p
Challengers for the Council District 15 seat state their cases pg. 7 Howard Scott of legendary band WAR on music and transcending barriers. Scott will perform at JDC Records in San Pedro on March 16 pg. 11 Caribbean comfort food lives at Punto Cubano pg. 12
By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor
[See Report Card, p. 6]
Course through Civic Center City
The Local Publication You Actually Read
March 7 is the date District 15 voters will grade Los Angeles City Councilman Joe Buscaino. Although there are many in the district who believe he should be graded on a passfail basis, he won’t be. Three challengers, two of whom have columns in this edition of Random Lengths News, are critical of Buscaino’s handling of the San Pedro waterfront development, the homeless crisis, the Harbor Division jail and the environment — issues on which he is vulnerable. But the depth of their campaign resources, coupled with their lack of name recognition throughout the council district means their quest to unseat an incumbent will be a tough one. The Los Angeles Times editorial board endorsed the councilman, but described his “performance,” thus far, as only “adequate.” The Times editorial board also laid out the historic and geographic realities that constrain the aspirations of communities such as Harbor Gateway, Harbor City and Wilmington, noting that each of these areas needs its own representatives. “But they will never get one,” the Times board wrote. “Not as long as the city herds all of those areas into a single, mammoth city council district.” Buscaino has repeatedly said that his success as councilman would be determined by how much communities that are historically underserved by the city, like Watts, Harbor Gateway and Wilmington, are improved. At his state of the district luncheon on Feb. 16, the councilman discussed some of the success he has overseen, if not in some way abetted. Buscaino typically highlights the work of residents, community advocates and nonprofits as a way to highlight how the resources and the political weight of his office assist them.
By Zamná Ávila, Assistant Editor
Breaking Ground
Since July 2016, the city has been demolishing the old to make way for the new—the new Long Beach Civic Center, that is.
[See LB Civic Center, p. 4]
March 2 - 15, 2017
an expected facelift to the center of Long Beach civic engagement buildings and recreation areas. The Civic Center will be transformed into a state-of-the-art work, live, and play facility in the coming years. It will house a new city hall, Port of Long Beach headquarters, a new Main Library, a reconfigured Lincoln Park and retail and residential units.
Rendering of the new Long Beach Civic Center on Ocean Boulevard. The complex will house city hall, the Port of Long Beach headquarters, new Main Library, plus residential and commercial units.
These days, driving along Ocean Boulevard in downtown Long Beach is quite a distracting adventure. Head west toward San Pedro and your eyes will unavoidably wander toward a wall of blue-covered fences surrounding City Hall and the Main Library. Turn right on Magnolia, heading north and you might catch a glimpse of a gigantic hole where the Superior Court once stood. Park and walk to either of the government buildings and you might experience a bit of claustrophobia as you pedal through the maze of fences. This traffic trek — in the middle of the rush hour — is
1
ACT NOW!
CALL (310) 326-3066 AND SCHEDULE A **
FREE
CONSULTATION
21250 Hawthorne Blvd. Suite 430 Torrance, CA 90503
*Results may vary. Based on average weight loss of previous patients with BMI of 40 or higher, one year after surgery. All surgeries carry risks. Risks and benefits will be discussed during initial consultation. ** Subject to terms and conditions.
(310) 326-3066 www.TorranceBariatrics.com
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
Torrance Hernia Institute is the pioneer of robotic hernia surgery in the South Bay community. We are specialists in hernia repair, treatment and post operative hernia care. We ensure our patients the best outcome and quickest recovery without compromising safety. “If you are in search of a robotic surgeon, then Dr. Roohipour is the one surgeon you should go with. He performed my hernia surgery through a small incision via my belly button, which is now totally invisible. I left the hospital two hours after surgery and got back to work in three days. Thank you!”
—Mike D.
March 2 - 15, 2017
MEET THE DOCTOR
2
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION* 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 430 Torrance, CA 90503
(310) 326-3062 www.TorranceHerniaCenter.com
Dr. Ramin Roohipour is board-certified in General Surgery by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of American College of Surgeons. Dr. Roohipour has successfully performed the nation’s first robotic single incision inguinal hernia surgery. “My practice philosophy is very simple: My patients are my family. I wholeheartedly believe in ‘one patient at a time’ philosophy and also in the unique needs of each patient.” *Subject to terms and conditions.
Community Announcements:
Harbor Area Aquatic Academy
All are invited to participate in the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Aquatic Academy, a four-part education course on climate change and resiliency. Time: 7 p.m. March 7, 14, 21 and 28 Cost: $35 to $50 Details: (562) 590-3100 Venue: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Craftsman Village Historic District Tree Planting
Volunteer during a weekday tree planting event in an old, rebounding Long Beach neighborhood. Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. March 9 Details: (562) 570-6830
Community Police Academy
An informative day of interactive training on topics such as patrol operations, laws of arrest, internal affairs and community engagement. Applications now being accepted. Time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 11, April 8 and May 6 Cost: Free Details: (562) 570-7401 Venue: Disclosed upon application completion
Mills Act 2017 Application Window Opens
Long Beach is now accepting applications for the Mills Act Property Tax Abatement Program. The purpose of the Mills Act program is to provide property tax relief to owners of historic properties in exchange for rehabilitation and restoration of these properties. The 2017 application window is to March 17. The city is hosting two events for property owners to learn about how you may quality and to apply to receive economic incentives for the restoration and preservation of your property. Details: (562) 570-6437, www.lbds.info
Call for Artwork
The Aquarium of the Pacific will host its annual Urban Ocean Festival on April 29 and 30. In partnership with the Arts Council, the Aquarium also holds an annual juried art contest and displays the winning artwork at the festival. Winners are selected in three categories — painting or drawing, photography and sculpture — and receive $500, with one grand prize winner receiving an additional $250. The deadline to submit to the contest is March 31. Details: aquariumofpacific.org In preparation for AOC7’s 5th Annual Literacy Fair, the group is collecting new and gently used children’s books through April 28. Donations locations: Neighborhood Resource Center 100 Broadway, Suite 550, Long Beach Lincoln Elementary School 1175 E. 11th St., Long Beach Mark Twain Library [See Announcements, p. 5]
LA Youth Want Their Own City Department By Christian L. Guzman, Community Reporter This past Valentine’s Day, students from the advocacy group, Youth Justice Coalition, visited the 15 members of the Los Angeles City Council and Mayor Eric Garcetti at city hall. Along with candy and cards, the teenagers presented the elected officials with a demand: create a youth development department. Before the students went into the offices, they shared the harsh realities that young Angelinos face. According to a study produced by the Public Policy Institute of California, Los Angeles has more people between the ages of 10 and 24 years old living in poverty than anywhere else in the nation. According to the Brookings Institute report: Employment and Disconnection Among Teens and Young Adults, released in 2016, youth unemployment in Los Angeles is as high as 60 percent. The city also has the largest juvenile hall and court systems in the world. Shawnta Williams is among the members of the Youth Justice Coalition who have personal experience with Los Angeles’ criminal justice system. “I got placement and support [by the Placement Services Bureau],” said Shawnta, who is 16 years old. “I was treated like shit.” Fortunately, she was eventually enrolled in the Youth Justice Coalition’s school, Free LA High School, where students pushed out of traditional schools earn high school diplomas, as well as social justice organizing and movement building skills. “I didn’t really care about much before [attending Free LA High School],” Shawnta said. “I just wanted to get high. Now I want to go to college.” The students at city hall were all grateful for the coalition’s positive impacts on their lives. But they stressed that Los Angeles does not provide youth with enough access to similar programs. “The city puts more money into caring for animals than for helping us,” Jay Mathews said. “That’s part of why we need our own department.” The students demanded a youth development department to be established with an allocation of 5 percent of Los Angeles’ public safety budget. That budget is about 70 times greater than the budget for existing youth programs.
Better than Chain Store Service
With the amount of funding requested, the new department could create 15,000 youth jobs and 30 youth centers. Hundreds of peace builders, whose responsibilities would include reducing youth violence in Los Angeles’ schools and streets, could also be hired.
Rev. Cue Jn-Marie, from Skid Row’s Church Without Walls, was also present. “We need to develop responsible human beings,” Jn-Marie said. “If the city neglects our youth, we are neglecting our communities and our future.”
Barragan Sworn-in as 44th District Rep
On Feb. 25, Rep. Nanette Barragan participated in a swearing-in ceremony at San Pedro High School, the second such ceremony since she officially took office this past January. The ceremony was attended by the newly elected State Senator Steven Bradford and State Assemblyman Patrick O’Donnell along with Carson elected officials Councilwoman Lula Davis Holmes, Councilmen Elito Santarina and Jawane Hilton, and City Clerk Donesia Gause-Aldana were in attendance. Photo by Jessie Drezner.
The Shortest Run to Catalina
SERVICES & AMENITIES • 698 slips from 28’ to 130’ • Guest slips available • 375 dry storage spaces up to 45’ with crane launching • Ample courtesy parking • Water & electricity • Restrooms with showers • Ice machines & laundry • Pumpout—public and slip-in
Ca
br
Providing clean facilities and protecting our waterways from pollution
1294 W. 6th St., Ste. 100, San Pedro
Across from Little Company of Mary Hospital
www.PeninsulaRx.com
Fax 310-833-9124
HOURS: Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Office open 7 days
Marina: (310) 514-4985 • Dry Storage: (310) 521-0200
cabrillowaymarina@westrec.com • www.CabrilloWay-Marina.com 2293 Miner St., San Pedro, CA 90731
March 2 - 15, 2017
We’re your independent community pharmacy! GIVE US A CALL
310-833-3535
Way M ar illo
a in
• FREE DELIVERY • SAME CO-PAY • PERSONAL SERVICE • NO WAIT •Specialty Medicines • Professional, Familiar Service • Free Delivery Service • ILWU, Medicare Part D and all major insurances accepted
The Local Publication You Actually Read
AOC7’s 5th Annual Literacy Fair
Committed to Independent Journalism in the Greater LA/LB Harbor Area for More Than 30 Years
3
[LB Civic Center, from page 1]
LB Civic Center
The $525 million project, scheduled to be completed by 2019, encompasses the area where Broadway, Chestnut and Pacific avenues broadside Ocean Avenue. City Hall and the POLB headquarters are planned to be 11 stories high, with a plaza in between them for public events. The Main Library will be on Broadway and will include an underground level for its archives. With construction ahead of schedule, occupancy is expected by June 2019 with the Lincoln Park build out to be complete by the
summer of 2020. A residential-commercial tower expected to rise about 432 feet may be in the works and completed by spring of 2020. The tower may have a 200-room hotel as part of the project, but that is not guaranteed. Performance spaces, a dog park and children’s play area are expected to be part of the new Lincoln Park.
