8 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 8 Cost: $25 Details: www.brownpapertickets. com Venue: Grand Annex, 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro Akiko / Hamilton / Dechter When Akiko, Jeff Hamilton and Graham Dechter played together for the first time instantly they realized their mutual compatibility and they and the audience were all smiles. Time: 8 to 11 p.m. Dec. 8 Cost: Call showroom for tickets Details: (310) 833-7538; www.alvasshowroom.com Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
Dec 9
Anita Chang and Rodney Oakes Los Angeles Harbor College Music Department presents an eclectic concert with Anita Chang and Rodney Oakes, performing music by Franz Schubert Impromptu Op. 90, D. 899. Time: 3 p.m. Dec. 9 Cost: Free Details: (310) 233-4429 Venue: Los Angeles Harbor College recital hall, 1111 Figueroa Place, Wilmington Tribute to Glenn Miller Combining big band favorites with holiday classics, the Tex Beneke Orchestra will sweep you along in the spirit of the season. Time: 2 p.m. Dec 9 Cost: $40 to $80
Details: (310) 544-0403; www.PalosVerdesPerformingArts. com Venue: Norris Theatre, 27570 Norris Center Dr., Rolling Hills Estates Stevie Nicks Illusion The soaring vocals of Diana Grace are spot on as Stevie Nicks from the early years of the ‘70s and ‘80s. The musicianship of the band is world class and creates exciting and intimate shows. Time: 4 p.m. Dec. 9 Cost: $20 Details: www.alvasshowroom.tix. com Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro Jennie Olivia and Ben Lowe FirstServe Community Services of the South Bay present an evening of holiday music and conversation titled Home for Christmas. Time: 4 p.m. Dec. 9 Cost: $10 to $20 Details: (310) 320-3818; www.palosverdes.com/classicalcrossroads/HomeForChristmas. pdf Venue: First Lutheran Church & School, 2900 W. Carson St., Torrance
THEATRE Dec 8
A Christmas Carol In this quick-paced, theatrical retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic tale, the ghosts of Christmases past, present, and future show Ebenezer Scrooge the poverty of his material wealth and the blessings that come with generosity. Time: 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 8 through Dec. 23 Cost: $20 to $24 Details: www.longbeachplayhouse.org Venue: Long Beach Playhouse, 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach
ARTS
Dec. 1 Artist Walkthrough With Laurie Steelink and Tom Gugler Artist and curator Laurie Steelink will lead a walkthrough of Coming Into Being: Gathering the Elder in Me, and In a Good Way, currently
on exhibit at Angels Gate Cultural Center. Both exhibits continue through Dec. 8. Time: 2 to 3 p.m. Dec.1 Cost: Free Details: (310) 519-0936; www.angelsgateart.org Venue: Angels Gate Cultural Center, 3601 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro Open Studios Day Angels Gate’s 50 studio artists will open their doors to the public to see their studio space and learn about their arts practice. Time: 12 to 4 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: Free Details: (310) 519-0936; www.angelsgateart.org Venue: Angels Gate Cultural Center, 3601 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro Closing Show of the San Pedro Photographers Association Last Chance to see and buy some of the wonderful photography by our local best. San Pedro Photographers Association Closing Show Saturday and Sunday open for the San Pedro Holiday Parade right our front. Time: 2 p.m. Dec. 1 and 12 and 2 p.m. Dec. 2 Cost: Free Details: (310) 831-1800; www.dekorgallery.com Venue: Dekor Gallery 445 W. 6th St., San Pedro
Dec 2 Paintings by Carol Cottone At The Corner Store The San Pedro artist will show a collection of her realistic watercolor and oil paintings based on images of San Pedro. The exhibit runs through Jan. 30. Time: 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 2
A Twisted Nutcracker PV’S Elite Dance Studio returns with their holiday favorite dance production, an alternative take on Tchaikovsky’s classic. This isn’t The Nutcracker you grew up with! Time: 2 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: $12 to $20 Details: www.grandvision. org/shop/tickets.asp Venue: Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St., San Pedro
Dec 6 Debbie Allen’s Hot Chocolate Nutcracker Don’t miss this original holiday classic, written, directed and choreographed by Debbie Allen. Time: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, 7 and 1 and 7 p.m. Dec. 8, and 2 p.m. Dec. 9 Cost: $40 to $110 Details: www.thehotchocolatenutcracker.com Venue: Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach
Dec 15 Long Beach Ballet Presents The Nutcracker Long Beach Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker boasts dazzling special effects, grand-scale scenery, and radiant dancing and is presented with a professional live symphonic orchestra and children’s choir Time: 2 p.m. Dec. 15, 16, 22, 23 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15, 21, 22 Cost: $34 to $78 Details: www.longbeachnutcracker.com Venue: Long Beach Conven-
