RLn 12-16-21

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[See Historic, p. 3]

Carson shake-up following Swearing-in Day p. 5 A miracle pop-up bar’s out of The Ordinarie Xmas cocktails p. 12

Redistricting Commission could divide San Pedro along Assembly lines By Hunter Chase, Community News Reporter

Pedro, most of coastal and I think pretty much all of central, would then go into an Assembly district with Wilmington and on up to Harbor Gateway and Compton. The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council held an emergency meeting on Dec. 6 to pass a motion 14-0 to oppose splitting San Pedro between Assembly, Congressional and Senate districts. Ross called the meeting after attending the commission’s meetings and noticing the changes on Dec. 3. She also put out a petition stating the same thing, which has gathered 388 signatures as of press time. “I felt like it was urgent, that we … take a position and make a comment to ensure that all of San Pedro was in one Assembly district,” Ross said. “We get better representation, clearly, if we’re together, and we have one Assembly member. We’re stronger, and [have] larger voting numbers.”

The Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council also passed a motion 12-2, with two abstentions, urging that San Pedro be in only one district. Board members Craig Goldfarb and Cynthia Gonyea opposed the motion, John DiMeglio and Tom Norman abstained. The ILWU Southern California District Council released a press release opposing the splitting San Pedro between Assembly districts. “As a critical part of the local economy we should not have our political and community interests divided up for the political power of the few,” wrote Floyd E. Bryan, president of the ILWU Southern California District Council. “We have our own issues being a port community including air pollution, traffic, noise and light pollution from the shipping industry that surrounds our community. We deserve a singular

December 16 - 22, 2021

The 2020 California Citizens Redistricting Commission is proposing separating San Pedro between two Assembly districts, according to the Dec. 8 draft of the commission’s map. However, the commission is proposing unifying San Pedro in one congressional district, according to the Dec. 13 draft of the commission’s map. For the past ten years, it has been split between two congressional districts, said Dan Dixon, board member of the Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council. The commission had kept the entirety of San Pedro in the same Assembly district until Dec. 3, said Shannon Ross, president of the San Pedro Democratic Club. “The line for the Assembly districts runs up Western Avenue to 19th Street, over 19th Street to Gaffey, and then north on Gaffey,” Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council President Doug Epperhart said. “It essentially puts all of northwest into an Assembly district with Torrance and I believe Redondo Beach. The rest of San

Meet the Ellises — The principals of film production company, South Bay Talent Group, talk about creating opportunities p. 11

Splitting Up San Pedro

Charlie the Tuna, mascot for Star-Kist Tuna for 60 years.

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

he grand old Star-Kist Cannery, an iconic presence on the Los Angeles waterfront nearly 40 years after it was closed, has been targeted for demolition by the Los Angeles Harbor Department last month. The facility’s origins can be traced to 1918 when it was founded as the French Sardine Company by Yugoslavian immigrant Martin J. Bogdanovich and other prominent San Pedro families. The facility, renamed Star-Kist Tuna Cannery in 1952 and was the main plant, held the distinction of being the single-largest cannery in the world at the time. Star-Kist was the largest of several major tuna canneries, including Chicken of the Sea, which operated on Terminal Island for many decades and revolutionized seafood consumption through the introduction of canned tuna. There remain three tuna canning companies that were once American-owned that still dominate the industry today, all three are foreign-owned with headquarters in the United States. As of the 2017 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s report imports of canned tuna were 141,480 tons, up 8,882 tons (6.7%) from 2016. The value of canned tuna imports also increased by $108.9 million (20.8%) from 2016. Star-Kist closed its facilities on Terminal Island in 1984, and moved its operations overseas, but the buildings continued to represent a significant link to Los Angeles’ once-mighty tuna industry. The Star-Kist Main Plant is also significant for its design by John K. Minasian, a prominent engineer and designer who worked on projects at Cape Canaveral and Edwards Air Force Base and served as the chief engineer of the iconic Space Needle, which opened at the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair.

[See Redistricting, p. 17] 1


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December 16 - 22, 2021

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant


[Historic, from p. 1]

Historic Cannery Threatened When it was completed, the Star-Kist Main Plant was the single-largest example of tilt-up construction built by private industry on the West Coast. Giving this industrial facility further distinction is the unusual level of architectural detailing on the harbor-facing façade, which was viewed primarily by fishermen in the harbor and employees entering the building. Most of the Main Plant remains standing and remains a significant example of a cannery facility at the Port of Los Angeles. And yet canned tuna is still a major commodity that is imported. Canning facilities for the big three companies have shifted away from the West Coast. They’ve moved, in some cases, to territories like Puerto Rico and American Samoa, where wages are lower but, because they’re still technically on U.S. soil, there aren’t any import tariffs. Those big three brands themselves have changed ownership again and again over the years, with companies like Pillsbury, Heinz, and Ralston Purina all dipping their toes in the tuna business. These days, the big American tuna companies aren’t American. About 25% of the world’s tuna

Environmental Quality Act, or CEQA, in case of future development of the site. The 30-day review period ended on Dec. 16 but has now been extended into January. Threatened historic resources make up only 3% of Terminal Island’s total acreage, yet the island reflects a great deal of history: • It housed a vibrant Japanese-American community of nearly 3,000 residents, who were the first in the nation to be forcibly removed from their homes and interned during World War II.

• It played a crucial role in both world wars as a major shipbuilding center, setting world records for speedy delivery to support the war effort.

• It launched a worldwide tuna canning industry that made tuna fish a staple of American households and fostered LA’s growth as a major industrial hub.

San Pedro residents and many others with ties to the old cannery expressed alarm and dismay at the port’s plans, while others suggested alternative plans. Rudy Vanderhider offered a description of what remains of the Star-Kist cannery on Terminal Island in a Facebook post: [See Star-Kist, p. 6]

December 16 - 22, 2021

• At the height of production, as many as 10,000 workers of all nationalities made their living working in this plant that supported families all over the Harbor Area.

processing is done in Thailand. Although the ultimate future use of the site is unknown, in the immediate future it could be used for cargo support, which can be anything between container or chassis storage to chassis repair and maintenance, since these types of uses are already allowed in this location under the applicable zoning and the Port Master Plan. However, the POLA isn’t even considering issuing an RFP to see what other uses the facility might be used for, or even the possibility of bringing back a tuna cannery. As a result, the Mitigated Negative Declaration will also consider the impacts from the development and operations of a chassis repair and maintenance depot in order to analyze the impacts under the California

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

Top, heading home after a shift at Star-Kist Plant 4 in 1963. Photo courtesy of Port of Los Angeles archive. Above, cannery workers at Fish Harbor in 1945. The white uniforms earned the women the nickname of Tuna Nurses. Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Public Library/Shades of LA

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December 16 - 22, 2021

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant


Community Announcements:

Committed to Independent Journalism in the Greater LA/LB Harbor Area for More Than 40 Years

Harbor Area Healthcare Open Enrollment

If you need quality health care coverage, now is the time to enroll. American Rescue Plan subsidies are available to hundreds of thousands of middle-income Californians who are either uninsured or who pay for health coverage directly from a health insurance carrier off-exchange. This year’s open enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace runs until Jan. 15, 2022. Details: 800-318-2596; https://localhelp/ healthcare.gov

Carson Shake-up Following Swearing-in Day

California Redistricting — Still Time to Provide Input

On Dec. 9, Carson’s city council fired Human Resources and Risk Management Director Faye Moseley and placed on administrative leave City Manager Sharon Landers during a special meeting launched by the new council majority of Mayor Pro Tem Jim Dear, Councilwoman Arlene Rojas and Councilman Jawane Hilton. These actions were taken two days after newly elected From left: On Dec. 9 Human Resources and Risk Management Director Faye Moseley was fired and City Manager Sharon City Clerk Myla Rahman Landers was placed on administrative leave. Newly-elected City Clerk Myla Rahman resigned before she was sworn in. resigned from office before she was because of the optics of firing the city’s first was sworn into office. Officially, it’s not clear if the post of principal administrative analyst. female city manager after making such a big deal the three events are related, but with Carson being On the Firing of City Manager Sharon over it. Carson, it wouldn’t be surprising if it is. Meni explained that the city council’s approval Rahman has not publicly provided a reason Landers City clerk candidate runner-up Falea’Ana of Landers’ reorganization plan in which the H.R. for her resignation, and there’s significant doubt Meni believes neither Landers nor Moseley director reported directly to her instead of reporting she will. Moseley’s firing came a week after she and should have been hired, due to their lack of to the assistant city manager was a red flag. “But the H.R. Director had no public sector her husband Clifton were successfully sued by public sector experience. Meni spoke further about Landers. experience, so that even caused other issues,” the National Sales Network for embezzlement of “It was apparent from the very beginning Meni explained. funds from the nonprofit’s Los Angeles chapter. Meni went on to note that the same issues The National Sales Network is a nonprofit that she didn’t have what the city needed,” membership organization whose objective is to Meni said. “Nor does she have the skill sets to exist with Carson’s director of Public Works, Eliza meet the professional needs of sales professionals. help our city and you know this mess that we’ve Whitman. “You don’t even have to take my word for Random Lengths News emailed City been dealing with over the last several years.” Meni blames the incumbent members of the it. Listen to the last environmental commission Manager Landers about Rahman and whether the 21-month long lawsuit against Moseley would city council for the mess. Meni explained that meeting I participated in,” Meni said. “It was one of the reasons the council didn’t act sooner impact Moseley’s job. Landers replied: [See Shake Up, p. 16] There is no press release and Myla offered no reason for her resignation. I believe your facts on Mrs. Moseley are not correct but that is not for me to speak to. I can say that the resignation by City Clerk Rahman in no way affects Mrs. Moseley’s position.

The California Citizens Redistricting Commissioners reports that the map iterations have morphed daily and will continue to do so. They urge you to continue to check their website and join meetings to follow the process. The commission intends to finish all maps on Dec. 20, then letting the maps sit for three days for public review as is required by law. They hope to formally approve the maps on Dec. 26, and deliver the maps to the Secretary of State on Dec. 27. The maps are enacted at the time the commission certifies them to the SoS, but they would not become effective until after the 90-day referendum period. The Constitution also takes into consideration a 45-day period in which the maps could be legally challenged. Assembly iterations for Dec. 8 are now posted on the We Draw The Lines website under handouts in shapefile and equivalency file formats. They have also been uploaded to a map viewer as a layer. Handouts: https://www.wedrawthelinesca. org/11_30_12_1-4_12_6_handouts Map Viewer: https://www.wedrawthelinesca.org/ map_viewer Provide feedback: The commission will take public comment at the end of each meeting day. Details: Call in number for this week: 877-8535247, Code: 884 6542 9407, *9 to get in queue or use the commission’s feedback form to provide feedback directly to the commission: https:// www.wedrawthelinesca.org/contact Details: www.wedrawthelinesca.org

Long Beach Redistricting Changes Take Effect Dec. 18

Long Beach Booster Clinics Expanded for December

Donate to The Bamboo Club’s annual toy drive. When you make a donation, you’ll be entered into a raffle to win a holiday basket of Bamboo Club swag and merchandise plus a $100 gift card. Bring your unwrapped gifts to Bamboo Club, and all donations will be provided to the Friends [See Announcements, p. 6]