Out with the Old
Discussions about a new Long Beach Civic Center began as early as 2008, when then-Mayor Bob Foster was told that the Main Library roof was in danger of collapse. Around that time, a public-private partnership had been initiated
Rendering of Long Beach Civic Center.
to construct the George Deukmejian Court on Magnolia Avenue, near Broadway. A 2013 study, following a federal investigation that surfaced from Hurricane Katrina, found that Long Beach City Hall’s stairs could break and the structure could collapse during a large earthquake. The construction of a new city hall is said to withstand a 7.5 earthquake with a low probability of injuries and zero deaths. But not everyone believes the project was necessary. “I have lots of reservation as the city has obligated taxpayers to a … project that was not needed and is being done to help other developers in the area,” former Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske said. “If the building were so unsafe, why are employees still there and will be there until late 2019?”
Deal or No Deal
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
In late 2015, the Long Beach City Council approved a deal to enter a public-private partnership with the Plenary-Edgemoor Civic Partners. The partnership works by having the
company pay for the construction of the Civic Center, with the city being its tenant for the first 40 years. This comes out to about $14.5 million annually. Repairing the civic center might cost about $19 million. The property will then be returned to the city after the 40-year lease is over. The first payment of about $16.7 million would be due by fiscal year 2020. That cost will gradually increase partially at a fixed 2.18 percent with a 2.4 percent cost of living increase. Schipske said this price is not as fixed as it seems. The cost may end up being higher when considering the underground infrastructure of oil pipes that may be found in the process. “There will be massive overruns and the cost to the city will escalate,” she said. But Jennifer Carey, an executive assistant with the Public Works Department, said the construction risk is primarily on the developer. “The city has an agreement that makes the developer contractually obligated to deliver the building for the price agreed upon,” Carey said. Plenary-Edgemoor will get two parcels out of the deal, one on Ocean Boulevard and the other at Pacific Avenue and 3rd Street. Those parcels will be used for private development after the Civic Center is complete. And, that’s the crux of the project, Schipske said. “This project wasn’t done because we need a civic center, it was done to connect with a larger development that starts at Magnolia and goes to Pacific,” she said. “Few people realize the city gave [the] Lincoln parking [garage] to developers. That, was a source of revenue for the city that defrayed the costs of city hall. “Sadly, once the costs hit, people will complain, but not before.” However, Carey said the deal is optimal. “This project is unique and groundbreaking, both parties are satisfied with the parameters.” she said. The project is expected to generate about 3,700 jobs within its three years of construction. Whether issues arise in the future remains to be seen.
California Bar Scrutinizes Trutanich LOS ANGELES — On Feb. 22, the State Bar of California stated that it was looking into disciplinary actions against former Los Angeles City Attorney Carmen Trutanich. Trutanich could face disbarment, suspension and/or other sanctions related to claims that as a county prosecutor he suppressed evidence and allowed a witness to give false testimony during a 1985 murder case. About a year ago, a federal judge found that Trutanich’s behavior deprived South Los Angeles gang member Barry Williams of a fair trial. The court threw out the murder conviction and death sentence related to the shooting and killing of Jerome Dunn in 1982. The disciplinary notice
claims that Trutanich withheld a second eyewitness from defense attorneys. Trutanich denied that he misled the jury or suppressed evidence during the case. During a 2015 hearing, he told the federal judge that he never knew the second eyewitness’ real name and claimed he had turned over both names to defense attorneys. Williams is in state prison serving a sentence of 34-years-to life for a separate murder conviction. A State Bar Court hearing is scheduled for March 13 in Los Angeles. Trutanich may appeal the state bar’s recommendations to a review panel.
March 2 - 15, 2017
Lobbyist Birthday Invites Gift Fines
4
LOS ANGELES — On Feb. 14, John Ek, a City Hall lobbyist, was fined $11,380 — half of the $22,761.66 maximum penalty — for inviting city officials to celebrate his 50th birthday at Perch Los Angeles restaurant. The celebration took place May 30, 2015. He spent more than $51,000. Ethics officials said Ek should not have invited Mayor Eric Garcetti, the city controller, the 15 city council members and several other city officials to the event. They believe that inviting 37 officials is in violation of rules that bar lobbyists
from offering gifts of any value to city officials. Lobbyists may not offer gifts to elected officials under any circumstances, while most other city officials cannot be offered gifts from lobbyists who have business before their agency. Ek invited a total of 250 people to his party. One invitation equaled about $205 per person. Councilman Mitch Englander and Councilwoman Nury Martinez, eventually reimbursed Ek the $205 per person cost. They were not considered in violation of ethics rules because they returned the gift within an allotted window of time.
LACCD Candidates Take Stands on College Cost By Lyn Jensen, Carson Reporter
On March 7, voters will decide among candidates for three even-numbered seats on the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees. Los Angeles Harbor College in Wilmington is part of the district, which includes nine campuses attended by about 230,000 students. Trustees meet twice a month — at 2 p.m. Wednesdays at 770 Wilshire Blvd. in Los Angeles. They play a major role in determining educational priorities and managing the district’s budget. Expanded and detailed information about the board’s activities is available on the LACCD website. The board of trustees consists of seven atlarge seats, plus a student trustee. Elections take place every two years, with even-numbered seats chosen in one election and odd-numbered seats in the next. This election is for seats 2, 4, and 6. The race for seat 2 is the busiest. There are four candidates, none of whom are incumbents. The races for seats 4 and 6 are between an incumbent and a challenger.
SEAT 2
Steven Veres hopes to return to the board after occupying Seat 3 for one term from 2011 to 2015, when he served as vice president of the panel. He has taught in the LACCD and the Culver City Unified School District. Veres also has elected experience as a member of the San Fernando City Council and has been the managing editor of the San Fernando Sun. He is an aide to state Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon. His endorsements include almost a dozen labor organizations. According to votersedge.org, his priorities are: (1) improve graduation or transfer rates and expand job-training programs, (2) equitably manage the budget and (3) expand the most in-demand courses.
Harbor Area [Announcements, from page 3] 1401 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach The Center Long Beach 2017 E. 4th St., Long Beach
Los Angeles Area Chamber Offers Educational Scholarships
The public now has the ability to file police reports online for specific types of crimes through Coplogic, a web-based program. To file a report, access Coplogic by visiting the Long Beach Police Department’s website at www. longbeach.gov/police and clicking on the Coplogic icon, or through the free “GO LBPD” mobile app available for download at the Apple App Store and at the Google Play Marketplace.
Seat 6:
Nancy Pearlman is seeking her fifth term on the board of trustees. She was first elected in 2001 and her official district biography notes that
Measure H: County Tax to Help the Homeless On March 7, voters in Carson will decide on Measure H, a proposed ordinance by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, which proposes levying a quarter-cent sales tax to combat homelessness through an approach on multiple fronts. A “yes” vote is in favor of passing the measure, a “no” vote is not. It requires a twothirds majority to pass. Measure H proposes to raise funds for social services including health care, education, job training, emergency and affordable housing, and transportation for the county’s homeless population. Homeless men, women, children, veterans and people with disabilities would all benefit. The ordinance would sunset after 10 years. Besides adopting a “retail transactions and use tax” of one-quarter of one cent, Measure H creates a Citizens’ Oversight Advisory Board comprised of five members appointed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. This shall review semi-annually all expenditures from the collected tax, annually publish a complete accounting of allocations and submit periodic evaluations to the county. The measure was placed on the ballot by unanimous resolution of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and if approved will result in the enactment of Ordinance No. 2017-0001. The board also declared a state of emergency to deal with the county’s homeless population. The entire measure is printed in the Official Sample Ballot mailed in advance of the election. Although proposals to raise taxes routinely attract a certain level of opposition, there is no organized opposition to Measure H. Proponents including Los Angeles District Attorney Jackie Lacey argue in the Official Sample Ballot that more than 4,000 children are homeless, and that one third of the homeless population are women. Statistics on the county’s homeless are primarily the responsibility of the Los Angeles
Homeless Services Authority, which in recent years has conducted an annual homeless count. In 2015 it found 44,359 homeless people in the county, about 4,400 of whom were veterans. The county’s Homeless Services Authority counts persons living in tents, cars, parks, abandoned buildings and homeless shelters as homeless. The 2016 Homeless Services count found that the number of homeless women had increased by about 14,000 or 55 percent since 2013.
Divorce $159-$289 + Filing Fee Bankruptcy $695 + Filing Fee Living Trust $375 Will $175 • Probate $299 Basic Prices for Simple Cases
March 2 - 15, 2017
Long Beach Launches Online Police Reporting Service
Ernest H. Moreno is seeking his second term. He was elected to the board in 2013, after being employed by the district for 42 years.