[See Calendar, page 16]
November 29 - December 12, 2018
First Saturdays, Music In the Park This is all for fun and the public is encouraged to take a chance on a Saturday afternoon at the Point Fermin Park stage and hear some great music. Time: 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: Free Venue: Point Fermin Park, 807 Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro
Dec 6
Dec 2
Michelle Bourque and Bourque Music: Winter Wonderland A holiday musical presentation celebrating the holiday season with tunes and themes from movies and television. Time: 7 p.m. Dec. 4 Cost: $15 Details: (310) 781-7171; www.bourquemusic.com Venue: James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Dr., Torrance
Cost: Free Details: (310) 832-2424; www.cottoneart.com Venue: The Corner Store, 1118 W. 37th St., San Pedro
Handel’s Messiah Kick off the holiday season with Long Beach Camerata Singers’ performance of Handel’s Messiah. Partnering with Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra, there will be two performances, including a Saturday afternoon sing-along. Time: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30 and 3:30 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: $25 to $45 Details: www.longbeachcameratasingers.org/lbcs/handelsmessiah Venue: Beverly O’Neill Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach
The Nutcracker 25th Anniversary
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Frank Unzueta Join Frank Unzueta for a great night of Christmas favorites with his trio, including music from A Charlie Brown Christmas and Le Jazz Hot arrangements, with special guest jazz violinist Dan Weinstein. Time: 8 to 10 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: $28 to $30 Details: alvasshowroom. tix.com Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
www.asano.us Venue: James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Dr., Torrance
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Dec 7
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2 • 20 1 C E D 9 2 V O N
[from p. 15]
tion and Entertainment Center, 300 Ocean Blvd., Long Beach
COMMUNITY Nov 29
Beacon House Christmas Tree Lot Now Open The Beacon House Christmas tree lot is now open everyday. Christmas wreaths are also available. Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Details: www.craftedportla. com Venue: Christmas Tree Lot located at Crafted,112 E. 22nd St., San Pedro
Nov 30 Nightmare Before Christmas Beer Festival The event features unlimited samples of 20 different Winter, Pumpkin, and Holiday Ales from Local Breweries. There will be two areas of entertainment including live music from the Skeleton Sisters. Time: 6:30 to 9:30 Nov. 30 Cost: $40 Details: www-eventbrite-come-nightmare Venue: Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
Dec 1
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Holiday Afloat Boat Parade Viewing Party 2018 Join an evening of music, snacks, hot chocolate and really cool boats. Tours of the ship will be available. S.S. Lane Victory is the official viewing party of the Holiday Boat Parade. Time: 6 to 10 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: $5 to $8 Details: https://tinyurl.com/ y73mwvsw Venue: S.S. Lane Victory Merchant Marine Museum and Memorial, Berth 48, San Pedro Family Festival: Fiesta Navidena Celebrate the holidays at the Museum of Latin American Art and immerse yourself in classic Mexican Christmas traditions. Time: 2 to 7 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: Free Details: www.molaa.org Venue: Museum of Latin American Art, 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach Make a Handmade Gift Rockler Woodworking and Hardware stores in the greater Los Angeles area are giving makers a unique opportunity to craft a handmade gift for the holiday season by hosting handmade gift classes. Time: 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: $35 to $45 Details: (310) 542-1466; www.rockler.com/retail/stores/ ca/torrance-store Venue: Rockler Woodworking and Hardware, 20028 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance
Wilmington Winter Wonderland Join the festivities including snow, face painting,holiday crafts and games. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 1 Cost: Free Venue: Wilmington Waterfront Park, 1004 W. C St., Wilmington
Dec 2 Swedish Women’s Educational Association Christmas Fair Stroll around the cozy holiday venue and look, taste, smell and enjoy true Scandinavian Christmas spirit. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 2 Cost: $10 Details: www.losangeles.swea. org Venue: Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Dr., Torrance San Pedro Art Association Holiday Craft Fair and Toy Drive Come watch the parade and enjoy a beautiful day in San Pedro. Don’t forget to bring a new unwrapped toy. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 2 Cost: Free Venue: 951 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro 38th Annual Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade Each year, this festive tradition brings families, little leagues, scouts, students, marching bands and equestrian units to downtown San Pedro to celebrate the holiday season. Cost: Free Details: www.spholidayparade. com Venue: 13th and Pacific to 6th Street in San Pedro