Her reply was sent at 3:19 p.m., a couple of hours before the City Council’s special meeting. The Atlanta, Georgia-based organization sued the couple following a financial audit of its Los Angeles chapter. According to the audit, the Moseleys wrote checks to themselves personally or used the company debit card on at least 80 occasions without explanation or supporting documentation. The Moseleys were allegedly given more than seven months to produce documentation for the expenditures and to date, had failed to account for them. According to the court documents, the debits and withdrawals from the NSN LA Chapter’s accounts appeared to have been applied to gas, groceries, hotel stays, limousine rentals and other expenditures. This isn’t the first time Mrs. Moseley has been called to account over funny accounting practices. Last May, 2 Urban Girls, a Carson news outlet, reported on Moseley’s questionable travel reimbursement requests related to recruiting for

Assemblyman Mike Gipson, Supervisor Janice Hahn, Councilman Joe Buscaino, CD15 candidates Tim McOsker and Danielle Sandoval and others attended a vigil for the victims of a shooting in Wilmington on Dec. 7. A 12-year-old boy was fatally shot. A 9-year-old girl and a woman in her 30s were also shot and remained in the hospital at the time of the vigil. The Los Angeles Police Department is offering a $25,000 reward for information on the shooter. Photo by Chris Villanueva

December 16 - 22, 2021

The Bamboo Club Annual Toy Drive

Wilmington Vigil for Slain Boy

With the success of the Friday booster clinics at Main Health in November, the Long Beach Health Department extended COVID-19 vaccine booster clinics to December. The clinics will take place at Main Health, to provide booster shots to those who are eligible. The drive-through clinics will take place Dec. 17. LBCC/Vets Stadium will also be hosting booster clinics on Wednesdays from 2 to 6 p.m. A complete listing of vaccine and booster clinics for December can be found below. Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. Dec. 17 Details: https://tinyurl.com/LB-booster Venue: Main Health, 2525 Grand Ave., Long Beach

By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

The newly drawn council districts will go into effect Dec. 18. If you’d like to contact your new council district, please use the email addresses listed below. The changes to the 4th council district borders are substantial, and all neighborhoods leaving CD4 are south of PCH: Clark to Redondo will be in CD3 — District3@longbeach.gov Redondo to Junipero will be in CD2 — District2@longbeach.gov Junipero to Gardenia will be in CD6— District6@longbeach.gov For CD3 and CD5 residents coming to the 4th, contact District4@longbeach.gov Details: Check the zoomable map here: www./mapit.longbeach.gov/longbeach/pubmaps/final-maps

Carson’s H.R. director fired, city manager placed on leave and newly elected city clerk resigns before she even starts

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Community Announcements:

Harbor Area

[Announcements, from p. 5]

of Long Beach Firefighters organization for their annual toy drive benefiting children in the community. Raffle winner will be announced Dec. 20. Time: Now thru Dec. 19 Details: www.friendsoflbfire.org/spark-of-love Venue: 3522 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach

LBFD Spark of Love Toy Drive

The Long Beach Fire Department holiday toy drive is underway. Please help Long Beach Fire Department spread some holiday cheer this year. Monetary and toy donations are being accepted now through Dec. 24. Unwrapped toy donations may be dropped off outside all LBFD fire stations. Please wear your mask when dropping off toys Time: Now thru Dec. 24

Upgrade to a Real ID for Free

The Department of Motor Vehicles is offering eligible Californians a free Real ID upgrade for a limited time for anyone who received a driver’s license or identification card during the pandemic. If you renewed your license or ID card between March 2020 and July 2021 you are eligible. You have until Dec. 31, 2021 to get a free Real ID. A Real ID is not required; however, if you wish to continue to use your driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights within the U.S. or enter secure federal facilities, you will need a Real ID by the new May 3, 2023 deadline. This offer is set to expire at the end of the year, so be sure to visit the DMV website for more information. Details: www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/identificationcards/real-id

Join the Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant

Between Jan. 25 to Jan. 27, 2022, thousands of community members across greater Los Angeles will be counting their neighbors experiencing homelessness. The count, which is mandated by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, helps paint a picture of the progress, trends and shifts in the fight to end homelessness. Help make this count possible by volunteering in your community. The LA Homeless Count is the biggest in the nation and can only be made possible by volunteers. Ensure that community members experiencing homelessness get counted. Details: www.theycountwillyou.org

December 16 - 22, 2021

Historic Star-Kist

• Plant 1 or the pet food side is gone a few years now. Plant 4 is still there largely. Not much that anyone would recognize. The main entrance facade is recognizable, the rest is just rusting industrial stuff. A great history and employment for thousands, mostly immigrant moms like mine.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Missing Persons Unit investigators are asking for the public’s help locating a missing person named Imelda Christina Tapia. She is a 30 year-old female Hispanic who was last seen at 10 p.m. Nov. 19, on the 1100 block of W. Fiat St., in Torrance.    Imelda is 5’4” tall, 100 pounds with short black hair cut in a bob hairstyle and brown eyes. Tapia wears glasses, and was last seen wearing unknown colored pants and a green sweatshirt. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the LASD Missing Persons Unit at 323-890-5500. To provide information anonymously, call 800222-8477.

Long Beach Fire Department is now serving as a primary operating partner for UCLA Health’s Mobile Stroke Unit Program or MSU, a shared emergency medical service that provides life-saving therapies to potential stroke patients throughout the Los Angeles County region. As a primary operating partner, LBFD is dedicating one firefighter/paramedic to serve as a team member for the MSU. Details: www,longbeach.gov/press-releases/ long-beach-fire/msu

Historical to the community and its history needs to be preserved. It means so much to many. It is the history of this community and is a historical landmark. LA needs to stop destroying the history of San Pedro for their own financial gain and giving nothing back to San Pedro. If it was not for San Pedro there would be no Los Angeles.

And yet it is not just the cultural history of the last tuna cannery that is at stake, what is not being considered is what might be done to create

• During the Reagan administration as globalization was gaining traction, the tariff on imported canned products was dropped and that was it. The canneries and fleets had to move offshore to compete. Then the naval shipyard under Clinton. From any hill in San Pedro you looked out on thousands of good largely Union jobs. We were just one town in America, just imagine all the others that sank or died on the trickle-down lie.

more jobs for the export economy.

Lindsey Cota said the following: ‘... for short term use and unknown potential long term use,’ tells me someone wants to use the lot and doesn’t have a long-term plan after they demolish a historical building that is part of the fabric of San Pedro. Seems about par for the course with developers here. There is a growing sentiment amongst the San Pedro community that sees this as a short term solution that ignores the possible long term benefits.

Anthony Misetich, former honorary mayor of San Pedro, wrote to the Port of LA opposing this move: Numerous individuals and organizations including the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council, the Los Angeles Conservancy, the Dalmatian American Club of San Pedro all advocate for the preservation of the facility. Since the plant was [once] used in tuna canning, it can be repurposed for canning any type of food products. Another RFP (nationwide) should be released in 2022 targeting those companies in the food industry, especially in California’s central valley to gauge their interest. Since the facility is located in the middle of export facilities, I am sure that a suitable suitor for the facility can be found, in line with the goals outlined in the Port’s Master Plan.

Truly the decade of the 1980s was crushing for the greater LA Harbor Area. By the end of 1990 ,because of globalization, this area lost some 30,000 blue-collar jobs according to one report from that era. And those jobs just never returned. Emil Erdelez said this: The Main Plant

is

The matter will come back to the Board of Harbor Commissioner in January and public comments are sure to rise up in opposition. Only time will tell if the port is more concerned about the present supply chain crisis or the future of job creation and exports. Top, the municipal ferry buiding at the foot of 6th Street. The ferry took cannery workers across the channel to Terminal Island. Above, a tuna catch is offloaded and on its way for processing. Photos courtesy Port of Los Angeles archive. Left, comraderie on the processing line at Star-Kist. File photo.

LASD Asks for Help Locating Missing Person Imelda Christina Tapia, Torrance

LB Fire, Primary Operating Partner for UCLA Health’s Mobile Stroke Unit

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[Star-Kist, from p. 3]

My Recycled Life —

House Is a Museum By Lyn Jensen, Columnist

My mother, a frustrated artist, turned her suburban home into her own personal museum. She painted most of the walls white like an art gallery, the better to show off her art collection, and furnished the living room with eight tall glass display cases packed with still more art, crafts, curios, collectibles, antiques, mementos, memorabilia and relics of her life. I love displaying those things as much as she did, but I don’t like the prospect of living in a museum. I don’t like those glass display cases — they’re hazardous. Two years and two estate sales later, though, all eight cases are still where they were, and all serve a useful function, serving as much-needed storage space in a house that remains packed with lifetimes of accumulated material goods. Each sale has emptied out a few shelves, but each time the shelves have simply provided new spaces for clutter cleared from other areas of the house.

At this stage the easy choices have been made. The obvious trash has been trashed, the obvious donations donated, the most saleable items sold. One entire case remains, taken up by the family collection of bottles and glassware. Another case is stuffed with relics from my mother’s childhood — some of her dolls, her antique doll tea set, animal figurines, baby spoons, decorative plates — that I haven’t found a buyer for. What I call the “united nations” collection — Asian, African, Latin American curios — fill a third case. Keep going, there’s more: heirlooms from my father’s family, relics from my childhood, sports memorabilia, basketry, pottery, rocks, shells, figurines, souvenirs, tins, candleholders — and that’s just some of what’s on display in the living room. Wait ‘til you see the rest of the house. One or two buyers from auction houses have expressed interest in the glass display cases, but

James Preston Allen is the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council Port Committee chair.

only the glass display cases, nothing else. I can’t sell the cases without somewhere else to put the contents. One estate-sales man offered to have workers come and pack the contents into crates and move all the crates and cases into my garage — for a hefty price, of course. That would crowd more things into a garage too crowded already, and it doesn’t address the primary issue — how to ultimately dispose of the cases or what they contain. Since moving in I’ve been struggling to make the house less like a museum and more like a living space. Most of the rooms have a new color scheme. The living room has been painted a sandy, sunny Southwestern peach, displaying Western art from the family collection. Most of the bulky Danish mid-century modern furniture has been sold, and what’s left leans to the functional and minimal. Those glass cases are (still) proving to be a major challenge. Maybe by the end of 2022 all my family’s personal museum collection will be re-housed, in my home or somebody else’s, and those buyers can come and get the cases, if they still want them.