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the World Trade Week Education Committee are seeking applicants and nominations for a series of prestigious scholarships available to high school and college students, including the esteemed Stanley T. Olafson Award. Award categories and links for submission: High School: https://lachamber.com/ forms/world-trade-week-2017-high-schoolscholarship-application University: https://lachamber.com/forms/ world-trade-week-2017-college-universityscholarship-application
SEAT 4:
According to his official bio, Moreno “taught business administration, supervision and management, and labor relations at Los Angeles Trade Technical College from 1976 to 1986, and political science at West Los Angeles College from 1986 to 2006.” He was president of East Los Angeles College for many years, and briefly served as interim president of Los Angeles Mission College. He has no campaign website. Dallas Denise Fowler is the only AfricanAmerican woman candidate in the field. Her Facebook page describes her as principal at Daltek Global Solutions. She served on the Los Angeles City Commission on the Status of Women from 2013 to 2015. The Los Angeles Times has criticized her as a “Democratic activist” in “a nonpartisan race.” She supports free college. Her list of endorsements include United Teachers Los Angeles and county Supervisor Sheila Kuehl. Campaign website: www.dallasfowler.com
The Local Publication You Actually Read
Community Announcements:
Campaign website: www.stevenveres.com Thomas J. Norman is a management and marketing professor at California State University Dominguez Hills. According to his campaign website, his top priorities include a push for free tuition, free or low-cost textbooks and easier transfers to four-year colleges. Campaign website: norman4laccd.com Steve Goldstein is a mysterious, low-profile candidate. Random Lengths News could not find a website, a Facebook or a LinkedIn page for him, and there is no additional information on his voteredge.com entry. The ballot only reads “Community College Advocate” in the description area. Sergio Vargas is another mystery. The ballot describes him as an “Education Advocate,” but he also appears to have no Internet presence — not even on Facebook or LinkedIn. His voteredge. com entry contains no additional information.
she “leads the effort to have sustainable buildings and operations for the district.” It describes Pearlman as an “award-winning broadcaster, journalist, environmentalist, college instructor, anthropologist, editor, producer, onair personality and outdoorswoman who has made safeguarding the earth’s ecosystems her career.” She has “taught cultural and physical anthropology, broadcasting, journalism and mass communications at the college and adult level.” The Los Angeles Times called her a gadfly and endorsed her opponent. Website: nancypearlman.net Gabriel Buelna is an ethics studies teacher at California State University Northridge and executive director at Plaza Community Services in East Los Angeles. In his campaign video on Facebook, he says he wants to make “the first two years of college free, including textbooks.” At a recent candidates’ appearance, he and Pearlman both voiced support for organized labor and the role it plays in the system of community colleges. Campaign website: buelnaforcollegeboard. nationbuilder.com
5
[Report Card, from page 1]
Shooting Leaves One Dead
SAN PEDRO — Los Angeles Police Department Harbor Area homicide detectives are seeking help from anyone with information leading to the identification and arrest of the suspect(s) responsible for the shooting death of 22-year-old Juan Antonio Bueno. The shooting took place at about 8:30 p.m. Feb. 14 on the 200 block of North Gaffey Street. Investigators found that unknown suspect(s) pulled into the El Pollo Loco parking lot and began a confrontation with him. Sources said that one of the suspects was urinating in public when another suspect got out of the car, charged Bueno and began to tussle with him. Another suspect got out of the car with a gun and fired one round in the direction of Bueno, striking him. The Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded took Bueno to a local hospital where he later died. There are no suspect(s) or vehicle description. Anyone with additional information are urged to visit www.lapdonline.org or call (310) 7267889 anonymously.
Port Selects Managing Engineering Services
Director
of
March 2 - 15, 2017
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
LONG BEACH — On Feb. 13, the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners named Port of Long Beach senior executive Sean Gamette as the managing director of Engineering Services. Gamette, the port’s program delivery group director and chief harbor engineer, will lead a bureau that oversees and executes engineering and construction projects and maintenance for the Harbor Department. Gamette was selected after a competitive process to replace Doug Thiessen, who retired earlier this year. Gamette came to the Harbor Department in 2003 as a senior program manager and was promoted to deputy chief harbor engineer in 2009 before assuming duties leading the Program Delivery Group in 2013. He earned a bachelor’s of science in civil engineering from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.
6
Hospital Celebrates its 60th Anniversary of First Open Heart Surgery
LONG BEACH — On Feb. 14, Dignity Health– St. Mary Medical Center is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the first open heart surgery at its hospital. The recipient of the first procedure, Michael Rivard, joined the medical center’s staff in celebrating the occasion. The day also marked his 72nd birthday. Sixty years ago, Rivard was a 12-yearold little boy with a congenital heart defect, which caused chest pain and shortness of breath and resulted in an enlarged heart. St. Mary doctors told his parents he had a one in four chance of surviving the invasive surgeries. Thanks to the cardiovascular services available at St. Mary, Rivard shared his story of gratitude. The Long Beach resident gives back to children facing heart problems just like he did, as a volunteer at Camp del Corazon, a free week-long summer camp on Catalina for children with heart disease. Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center cardiovascular services include 24-hour on-site emergency care, designation as a STEMI Receiving Center for heart attacks, and diagnostic services, including a 64slice CT scanner, echocardiograms, stress and treadmill tests, two state-of-the-art catheterization labs, surgical suites for openheart, thoracic and complex valve surgeries, cardiac rehab unit, and a telemetry unit with single patient rooms.
BUSCAINO REPORT CARD
“The most important function a city can serve is to keep it safe and clean,” the councilman said. The councilman called the district’s residents efforts to improve their community inspiring, citing groups like Clean San Pedro, Clean Wilmington and Clean Watts. An example of the councilman’s involvement was the Recreation and Parks Department’s $4 million renovation of the 109th Street Pool. The pool was closed following a 2008 melee that saw 30 men overrun two armed guards and six pool workers. Buscaino provided funding for increased security services. The councilman recounted the activism of Watts’s resident and founder of Clean Watts Ronald “Kartoon” Antwine that brought Watts Serenity Park; and the work of John Jones III, founder of East Side Riders Bicycle club, that brought Ciclavia to Watts and said it was set for it to come Wilmington in 2018. The councilman highlighted work of entrepreneurs like chefs Roy Choi and Daniel Patterson who opened LocoL, the conscientious health-oriented fast-food restaurant and the Ortiz family’s Hojas Tea House of Wilmington, which has opened up locations in San Pedro and Long Beach within the past few years. He applauded Harbor Gateway North Neighborhood Council chairwoman Pamela Thornton and her council’s advocacy for a pocket park with the aim of pushing out sex offenders from the community. The councilman announced the near completion of Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park following the yeoman’s work of local educators Martin Byhower and Joanne Valle. What he neglected to mention was the park’s redevelopment had pushed some 167 homeless people out into the open in the Los Angeles Harbor Area and has become something that has stained his image. The councilman highlighted the funds pouring through Wilmington to upgrade the Avalon corridor and the work in particular of Santa Luna restaurateur Antonio Castaneda, who has renovated several Avalon Boulevard façades. Random Lengths evaluated the motions the councilman authored and seconded in his first, full term in office. Buscaino’s performance cannot be fully measured by the motions he filed given that the power of his position relies on influencing actors beyond the council chambers. But it does paint a picture of his priorities and the depth of his commitment to them.
Homelessness, Afforable Housing and New Development Projects
In 2015, the councilman was busy in the kitchen when it came to development. He cooked up several motions from Watts to San Pedro. Whether anyone will like, let alone be satisfied with what he’s cooking remains to be seen. In May 2015, Buscaino along with Councilman Mike Bonin authored and seconded a motion to negotiate and execute an amendment to City Contract C-120911, a block grant contract extension between the city and Boys and Girls Club. In June of 2015, Buscaino with Councilman Bernard Parks, authored and seconded a motion to direct the Port of Los Angeles and the Department
The League of Women Voters and the nonprofit organization SBCC Thrive LA hosted a candidates forum Council District 15 on Feb. 16. Left, Noel Gould and incumbent Joe Buscaino. Photo courtesy of SBCC Thrive
of Recreation and Parks to submit a report to the Arts, Parks, Health, Aging and River Committee report about the feasibility to establish a dog park in the inner Cabrillo Beach area. In September 2015, Buscaino and the Los Angeles City Council allocated $200,000 for the purchase of real estate related to Watts Civic Center redevelopment. The councilman filed a motion to relocate a council office and the substations of the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles Fire Department when the Watts Civic Center gets renovated. In October 2015, Buscaino and the Trade, Commerce and Technology Committee over which he presides as chairman, commissioned a feasibility study on San Pedro’s Waterfront redevelopment efforts. The result of that study was released two weeks before the primary election on Feb. 21. In December 2015, the councilman’s committee commissioned a report on the marketing strategy to promote tourism at the LA Waterfront due out by the end of 2017. This study was commissioned around the same time as the committee’s feasibility study on San Pedro’s Waterfront redevelopment efforts. The study sought to answer the following question: For 16 publicly-owned sites in the LA Waterfront area, what are the best nearand longer-term development options given market conditions, zoning codes, regulatory constraints, physical site characteristics, and ongoing public and private investment in the LA waterfront? Of the 16 publicly-owned sites, the report identifies the Outer Harbor and the historic Warehouse #1 as likely to elicit the most excitement from developers, with Daily Breeze reporting that some would like to convert it into a hotel. However, a closer look at the report identifies the historic property only as potential “office/flex” space, which has no interest. The report noted that 804 market-rate units are slated to be built in downtown San Pedro. Yet, none have broken ground. The report explained that San Pedro rents are too low ($2.02 versus $2.65 per square foot) to support higher-density development like recent Long Beach projects.
But the report’s authors believe rental rates will rise in the future. There is no mention of the comparable public investments in infrastructure made in Long Beach as compared to San Pedro. Between Holland Partners 312 mixeduse development on the courthouse property, Omninet’s 400-unit development on the former C-worthy Paint store on Palos Verdes Street between 5th and 6th streets; LaTerra’s 24 singlefamily residences, which are planned to have direct access garages and rooftop decks; and the councilman’s much maligned Nelson One project, there hasn’t been one project to actually get started. The reasons for the criticism of the councilman’s Nelson One project have as much to do about style as about substance. The councilman is looking to place a 47-unit luxury apartment building with ground floor commercial space on the ground floor, adjacent to the Mesa and 6th streets parking lot. On this concept alone, the project has been panned as out of character with the neighboring architecture and the narrow one-way street upon which it would be built. The other issue is that the councilman’s lack of vetting of developer Richard D. Lamphere. Lamphere was connected to a failed land deal that cost two private investors hundreds of thousands of dollars. That ultimately led to his conviction of fraud and resulted in a prison stint in September 2016. The councilman talks a good game about building affordable housing, just as long as it is not in San Pedro. None of the projects listed above have any affordable housing component. When he does address low-income housing, he’s talking about getting rid of or significantly altering the public housing at Rancho San Pedro. During his state of the district speech, Buscaino proclaimed that the ground has been broken on 300 new units of low-income housing on his watch. That included Blue Butterfly project for homeless vets along Western Avenue (which was started long before he came into office) and two low-income housing developments in the community of Willowbrook, just south of Watts. During his forum on homelessness in September 2015, the councilman said that there were several affordable housing developments on [See Report Card, page 10]
Accepting Interns Now!