Dec 3
Produce on the Plaza Farm to Student: Produce on the Plaza brings Long Beach farmers market produce to CSULB students every first Monday of the semester. Time: 11a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 3 Details: (562) 985-4299 Venue: CSULB University Art Museum, 1250 Bellflower Blvd., Long Beach
Dec 4 Rancho Los Cerritos Holiday Tea Tea, scones, sandwiches, and sweets are served as holiday music echoes through the festivelydecorated adobe. Reservations required. Time: 11a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dec. 4 Cost: $39 Details: (562) 206-2040; www.rancholoscerritos.org Venue: Rancho Los Cerritos, 4600 N. Virginia Road, Long Beach
Dec 6
San Pedro Tree Lighting Come and join the festivities at the annual San Pedro Tree Lighting. Time: 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 6 Cost: Free Details: (310) 732-4515 Venue: Peppertree Plaza, 638 Beacon St., San Pedro
Discovery Lecture Series Dr. Ian Fenty of NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory will discuss current projections of future global sea level rise, and describe some current NASA research to study the melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet. Time: 7 to 9 p.m. Dec.7 Cost: Free Details: (310) 548-7562; RSVP: www.lecture@cmaqua.org Venue: John M. Olguin Auditorium, CMA, 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro First Fridays Family Festival Knock out all of your holiday shopping in one night and support your local businesses. The Expo will be open hosting Uptown Village Market. There will be specials and sales in shops and restaurants. Time: 6:30 to 9: 30 p.m. Dec. 7 Cost: Free Venue: Bixby Knolls, Long Beach
Dec 8
Los Serenos Nature Hike Tide pools at Abalone Cove Shoreline Park Time: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 8 Cost: Free Details: (310) 544-5375; www.rpvca.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Abalone-Cove Location: Abalone Cove Shoreline Park, 5970 Palos Verdes Drive South, Rancho Palos Verdes City of Carson Winter Festival Winter Fest includes holiday craft vendors, food trucks, arts and crafts, children’s entertainment including a snow run. Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 8 Cost: Free Details: (310) 847-3570 Venue: Juanita Millender-McDonald Community Center, 801 Carson St., Carson Dickens Holiday Celebration Christmas Carol performances 11 a.m, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations are required. Advised for children 10 years and up with adults, includes activities, play with reservations and holiday lunch. Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 8 Cost: $25 Details: (310) 515-7166; www.printmuseum.org Venue: International Printing Museum, 315 W. Torrance Blvd., Carson The Autoette As Modern as Today: Long Beach and the Electric Car presented by Larry Fisher, executive director NHRA Motorsports Museum, will cover the origins of the shopping car in America and the circumstances under which Long Beach became the epicenter of the industry. Time: 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 8 Cost: $22 to $25 Details: (562) 424-2220 Venue: 4260 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach
Dec 9 Rancho Los Cerritos Old Time Christmas Festival Make historic crafts, enjoy live holiday music, strike the piñatas, listen to storytellers in the library, sip warm cider and get a head start on holiday shopping in our museum shop, and tour the adobe, lavishly decorated for the holidays. Time: 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 9 Cost: $5 Details: (562) 206-2040; www.rancholoscerritos.org Venue: Rancho Los Cerritos, 4600 N. Virginia Road, Long Beach
Dear America [Dear America from p. 1]
suitcase, a phony passport and a few words of English spoken with a heavy accent. He spoke in the rhythm of Tagalog, the first language of the Philippines, and when the class sang the National Anthem he thought it was “Jose can you see?” He spent the next few years trying to fit in, like all teenagers, but he felt driven to be very American in every aspect. He consumed American culture voraciously — videos, magazines, and books from the Mountain View, California, public libraries or from the checkout lines at the grocery store. It wasn’t until he was 16 and wanted to get a drivers license that Vargas learned the sad fact that he wasn’t here legally. His grandfather had provided false documents. Vargas didn’t get a drivers license for the next 15 years, afraid he’d be discovered. In the meantime, he got rides to school with classmates and teachers, who, as it turned out, became his American family by default. He