Real People, Real News, Really Effective

December 16 - 22, 2021

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Cultural Erasure From Beacon Street to Star-Kist By James Preston Allen, Publisher

ever been, exports have dropped to nearly 12% of the total cargo handled. They now export more empty containers than full ones. This imbalance of trade is currently being addressed, finally, in the U.S. Congress with the Ocean Shipping Reform Act coauthored by Rep. John Garmendi and Rep. Dusty Johnson. This rare bipartisan legislation of 2021 (H.R.4996), would: • Establish reciprocal trade to promote U.S. exports as part of the Federal Maritime Commission’s (FMC) mission. • Require ocean carriers to adhere to minimum service standards that meet the public interest, reflecting best practices in the global shipping industry. • Require ocean carriers or marine terminal operators to certify that any late fees — known in maritime parlance as “detention and demurrage” charges — comply with federal regulations or face penalties. • Shift burden of proof regarding the reasonableness of “detention or demurrage” charges from the invoiced party to the ocean carrier. • Prohibit ocean carriers from declining opportunities for U.S. exports unreasonably, as determined by the FMC in new required federal rulemaking. • Require ocean common carriers to report to the FMC each calendar quarter on total import/ export tonnage and twenty-foot equivalent units (loaded/empty) per vessel that makes port in the United States. What, you may ask, does all of this have to do with preserving the aging Star-Kist Tuna cannery or preserving any of the many historic structures in the port or in town? It’s the potential for creating new jobs. With the port hell-bent on making room for more containers they lose sight, without even issuing a Request For Proposals, as to who just might need a facility like this for domestic manufacture and export. The difference being that Star-Kist reimagined for canning any product would employ thousands and a chassis repair or parking lot for containers less than a hundred. And yet this doesn’t even go to the real issue of erasure of culture and history, which is at the root of the race into the unknown future. Think of the memories, if not the 200 jobs lost with the demolition of Ports O’ Call restaurant. What about the DiCarlo bakery being replaced by a

December 16 - 22, 2021

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant

It would seem like we are once again in a rush into an uncertain future. Whether it’s the housing shortage, the homeless crisis or the supply chain calamity. Suddenly everyone wants to tear down something just to fix what’s been broken for decades. The current notice that came from the Port of Los Angeles on Nov. 4 reads, “Recirculated Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Star-Kist Cannery Facility Project at 1050 Ways Street on Terminal Island. The proposed Project involves demolition of the former Star-Kist cannery facilities on an approximately 14-acre site on Terminal Island at the Port of Los Angeles.” When you get through the portspeak challenge, what you discover is that they want to erase the last remaining vestige of one of the historic industries of this community — the Star-Kist tuna cannery. We’ve seen this kind of thing before with the urban renewal project that destroyed old Beacon Street back in the 1970s. And even though it was done with the best of intentions, it is now looked upon as one of this town’s biggest mistakes. People still mourn “old Beacon Street,” but at the time there were just a few who saw the potential of saving it. For the following four decades, Harbor Area community leaders have been scratching their heads trying to bring back the “glory days” of a vibrant local economy with at least three different iterations of revitalization under various names and entities. Yet all of them have missed the core ingredient to success — bringing back the 30,000 harbor related jobs lost to the free trade policies of the Reagan/Bush/Clinton era. Yes, lifting tariffs on trade with China and passing NAFTA all resulted in exporting manufacturing jobs and importing economic decline at home. Many of our current social and economic problems are a direct result of these misguided policies. Currently, people are focused on inflation not realizing that the shipping monopolies that are clogging the supply chain are one of the main causes of rising prices. For instance, a single container shipped from China to Los Angeles a couple years ago once cost only $1,200; it now costs as much as $20,000 to $30,000. Some have gone so far as to call these foreign owned companies “pirates.” And this comes with the recent report from the port that while container counts are the highest they’ve

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“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. XLII : No. 26

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.

generic Target store? Think of what will be lost with the demolition of Dancing Waters nightclub or the edifice of the old La Rue’s pharmacy. What’s being erased and with what is being replaced? It’s more than an economic equation. It’s about what makes a place culturally unique, with its own history, memories and narratives of what went before. Don’t talk to me about nostalgia in a place so close to Los Angeles that tears down everything of the past while searching to reinvent itself for the future. This is the “modernist” moral of Los

Angeles that everything can be judged by current land values or ROI (return on investment) calculations. However, I object to the idea that everything can be whittled down to an economic equation. Yes, there are some things more important than money. And seeing as how the Port of Los Angeles is having one of its most profitable years ever, we should take a moment to stop and consider Star-Kist and what it actually means to this harbor community. And whether there aren’t some higher and better uses for it other than demolition.

Take It From a Trucker:

There’s No Trucker Shortage, It’s a Pay Shortage By Cyrus Tharpe, Hazmat Tanker Truck Driver We’re in a supply chain crisis. Store shelves are empty. Prices are skyrocketing. Ports are packed with freight waiting to be trucked out. Off the coast of New York and Los Angeles, cargo ships stacked with shipping containers now wait weeks to be unloaded. The trucking industry has blamed a driver shortage for goods not getting from port to shelf. But the truth is, there is no trucker shortage; there’s a pay shortage. I’m a hazmat tanker truck driver. I effectively drive a bomb for a living. And in 2020, I made only $4,000 more than I took home in 2005. I’ve spent my entire life living below the state median household income everywhere I lived. Truckers are the most logistically critical and

Columnists/Reporters Publisher/Executive Editor Melina Paris Assistant Editor/Arts James Preston Allen Staff Reporter james@randomlengthsnews.com Hunter Chase Fabiola Esqueda Carson Reporter Vera Magana Dining & Cuisine Writer Assoc. Publisher/Production Coordinator Photographers Suzanne Matsumiya Harry Bugarin, Arturo Garcia-Ayala, Terelle Jerricks, Raphael Richardson, Managing Editor Terelle Jerricks Chris Villanueva editor@randomlengthsnews.com Contributors Mark Friedman, Lyn Jensen, Ari Senior Editor LeVaux, Greggory Moore, Maria Ressa, Paul Rosenberg Cyrus Tharpe paul.rosenberg@ randomlengthsnews.com Cartoonists Internship Program Director Andy Singer, Jan Sorensen, Zamná Àvila Matt Wuerker

yet the lowest paid link in the supply chain. We haul the frozen turkeys that get carved at your table. We run oxygen tankers for half a shift and operate specialized equipment the other half. We pump off the jet fuel that launches planes into the sky and gravity drop the gasoline that combusts in your engine. The inputs and outputs of the world economy move through our hands and rest on our shoulders. If you got it, a trucker brought it. Who is a truck driver? We’re everybody. Truckers are Black and white. We’re Catholics, Evangelicals, Sikhs, Muslims, Hindus, Mormons and Jews. We are some of the least bigoted people around. Try hating on a dude you share a truck with. It don’t work.

Design/Production Suzanne Matsumiya, Brenda Lopez Advertising Sales Chris Rudd Chris@RandomLengthsNews.com Cindy Portillo

Editorial Intern

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[See Trucker, p. 9] 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 $40 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 2021 Random Lengths News. All rights reserved.


RANDOMLetters Port Seeks a Negative Declaration For Phillip’s 66!

In the middle of a fervent pledge to reduce petroleum import and use … the port is now engaging in this 40 YR lease for Phillips. “IF” we will no longer be importing fossil fuels why will there be an additional 30% increase in “ship calls”? Can this be related to the glut of butane and propane being generated by the refining process with an interest in exporting it? Does this involve the Rancho LPG facility and its vast storage of LPG (next to the Phillip’s refinery) as a means to re-open that shipping opportunity via a pipeline to the wharf? If so, this will “institutionalize” that massive and highly explosive facility that continues to threaten the entire region! Not unlike other “nefarious” and “controversial’’ port developments and projects, the timing of these approvals come during the holidays when people are distracted by the trappings of the season. PLEASE.....engage in the review of this situation and make comment. These comments are due by Dec. 20! From what I understand, the Northwest Neighborhood Council is requesting an extension. Hopefully, they will get that extension so that we all have time to participate. This could very well be a crucial development that...unless we engage.... undermines community safety for many years to come. Janet Gunter San Pedro

Demolition of the Star-Kist Cannery

I am writing this letter in opposition to the proposed demolition of the StarKist Cannery Plant # 4 located at 1050-1054 Ways Street on Terminal Island. I am requesting that the Los Angeles Harbor Department finds an alternative use for this historic building. The facility traces its origins to the French Sardine Co. founded on Terminal Island in 1918 by my grand uncle Martin J. Bogdanovich. While Star Kist closed its facilities on Terminal Island in 1984, the building continues to represent a significant link to Los Angeles’ once mighty tuna industry. The plant is also significant for its design by John K. Minasian, a prominent engineer who worked on projects at Cape Canaveral and Edwards Air Force Base and served as the chief engineer for the Space Needle at the Seattle world fair. It was the single largest example of tilt-up construction built by private industry on the West Coast and boasts an unusual level of architectural detailing on its fish harbor facing façade. It also was the workplace of tens of thousands of San Pedrans who made their living working at the facility. Star Kist Plant #4 was literally the economic engine for San Pedro for decades. It is for these reasons the facility should be preserved under the Port of Los Angeles Cultural Resource Policy of May 28, 2013.

[Trucker, from p. 8]

Trucker

For Public Comment

I am the granddaughter of Joseph M. Mardesich Sr. acknowledged as a “pioneer” of the California tuna canning industry who was a full founding partner of French Sardine Company inc. 1917-18, located in Fish Harbor on Terminal Island, California. The company was renamed Star Kist in the early 1950s. In c.1924 Mr. Mardesich sold out his interest to the other partner(s) and founded his own Franco Italian Packing Company that thrived as a “private label packer” for decades.

• Preparing and maintaining an inventory of historical, cultural and architectural resources of the Port;

and other sites owned by or located on property owned by the Harbor Department. Staff will consider historical resources at the earliest stages of planning, adaptive reuse in leasing transactions will be encouraged. It seems these items, and the third in particular, have been overlooked with respect to the recent proposal to raze the historic StarKist cannery building “Draft Initial Study”… APP No. 190311032 cited above. An excerpt from document “Introduction” contradicts the concept of preservation and adaptive use: “The primary objectives of the proposed Project are to create a parcel of land that is more marketable for future development, to reuse and capitalize the site more efficiently, and to alleviate public nuisance.” If indeed there is indeed an element of “public nuisance” at the

StarKist property and docks, then who created and caused it since the Harbor Department is the ostensible owner/manager of said property ergo it is their neglect that is at the root and why hasn’t the property been safely maintained? We among many in San Pedro and harbor communities believe in preservation in the concept of “repurpose.” The Star Kist edifice could function as a cannery for products other than fish shipped in from agrarian communities, and/ or other commerce affiliations and use for the building, this should be intensely investigated and explored. The POLA needs to stop the pattern of needlessly demolishing and consider more restoration and preservation. If we do not save our history today, it’s lost for tomorrow and future generations. Stephanie Mardesich San Pedro

• Completing a comprehensive survey to evaluate Port historical resources within two years of adoption of the policy and every five years thereafter. Buildings, objects, districts and sites within the Port that are at least 50 years old will be evaluated; resources less than 50 years old that have exceptional importance may also be reviewed; • Establishing priorities for preservation and adaptive reuse, where possible, of historical buildings, structures, districts

December 16 - 22, 2021

federal contractor working 40 hours a week (a taxpayer-funded employee) would spend about 30% of take-home pay on rent. This should be the baseline for all of us! Meanwhile, the largest corporations in America, my employer included, are federal contractors. Through executive order, “Union Guy” Joe could prioritize federal contracts to contractors who have collective bargaining agreements with their workforce. This would bring unions to the nation’s largest trucking and logistics companies, as well as to Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, big tech and low tech jobs alike. The message the president should be sending out is simple: You wanna suckle at that sweet fed teat? Unionize or you’re gonna get weaned. If Franklin Roosevelt taught us anything, it’s that presidents can make big things happen. With big unions, we built big modern power plants to electrify the nation. We built big factories that built fast-as-lightning cars, and union workers got big middle class paychecks. This is history, not hope. But I am not hopeful. The Democratic allegiance to working class unions is a campaign strategy, not a governing reality. We’re out of options. We can’t work our way out of poverty. We can’t vote our way out of poverty. I just turned 46. I live in a working poor neighborhood, where families gather at stop lights on the weekends collecting donations to cover funeral expenses for a dead little girl or cancer treatments for a dying old man. These streets are dotted with sidewalk signs peddling “cash for diabetic strips” and “cash for mobile homes.” These are ads for the end times. I can only hope that the supply chain crisis is the wakeup call we need.