Reasons to Represent By Caney Arnold, Candidate for the Council District 15 When I started this campaign I was determined to provide voters with a better option. The more I campaigned, the more I realized voters need a better option. On the campaign trail, I heard voters complain about pay-to-play politics, bribery, intimidation, lack of caring about people’s health, and just plain poor judgment on the part of Buscaino. With my Air Force program management experience, my ethics and my sense of empathy and caring, I can bring a much needed change to District 15. As a child, my mother (a native of Burlington, Vt.) and my father (a native of a Mississippi delta town called Itta Bena) stressed that we could do or be anything that we wanted if we worked hard enough. Despite the fact that economically, the whole town was in the same boat, Itta Bena was a place where a racial hierarchy was so deeply embedded and encoded that there were parts of the town in which I couldn’t play. When he was a child, my father’s family lived in an old shack, and my dad picked cotton and other crops. At the time, it was an exciting novelty to think that my dad had picked cotton when he was a kid. It didn’t occur to me at the
time how hard his life had been. My dad was able to escape on the G.I. Bill. He majored in mathematics, became an engineer, and moved to San Diego for another job where he met my mom. When I was five years old, we moved to Woodland Hills. It is on this foundation, set in an era of 1960s movement politics, antiwar activism and assassinations of our nation’s brightest that shaped my values. I graduated from UCLA with a degree in economics and went to work as a civilian at the Department of Defense. I settled, with my family in Harbor City. After 32 years, I retired in 2011. Following our councilman’s Homeless Forum in September 2015, I became energized and connected to the issues affecting the Los Angeles Harbor when I assisted a local homeless advocate and her team of volunteers. After six long months, they got a mom and her two children into Harbor Interfaith Services shelter program. The family was unable to get into permanent housing until after more than a year. As one of my fellow Berners likes to say, “There’s got to be a better way.” [See Arnold, page 18]
Candidate Discusses Issues Vital to CD 15 By Noel Gould, Candidate for Council District 15
Re-Elect Nancy Pearlman
An Experienced Educator
Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees, Seat 6
Vote March 7 to reelect the most experienced Trustee: www.NancyPearlman.net • An anthropologist & community college instructor who advocates for student success As an environmentalist, anthropologist, educator, and broadcaster, Nancy has dedicated her life to public service. Nancy has the most experience and history of any current trustee and is dedicated to the LACCD.
• Environmentalist and leader in establishing the largest green building program in the nation • Endorsed by teachers, unions (E.G. SEIU99, AFT1521A, various building trades), NWPC & Sierra Club • Committed to fiscal accountability and transparency in the spending of taxpayer dollars Paid for by Nancy Pearlman for College Board Reelection Committee #1265596
FREE! FREE!
VITA Income Tax Preparation
A program sponsored and funded by the City of Los Angeles Housing Community Investment Department
APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED! For appointments or questions:
Preparación de Impuestos VITA ¡SE REQUIERE CITA!
(310) 832-1145, ext. 106
You must be a resident in the City of Los Angeles and meet certain income eligibility requirements
¡GRATIS! ¡GRATIS!
Un programa patrocianado y financiado por el Departmento de Vivienda y Acción Social de la ciudad de Los Ángeles Para hacer cita o una pregunta:
(310) 832-1145, ext. 106
Para ser elegible y recibir servicios hay que vivir en la cuidad de Los Ángeles y cumplir con los requisitos de ingresos Location/Locación:
TOBERMAN NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER 131 N. Grand Avenue San Pedro
March 2 - 15, 2017
[See Gould, page 18]
This new program is generously supported by a grant from
example for why Measure S should pass to help slow the out-of-control and inconsistent development in our region. Buscaino, a former LAPD senior lead officer, has the know-how to address safety and police-related issues. But he’s failed to deliver and he must be defeated! Joe no longer has a “cop mentality” about service; he’s now a fullfledged “developer pimp,” who receives large contributions from developers and gives them whatever they want, even if, it means ignoring zoning laws, and the health and safety of his constituents. One classic example of Joe’s “dirty deeds” is now under investigation by the Los Angeles County District Attorney. It involves the “Sea Breeze” housing project he and Mayor Eric Garcetti jammed into the middle of an industrial zone near Harbor UCLA Medical Center. According to the Los Angeles Times, Joe took almost $95,000 from the developer, Garcetti took $60,000, and former Councilwoman (and now County Supervisor) Janice Hahn took more than $200,000 then changed the zoning laws so that the project could go forward. The city’s Planning Commission even opposed the project 100 percent, but Buscaino and Garcetti, as Hahn
For more info or to apply, visit: www.bird-rescue.org or email: internships@bird-rescue.org
IBR is a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation organization. Our center is equipped to support 2,500 animals per year and is in the unique position to offer rewarding learning experiences.
The Local Publication You Actually Read
I’m Noel Gould and I’m running for CD 15. Our district is terminally ignored and our council office is totally ineffective. Enough! It’s time for a CHANGE! I, with my staff, will host town hall meetings every two weeks in order to listen to you. Then we’ll work together to find creative solutions. San Pedro, Wilmington, Harbor City, Harbor Gateway and Watts voters have been tricked for the past five years by incumbent Los Angeles City Councilman Joe Buscaino, who has not only deliberately failed to respond to community concerns about the homeless issue and inconsistent over-development of our communities, but has also completely failed to provide the necessary police support and crime suppression. These failures, according to Los Angeles Police Department’s COMPSTAT Harbor Area and Southeast area reports, have increased total violent crimes by 45 percent in the past two years: a 400 percent increase in rapes in the last month of 2016 alone, a 200 percent increase in shooting victims, and a 100 percent increase in murders this past year. But arrests are down 190 percent. So Joe just doesn’t care. That’s why I decided to run for council: because Joe is killing our community with bad decisions, or indecisiveness. He is a also perfect
Join International Bird Rescue in San Pedro for a once in a lifetime experience with aquatic bird rehabilitation while participating in a research project and animal care training.
7
No on Joe, Yes on S and H Challenge to the status quo of Los Angeles By James Preston Allen, Publisher
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
I don’t know about you, but I’m getting awfully tired of seeing Los Angeles Councilman Joe Buscaino’s smiling face everywhere I look. He has become the cheerleader-in-chief for Council District 15 — nothing more. The sad part about it is that being a councilman is not about you. It’s about serving the people of the district. It’s about getting bigger things done than opening a coffee house and praising small business owners for taking a risk. It’s about more than conducting photo ops while pretending to care about the homeless — especially while the Los Angeles Police Department is out arresting them on meritless warrants because they have no better options than to camp out in front of the San Pedro City Hall building because there are no other options. Buscaino’s latest campaign mailer claims that he is “the councilman of the Port of Los Angeles.” This is strange since most of us here believe that the Port of L.A. exists as the 16th district of the city. It has no elected representatives on its commission and very little to hold it accountable to the Harbor Area residents without the threat of protests, strikes or litigation. The Harbor Department is insular in so many ways and immune to public accountability except by higher authorities (i.e. the Los Angeles mayor, the South Coast Air Quality Management District, the State Tidelands Commission and the California Air Resources Board), with no serious public engagement except the public relations initiatives at neighborhood councils. Not since the POLA unilaterally canceled the Port Community Advisory Council has there been any significant public oversight of port activities. Buscaino has not stepped into this void. Buscaino’s past five years in office have been an abject failure. He failed to garner support for his delusional waterfront dreams and other grandiose proposals. Because of his abhorrence of real collaboration, he is incapable of leading by consensus, costing him his core ethnic support — Italians, Croatians and Greeks. To put it more bluntly, what Buscaino has put forward thus far as a pathway to the future of the greater Harbor Area is neither bold nor brilliant enough — let alone sustainable. What he has done so far is to adopt the initiatives of others like the Gaffey Great Streets Initiative that left people wondering
exactly why would you put a playground at an exit park where some 63,000 cars pass onto the 110 Freeway? Then there is the Nelson One project, which surprised everyone this past year. Proposed by a man convicted of real estate fraud in Solano County, it would put a 15-story high-rise on one of San Pedro’s narrowest streets. And none of the projects in the pipeline have any affordable housing units. Complain all you want about what Measure S doesn’t accomplish, but Buscaino’s development plans for the lower 15th are the poster child for spot zoning and back room deals. As for Measure S, I have been reading everything that has been written in the Los Angeles Times against this measure and all the propaganda for and against it. As confusing as this is for most voters not familiar with zoning law and development what this comes down to is whether or not to push the pause button on business as usual at city hall. Los Angeles has been remiss in its obligation to finalize and approve the 35 community plans that make up its General Plan, which gives everybody a chance to chime in on development issues. The plans that are in place are some 20 years old and every time a developer wants a variance to the plan or a zoning change, it gets wrapped up in city bureaucracy forever. So to speed things along, political grease is applied in the way of campaign contributions and donations to officeholder accounts. In the record business, it’s called payola. At city hall, it’s called pay-toplay, but it’s all the same. Now I doubt that we’ll ever get that kind of money out of politics, but what we can have are 35 community plans that are reviewed by the 95 neighborhood councils and approved by the city council. We can have a general plan that reflects the consensus of the communities and the council signed by the mayor. That’s a democratic process. What we have now is just bad governance. Measure S is the reset button that holds up only 5 percent of current projects in the pipeline and the moratorium is for only two years. So let’s use those two years to fix the city and come to some plan on where to build density, where and how to build affordable workforce housing and what to do with the cities excess real estate assets. Who knows? Perhaps we could actually build homeless housing on some of it? As for Measure H, Los Angeles County’s Publisher/Executive Editor James Preston Allen james@randomlengthsnews.com
March 2 - 15, 2017
Assoc. Publisher/Production Coordinator Suzanne Matsumiya
8
Managing Editor
“A newspaper is not just for reporting the news as it Terelle Jerricks is, but to make people mad enough to do someeditor@randomlengthsnews.com thing about it.” —Mark Twain Senior Editor Vol. XXXVIII : No. 5 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.