received a private scholarship to California State University San Francisco, graduating with a degree in journalism while serving internships at the San Francisco Chronicle and the Philadelphia Inquirer. Vargas was hired by the Washington Post, and a few years later shared the 2007 Pulitzer for his work on the Post team that covered the mass shooting at Virginia Tech. In his book, Dear America–Notes of an Undocumented Citizen, he admits he lied a lot along the way — on various application forms for internships and jobs and finally his Oregon drivers license, which he ultimately needed to get hired at WaPo. At the core of this self-confessional tale is the revelation of just how complicated the immigration laws have become and the almost overlooked question, What does it mean to be American? Vargas asks that fundamental question only when he realizes later in life that the white and black people in this country that dominate the discussion of race are in fact all immigrants. And that, contrary to the current conception, most of the illegal immigrants in this country, the largest growing portion of which are from Asia, are here
Author and journalist Jose Antonio Vargas, seated right, with Philippine Expressions Bookshop owner Linda Nietes and family. Photo by MariLu Morris
by overstaying their visas, not crossing in from Mexico. “Home is not something I should have to earn. Humanity is not some box I should have to Jose Antonio Vargas check,” Vargas writes. Dear America–Notes of an He remembers Undocumented Citizen sitting in an Harper Collins, Immigration and 2018, 232 pgs. Naturalization Service detention outside. He was released in cell in McAllen, Texas. eight hours. “It occurred to me that I’d If Jose Antonio Vargas’s been in an intimate, longnarrative seems a bit self term relationship all along. indulgent it is perhaps because I was in a toxic … abusive, he sees himself as being the codependent relationship with poster child for all immigrants America..” who were brought here, raised And after writing an here and only know this article for the New York Times country as their home — with Magazine outing himself or without documents. And for being illegal and then with his non-profit, Define being one of the most public American, he is asking a “illegals” in America, he ends fundamental question of every up in a cell in Texas. And the one of us, “Exactly what does funny thing is the INS jailers it mean to be American?” It’s don’t know what to do with him; he’s not Mexican, so they something that more people can’t send him back across the may be asking themselves these days. Rio Grande River. And then there’s a platoon of journalists
[Curtain Call from p. 11]
Curtain Call
Our access point for the Pride and Prejudice universe is Elizabeth, and Connolly manages to bring us inside her experience rather than playing it out to us. As Darcy, Bright-Haup projects just the right haughty aloofness so that at play’s end we fully believe there was more to him all along. Every supporting actor could be singled out for merit, but I’ll just mention Amanda Phelps and Dakota Sioux, who play the youngest Bennets with an adorable frivolousness. They also, along with the rest of the cast, do complete justice to Jory’s narrative conceit, making it seamless with the plot rather than letting the stitching show. Much credit for this success goes to director Aurora J. Culver, who gets everything right. She has her talented cast dialed in to every line, and she effectively blocks the action all around the theater, often at multiple levels at once—particularly important, considering how many balls and walks around grounds take place during the play. A couple of her clever choices [Retro from p. 10]
Chaz Bright-Haup as Mr. Darcy, Dakota Sioux as Georgiana Darcy, and Russell Malang as George Wickham. Photos by Michael Hardy Photography
Retro Treasures in Pedro
Beacon House Exchange store managers Brian Smith and Shane Flemming. Photo by Benjamin Garcia
goods. These treasures include household goods, furniture, books and clothing. Even better, Beacon House is a registered 501-c3 charity organization and will provide a sheet tax purposes for when you donate. “I think that our thrift store is different than most in two important ways. First, as a non-profit dedicated to supporting men in recovery from the disease of alcoholism or drug addiction, all of the goods that we sell have been donated.” Store Manager Shane Fleming explains. “Given the number of men who face this struggle on an ongoing basis, plus the fact that addiction cuts across every social and cultural boundary, new stuff is arriving every day and
November 29 - December 12, 2018
Beacon House Exchange Thrift Store (812 S. Pacific Ave.) Unlike the shops featured above, The Beacon House Exchange is a non-profit thrift store, gathering and selling a wide array of donated
You’ll find contact information for these and other vendors in RLn’s recently published Retro Pedro guide at www.randomlengthsnews.com.