Our family has a vested interest in the history of the fishing industry and the area known as “Fish Harbor”; and is a sponsor of the permanent exhibition “Caught, Canned and Eaten: The History of San Pedro’s Tuna & Canning Industry” in the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, where Grandfather’s bronze bust likeness, photographs and story are on view. For many years we have had concern about the disposition of the remaining buildings in Fish Harbor and spoken up previously. In May 2013 a policy regarding historic preservation was adopted and press release distributed by the Port of Los Angeles (POLA) on May 28 stating: “Groundbreaking Document Provides Framework for Preservation,” It included three important statements about the POLA commitment:

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

I worked 12 to 14 hour shifts throughout the pandemic. I caught COVID-19 from a coworker, since we share the same truck. So I took 10 days off and then went back to work. The boss class Zoomed it in, while the working class put out. Our jobs are essential because they are rooted in manufacturing and delivering goods, the underpinning of every major economy on the planet. And unlike politicians, we materially improve the lives of the American people. And yet, this “essential” job pays a garbage wage. The median annual income for a truck driver in this country is less than $40,000 a year. For many of us, 50% of our take-home pay immediately disappears to cover rent. Compare that to the median annual income for a cop in this country, which is $67,000 per year. That’s enough to buy a house, raise a family, and live a life. Meanwhile, truck drivers have the seventh most deadly job in America, with the highest number of fatalities per year, while cops come in twenty-second. A truck driver is 200% more likely than a cop to get killed on the job. Cops have unions. Most truckers don’t. Union jobs pay better and play safer. We need change. We need better pay and we need unions. This past April, President Joe Biden raised the federal contractor’s minimum wage to $15 an hour with executive order 14026. He should make it $25 an hour. Why $25? The median rent for a one bedroom apartment in this country is $1,422 a month. $25 an hour means that the lowest paid employee of a

This policy assures that buildings such as Plant #4 are identified early in the planning process for proposed projects or potential leasing of vacant properties. Numerous individuals and organizations including the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council, the Los Angeles Conservancy, the Dalmatian American Club of San Pedro all advocate for the preservation of the facility. Since the plant was used in tuna canning, it can be repurposed for canning any type of food products. Another RFP ( nationwide) should be released in 2022 targeting those companies in the food industry, especially in California’s central valley to gauge their interest. Since the facility is located in the middle of export facilities, I am sure that a suitable suitor for the facility can be found, in line with the goals outlined in the Port’s Master Plan. Honorable Anthony Misetich Former Honorary Mayor of San Pedro, Former Mayor of the city of Rancho Palos Verdes

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Courage In Service of Others Filipina journalist Maria Ressa and Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov share the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize The following co-Nobel laureate Maria Ressa’s speech at Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo, Norway, Dec. 10.

December 16 - 22, 2021

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant

Your majesties, your royal highnesses, distinguished members of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, your excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I stand before you, a representative of every journalist around the world who is forced to sacrifice so much to hold the line, to stay true to our values and mission: to bring you the truth and hold power to account. I remember the brutal dismemberment of Jamal Khashoggi, the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia in Malta, my friend, Luz Mely Reyes in Venezuela, Roman Protasevich in Belarus (whose plane was literally hijacked so he could be arrested), Jimmy Lai languishing in a Hong Kong prison, Sonny Swe, who after getting out of more than seven years in jail, started another news group and now is forced to flee Myanmar. And in my own country, 23-year-old Frenchie Mae Cumpio, still in prison after nearly two years, and just 36 hours ago, the news that my former colleague, Jess Malabanan, was killed with a bullet to his head. There are so many to thank for keeping us safer and working. The #HoldTheLine Coalition of more than 80 global groups defending press freedom and the human rights groups that help us shine the light. There are costs for you as well: more lawyers have been killed than journalists in the Philippines — at least 63 compared to the 22

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journalists murdered after President Rodrigo Duterte took office in 2016. Since then, Karapatan, a member of our #CourageON human rights coalition, has had 16 people killed, and Senator Leila de Lima, because she demanded accountability, is serving her fifth year in jail. Or ABS-CBN, our largest broadcaster, a newsroom that I once led, which, last year, lost its franchise to operate. I helped create a startup, Rappler, turning 10 years old in January — we’re getting old — our attempt to put together two sides of the same coin that shows everything wrong with our world today: the absence of law and and Noble Peace Prize winners Maria Ressa and Dmitry democratic vision for the 21st Journalists Muratov embrace at the awards ceremony in Oslo, Norway Dec. 10. century. That coin represents our information ecosystem, which determines ing through our information ecosystem, prioritized everything else about our world. Journalists — by American internet companies that make more that’s one side — the old gatekeepers. The other money by spreading that hate and triggering the is technology, with its god-like power, the new worst in us. Well, that just means we have to work gatekeepers. It has allowed a virus of lies to harder. In order to be the good, we have to believe infect each of us, pitting us against each other, there is good in the world. bringing out our fears, anger, hate, and setting I have been a journalist for more than 35 years: the stage for the rise of authoritarians and dicta- I’ve worked in conflict zones and war zones in tors around the world. Asia, reported on hundreds of disasters, and while Our greatest need today is to transform that I have seen so much bad, I have also documented hate and violence, the toxic sludge that’s cours- so much good, when people who have nothing

offer you what they have. Part of how we at Rappler have survived the last five years of government attacks is because of the kindness of strangers, and the reason they help — despite the danger ­is because they want to, with little expectation of anything in return. This is the best of who we are, the part of our humanity that makes miracles happen. This is what we lose in a world of fear and violence. You’ve heard that the last time a working journalist was given this award was in 1936, awarded in 1935. He was supposed to come and get it in 1936; Carl von Ossietzky never made it to Oslo because he languished in a Nazi concentration camp. So, we’re here, hopefully a little bit ahead, because we are both here! By giving this to journalists today — thank you — the Nobel committee is signaling a similar historical moment, another existential point for democracy. Dmitry and I are lucky because we can speak to you now (Yay for court approvals)! But there are so many more journalists persecuted in the shadows with neither exposure nor support, and governments are doubling down with impunity. The accelerant is technology, when creative destruction takes new meaning. You’ve heard from David [Beasley]: we are standing on the rubble of the world that was, and we must have the foresight and courage to imagine what might happen if we don’t act now, and instead, please, create the world as it should be ­— more compassionate, more equal, more sustainable. To do that, please ask yourself the same question we at Rappler had to confront five years ago: What are you willing to sacrifice [See Ressa, p. 16]


The Principals of Film Production Company, South Bay Talent Group, Talk About Being Creatives and Opportunity

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(Producers Guild of America) and I’m creating my own path to do so.” When Crystal and Lee started in 2003, it was different. The couple noted that there weren’t as many platforms then as there are today. “Our first movie (Slumber Party) wasn’t at Blockbuster. [It] was actually on Netflix when Netflix first hit the scene between 2006 and 2008,” Crystal said. “It was an ultra low budget, independent, urban film on Netflix. “A lot of people used to get their stuff seen that way,” Crystal explained. “It’s a little bit harder to get on Netflix now for super ultra low budget, urban films.” But the Ellises can still say their work was on Netflix, Blockbuster and Hollywood Video. “Today, it’s a little bit easier now,” Crystal said. “There are so many streaming platforms that you can get on. And people can take advantage of that now. They don’t have to have the super fancy cameras so they can essentially shoot from anywhere, and it’s a little easier to get distribution and you can self distribute if you want.” Indeed, South Bay Talent Group films will be available on streaming platforms

including: Prime Video, Crackle, Tubi, Roku, Pluto, IMDb Tv, Redbox, Youtube, Vudu and more. A lot of the couple’s catalog are urban or romantic comedies and that was mainly because they were easier to shoot. However, one of the new films to be released in 2022 is a drama centered on lowrider culture called Shine Kings. [See Creatives, p. 14]

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

Crystal and Lee Ellis of South Bay Talent Group have four films slated for release in 2022. Photo by Harry Bugarin

December 16 - 22, 2021

rystal and Lee Ellis of the Carson-based South Bay Talent Group are exemplars of creatives choosing not to wait for a record label or the Hollywood elite to recognize their talent. They are the vanguard of creatives who already understood the assignment before film and television mogul Tyler Perry issued parting advice to dreamers after accepting the Chairman Prize of the NAACP Image Awards two years ago: “There are people whose lives are tied into your dream. Own your stuff, own your business, own your way.” The Ellises’ South Bay Talent Group produce films for streaming platforms such as Tubi, Prime video, YouTube, Hoopla and have four films slated for release in 2022. Crystal and Lee met when Crystal produced her first film in 2005, Slumber Party. After putting out several films in quick succession, with Lee starring in a number of them, Crystal and Lee fell in love, got married and started a family. They went on hiatus for a decade, shifting their attention to raising their two children. Crystal and Lee formed a new LLC as a married couple in 2017 after a couple of business partners they had started out with had decided to leave the entertainment business altogether. “We’ve been working with the same core team since we started 15 years ago,” Crystal explained. A 2003 alumnus of Cal State Dominguez with a degree in media production, Crystal explained that one of her sound-production teachers challenged her and her classmates to buy a prosumer camera (a hybrid of a consumer and professional camera, as the name implies). “So I bought my first prosumer camera and shot my first feature film,” Crystal said. “From there I thought this was kind of cool. We would come up with a story, we envisioned it. We [her and her team] pooled our resources together, then we go out there and shoot it.” Crystal’s vision for South Bay Talent Group was for it to feel like the experience she had making her first film — working with the same core talent team, with all of them growing and helping each other succeed in their own right and get to the next level. “It’s very competitive for actors to get those big gigs,” Crystal noted. “And so we kind of give them a platform and an opportunity.” Crystal said that there are a lot of talented people in the South Bay who are steady knocking on Hollywood’s door, but noted that nobody’s answering. She called South Bay Talent Group a second avenue for actors working with them. However, Crystal was clear that she and her husband weren’t just doing this to lift up other artists. “We’re building our own bridge as well,” she said. “As a screenwriter, ultimately my goal is to be part of the WGA (Writers Guild of America) and be part of the PGA

By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor

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December 16 - 22, 2021

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant

ocktails can be a warm comfort during the holidays. One way to find that comfort is via the Christmas pop-up bar, Miracle, at The Ordinarie in Long Beach. The Miracle pop-up bar concept was created in 2014 by Cocktail World’s Greg Boehm and his longtime bar manager Joann Spiegel in New York City. They have created a model and experience in Miracle pop-up bars which happen across the U.S., plus pop-ups in Canada, Europe, Asia and Central America. It’s no secret that bars and pubs have had to pivot and find new ways to serve their clientele during this extended pandemic. It takes creativity and imagination. Months before the COVID-19 pandemic, as if on cue, the seeds of the Miracle pop-up bar idea were planted across the nation and Southern California. The Ordinarie, run by Christy Caldwell and his wife Jaime, is where one of those seeds was planted. The Ordinarie annually hosts a Miracle pop-up for the Christmas season, bringing fans of the creative concoctions a tiki and Christmas themed setting. Professionally-developed cocktails, like Snowball Old-Fashioned — with rye, gingerbread, aromatic and wormwood bitters and orange essence, and Bad Santa — served hot with aged Jamaican rum, velvet falernum, mixed spice butter oat milk and nutmeg, are served amid kitschy over-the-top holiday décor and nostalgic energy. Paying homage to American drinking culture, The Ordinarie harkens back to the 17th and 18th century tavern experience. A little history on the origin of the restaurant/pub’s name explains, “The Ordinarie utilizes the 1600s spelling to designate a tavern. The terms Ordinarie, Tavern and Inn remained synonymous throughout most of the eighteenth century; these institutions were licensed to provide entertainment “for all persons” including “strangers and their horses.” The red-headed, Ireland born owner of The Ordinarie, Christy Caldwell, told RLN how Miracle began with a bar called Mace (pronounced Macy). Boehm and his partner, who