Paul Rosenberg Assistant Editor Zamná Ávila zamna@randomlengthsnews.com
quarter-of-a-cent tax, isn’t the best way to finance a cure for the homeless crisis. But it is a “right now” solution that has citizen oversight. So, I’m endorsing a yes vote on it. I’d prefer to place a luxury tax on any real estate valued at over $5 million and to change the appraisal laws on property transfers that occur when a business is sold. For instance, when Exxon Mobil sold their
Torrance refinery to PBF Energy, a Parsippany, N.J.-based company, all of that property didn’t get reappraised as a real estate transaction but was transferred without it, because it’s a sale of total business assets. I’d love to know which lawyer wrote that loophole into Prop. 13. Lastly, Nancy Pearlman for the Community College Board seat 6 is my endorsement. She’s one of the few true progressives in local office.
The Accidental Longshoreman By John R. Gray, Guest Columnist
We all make judgments about others. Most of the time the judgment is made with limited information. For instance: My nephew came by to see me the other day, and naturally I was glad to see him. He is a born and raised San Pedro native throughand-through. He is our family’s college graduate — finance major at that. He was the one who was always expected to succeed. He recounted an interesting conversation he had while he was on vacation recently in Las Vegas. He said he was having a drink at a casino bar when a fellow struck up a conversation with him. The conversation eventually turned to their respective places of origin; my nephew told the fellow he was from San Pedro, Calif. The fellow immediately asked if he was a longshoreman. “The guys that make all the money?” the fellow said.
Columnists/Reporters Lyn Jensen Reporter Christian Guzman Reporter Gina Ruccione Restaurant Reviewer Andrea Serna Arts Writer Melina Paris Culture Writer
Cartoonists Ann Cleaves, Andy Singer, Matt Wuerker Design/Production Suzanne Matsumiya
Send Calendar Items to: 14days@randomlengthsnews.com
Advertising Representative Rich Hoogs rlnsales@randomlengthsnews.com
Photographers Terelle Jerricks, Phillip Cooke, Jessie Drezner
Editorial Interns Arlo Tinsman-Kongshaug, Liam Lindsay
Contributors Richard Foss, John R. Gray, Kym Cunningham
Display advertising (310) 519-1442 Classifieds (310) 519-1016 www.randomlengthsnews.com
Then my nephew asked me, “Uncle, why would the guy think I was a longshoreman? I had on a $600 suit and I speak standard English.” My best explanation was that the fellow’s question was based on a common assumption about men from San Pedro. I told my nephew that San Pedro is known the world over for the legacy of longshoremen. It’s tied to our identity in a way Los Angeles Harbor resident never will be. I told him he does not need to wear an ILWU shirt when he says he’s from San Pedro. It’s just the way it is. Then I told him, “You are a good person and Harry Bridges would be proud of you.” John R. Gray is a lifetime resident of the Harbor Area. He has a bachelor’s of science degree in criminology from Cal State University Long Beach. He studied human behavior at Chapman College. He is a certified correctional counselor. Random Lengths News editorial office is located at 1300 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro, CA 90731, (310) 519-1016. Address correspondence regarding news items and news tips only to Random Lengths News, P.O. Box 731, San Pedro, CA 90733-0731, or email to editor @randomlengthsnews.com. Send Letters to the Editor or requests for subscription information to james @ randomlengthsnews.com. To be considered for publication, all Letters to the Editor should be typewritten, must be signed, with address and phone number included (these will not be published, but for verification only) and be kept to about 250 words. To submit advertising copy email rlnsales@randomelengthsnews.com or reads@randomlengthsnews.com. Extra copies and back issues are available by mail for $3 per copy while supplies last. Subscriptions are available for $36 per year for 27 issues. Random Lengths News presents issues from an alternative perspective. We welcome articles and opinions from all people in the Harbor Area. While we may not agree with the opinions of contributing writers, we respect and support their 1st Amendment right to express those opinions. Random Lengths News is a member of Standard Rates and Data Reporting Services and the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies. (ISN #0891-6627). All contents Copyright 2017 Random Lengths News. All rights reserved.
RANDOMLetters DAPL Workers’ Phony Excuses
Unconstitutional
towards the Metro Green Line and beyond) so early and at so little cost, have shamelessly stripped the port’s communities of rail stations for now and decades to come with their “Measure M” project list. Have these two earned your vote? Now that you’ve read the foregoing, just one example of their kind of judgment and handling the community, dear Los Angeles Voter, we trust you are in the state of mind to Act; we appeal to you NOW to pledge to go to your polls March 7, 2017 ( city primary election, and May 16, 2017 (city general election) and Do The Right Thing: FIRE- to TERMINATE-
and yes, LIQUIDATE the present and future political careers of: 1. Mayor Eric Garcetti, and 2. 15th District Councilman Joe Buscaino James Henry Washington Jr. Long Beach Send Letters to the Editor to: letters @randomlengthsnews.com. To be considered for publication, all Letters to the Editor must include your name with address and phone number included (these will not be published, but are for verification only) and be kept to about 250 words.
Resist Trump
I just sat through Trump’s speech...it was painful. The only thing that left me encouraged was seeing that even those directly threatened by Trump’s policies are ready and willing to fight back. I joined my fellow Democratic women in wearing white to Trump’s speech, a nod to the women’s suffrage movement. My guest was a DACA recipient, one of many people I represent who are being targeted by Trump’s policies. But tonight also showed that we’re in for a long haul, and we need to be vigilant every day. I’m committed to doing just that, but I need your help to make it happen. Rep. Nanette Barragan, (D-44) San Pedro
What is Trump Hiding?
In an interview Nancy Pelosi questioned why President Trump never talks bad about Russian [President] Vladimir Putin. She believes that Putin has something on President Trump and is calling for a congressional investigation of Trump business ties with Russia and the release of his tax returns. I know what Putin has on Trump. This is from a reliable source. When Trump visits Russia on business Russian agents supply him with young boys. Damian Walters San Pedro
Signs of the Times
Way back “then” on Sept. 1, 1905, San Pedro had two complete electric Red Car Lines linking it to Los Angeles. But they succumbed to cards and buses in the 1930s. As an homage tot the red cars, an authentic 1.5-mile reproduction was built in May 2003 in San Pedro. It was proposed to be the
March 2 - 15, 2017
The simple act of Melania Trump leading the public in The Lord’s Prayer at a rally in Florida may be the beginning of the end of 60 years of unconstitutional silencing of religious expression in the public arena. In the 1947 court case Everson vs. The Board of Education, the judiciary established a legal myth which they called “Separation of Church and State.” To justify this new judicial doctrine, the court used a phrase from a letter written in January, 1801, by President Thomas Jefferson to the Danbury Baptist Association of Danbury, Connecticut. Taking the phrase “separation of church and state” out of the context of the letter itself, this phrase was used to begin the development of the belief that the Founding Fathers wanted government to be totally devoid of religious influence and that government displays of religious faith were unconstitutional. This new judicial heresy was advanced further by the 1954 Johnson Amendment to the Federal Tax Code that limited the political activity of tax-exempt nonprofits, including churches. Then in 1962, in the case Engel vs. Vitale, the court ruled that it was unconstitutional for state officials to compose an official school prayer and encourage its recitation in public schools. This ruling was soon interpreted to limit and often restrict prayer in public schools. Was this the intention of the Founding Fathers and the signers of the Constitution? Absolutely not! Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Constitution, who was often referred to as “The Father of Public Schools Under the Constitution,” wrote a treatise on why the Bible should always be the primary textbook in American schools. Fisher Ames was the delegate to Congress who gave us the primary wording for the First Amendment. He also stated, “Should not the Bible regain the place it once held as a schoolbook? Its morals are pure; its examples are captivating and noble. …” Founding Father John Jay was well known as one of the framers of the Constitution. He served as the first chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. In those days the Supreme Court had juries. Jay would not let a jury hear a case until they had taken Holy Communion (The Lord’s Supper). As president, Thomas Jefferson wrote the plan of education for Washington DC schools. In this document Jefferson stated that reading should be taught from two primary texts — The Bible and Watt’s Hymnal. Now for the first time in
Dear Mr. Casey, Without trying to offend your personal religious beliefs, I do vehemently disagree with you. Even the founding fathers knew that government and religion don’t mix. It just took this nation 171 years to settle it in court. If you get a chance pick up a copy of the Jefferson Bible. Jefferson’s condensed composition is especially notable for its exclusion of all miracles by Jesus and most mentions of the supernatural, including sections of the four gospels that contain the Resurrection and most other miracles, as well as passages that portray Jesus as divine. Thanks for reading. James Preston Allen, Publisher
circulator for the entire historic port area, Wilmington to Cabrillo Point in 2007. But in these latter-day “interesting times,” both Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and South Bay LA Councilman Joe Buscaino, ignoring a unified front of port area neighborhood council and chamber of commerce resolution, plus a 7,320-signature citizen’s petition to save it, stood by as the Port of Los Angeles Board threw away its Waterfront Red Car Line Sept. 27, 2015. And “now,” as if taking further revenge on its potential as a MetroRail starter line (up the Gaffey corridor
The Local Publication You Actually Read
Union people (and their pie card “leaders”) who claim to be defending their “jobs” on the Dakota Access Pipeline are using a lousy, phony alibi for working behind the picket lines of the Standing Rock Sioux Nation, whose human rights are being trampled. In the 1930s, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union refused to load scrap metal destined for Japan’s war machine. Members of other unions turned metal debris into scrap, members of other unions transported it to the waterfront, but only the ILWU refused to load it aboard vessels. In the 1940s, the ILWU spoke out against internment camps that, shamefully, were built to warehouse people of Japanese ancestry. Deplorably, several unions — most notably the Teamsters under the thumb of Dave Beck, not only supported internment but later opposed resettlement. Also in the 1940s, the ILWU exposed the manufacturers and shippers that left prepaid military cargoes sitting on the dock in order to utilize space on vessels for lucrative commercial cargoes. The ILWU refused to load commercial cargoes under those circumstances. The ILWU was the only union to object to that “profits over the war effort” disgrace. In the ‘60s and ‘70s, the ILWU reused to load scab grapes. They supported the Cesar Chavez-led United Farm Workers’ efforts to unionize farm workers. Other unions transported the scab grapes to the waterfront using the “it’s our job” alibi for hauling scab cargo, but the ILWU refused to load the grapes. In the ‘70s and ‘80s, the ILWU refused to work apartheid cargoes from South Africa. The U.S. government threatened fines and sanctions, but the union refused to be moved. Members rightfully believed that wages and profits are subservient to human rights. During the same period, the ILWU imposed boycotts on cargoes from several Central and South Americans nations ruled by murdering despots. In the 90s, the ILWU refused to discharge cargo loaded by scabs in Australia. This year the union took action against berry growers who were exploiting their workers. The point is very clear: Human rights come first! “We cannot adopt for ourselves the policies of union leaders who insist that because they have a contract, their members are compelled to perform work even behind a picket line. Every picket line must be respected as though it were our own.” That includes the Standing Rock Sioux picket line! There is no excuse — legitimate or otherwise — for the “jobs” alibi by DAPL workers and their “leaders.” The Dakota Access Pipeline was originally routed to go near Bismarck, but city fathers there complained that the pipeline
would imperil their water resources should a spill occur. The solution? Imperil the water resources of the Standing Rock Sioux Nation! How typical of lily-white pie card labor gunsels and the equally pale politicians and corporate henchmen they have taken as allies. Rich Austin Sr. Northwest ILWU Pensioner
decades, we have a leader who is more concerned about being historically and factually correct than politically correct. With the simple action of the First Lady leading a public meeting in The Lord’s Prayer, Americans have been given an open invitation to return to their historical roots. May we boldly accept that invitation and move forward. Steve Casey, Stonewall, La.