Times: Friday through Saturday, 8 p.m., 2 p.m. Sunday. The show runs through Dec. 1 Cost: $14 to $24 Details: (562) 494-1014; www.lbplayhouse.org Venue: Long Beach Playhouse, 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach
Dramatique (319 W 6th St., San Pedro) Rocking the motto “Anything but Ordinary” for more than a decade, Dramatique is the place to find everything a girl wants — including jewelry, shoes, purses, lingerie, hats, leather and lace, vintage, costumes, theatrical and fun dressing for special occasions as well as year round. It’s a distinct difference from traditional vintage or thrift store fare. “People come to Dramatique because they know they will find timeless, high-end garments at a fraction of what they originally cost,” owner Martine Klein said. “These are people who want to go to a party and be the only one who is wearing ‘that’ dress. They want to be different, that’s why they don’t buy off the rack at a traditional retail shop … What sets my store apart, I think, is that I have sought out and purchased every item with these customers in mind. ”
there is always a huge range in the types of merchandise that we have to offer. Secondly, all of the men who work in our store, including me, are either current residents or graduates of the program. In addition to the food, shelter and counseling that proceeds from this store provide, this workforce development experience offers an invaluable opportunity to help these men build a foundation in recovery and ultimately return to family, home and community.”
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Records offers music fans an increasingly rare opportunity to spend happy hours digging through store bins hunting for a variety of media — 331/3 revolutions per minute, 45 rpm, compact discs and even a few cassette tapes — as well as collectibles, DVDs, shirts, and other finds that only come from old-fashioned store shopping. Owner Jim Callon sums up the growing appeal of vinyl this way. “I have been in and around the music industry for some 50 years. I always believed in vinyl. I am noticing that for some of our younger customers it is a brandnew sound. They are used to hearing streamed music, which is just so compressed. Hearing music played the way it was made keeps them coming back I think. That and the fact that when they buy an album they are getting a real thing that they can hold in their hands. You can’t do that with an MP3. All in all, it’s just an entirely different experience than people get downloading 4,000 songs on a device and then hitting ‘random select’.”
include the use of a couple of parasols during a carriage ride and having an actor stand in for a particular portrait. The show’s pacing is also quite good. Act 1 may feel a little long (nearly 90 minutes), but with all the domestic drama that’s part and parcel of Pride and Prejudice, this minor failing is fully forgivable. Act 2, though, moves along joyfully. Contributing to the overall success is the mise en scène. Although Long Beach Playhouse is quite capable of putting together detailed sets when needed, for Pride and Prejudice they’ve gone relatively minimal, a choice that fits well with Jory’s adaptation. You’re never meant to forget that you’re receiving a piece of storytelling, but because the manner of that telling is so engaging you nonetheless fully invest in the story. Rebecca Roth’s subtle sound design helps us go there, marshaling both natural atmospheres and music (especially good in Act 2) to the task. The costumery is a triumph, with Donna Fritsche and Amanda Martin dressing up the cast as if they were in the most completely detailed replication of early 19th-century England. The Playhouse probably could have gotten away with less in a production whose visuals are otherwise minimal; however, perhaps with an eye toward how little there is to distract from the actors, Culver, Fritsche, and Martin took no chances. If you don’t know Pride and Prejudice, Long Beach Playhouse’s production is a great way to get acquainted. If you already love it, this is an equally great way to revisit an old friend.
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JOBS
MUSIC LESSONS
FOR SALE
Facilities Coordinator Part time position. International Bird Rescue San Pedro. Visit www.bird-rescue.org for full job description & contact info.
First lesson FREE. VIOLIN LESSONS in your home with Jim Sitterly, concertmaster of Alias, Lost and Fringe. All levels. 310-548-1659. www.JimSitterly.com.
HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/ mo! FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-800490-4140 (AAN CAN)
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CAREER TRAINING
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AIRLINE CAREERS begin here – Get started by training as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 800725-1563. www.IncomeCentral.net (AAN CAN)
VEHICLES CASH FOR CARS: Any Car/ Truck 2000-2015, Running or Not! Top Dollar For Used/ Damaged. Free Nationwide Towing! Call Now: 1-888-4203808 (AAN CAN)
HEALTH Struggling with DRUGS or ALCOHOL? Addicted to PILLS? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 800-978- 6674 (AAN CAN)
Lung Cancer? And Age 60+? You And Your Family May Be Entitled To Significant Cash Award. Call 844-898-7142 for Information. No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket. (AAN CAN) Suffering from an ADDICTION to Alcohol, Opiates, Prescription PainKillers or other DRUGS? There is hope! Call Today to speak with someone who cares. Call NOW 1-855-266-8685 (AAN CAN)
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Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2018274532 The following person is doing business as:(1) Barricade Services, 3602 S. Cabrillo, San Pedro, CA 90731, Los Angeles County. Registered owners: David Cheek, 3602 S. Cabrillo, San Pedro, CA 90731. This Business is conducted by an individual. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 11/2013. 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 Cheek, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Oct. 30, 2018. 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 expire 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 rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 11/15/2018,
les on Nov. 6, 2018. 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 expire 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 rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 11/15/2018, 11/29/2018, 12/6/2018, 12/13/2018
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PEDRO PET PALS is the only group that raises funds for the City Animal Shelter and FREE vaccines and spay or neuter for our community. (310) 991-0012
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Poetry Book — Shadow Lands: Reflection on some people I’ve known. 12 original poems by RLn Publisher James Preston Allen. $10+$1.50 s/h Beacon Light Press, P.O. Box 731, San Pedro, CA 90733.
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PLEASE HELP! 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 PLEASE SPAY/NEUTER YOUR PET! *In any condition. We will wash and mend.
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2018280385 The following person is doing business as: (1) Harris Realty, (2) Harris Enterprises, (3) Golden Greek Charters, (4) Golden Greek Leasing, 870 W. 9th Street #200, San Pedro, CA 90731, Los Angeles County. Registered owners: George J. Harris, 870 W. 9th Street #200, San Pedro, CA 90731. This Business is conducted by a corporation. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 05/1976. 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/. George J. Harris, President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Ange-
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ACROSS
1 Beetle variety 5 Did some community theater, say 10 “Ben-Hur” novelist Wallace 13 Its state song is the creatively titled “The Song of [that state]” 14 Potato often used for fries 16 Spot in la mer 17 Starting at the beginning 19 Element #50 20 “For rent,” in other, shorter words 21 Want ad palindrome 22 Tater ___ 23 1920s mobster who mainly worked in bootlegging and numbers rackets 28 Aries symbol 31 Tie type 32 Voicemail sound 33 All excited 35 What the “J” in TMJ doesn’t stand for 36 German submarine 39 Find a way to make things happen 43 Doctor’s directive 44 Traveling through 45 Like, making your mind blown 46 Obnoxious kid
48 Full pairing? 50 Some NCAA players 51 With “The,” fantasy video game series including “Oblivion” and “Skyrim” 55 Actress Whitman of “Parenthood” 56 Shepherd’s pie tidbit 57 Topple 61 The O. Henry ___-Off 62 “Yeah, pretty unlikely” 66 Jay Presson Allen play about Capote 67 Will’s concern 68 Ireland, in Ireland 69 Thanksgiving dinner item 70 Industrial city of the Ruhr Valley 71 Kit piece
DOWN
1 Prepare flour for baking 2 Bull, in Bilbao 3 Gone wrong? 4 Played in Las Vegas 5 Trajectory influenced by gravity 6 Dog, unkindly 7 Gatekeeping org.? 8 “Melrose Place” actor Rob 9 Boil down 10 Kiddos 11 Playwright T.S._______
12 Fall Out Boy bassist Pete 15 Words after “on” or “by” 18 Ticket remainder 24 Japanese general of WWII 25 Casino delicacy? 26 In any way 27 Without being asked 28 Does 2 Chainz’s job 29 Freebie at a Mexican restaurant 30 Element #42 (which for some reason isn’t in as many puzzles as, say, 19-Across) 34 Fierce look 37 Antiquing material 38 Cocoa amts. 40 Permanent marker brand 41 Grain-storage building 42 Like Boban Marjanovic 47 Blood-sucking African fly 49 Musical ligature 51 Like new vacuum bags 52 Michelle’s predecessor 53 Throws, as dice 54 1994 movie mainly set on a bus 58 Start to awaken 59 Hosiery shade 60 The other side 63 Small batteries 64 Sault ___ Marie, Mich. 65 Bill of Rights count
RANDOMLetters [Letters from p. 9]
the city of Carson does not care about this project it might be a waste of money. The Los Angeles County Supervisor Ridley-Thomas has led efforts to consider the golf course as alternative uses. This decision the Board of Supervisors is going to make will be crucial. In November 2017 they passed a motion to reconstruct the golf course into a multipurpose room and recreation center. During the motion, they had approved a negotiating agreement with the Kimmelman Foundation to help with the project. Supervisor RidleyThomas complained that the course underperformed compared to the county’s other courses and called for exploring alternative recreational uses. Ridley-Thomas’