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A Miracle Pop-Up Bar’s Out of The Ordinarie Xmas Cocktails By Melina Paris, Assistant Editor

ered combination of smoked, buttery flavored Ube liqueur complemented by the sour-sweet of pineapple juice tempered by a sprinkling of powdered sugar decorated with mint leaves and a tiki umbrella. “In honor of the debated 1988 Christmas movie, Die Hard, “Yippie Ki Yay, Mother Fucker!” a purple holiday cocktail is served chilled in a red Santa Pants mug.” Christy says Miracle’s most popular cocktail is the “Christmapolitan,” a mix of vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce, lime, rosemary and absinthe mist — a must-try. Reservations are recommended for a timed period. Walk-ins are accommodated at the bar and the patio. The Ordinarie serves up American Tavern fare, which Christy noted is the history of hospitality in America. Before we finished, Christy offered a brief history of the cocktail’s origins. “The cocktail is an American creation so there’s been a lot of famous American bartenders,” Christy said. “You can’t see it now [the room is covered in wild Christmas decor] but pictures of American chefs and bartenders over the years are adorned all over the walls. “Cocktail is a style of drink. The cocktail itself was a bittered sling with spirits, bitters, sugar and water. Back in the day when you asked for a cocktail that’s what you would get. You asked for a sling, a sour, they all had different

Castillo, a bartender for The Ordinarie, poses with holiday cocktail. Photos by Arturo-Garcia

are well known in the cocktail world, opened a bar in the east village of New York. It was during November when they finally acquired it and they thought there was no way they could open a bar right before Christmas. The building itself needed renovations before opening. “[Boehm’s] mother suggested they just open a Christmas cocktail bar, as is ... really decorate it over the top Christmassy and make Christmas cocktails,” Christy said. “They did and it was a roaring success. The following year some of their bar owning friends wanted to do it as well and the next thing you know it became nationwide and eventually global.” The following year Miracle expanded locations. And in 2016, it went worldwide with pop-ups in Greece, Montreal and Paris. Now the concept has expanded to all corners of the U.S. In 2019, Christy met one of Mace’s owners at Tales of the Cocktail, an annual cocktail convention in New Orleans. “Next thing you know, I’m doing Long Beach’s version of Miracle Bar here at the Ordinarie.” This is the third year and it’s well-loved. Christy said the first year was crazy. “[It was] completely packed and people loved it,” he said. “It brought a part of Christmas to Long Beach. People were traveling here from San Diego, Los Angeles … people were searching for the mugs and different merchandise and drinking the cocktails.” The global shipping problems, he said, have

Christy Caldwell, owner of The Ordinarie, right, with the hostess.

taken their toll on some of their merchandise which is arriving late. Miracle merchandise includes holiday mugs and shot glasses which you can see on the menus and at www.miraclepopup.com Christy’s wife Jaime does all the kitschy decorating and all the cocktail recipes are part of The Miracle Pop Up and are the same in every location. California is home to about seven Miracle Pop-Ups, among them are San Francisco, Santa Rosa, San Diego, Temecula and Long Beach — the only location in Los Angeles County this year. There are more than 100 sites across the US. Asked what’s his favorite cocktail, Christy said, “I like the Yippie Ki Yay Mother F….r!” RLN photographer, Arturo Garcia-Ayala, had the pleasure of consuming Christy’s favorite “tiki cocktail” which he described as, “A lay-

names. Now we just call everything cocktail.” Christy added lore has it that “punch,” with its five ingredients for different tastes, was invented by the British in India — others maintain that the beverage originates from Eastern Asia. Mixing spirits with spices and fruits is common in that region of the world. Typical ingredients of an old-time punch were rum, water, lemons, sugar and spice [or sour, strong, sweet, aromatic and bitter]. The jovial Christy cautioned all of these stories are just stories. For a seasonal treat, oldfashioned hospitality and a good yarn, take your kith and kin to The Ordinarie to experience the delight of Miracle cocktails. Details: www.miraclepopup.com and www. theordinarie.com; 562-676-4261 Location: 210 The Promenade N, Long Beach


BIG NICK’S PIZZA

Tradition, variety and fast delivery or takeout—you get it all at Big Nick’s Pizza. The best selection of Italian specialties include hearty calzones, an array of pastas and our amazing selection of signature pizzas. We are taking all safety precautions to protect our diners and staff. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on new developments. Call for fast delivery or to place a pick up order. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fri.Sun. Big Nicks’ Pizza, 1110 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro, 310-732-5800, www.bignickspizza.com

BUONO’S AUTHENTIC PIZZERIA

Family owned and operated since 1965, Buono’s is famous for award-winning brick oven baked pizza. Buono’s also offers classic Italian dishes and sauces based on tried-and-true family recipes and hand-selected fresh ingredients. Now limited dine-in and patio service, takeout and delivery. Hours: Sun.Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Buono’s Pizzeria, 222 W. 6th St., San Pedro, 310-547-0655, www.buonospizza.com

CONRAD’S MEXICAN GRILL

Conrad’s reflects the cuisine of Oaxaca with a focus fresh on local, seasonal ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Now Conrad’s features Peruvian dishes, as well as an inventive Mexican vegetarian and vegan menu. Dine in, dine al fresco or order online for curbside pick up and delivery. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. S. Conrad’s Mexican Grill, 376. W. 6th St., San Pedro 424-264-5452, www.conradsmexicangrill.com

HAPPY DINER #1

The Happy Diner #1 in Downtown San Pedro isn’t your average diner. The selections range from Italian- and Mexicaninfluenced entrées to American Continental. Happy Diner chefs are always creating something new—take your pick of grilled salmon over pasta or tilapia and vegetables prepared any way you like. Dine in or al fresco or call for takeout. Hours: Mon.-Wed. 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thurs.Sat. 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Sun. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Happy Diner #1, 617 S. Centre St., San Pedro, 310-241-0917, www.happydinersp.com

HAPPY DINER #2

Built on the success of Happy Diner #1, Happy Diner #2 offers American favorites like omelets and burgers, fresh salads, plus pasta and Mexican dishes are served. Order online for delivery or call for pickup. Hours: Mon. - Sat. 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Happy Diner #2, 1931 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro, 310-935-2933, www.happydinersp.com

HAPPY DELI

The Happy Deli is a small place with a big menu. Food is made-to-order using the freshest ingredients. Breakfast burritos and breakfast sandwiches include a small coffee. For lunch or dinner select from fresh salads, wraps, buffalo wings, cold and hot sandwiches, burgers and dogs. Order online or call for takeout or delivery. Hours: Mon. - Sat. 6 am. to 8 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Happy Deli, 530 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro, 424-364-0319, www.happydelisp.com

SAN PEDRO BREWING COMPANY

A micro brewery and American grill, SPBC features handcrafted award-winning ales and lagers served with creative pastas, BBQ, sandwiches, salads and burgers. Order your growlers, house drafts and cocktails to go (with food purchase)! Open daily 12 to 8 p.m. for indoor or al fresco dining, takeout and delivery through Grubhub, Postmates and Doordash. San Pedro Brewing Company, 331 W. 6th St., San Pedro, 310-831-5663, www.sanpedrobrewing.com

WEST COAST PHILLY’S

Welcome to West Coast Philly’s Cheesesteak and Hoagies where authentic Philly cheesesteaks meet the waterfront in San Pedro. Along with serving the classic cheesesteak, West Coast Philly’s puts its unique twist on its cheesesteaks and hoagies. Also on the menu are subs, burgers, wings and salads. Happy hour from 2 to 6 p.m., Mon.-Thurs. Indoor dining or order online or call for pickup. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. West Coast Philly’s, 1902 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro, 424-264-5322, www.westcoastphillys.com

Support Independent Restaurants • Dining Guide online: www.randomlengthsnews.com/dining-guide [See Calendar, page 16]

Real People, Real News, Really Effective December 16 - 22, 2021

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[Creatives, from p. 11]

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December 16 - 22, 2021

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant

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Creatives

“You know, we’re not pigeon-holed into just one specific genre but we want to tell the stories that relate to urban audiences,” Crystal said.

The Other Half

Crystal writes the screenplays for all the films, while her husband comes up with ideas and concepts for many of the projects. He actually met Crystal on the set of her first film, in which she starred. But filmmaking isn’t the extent of his talents. Lee is also a self-taught chef who was invited onto Gordon Ramsay’s Christmas Special in 2009. He has since started Burn With Your Boy catering and Burn With Your Boy hot sauce. He started off just cooking for family and friends until he started receiving phone calls for larger engagements. “I would help my wife and cook for family and friends,” Lee said. “Then some of my buddies were calling, ‘Hey man, how much would it cost for you to just cook a little special dinner for me and my wife.’ And it just grew from there.” Then Lee started making beef jerky, but there were so many different regulations that he started to make jerky only for his buddies. “I like smoking meats, but I specialize in American soul food and barbecue,” Lee said. Then his wife said, “You should just make hot sauce.” He saw recipes on how to make hot sauce and grew confident that he could do it too, while adding his special magic into the mix. Out of that bit of inspiration from his wife and his love of food and cooking, Lee created Burn With Your Boy hot sauce and opened Burn With Your Boy catering. Lee said he plans to get a truck and brickand-mortar restaurant one day. He’d like to open up a spot in Mid-City Los Angeles or Carson. “You come to the restaurant and read the script and have a burger, have some wings on a stick, and just bring that whole LA culture,” Lee said. “I want you to walk out of there feeling good and full.”

Lee has a couple of comfort foods he specializes in, such as stuffed pasta, which includes turkey or ground beef with sautéed vegetables, sometimes topped with cottage cheese and garlic. The hot sauce has a flavor that doesn’t burn your face off. Lee also prepares healthy dishes, an assortment of salads and non-meat alternatives.

Movies to Watch

A quick perusal of Crystal and Lee’s IMDb pages reflects the hiatus. They went back to shooting films in 2020. In a year’s time, they completed four films — the fourth one was delivered a week before Thanksgiving. The pandemic didn’t slow this couple down at all as they shot as often as they could while observing all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Hanging on to Love (comedy) The film protagonist, Jewel, cannot catch a break in anything from the clothing design business to finding love. Coming to streaming platforms on Jan. 11, 2022.

Trip Slip (comedy) Three homeboys plead with their wives to let them have one night out to celebrate what they consider an achievement — the completion of paying child support. Coming to streaming platforms in 2022. Cheddy Ace (comedy) Always down on his luck, Cheddy Ace has 24 hours to repay a hood loan to a few gangsters or pay the ultimate price. Reluctantly, his nephews fall for his sob story and go on a scavenger hunt to help him come up with the money. Coming to streaming platforms in 2022.