9
[Report Card, from page 6]
Councilman’s Report Card the way. He was correct. For a councilman that is on the record favoring a housing-first model approach to addressing homelessness, it’s conspicuous that he didn’t mention that it would be several years before any of those affordable housing units would be available. And of the ones that would be built, none would be in San Pedro.
The Environmental and Port-Related issues
On port-related issues, Buscaino is a reliable vote, especially given that he’s chairman of the Innovation, Grants, Technology, Commerce and Trade Committee, as well as the Public Works and Gang Reduction Committee — committees that tend to see a lot of Harbor Department requests. For example, in May of 2016, the Innovation, Grants, Technology, Commerce and Trade Committee submitted a report that supported the continuance of a contract with law firm Brown and Winters. It was to recover fees from environmental investigation and cleanup expenses from historic or past tenant insurance policies with the Port of Los Angeles. And, his Public Works and Gang Reduction Committee has submitted a number of reports supportive of the Harbor Department’s request to transfer responsibility of certain streets in the industrial areas of Wilmington into private control. Decisions made by his committee that support the port’s efforts occasionally benefit residents closest to port operations directly. One example is when Buscaino authored a motion in 2012 that supported the appeal of environmental justice activist Jesse Marquez on
denying an application to operate a truck and container storage facility in an area zoned as a residential area. He also authored motions streamlining permit approval process for maritime-related construction. Another such example is when the councilman authored a motion to authorize staff to re-enter negotiations with Union Pacific Railroad to acquire property to complete the East Wilmington Greenbelt Community Center expansion. The railroad initially tried to sell the land to the city for $1.2 million until it was discovered that the property had significant soil and groundwater contamination requiring remediation. Union Pacific agreed to sell the land for $100 if the city would indemnify it against any future lawsuits regarding environmental degradation. Negotiations between the city and Union Pacific devolved into a three-year impasse. On simple, no-brainer issues, Buscaino does OK. It’s the bigger stuff that lends credence to the idea that he is over his head and is an unreliable ally for his constituency. In March 2016, Random Lengths reported that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency informed the South Coast Air Quality Management District that its 2012 pollution reduction plan for meeting Clean Air Act standards did not pass muster. RLn had reported at the time that AQMD’s NOx cap-and-trade program, NOx RECLAIM, repeatedly failed to perform as well as direct regulation of refineries and other facilities. This
is required by state and federal law, dating back to its inception in 1994. But oversight has been lax and slow moving. The story in Random Lengths continued: … the EPA’s action was attentiongrabbing, especially in light of recent AQMD actions weakening its regulatory commitment — most notably by ignoring its own staff and adopting an oil industry plan for amending the same NOx RECLAIM program. The AQMD raised eyebrows when it fired its longtime executive officer Barry Wallerstein, who openly criticized the decision to ignore staff and adopt the oil industry plan. Buscaino is a member of the AQMD board. “[T]he amendments do not appear to meet the minimum emissions control requirements in California law,” California’s Air Resources Board already warned. … President pro tempore Sen. Kevin de León also announced plans to add three more members to the AQMD board representing public health and environmental justice points of view. De León noted that the AQMD board “further weakened” NOx RECLAIM in December. “SCAQMD board members should rethink their votes to weaken the region’s clean air standards and take the necessary steps to comply with state and federal law,” De Leon said. “Their actions are not only irresponsible, but illegal.” San Pedro’s City Council member Joe Buscaino [Mayor Garcetti’s appointee] joined with Republican board members to approve the weakened plan. This goes a long way in backing up the claim that he is a Democrat in name only.
The Councilman’s Final Grade
The councilman is pretty good at jumping on bandwagons while maintaining his megawatt smile at the photo-ops, whether it’s at the dedication of the Misty Copeland Square in front of the uninspiring mural of San Pedro’s famous ballerina; the renaming of Center Street between Viewland Place and Knoll Drive to Eastview Little League Drive; the naming of the intersection of Sixth and Centre streets, “Papadakis Square,” or the renaming of Cabrillo Avenue between 12th and 13th streets, to the honorary title of “Boys and Girls Club Way.” If he was graded on just these appearances, Buscaino would earn a B. (He lost points for the execution of the Misty Copeland mural.) But on the issues that matter to district residents and that impact their daily lives, the incumbent has not been a consistent ally of residents. Think about: • His inability to get Rancho LPG to release copies of its liability insurance documents and a specific seismic figure that the plant could survive; • His support of BNSF’s Southern California International Gateway; • His role as the mayor’s appointee to the board of the South Coast AQMD; • His failure to offer a fix that adequately addresses the homeless crisis; • His failure to get the San Pedro jail open to improve patrol times; • His office’s lack of transparency in choosing developers as exemplified by his choice for Nelson One. Councilman Buscaino’s grade: D
March 2 - 15, 2017
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
Demand Transparency and Accountability in LA City Council - CD 15
10
VOTE ON MARCH 7 FOR
Caney
ARNOLD
Why you should VOTE for Caney Arnold for City Council:
pEthics pSocial Justice City services for all pTransparency & Accountability Equitable neighborhoods Giving citizens input into the decisionmaking process Increased communications with Neighborhood Councils
pFiscal Responsibility
Weeding out fraud, waste and abuse of taxpayers’ money
My commitment to the residents of Council District 15 is to bring ethics, transparency, accountability, environmental and social justice, and fiscal responsibility to our City government. As a retired Air Force Civilian Program Manger, I have the experience of overseeing multi-million dollar budgets and organizing a large team to achieve our goals. Air Force Space & Missle Systems Program Manager • Deployed logistics support for GPS user equipment—planned for and installed in 17,000 U.S. miliary aircraft, 60,000 portable receivers • Awarded Outstanding Civilian Service Medal upon retirement after 32 years of service
Endorsed by the Progressive Democratic Club, YES WE CAN Democratic Club, Americans for Democratic Action, and Evolve California
Improve police/community relations
pEnvironmental Justice
Transition to a Green Economy Worker training in new, good paying jobs
facebook.com/caneyarnoldforcitycouncil PAID FOR BY CANEY ARNOLD FOR CITY COUNCIL 2017
Caney Arnold and his family are longtime residents of Harbor City. For the past six years Caney has refereed high school basketball throughout the South Bay and Harbor Area and he coaches youth basketball at the Harbor City Recreation Center. Caney was elected to the Harbor City Neighborhood Council and serves as Legislative Liaison.
The Growth of a Musical Legend:
A Conversation with
Howard Scott By Kym Cunningham, Contributing Writer
For more than 50 years, Howard Scott has made a living doing something most people only dream of: making music. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Scott was a guitarist and lead vocalist in the legendary musical omnibus, WAR, collaborating with artists ranging from former Animals lead singer Eric Burdon to Danish harmonica player Lee Oskar. And yet, Scott never thought of making music as a paycheck. “I didn’t look at it as a way of making a living,” Scott said. “It was just something that we were doing and we were very good at it.”