opinion of the plans on the golf course is controversial against the other members of the county board of supervisors. The reconstruction of the golf course was impromptu. I believe it should be an alternative use of the property because the 87 acres of land should go to a good cause. The good cause is controversial but it can be helpful to the whole city of Carson and the citizens. I think the author has left something out on purpose and created this article for a reason because to know the opportunities we have in our community and take an advantage of it. To conclude, whatever we believe in is good for our community we should do something to obtain that so our citizens in our community can share it and believe in it. Marvin Gomez San Pedro High School
Homelessness
In the article, Homelessness it states that, “ Nothing gets done unless you have a study or a report.” Which is true because no one is going to take time out of their day to research something. I also agree with you that many people think the homeless population consists of “ drug addicts, sex offenders, and psychos invading their neighborhoods.” Over 100,000 people are homeless, so 100,000 people are those things. I am a student at San Pedro High: Olguin Campus and I am familiar with the San Pedro protest that was on Gaffey Street. Though I go to San Pedro High, I live in the City of Carson and when I go to places with my family I always see homeless people on every street and nothing is being done about it. The main thing we can do about about this is what the people
of San Pedro did which is protest for the homelessness to end and/ or helpLAUSD the homeless Resources people by giving them water. That can improve their lives because the homeless would feel like someone cares for them and that someone is trying to help them. The real question is what will the government do to fix this problem? Maiya Horn San Pedro High School
[Crisis from p. 7]
Climate Crisis is Here
California’s deadliest and most destructive wildfire has resulted in 79 deaths, thousands of people dislocated and 699 people still unaccounted for. File photo
suggests establishing a select committee to draft legislation for a sweeping transformation of the American economy on a scale similar to the original New Deal, with these specific 10-year goals:
(1) 100 percent of national power generation from renewable sources;
(2) Building a national, energyefficient “smart” grid;
(5) Decarbonizing the repair and improvement of transportation and other infrastructure; (6) Funding massive investment in the drawdown and capture of greenhouse gases;
(7) Making “green” technology, industry, expertise, products and services a major export of
November 29 - December 12, 2018
(4) Decarbonizing manufacturing, agricultural and other industries;
The basic idea had 70 percent support in a 2015 poll. Ocasio-Cortez’s plan is similar to one developed by Data for Progress prior to the midterm elections. “Green New Deal combines two things voters love: the environment and jobs,” Data for Progress co-founder Sean McElwee said. “Pundits are trapped in a framework in which the environment is pitted against jobs, which is silly.” We’ve been stuck in silly far too long. Time is running out. No one knows where or when the next wildfire, the next heatwave, or other climate disaster will strike. We only know that it won’t be the last.
(3) Upgrading every residential and industrial building for state-of-the-art energy efficiency, comfort and safety;
the United States, with the aim of becoming the undisputed international leader in helping other countries transition to completely carbon neutral economies and bringing about a global Green New Deal.
Real News, Real People, Really Effective
our economy, national security, essential services, and health and well-being.” Below that top-line figure is a wealth of devastating detail, including specific regional analyses. “Exposure to hotter temperatures and heat waves already leads to heatassociated deaths in Arizona and California,” the report notes in its section devoted to the Southwest. “Analyses estimated that the area burned by wildfire across the western United States from 1984 to 2015 was twice what would have burned had climate change not occurred. Wildfires around Los Angeles from 1990 to 2009 caused $3.1 billion in damages.” In addition, “Tree death in mid-elevation conifer forests doubled from 1955 to 2007 due, in part, to climate change.” Sea level rise is also already a problem. “At the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, sea level rose 9 inches (22 cm) between 1854 and 2016. Climate change caused most of this rise by melting of land ice and thermal expansion of ocean water,” the report notes. In short, the report’s message is that climate change already impacts us in myriad different ways. It’s not just the extreme events like hurricanes Florence and Harvey, or wildfires that now threaten us well after Halloween, and those impacts will only grow more severe over time. Perhaps the most hopeful sign of response is a proposal for a Green New Deal from the youngest woman ever elected to the House of Representatives, New York’s Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. She
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November 29 - December 12, 2018
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