Shine Kings (drama) Two rival car clubs battle it out for the top prize in the most recognized car show on the west coast. When the leader of one club thinks that he was set up by the girl he fell in love with, all bets are off. Coming to streaming platforms in 2022. Details: https://southbaytalentgroup.com/


MUSIC Dec. 17

Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2021 Gather up the family and get into the spirit of the season with Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2021. Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 17, 18 Cost: $60 to $100 Details: 562-916-8500; www.cerritoscenter.com Venue: Theater: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos

Dec. 18

Bruno Mars Tribute 24K Magic Enjoy a live music tribute to Bruno Mars. Dinner and bottle service reservations are available. Time: 8:30 p.m. Dec. 18 Cost: $20 Details: 562-596-4718; www.ticketweb.com/event/brunomars-tributeVenue: The Gaslamp, 6251 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach Peace & Love Day Party This event is a musical journey into the eclectic sounds of the Afro Latin Caribbean diaspora. It brings together genres like afrobeats, soca, dembow, reggaeton, reggae, salsa and gqom. Time: 3 p.m. Dec. 18 Cost: Free Details: 562-375-7979; www.ontherockslb.com Venue: On The Rocks Bar & Grill, 5755 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach

Dec. 19

Holidays In Harmony After a two-year hiatus in performing together, the South Bay Children’s Choir will deliver a performance guaranteed to be uplifting in spirit and song. The Sounds of Music: A New Day Begins is the theme for the 2021 Holidays in Harmony concert, and the repertoire chosen is about the power of music and its ability to bring hope and joy. Time: 3 p.m. Dec. 19 Cost: $9 to $13 Details: www.tinyurl.com/holidays-in-harmony Venue: Marsee Auditorium, El Camino College,16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance

Long Beach Jazz Jam: Five Year Anniversary Long Beach Jazz Jam is playing all the music from Art Blakey’s Mosaic album. There will be free raffles and giveaways, an instrumental jam session. House band features: Cade Gotthardt: trumpet, Nathan King: tenor, Joey Sellers: trombone, Aaron Provisor: piano, Kirsh: bass, Jacob Wendt: drums. Time: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Dec. 21 Cost: Free Details: www.pikelongbeach.com Venue: Pike Restaurant and Bar, 1836 E. 4th St., Long Beach

WinterFest The City of Carson’s fun-filled annual WinterFest is back for the entire family to enjoy. The event will bring over 30 tons of snow, hot chocolate, s’mores, toy giveaways, games, activities, food and craft vendors. The City of Carson’s Early Childhood program will be entertaining the community on stage, and special appearances will be made by Uchenna Nwosu of the Los Angeles Chargers and Santa Claus himself. Time: 3 to 7 p.m. Dec. 18 Cost: Free Details: Pre-registration is encouraged at www.cutt.ly/OnlineReg; 310-835-0212 Venue: Carson Event Center – E. Parking Lot, 801 E. Carson St., Carson

Dec. 18

Dec. 21

Tuesdays with Tom Enjoy an evening of solo/acoustic performance with guitarist Tom Norman. Time: 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Dec. 21 Cost: Free Details: 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com Venue: The Auld Dubliner, 71 S. Pine Ave., Long Beach

Dec. 22

Celtic Angels Christmas Celtic Angels Christmas enraptures audiences with the magic of Christmas in an awe-inspiring show featuring stunning routines performed by world champion dancers and vocal and instrumental seasonal favorites alongside Irish, contemporary, and original Christmas themes — all with a Celtic twist. Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 22 Cost: $40 to $60 Details: 562-916-8500; www.cerritoscenter.com Venue: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos

Dec. 29

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas This concert features the band’s favorite holiday music and is still selling out shows after more than three decades. The production features state-of-the-art multimedia effects in an intimate setting. It is directed by Grammy winner Chip Davis, who co-produces the performances with MagicSpace Entertainment. Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 29 Cost: $75 to $95 Details: 562-916-8500; www.cerritoscenter.com Venue: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos

Dec. 31

New Years Party Concert Andy & Renee & Hard Rain South bay’s favorite folk-rockers return to the Grand Annex to celebrate the New Year. Dance into 2022 while the band delivers hits from across the decades. Includes late-night pizza, party favors and a champagne toast. Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 31 Cost: $40 Details: www.grandvision.secure. force.com/ticket/andyandrenee Venue: Grand Annex, 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro

ART

Dec. 18

FILM

Dec. 18

The Polar Express Bring the whole family, feel free to wear your pajamas, sip on hot cocoa or a mimosa and have some cereal bar snacks. All aboard The Polar Express. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of selfdiscovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Time: 11 a.m. Dec. 18, 19 Cost: $9 to $10 Details: www.arttheatre.easyware-ticketing.com Venue: Art Theatre Long Beach, 2025 E. 4th St., Long Beach

Dec. 19

It’s A Wonderful Life Frank Capra’s holiday classic stars James Stewart as George Bailey, a man who has given up his personal dreams in order to help others in his community, and whose suicide attempt on Christmas Eve brings about the intervention of his guardian angel. Time: Dec. 19 Cost: $12 to $15 Details: www.spiffest-wonderfullife.bpt.me Venue: Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St., San Pedro

Dec. 23

Elf Join a fun holiday film feature starring Will Ferrell, James Caan and Mary Steenburgen. Director: Jon Favreau. “Raised as an over-sized elf, a human travels from the North Pole to NYC to meet his biological father who doesn’t know he exists and is in desperate need of some Christmas spirit.” Seating is limited and registration is required. Time: 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 23 Cost: Free Details: 310-377-9584; https://tinyurl.com/pvld-Elf Venue: Peninsula Center Library, Community Room, 710 Silver Spur Road, Rolling Hills Estates

DANCE Dec. 17

Long Beach Ballet The Nutcracker Nutcrackers come and go, but only one is so spectacular, so charming, so heart-warming and memorable that it has become Southern California’s favorite. Tickets are on sale through TicketMaster and at the Long Beach Convention Center Box Office. Time: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17 preview performance (half price), 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18, 1 and 6 p.m. Dec. 19 Cost: $34 and up Details: www.longbeachballet. com Venue: Long Beach Terrace Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach

LITERATURE Dec. 18

DSTL Arts Winter Celebration – A (Virtual) Release Party Aurtistic Zine and DSTL Arts are celebrating the beginning of winter with a pair of new zines featuring the art and poetry of a wonderful community. Join virtually to celebrate the release of DSTL Arts latest issue of Conchas y Cafe Zine and a special mash-up issue of Art Block Zine and Aurtistic Zine. Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 18 Cost: Free Details: www.eventbrite.com/e/ dstl-arts-winter-celebration Venue: Online

Family Nature Club – Trees Join the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy for the next Virtual Family Nature Club exploring the topic of trees. Learn about local trees on the peninsula and do a fun holiday craft. Time: 9 a.m. Dec. 18 Cost: Free Details: Sign up at www.pvplc. org/event/fncdec2021 Venue: Online

Dec. 31

New Years Eve at the DoubleTree Bring in the New Year with the sounds of oldies-gut-goodies performed by The Blue Satins, The Harbor Groove Band and The Philly Intruders. There will be party favors, appetizers, and a whole night of dancing. Time: 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Dec. 31 Cost: $80 to $175 Details: https://tinyurl.com/doubletree-nye, Venue: DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, 2800 Via Cabrillo-Marina, San Pedro

RANDOM Happening

A Celtic Christmas at Alvas Showroom By Melina Paris, Assistant Editor

For a special night of live music this holiday season, Alvas Showroom will present the “World’s Most Recorded Piper” Eric Rigler (Outlander, Braveheart, Titanic) and locally raised, multi-talented guitarist Dirk Freymuth to create a night of acoustic holiday cheer. Drawing from traditional Irish and Scottish melodies featured in their PBS special, Celtic Journeys: Songs & Soundtracks, and themes from Rigler’s motion picture and television soundtracks, the artists will highlight music from the Christmas tradition Dirk Freymuth, left, and Eric Rigler will perform along with — both familiar and lesserWanda Law at Alvas Showroom Dec. 18 and 19. File photo known pieces from the British Isles, Ireland and other Celtic Nations within Europe. bachelor of music in studio jazz guitar and a Rigler has been playing all forms of master’s of music in early music performance. bagpipes and tin whistles since he was a Freymuth earned his doctoral degree child, performing solo, with bagpipe bands in historical music performance from USC and other musical groups. The evening at in 2005. In 2011 he accepted a full-time Alvas features Rigler performing on a seldomteaching position at Western Oregon University, seen Celtic wonder, the uilleann pipes — the where he teaches audio production, music traditional bagpipes of Ireland — a complicated history, and historical performance practice. and evocative ancient instrument capable of With Rigler on bagpipes and whistles producing sounds from mournful and sublime and Dirk Freymuth on acoustic guitars, the to euphoric. ensemble will be joined by special guest and Dirk Freymuth is a producer, music frequent collaborator, Wanda Law on Irish historian, arranger, lutenist and guitarist. He fiddle, viola and button accordion. also plays viola da gamba. Born in Frankfurt, Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 18, 5 p.m. 19 Germany in 1965. Later that year Freymuth’s Cost: $35 family immigrated to the United States, Details: www.alvasshowroom.com/event/ eventually settling in Los Angeles in 1972. eric-rigler-dirk-freymuth; https://tinyurl.com/ He graduated from Palos Verdes High School celtic-christmas in 1982 and went on to study music at the Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San University of Southern California, receiving a Pedro

December 16 - 22, 2021

On the Ground LA: Exhibition Closing and Photo Walk Join a photo walk inspired by works in On the Ground LA. Calling all photographers, artists, students, models, mask, fire, smoke performers, car and bike clubs to join. Meet begins at Art Share LA. Please bring a camera, wear your mask and respect those who are social distancing. Time: 2 to 5 p.m. Dec. 18 Cost: $10 to $15

Details: http://artsharela.org Venue: Art share LA, 801 E. 4th Place, Los Angeles

4th Annual Long Beach Parol Lantern Festival This event highlights the Filipino holiday tradition and history of making parols, a star shaped lantern made of paper and bamboo, that symbolizes hope and finding the light in the dark. The event hopes to share the rich history of Filipino culture through live entertainment, music, dance, delicious cuisine and local vendors to provide an opportunity for the Long Beach community to come together to heal and celebrate life. Time: 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 18 Cost: Free Details: www.tinyurl.com/LBParolFest2021 Venue: Historic Pine Avenue in Downtown Long Beach, between 4th and 5th streets.