The Music of Compton
[See Howard Scott, p. 14]
Howard Scott, a former member of WAR. Photo courtesy of Howard Scott
The Local Publication You Actually Read
Born in San Pedro, Howard Scott grew up in Compton in the 1950s and 1960s, when the city was at its peak. Scott remembers the annual Christmas parade on Compton Boulevard, which rivaled the more famous holiday parade in Hollywood. There was also an annual Compton Invitational Track Meet, which featured Olympic athletes. “Athletes would come from all over the world to compete,” Scott said. “The guy that had the world record for the 440 was going to Compton High School at that time.” Scott credits the City of Compton for much of his musical growth. “Compton was probably one of the most unique places to grow up,” Scott said. “Everybody was into the arts…. Everybody had singing groups…. It was amazing to grow up in that era.… The whole city was into music…. The whole community was inspired.” At Compton High School, Scott, along with Harold Brown, formed a band called The Creators. “It was the natural thing [to be in a band],” Scott said. “It just so happened that the whole city was into music. When we were going to Compton High School … we would go to other
March 2 - 15, 2017
11
Caribbean Comfort Food Lives at Punto Cubano By Richard Foss, Cuisine and Restaurant Writer
One of the great ironies of history is that when Christopher Columbus first crossed the Atlantic, he did so in search of a route to India to obtain spices. He discovered a new world that had maize, tomatoes, avocados and many other new foods, but only two spices. Those two, chili peppers and vanilla, would enter many cultures’ cuisines, but when it comes to seasoning, the Europeans had more to give than to take. One of the places Columbus visited was Cuba, an island the Spanish governed ineptly for hundreds of years. The island produced vast amounts of sugar for export but locals retained little of the wealth, so they had to develop a cuisine based on mixed traditions of the Spanish and their African slaves. Imported spices weren’t affordable, so they used green herbs with onions, garlic, citrus and cumin. The resulting cuisine is mild but flavorful. It can be found at San Pedro’s Punto Cubano. The little restaurant, formerly Mishi Strudel, has a contemporary look, and the pastry case
that used to be full of strudel now holds flan and tres leches cakes. It’s a neat, pretty and welcoming space. The menu is odd in one way: though Cubans eat a lot of seafood, it’s entirely missing from the options here. Neither is Punto Cubano a promising place for vegetarians. But if you like pork, beef and chicken, you’re in the right place. Although Cuban meals are usually filling because they include beans, rice and fried plantains, my first visit to Punto Cubano surprised me with the size of the portions. I wanted to try some of the side items, so my companion and I ordered papas rellenas, mashed potato balls with a meat filling that are deep-fried and topped with a drizzle of garlic sauce. They were attractively presented with a hibiscus flower and some chopped parsley, showing an unusual attention to presentation. The four potato balls were so big that it was too large of a starter for two, and there was much more potato than meat filling. This was the only
March 2 - 15, 2017
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
BEACH CITY GRILL
12
Let the culinary adventure begin anew—Beach City Grill has reopened featuring your favorites along with soon-to-be favorite new additions. Now serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch. Famous for Caribbean, Cajun specials, fresh seafood, salads, and vegetarian fare. Be sure to try the award-winning desserts. Beach City Grill, 376 W. 6th St., San Pedro • (310) 833-6345 • www.beachcitygrill.net
Buono’s Authentic Pizzeria
A San Pedro landmark for over 44 years, famous for exceptional awardwinning pizza baked in brick ovens. Buono’s also offers classic Italian dishes and sauces based on tried-and-true family recipes and handselected ingredients that are prepared fresh. Dinein, take-out and catering. There are two locations in Long Beach. Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. • Buono’s Pizzeria, 1432 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro • (310) 547-0655 • www. buonospizza.com
Happy DineR AND HAPPY DELI
The Happy Diner isn’t your average diner. It’s the idea of fresh creative dishes in tow San Pedro locations, and now a third—the Happy Deli. 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. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner: Happy Diner #1, (310) 241-0917, 617 S. Centre St., San Pedro • Happy Diner #2, (310) 935-2933, 1931 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro • Open for breakfast and lunch: Happy Deli, (424) 364-0319, 530 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro.
MARIA’S RESTAURANT
If you are in the mood for authentic Mexican food, at an affordable price, try María’s Mexican Restaurant. The inconspicuous eatery on Pacific Avenue and 22nd Street in San Pedro offers a wide variety of savory, traditional dishes from tortas and burritos to chiles rellenos and camarones a la diabla. The exceptional service matches its wellproportioned meals. On a time crunch for lunch or dinner? Give María’s a call and they’ll have your food warm and ready for you within minutes. Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. María’s Mexican Restaurant, 2215 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro • (310) 833-6666.
PHILIE B’S ON SIXTH
Owner Phil Buscemi welcomes you to Philie B’s on Sixth, where New York–style pizza, Sicilian rice balls and pizza by-the-slice are the specialties. Fresh hot or cold sandwiches, gourmet pizzas and fresh salads are also served. Try the “white pizza” made with smooth ricotta, mozzarella and sharp Pecorino-Romano cheeses topped with torn fresh basil. Extended hours accommodate San Pedran’s unique work schedules. Catering and fast, local delivery ($15 min.). Philie B’s On Sixth, 347 W. 6th St., San Pedro • (310) 514-2500 www.philiebsonsixth.com
PIROZZI’S ITALIAN DELI
Walk into Pirozzi’s Italian Deli at Weymouth Corners and discover an ample selection of fine imported cheeses and salami, as well as a great assortment of imported prosciutto, pastas, sauces, olive oils and vinegars. Best known for homemade Italian sausages in five distinct flavors, Pirozzi’s also carries freshly prepared and frozen entrées and sauces available for take-out. Pirozzi’s Deli offers a full catering menu, made-to-order deli sandwiches, homemade Italian cookies and desserts. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 10 am-5 pm; Sun. 10 am-2 pm. Pirozzi’s Italian Deli, 1453 W. 8th St., San Pedro • (310) 548-0000 www.pirozzisdeli.com
Punto Cubano serves typical Cuban and Caribbean comfort food, such as lechón asado.
item we tried that I wouldn’t order again. Cubano Punto’s menu doesn’t change from lunch to dinner. I have tried three entrées, the lechón asado, picadillo criollo and vaca frita. The first time I ordered vaca frita was because of my amusement at its name —literally, “fried cow.” It’s flank steak slow-simmered to tenderness, then shredded and transferred to a pan where it is fried crisp with garlic, pepper, onion and cumin. If that sounds similar to
THE SANDWICH SALOON
The Sandwich Saloon serves up fresh made-to-order deli sandwiches, fresh salads and soups featuring a wide variety of fixings and top quality meats prepared fresh and a new burger menu. Generous portions, reasonable prices. Dine-in or take-out. Full breakfast menu coming in December. Catering and delivery available. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Sandwich Saloon, 813 S. Gaffey Street, San Pedro • 310.548.5322 • 310.548.3828
San Pedro Brewing Company
A microbrewery and American grill, SPBC features handcrafted award-winning ales and lagers served with creative pastas, bbq, sandwiches, salads and burgers. A full bar with madefrom-scratch margaritas and a martini menu all add fun to the warm and friendly atmosphere. Live music. Open from 11:30 a.m., daily. San Pedro Brewing Company, 331 W. 6th St., San Pedro • (310) 831-5663 • www.sanpedrobrewing.com
The Whale & Ale English Restaurant & Pub
The Victorian oak panels & elegant brass fittings will make you feel like you crossed the Atlantic. Featuring popular pub fare such as Fish & Chips (a regular “Best in L.A.” winner), Shepherd’s Pie, & entrées of Choice Steaks, Roast Prime Rib, Beef Wellington & Roast Rack of Lamb. Seafood selections include Chilean Sea Bass, Atlantic Salmon, Jumbo Tiger Shrimp & Sand Dabs. Try hard-tofind international draft beers & ales, as well as domestic craft beers on tap. Full bar; free, gated parking lot. Open daily for dinner and lunch Tues.-Sun. 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro • (310) 832-0363 • www.whaleandale.com
Mexican carnitas but made with beef, you’re right. There are red and green bell peppers tossed in to sear with the vaca frita, but the attraction of crispy, intensely flavored meat is the same. It’s one of my favorite Cuban dishes and they do it very well here. My other favorite Cuban meat dish is picadillo, chopped or ground meat simmered with olives, raisins, tomato, wine and bell [See Comfort Food, page 13]
Waterfront Dining
Boardwalk Grill
Casual waterfront dining at its finest! Famous for slabs of Chicago-style baby back ribs, fish-n-chips, rich clam chowder, cold beer on tap and wine. Full lunch menu also includes salads, sandwiches and burgers. Indoor and outdoor patio dining available. Proudly pouring Starbucks coffee. Open 7 days a week. Free parking. Boardwalk Grill, 1199 Nagoya Way, LA Harbor - Berth 77, San Pedro • (310) 519-7551
PORTS O’ CALL RESTAURANT
Since 1961 this landmark restaurant has extended a hearty welcome to visitors from around the globe. Delight in an aweinspiring view of the dynamic LA Harbor while enjoying fresh California cuisine and varietals. Relax in the bar or patio for the best happy hour on the waterfront. With each purchase of the award-winning Sunday Champagne Brunch, receive the first Spirit Cruises harbor cruise of the day free. Open 7 days, lunch and dinner. Free parking. Ports O’Call Waterfront Dining, 1199 Nagoya Way, LA Harbor, Berth 76, San Pedro • (310) 833-3553 www.portsocalldining.com
SPIRIT CRUISES
An instant party— complete with all you need to relax and enjoy while the majesty of the harbor slips by. Dinner cruise features a 3-course meal, full bar, unlimited cocktails and starlight dancing—the ultimate excursion for any occasion. Free parking. Spirit Cruises, 1199 Nagoya Way, LA Harbor - Berth 77, San Pedro • (310) 548-8080, (562) 495-5884, www.spiritmarine.com
Include Your Restaurant in the Dining Guide In Print & Online • (310) 519-1442
[Comfort Food, from page 12]
Caribbean Comfort Food
peppers. The use of olives and raisins with meat goes back to the Moors who ruled Spain in the Middle Ages. The combination of tart pickled flavors with fruity sweetness is a winner. There are different versions of picadillo all over Central and South America, some ornately spiced, but the Cuban version focuses on the flavors of the main ingredients. Cuban picadillo will be a revelation to those who associate Cuban food only with roast chicken and pork. I didn’t try Cubano Punto’s chicken, but I did try the lechón Dishes at Punto Cubano are served with special attention to asado— pulled pork in a sauce based presentation. in lime juice and topped with sliced is the place to find it locally. onion. The sauce here has a slightly different Punto Cubano is open daily from 11 a.m. to balance than what I have experienced elsewhere, a 8 p.m. at 309 W. 7th St. in San Pedro. little more citrus and a bit less pepper and cumin. Details: (424) 477-5813. I happen to like that bolder version, but this one was still tasty. All meals at Cubano Punto come with a small pyramid of white rice, caramelized fried plantains and a bowl of fragrant black beans. Those beans were unusually flavorful, scented with herbs that we speculated might include oregano and marjoram. And though I don’t usually finish all my beans, I did on both visits. Alcohol isn’t served, but freshly made juices are, and the piña colada was very refreshing. To finish, we had strong Cuban-style coffee and a guava-and-cheese empanada. If you want the coffee and empanadas then order them when your food arrives — both take a while to make but are worth the wait. The service here is friendly, but can slow down at peak times; if you’re in a hurry let them know or the leisurely pace at lunch may get you in trouble at work. All meals are inexpensive at around $10, making this a great choice for a satisfying meal on a budget. The comfort food of Cuba is subtle and delightful. Punto Cubano
The Local Publication You Actually Read
Daily Special Combos served 11am-4pm MONDAY
incl. Fries & Lrg. Drink
$ 99 2Taco Combo
WEDNESDAY
EST. 1988
9
TUESDAY
Burger Combo incl. Fries & Lrg. Drink
incl. Lrg. Drink
THURSDAY
Salad Combo incl. Lrg. Drink
376 W. 6th St., San Pedro • (424) 287-0645 • www.BeachCityGrill.net Open: 11 am to 8 pm Monday-Saturday • Closed Sunday
March 2 - 15, 2017
Chicken Sandwich Combo
13
WAR used to play shows. “We were playing there and this winolooking guy came up off the streets and offered me a dollar to play a song that nobody had ever heard,” Scott said. “One of the bouncers from the club grabbed this little man and threw him in the street. I was so upset … so I wrote this song.” Scott began to sing the words to his favorite song. “The Cisco Kid was a friend of mine,” Scott sang. “He drink whiskey, Pancho drink the wine.” “It was my most fun song,” Scott said. “It put a smile on your face …. I was so uninhibited.” Scott admits he also likes the song Why Can’t We Be Friends. But by the time the song came out, the band was already famous, making—as he puts it— “a bunch of money.” “It wasn’t as meaningful to me,” Scott said.