Broadway Lights the Holidays Part of the Performance Partner Program, this star-studded holiday showcase features musical performances from WestBeat, the Voices of Hope Children’s choir, and surprise special-guest appearances. Proceeds benefit 3-D Theatricals’ Education and Outreach programs, which bring students and their families to the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts throughout the year. Time: 7 p.m. Dec. 19 Cost: $25 and up Details: 562-916-8500; www.cerritoscenter.com Venue: Cerritos Center for the

COMMUNITY

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

Holiday Pops Spectacular 2021 The Golden State Pops Orchestra’s acclaimed production “Holiday POPS Spectacular” returns this year with joyous music and high spirits. Celebrate the holiday season by joining the Golden State Pops Orchestra, Maestro Steven Allen Fox, and the GSPO Chorale, led by Maestra Marya Basaraba, for Holiday POPS Spectacular. The concert will be a festive performance of great holiday film music and traditional favorites. Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 18 Cost: $27 and up Details: https://tinyurl.com/HolidayPopsGSPO2021 Venue: Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St., San Pedro

Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos

15


[Ressa, from p. 10]

Ressa

December 16 - 22, 2021

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant

for the truth? I’ll tell you how I lived my way into the answer in three points: first, my context and how these attacks shaped me; second, by the problem we all face; and finally, finding the solution – because we must! In less than two years, the Philippine government filed 10 arrest warrants against me. I’ve had to post bail 10 times just to do my job. Last year, I and a former colleague were convicted of cyber libel for a story we published eight years earlier, at a time the law we allegedly violated didn’t even exist. All told, the charges I face could send me to jail for about 100 years. But the more I was attacked for my journalism, the more resolute I became. I had firsthand evidence of abuse of power. What was meant to intimidate me and Rappler only strengthened us. At the core of journalism is a code of honor. And mine is layered on different worlds – from how I grew up, the golden rule, what’s right and wrong; from college, and the honor code I learned there; and my time as a reporter, and the code of standards and ethics I learned and helped write. Add to that the Filipino idea of utang na loob – literally the debt from within – at its best, a system of paying it forward. Truth and ethical honor intersected like an arrow into this moment where hate, lies, and divisiveness thrive. As only the 18th woman to receive this prize, I need to tell you how gendered disinformation is a new threat and is taking a significant toll on the mental health and physical safety of women, girls, trans, and LGBTQ+ people all around the world. Women journalists are at the epicenter of risk. This pandemic of misogyny and hatred needs to be tackled now. Even there, though, we can find strength. After all, you don’t really know who you really are until you’re forced to fight for it. Now let me pull out so we’re clear about the problem we all face and how we got here. The attacks against us in Rappler began five years ago when we demanded an end to impunity on two fronts: Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war and Mark Zuckerberg’s Facebook. Today, it has only gotten worse — and Silicon Valley’s sins came home to roost in the United States on Jan. 6 with mob violence on Capitol Hill. What happens on social media doesn’t stay on social media. Online violence is real world violence. Facebook is the world’s largest distributor of news, and yet studies have shown that lies laced with anger and hate spread faster and further than facts. These American companies controlling our global information ecosystem are biased against facts, biased against journalists. They are, by design, dividing us and radicalizing us. I’ve said this repeatedly over the last five years: without facts, you can’t have truth. Without truth, you can’t have trust. Without trust, we have no shared reality, no democracy, and it becomes impossible to deal with

16

the existential problems of our times: climate, coronavirus, now, the battle for truth. When I was first arrested in 2019, the officer said, “Ma’am, trabaho lang po (Ma’am, I’m only doing my job).” Then he lowered his voice to almost a whisper as he read my Miranda rights. He was really uncomfortable, and I almost felt sorry for him. Except he was arresting me because I’m a journalist! This officer was a tool of power — and an example of how a good man can turn evil — and how great atrocities happen. Hannah Arendt wrote about the banality of evil when describing men who carried out the orders of Hitler, how career-oriented bureaucrats can act without conscience because they justify what they’re doing because they’re only following orders. This is how a nation – and a world – loses its soul. You have to know what values you are fighting for, you have to draw the lines early, but if you haven’t done so, please, do it now – where this side you’re good, this side, you’re evil. Some governments may be lost causes, and if you’re working in tech, I’m talking to you. We need information ecosystems that live and die by facts. We do this by shifting social priorities to rebuild journalism for the 21st century while regulating and outlawing the surveillance economics that profit from hate and lies. We need to help independent journalism survive, first by giving greater protection to journal-

Maria Ressa, a Filipina journalist and winner of the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize.

ists and standing up against states which target journalists. Then we need to address the collapse of the advertising model for journalism. This is part of the reason that I agreed to co-chair the International Fund for Public Interest Media, which is trying to raise money from overseas development assistance funds. Right now, while journalists are under attack on every front, only 0.3% of ODA funds is spent on journalism. If we

[Shake Up, from p. 5]

City of Carson Shake Up obvious that the commission needed assistance with the Brown Act and how to conduct the meeting. Not once did the director ever speak up to help guide the commissioners.” Meni said she had to call a point of order so many times that she lost track. City council candidate runner up- Dr. Sharma Henderson noted that there had been a lot of employee complaints and described Landers’ leadership style as authoritarian. “There’s been a lot of mismanagement,” Henderson explained. “The employees have been very unhappy and a lot of them have left. Because of that and other issues, people in the business community and employees wanted her gone.” Henderson said it was her understanding that part of what allowed Councilman Jim Dear to secure the support of the employees union and many in the business community was that Arlene Rojas would be the third vote to get rid of Landers. Henderson also noted that Landers and Moseley were aligned with Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes. “Now the hypocrisy is Jim [Dear] could have aligned with Albert and Juwane [When Albert Robles was still mayor] to get rid of Landers,” Henderson explained. “But obviously he didn’t. But he was able to use Landers as leverage to get the employee vote.” Henderson went on to describe Lander’s performance as city manager as horrible and

her leadership as atrocious. City clerk candidate runner-up Falea’Ana Meni explained in an interview with Random Lengths News that typically the city conducts the council meeting alongside the swearing-in ceremony at the community center. “I didn’t know if they opted not to do it or what. I had no idea,” Meni said. When asked about Moseley and the National Sales Network lawsuit, Meni wasn’t particularly surprised. “I have a really big issue [with Moseley] personally,” Meni said. “I know in my dealings with her as a former employee there have been many times I have brought up to upper management about the lack of integrity in her interactions. This all derives from the fact that she has no public sector experience at all.” Former Mayor Albert Robles weighed in on the current tumult in the city. “Most cities ... to get politics and favoritism out of the hiring and firing process, they go to a civil service commission, which gives the employees protection,” Robles explained. “Employees go through the civil service process where they are evaluated before they’re hired. If there’s any discipline against them, it goes through this independent civil service commission.” Robles noted when he first joined the city council as a council member, he witnessed both Jim Dear and Lula Davis-Holmes insert themselves into employee matters, either after a perceived slight if an employee didn’t do as they asked, or defending employees close to them despite demonstrating incompetence. “If an employee is being incompetent then they should be disciplined and fired,” Robles said. “But because they’re a friend of the mayor, whether it’s the mayor pro tem or any council member, employees come to the council members and cry and ask them for help and the council members insert themselves. Carson is not going to get to the next level of development,

nudge that to just 1%, we can raise $1 billion a year for news organizations. That will be crucial for the global south. Journalists must embrace technology. That’s why, with the help of Google News Initiative, Rappler rolled out a new platform two weeks ago designed to build communities of action. It won’t be as viral as what the tech platforms built, but the north star is not profit alone. It is facts, truth, and trust. Democracy has become a woman-to-woman, man-to-man defense of our values. We’re at a sliding door moment, where we can continue down the path we’re on and descend further into fascism or we can choose to fight for a better world. To do that, please, ask yourself: What are YOU willing to sacrifice for the truth? I didn’t know if I was going to be here today. Every day, I live with the real threat of spending the rest of my life in jail because I’m a journalist. When I go home, I have no idea what the future holds, but it’s worth the risk. The destruction has happened. Now it’s time to build – to create the world we want. So please, with me, just close your eyes for just a moment, and imagine the world as it should be. A world of peace, trust, and empathy, bringing out the best that we can be. Open your eyes. Now go, we have to make it happen. Please, let’s hold the line together. Thank you. the next level of maturity and sophistication, and kill the petty politics.” An example that best illustrates Robles’ point was during the failed recall effort against him and subsequent recall effort against Dear in 2015. In late June of that year, several city employees accused Dear of being abusive toward them, which resulted in administrative charges being lodged against him. At the time, Dear was accused of relying on temporary help on the recall election of Robles to the exclusion of available full-time staff members in his office. Random Lengths reported at the time that though Dear pushed to make them full-time staff in the clerk’s office, the city manager fired them instead. In a subsequent report, one of the more troubling assertions in the investigation concerned the hiring and firing of Monette Gavino. An independent investigator appointed to investigate the claims against Dear described Gavino as Dear’s “girlfriend,” and that Dear “manipulated” staff into hiring her, despite questions about her right to work legally, and that he then “mistreated” her “in front of staff.” Random Lengths reported there were no details of the alleged “mistreatment.” Observers of city politics have wondered aloud if Rahman saw Landers’ placement on administrative leave as just one step away from firing her from her post. Robles noted that the council can’t let Landers go 90 days before or after an election. No one officially seems to know what will happen next. The city council could very well appoint the runner-up from this past election, like City Clerk candidate Monette Gavino, who lost by only a couple hundred votes, the same way the city council appointed Donesia Gause-Aldana to the post when Helen Kawagoe left ten years ago. Gavino didn’t make many public appearances during the past race for city clerk, but support from Mayor Pro Tem Jim Dear and financial support that got her signs out in the streets powered her candidacy forward, despite a welltimed October surprise questioning her methods by which she attained her citizenship.


[Redistricting, from p. 1]

Redistricting

voice, not one or two, each following their own agenda.” San Pedro resident Pat Nave argued that this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and used San Pedro being previously split between congressional districts as an example. “We felt diminished initially,” Nave said. “This turned out, I think, to be a boon to us actually, because we’ve had two congressional offices to go to. And I think that the elected representatives, when they hear San Pedro, they don’t really differentiate between where you live. … It actually gives us more power to be represented by more than one member.” Greg Ellis, board member of the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council, said that this was a problem for coastal San Pedro in particular. “Looking at the most recent version of the Assembly district maps, which used Western Avenue as a boundary between the two proposed assembly districts, could end up having a really disproportionate effect on coastal San Pedro,” Ellis said. “Because it really cuts our neighborhood in half, or at least close to in half.” Board member Noel Gould suggested this could be an attempt at some form of gerrymandering. “Our Assembly member, Patrick O’Donnell, really listened to our community and opposed SB 9 and SB 10, which are these attempts by the state legislature to allow eight units of market rate [housing] on single family lots that are existing now,” Gould said. “We have people in our local government here who are attempting to … massively up-zone San Pedro as much as possible and to market rate rather than

The Dec. 8 draft map of 2020 California Citizens Redistricting Commission. The green line represents the current Assembly district lines, and the blue line represents the proposed changes. Photo courtesy of the commission’s website

affordable, and by chopping San Pedro up that would reduce the influence [of] that particular Assembly member who actually listened to our community.” Under the new redistricting, half of San Pedro would be under Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi, and the other half would be under Assemblyman Mike Gipson, Ross said. Ross said that there are only a couple of people from San Pedro participating in the commission’s redistricting meetings. The meetings are held almost every day, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., though they can get out much later.

“It’s daunting, and they’re during the day,” Ross said. “So, I know that it’s difficult for folks in our community. I feel like it’s purposely made difficult.” Ross argued it would be easy for the commission to change it back. “The area isn’t insanely big, so it doesn’t make a huge difference on the map boundary in regards to putting us back together,” Ross said. “So I think if we come in really strong right now, I’ve been making phone calls all day to have people … call in and email in, and I’m hoping that we make a big enough impact today for them

to kind of put us back together.” In addition, Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council’s motion urges the Los Angeles County Redistricting Commission to not split up San Pedro over supervisorial district boundaries. “That’s a separate commission,” Epperhart said. “It urges the same thing, that San Pedro be kept whole, because they are now considering three maps that would again, take our current supervisor, Janice Hahn, and move her into a district that is almost entirely out of San Pedro. So pretty much all of coastal would end up with a different county supervisor.”

Real People, Real News, Really Effective December 16 - 22, 2021

17


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December 16 - 22, 2021

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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: 11/24/2021,

12/02/2021, 12/16/2021, 12/23/31

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 21LBCP00350 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles Petition of: Ganira Angelia Quintanilla for Change of Name TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Ganira Angelia Quintanilla filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

Ganira Angelia Quintanilla to Janira Angelia Herrera The Court orders that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: Date: 02/17/2022, Time: 8:30

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a.m., Dept.: 26, Room: -The address of the court is 275 Magnolia, Long Beach, CA 90802, South District A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Random Lengths News Date: 12/16, 12/23, 01/06, 01/20/22, Michael P Vicencia, Judge of the Superior Court ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 21LBCP00378 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles Petition of: Gilberto Roberto

[continued on p. 19]

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Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2021250026 The following person is doing business as: ALSOP’S LOCK AND KEY, 849 W. Pacific Coast Highway #114, Wilmington, CA 90744 County of Los Angeles. Registered owners: Frank Carl Fisher, 849 W. Pacific Coast Highway #114, Wilmington, CA 90744. This Business is conducted by an individual. The registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 10/2021. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000)). S/. Frank Carl Fisher, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Nov. 15, 2021.. 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. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. Effectively January 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the Affidavit of Identity form. The filing of this

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LEGAL NOTICES [continued from p. 18] Gabriel Alvarez for Change of Name TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Gilberto Roberto Gabriel Alvarez filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Gilberto Roberto Gabriel Alvarez to Gabe Robert Padilla The Court orders that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: Date: 01/18/2022, Time: 8:30 a.m., Dept.: 26, Room: -The address of the court is 275 Magnolia, Long Beach, CA 90802, South District A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Random Lengths News and Daily Commerce Date: 12/16, 12/23, 12/30 01/06/22, Michael P Vicencia, Judge of the Superior Court

Published: Dec. 16, 2021

Bid Deadline:

Questions must be submitted electronically through the PB System. Emails, phone calls, and faxes will not be accepted. Questions submitted to City staff will not be

Prior to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 18, 2022. Bids shall be submitted electronically via the Port of Long Beach PlanetBids (PB) System prior to 2:00 p.m.

Bid Opening:

Electronic Bid (eBid) results shall be viewable online in the PB System immediately after the Bid Deadline.

Contract Documents Available:

Download Contract Documents from the Port of Long Beach PB System Vendor Portal: www.polb.com/sbe Click on the POLB Vendor Portal 1. Register and Log In 2. Click “Bid Opportunities” 3. Double-click on respective bid Project Title 4. Click on Document/Attachments tab 5. Double-Click on Title of Electronic Attachment 6. Click “Download Now” 7. Repeat for each attachment For assistance in downloading these documents please contact Port of Long Beach Plans and Specs Desk at 562-283-7353.

Pre-Bid Meeting:

None.

Project Contact Person:

Brian Culligan, brian.culligan@ associates.polb.com

Please refer to the Port of Long Beach PB System for the most current information. NIB -1 Contract Documents. Contract Documents may be downloaded, at no cost, from the Port of Long Beach PB System Vendor Portal website. Bidders must first register as a vendor on the Port of Long Beach PB System website in order to view and download the Contract Documents, to be added to the prospective bidders list, and to receive addendum notifications when issued.

addressed and Bidder will be directed to the PB System.

For the link to the Port of Long Beach PB System and for information on this Project and other upcoming Port projects, you may view the Port website at www.polb.com/business/ business-opportunities.

NIB -4 Summary Description of the Work. The Work required by this Contract includes, but is not limited to, the following: emergency repairs of existing water, sewer, and storm drain systems on an on-call basis within the Harbor District as required by the Long Beach Harbor Department and as described in the Technical Specifications.

Copies of all Port insurance endorsement forms, SBE/ VSBE Program forms, Harbor Development Permit Applications and other Port forms are

NIB -3 Pre-Bid Meeting and Site Visit. There will not be a pre-bid meeting or site visit for this project. The City makes no guarantee that existing construction and site conditions matches construction depicted on record reference documents. It shall be the Bidder’s responsibility to identify existing conditions.

NIB -6 Contractor’s License. The Bidder shall hold a current and valid Class “A”, California Contractor’s License to construct this project. NIB -7 Contractor Performed Work. The Contractor shall perform, with its own employees, Contract Work amounting to at least 30% of the Contract Price, except that any designated “Specialty Items” may be performed by subcontract. The amount of any such “Specialty Items” so performed may be deducted from the Contract Price before computing the amount required to be performed by the Contractor with its own employees. “Specialty Items” will be identified by the City on the Schedule of Bid Items. The bid price of any materials or equipment rental costs from vendors who are solely furnishing materials or rental equipment and are not performing Work as a licensed subcontractor on this project shall also be deducted from the Contract Price before computing the amount required to be performed by the Contractor with its own employees. NIB -8 SBE/VSBE. This project is subject to the Port of Long Beach (POLB) Small Business Enterprises (SBE)/ Very Small Business Enterprises (VSBE) Program. The combined SBE/VSBE participation goal for this Project is ten percent (10%) of total bid value. The combined SBE/VSBE participation goal shall include a minimum zero percent (0%) of total bid value as VSBE. POLB expects all Bidders to achieve the combined SBE/VSBE participation goal. Award of the Contract will be conditioned on the Bidder submitting an SBE-2C Commitment Plan demonstrating the Bidder’s intent to meet

the combined SBE/VSBE participation goal. If the Bidder’s Commitment Plan does not demonstrate intent to meet the combined goal, the Bidder shall demonstrate that it made an adequate good faith effort to do so, as specified in the Instructions to Bidders. The Port’s SBE Program staff is available to provide information on the program requirements, including SBE certification assistance. Please contact the SBE Office at (562) 283-7598 or sbeprogram@polb.com. You may also view the Port’s SBE program requirements at www.polb.com/sbe. NIB -9 Prevailing Wage Requirements per Department of Industrial Relations. This Project is a public work Contract as defined in Labor Code Section 1720. The Contractor receiving award of the Contract and Subcontractors of any tier shall pay not less than the prevailing wage rates to all workers employed in execution of the Contract. The Director of Industrial Relations of the State of California has determined the general prevailing rates of wages in the locality in which the Work is to be performed. The rate schedules are available on the internet at http://www. dir.ca.gov/dlsr/DPreWageDetermination.htm and on file at the City, available upon request. Bidders are directed to Article 15 of the General Conditions for requirements concerning payment of prevailing wages, payroll records, hours of work and employment of apprentices. This Project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations. No Contractor or Subcontractor may be listed on a bid proposal for a public works project unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5 (with limited exceptions from this requirement for bid purposes only under Labor Code Section 1771.1(a)). No Contractor or Subcontractor may

be awarded a contract for public work on a public works project unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5. Contractors and Subcontractors must furnish electronic Certified Payroll Records (CPRs) to the Labor Commissioner’s Office, and in addition, hardcopies or electronic copies shall be furnished to the Port of Long Beach. NIB -10 P r o j e c t L a b o r Agreement. This project is not covered by a PLA. NIB -11 Tr a d e N a m e s and Substitution of Equals. With the exception of any sole source determination that may be identified in this paragraph, Bidders wishing to obtain City’s authorization for substitution of equivalent material, product, or equipment, are required to submit a written request for an Or Equal Substitution using the form included in Appendix A together with data substantiating Bidder’s representation that the non-specified item is of equal quality to the item specified, no later than fourteen (14) calendar days after City’s issuance of Notice to Proceed (NTP). Authorization of a substitution is solely within the discretion of the City. NIB -12

Not Used.

NIB -13 B i d S e c u r i t y, Signed Contract, Insurance and Bonds. Each Bid shall be accompanied by a satisfactory Bidder’s Bond or other acceptable Bid Security in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the Base Bid as a guarantee that the Bidder will, if Conditionally Awarded a Contract by the Board, within thirty (30) calendar days after the Contract is conditionally awarded to the Contractor by the City, execute and deliver such Contract to the Chief Harbor Engineer together with all required documents including insurance forms, a Payment Bond for one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price,

and a Performance Bond for one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price. All Bonds shall be on forms provided by the City. NIB -14 C o n d i t i o n a l Award of Contract and Reservation of Rights. The Board, acting through the Executive Director, reserves the right at any time before the execution of the Contract by the City, to reject any or all Bids, and to waive any informality or irregularity. The Conditional Award of the Contract, if any, will be to the responsible Bidder submitting the lowest responsive and responsible Bid. If the lowest responsive responsible Bidder fails to submit the required documents including insurance forms, bonds and signed Contract within thirty (30) calendar days after Conditional Award of Contract, the Board reserves the right to rescind the Conditional Award and Conditionally Award the Contract to the next lowest responsive and responsible Bidder. NIB -15 Period of Bid Irrevocability. Bids shall remain open and valid and Bidder’s Bonds and other acceptable Bid Security shall be guaranteed and valid for ninety (90) calendar days after the Bid Deadline or until the Executive Director executes a Contract, whichever occurs first. NIB -16 Substitution of Securities. Substitution of Securities for retainage is permitted in accordance with Section 22300 of the Public Contract Code. NIB -17

Not Used.

Issued at Long Beach, California, this 22 day of November, 2021. Mario Cordero, Executive Director of the Harbor Department, City of Long Beach, California Note: For project updates after Bid Opening, please contact plans. specs@polb.com.

December 16 - 22, 2021

Purchases must be paid for at the time of purchase in cash only. All purchased items are sold as is and must be removed at the time of sale. Sale is administered by Daniel Jackson’s Auction Services, Bond number 64819405, phone number (559) 970-8105

AS DESCRIBED IN SPECIFICATION NO. HD-S3133

NIB -2Pre-Bid Questions. All questions, including requests for interpretation or correction, or comments regarding the Contract Documents, must be submitted no later than January 11, 2022, at 5 p.m. Questions received after the pre-Bid question deadline will not be accepted.

NIB -5 Contract Time and Liquidated Damages. The Contractor shall achieve Affidavit of Final Completion of the Project within two (2) years as provided in Paragraph SC - 6.1 of the Special Conditions, from a date specified in a written “Notice to Proceed” issued by the City and subject to adjustment as provided in Section 8.2 of the General Conditions. FAILURE OF THE CONTRACTOR TO COMPLETE THE WORK WITHIN THE CONTRACT TIME AND OTHER MILESTONES SET FORTH IN THE SPECIAL CONDITIONS, INCLUDING THE ENGINEER’S APPROVAL OF AFFIDAVIT OF FINAL COMPLETION, WILL RESULT IN ASSESSMENT OF LIQUIDATED DAMAGES IN THE AMOUNTS ESTABLISHED IN THE SPECIAL CONDITIONS.

Jose Cisneros #23 Carlos Lopez #59 Dwayne Robinson #65 John Foreman #129

ON-CALL EMERGENCY WET UTILITIES SERVICES at PORT OF LONG BEACH LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA

available at www.polb.com/ business/permits.

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

PUBLIC SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell Miscellaneous business and/or personal property described below to enforce a Lien Imposed on said property pursuant to section 21700-21716 of the business & professions code, section 2328 of the UCC, section 535 of the Penal code and provisions of the Civil Code. The undersigned will sell items at a public sale by competitive bidding on 01/11/2022 at 9am on the premises where said property has been stored and which are located at Plaza Self Storage, 630 S. Pacific Ave. San Pedro, Ca. County of Los Angeles, State of California. The following:

NOTICE INVITING BIDS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Long Beach, California, acting by and through the City’s Board of Harbor Commissioners (“City”) will receive, before the Bid Deadline established below, Bids for the following Work:

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December 16 - 22, 2021

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant


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