[Howard Scott, from page 11]
Howard Scott
WAR guiarist and songwriter Howard Scott will perform at JDC Records in San Pedro on March 16. He will perform in Carson on March 17.
[Compton] high schools and perform.” But even the musical aptitude of The Creators couldn’t save Scott from the social turmoil of the 1960s. Cultivated at the height of the Vietnam War, the band took a hiatus when Scott was drafted into the Army in 1966. In a stroke of luck, Scott was not sent to Vietnam, but rather spent 18 months in West Germany shortly after finishing high school. When he returned from his service, the band had splintered. “When I came back, everybody was gone,” Scott said. “The band had broken up. People were all over in different places.”
The Start of War
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
But music was Scott’s lifeblood. It was a beat coursing through his veins, waking him up in the morning, driving him through the day. Shortly after Scott returned from West Germany, he and Brown got together with Lonnie Jordan and B.B. Dickerson to form The Nightshift. The band included the late Deacon Jones, the NFL Hall of Fame defensive end for the Los Angeles Rams. While playing at a North Hollywood club in 1969, The Nightshift met famous producer, Jerry Goldstein, and Lee Oskar, who had recently teamed up with Eric Burdon. The rest, as they say, is history. “In the club that night, Lee came up and asked if he could start jamming with us,” Scott said. “A couple of weeks after that, we had a meeting with them [Lee and Burdon] and we decided to form a band with them. And that’s how Eric Burdon and WAR started, right there.” But the interaction of these musicians strikes Scott as more than just history. “It was destiny,” he said. “It was something that was meant to be. We had a band but Eric Burdon came in with his concept and took it to the next level. He was a world class entertainer.” Scott refers to those days as carefree. He fondly remembers his time spent collaborating with Burdon and the rest of WAR.
“We cranked,” Scott said. “We played so many good shows. We were blowing people’s minds from coast to coast.”
Hendrix’s Last Jam
One of Scott’s most memorable experiences is the night WAR played with Jimi Hendrix at Ronnie Scott’s Club in London on September 18, 1970 — the night before Hendrix died. Hendrix was supposed to come in the night before to play, but he didn’t show up. “The first night, he couldn’t play or didn’t want to play,” Scott said. “The second night … he had his Strat guitar and he was just on fire.” Scott fondly remembers playing blues with Hendrix the night before he died. “It was a great night,” Scott said. Hendrix was supposed to come back the next night but instead died of asphyxiation after overdosing on barbiturates. Even today, Scott finds this difficult to believe. “We were the last band to play with Jimi Hendrix,” Scott said. “I was the last guitar player to play with Jimi Hendrix. That always
Chefs Studio Presents
Renowned South Bay Chef Christine Brown
Monday, March 20th Comfort Foods Tasting Menu March 2 - 15, 2017
• Porcini Mushroom Soup finished with Truffle Salt
14
• Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Dried Cherries, Candied Pecans, Arugula, Petite Basque Cheese and Jerez Vinaigrette • Salmon en Papillote with Herbed Compound Butter and Baby Potatoes • Warm Apple Strudel with Cinnamon Crème Anglaise
Monday, March 20th Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Class 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
520 W. 8th St., San Pedro $65.00 paid in advance. Reservations, call 310 387 3460 or email: info@chefsstudio101.com
sticks in my mind.” Scott is also proud to have written War’s top 10 smash hit, The Cisco Kid. The song’s name is derived from Cisco, a Los Angeles club where
Transcending Barriers
Arguably the most popular funk group in the 1970s, WAR featured influences from soul, Latin, rhythm and blues, rock, jazz, reggae [See Howard Scott, page 15]
[Howard Scott, from page 14]
Howard Scott
and blues. Much of this musical amalgamation was courtesy of the various backgrounds of the band members. In fact, WAR was touted as transcending racial and cultural barriers, promoting harmony and brotherhood through its music. Scott acknowledges the diversity of the band but maintains that it was the music that brought people together. “When WAR came out, they didn’t put our pictures on the covers,” Scott said. “People were judging the band purely by their music, not how we looked or where we came from. We had this whole rainbow coalition of people in the band. “Then, when people saw pictures, it didn’t make any difference. The music won them over. When you went to a War show, you saw everybody. It was a great thing to see.”
Politicization of War
Still Goin’ Strong
ENTERTAINMENT March 2
Kate Brown Singer and songwriter Kate Brown performs country, rock and honky tonk in the “Speak Easy” Cabaret, during this week’s San Pedro 1st Thursday Art Walk. Time: 6:30 p.m. March 2 Cost: Free Details: http://tinyurl.com/Kate-Brown-Cabaret Venue: 520 W. 8th St., San Pedro
March 3
WAR's The World Is a Ghetto was the best-selling album of 1973. It features hits The Cisco Kid and City, Country, City.
“We’re working on all 12 cylinders,” Scott said. “You can’t beat it.” Scott also hosts a radio show out of his home in Texas, where he plays a variety of music, including, of course, many of the old WAR hits. But mostly, Scott spends his time writing more music. “I write all of the time,” Scott admits. His latest musical solo venture, The Howard Scott Project, seems to be his favorite as it allows him the opportunity to experiment. “This is an outlet for me to just come up and do a whole lot of new things,” Scott said. On March 16, Howard Scott will play at JDC Records, 447 W. 6th St., San Pedro. The next night, March 17 he will be performing at the Carson Community Center. “I’ll be playing some of the biggest songs that WAR recorded that I personally wrote,” Scott said. “Me and Baby Brother, Slippin’ Into Darkness, Gypsy Man … Lowrider because I cowrote that. Just some of the biggest WAR hits and some of the stuff I did on my own.”
Advice from a Legend
Scott ended his interview with some advice for aspiring artists. “Stay focused on the art,” Scott said. “Be true to the art and who you are all the way through. Don’t play for money. Be dedicated to the music and be dedicated to yourselves,” Scott said. “Unity is something that bands need.” But despite all this hard work and dedication, Scott broke into song with his last piece of advice. “‘Keep on rockin’,” he sang. You could tell he was smiling as he crooned the words.
Katarzyna Sadej Polish-born, Canadian mezzo-soprano Katarzyna Sadej will make her debut with L.A. Opera as The Page of Herodias in Strauss’ Salome. She made her San Diego Opera debut as Kate Pinkerton in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly in April 2016. Time: 12 p.m. March 3 Cost: Free Details: (310) 316-5574; www.palosverdes. com/ClassicalCrossroads/FirstFridays.htm Venue: First Lutheran Church and School, 2900 W. Carson St., Torrance
March 4
Lucia Micarelli Lucia Micarelli performs classical, jazz, traditional fiddle and Americana music for a high energy, eclectic stage performance, all bound together by her impeccable emotional vulnerability and technical wizardry. Time: 8 p.m. March 4 Cost: $20 to $120 Details: www.grandvision.org Venue: Grand Annex, 436 W. 6th St., San Pedro Kofi Baker’s Cream Experience As the son of legendary drumming icon Ginger Baker, Kofi Baker has a name that’s synonymous with drumming excellence. Time: 8 p.m. March 4 Cost: $10 to $20 Details: (310) 833-7538; www.alvasshowroom Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
March 5
Rina Orellana Flamenco Academy Student Showcase Join Rina and her wonderful dancers for an exciting afternoon of flamenco music and dance. Time: 3 p.m. March 5 Cost: $35 Details: http://tinyurl.com/flamenco-academy Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
March 10
Sketchily Ever After Held2gether, Improv for Life is returning for a fourth year as a part of the Collaborative at the Long Beach Playhouse, with its’ latest set of original sketches, Sketchily Ever After. The Saturday Night Live style event has become an annual favorite and a staple of the theatre’s Studio Collaborative season. Time: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, March 10 through 18 Cost: $15 Details: (562) 494-1014; lbplayhouse.org Venue: Long Beach Playhouse, 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach Tim Weisberg Tim Weisberg has long been regarded as one of the most original rock, blues and jazz-fusion flutists. In 1970, fresh out of grad school and virtually unknown, Tim Weisberg exploded on to the scene with his opening performance at the Monterey Jazz Festival, where he firmly
March 12
Trio Ondine Formed in 2005 as Duo Ondine by flutist Boglarka Kiss and harpist Alison Bjorkedal. The duo invited violist Alma Fernandez to join them in an exploration of the unique repertoire for flute, viola and harp that Debussy first used in his great late impressionistic masterpiece. Time: 2 p.m. March 12 Cost: Free Details: (310) 316-5574 Venue: Rolling Hills United Methodist Church, 26438 Crenshaw Blvd., Rolling Hills Estates The Steppes This tribute band performs music from the first five solo albums by Genesis Alumni and Steve Hackett. Time: 4 p.m. March 12 Cost: $25 Details: www.alvasshowroom.com Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
March 17
Broadway in Concert Musical Theatre West presents Susan Egan with special guest Deedee Lyn Mango Hall. Egan’s Tony-nominated Belle takes the stage in a one-night-only concert event. Time: 8 p.m. March 17 Cost: $40 to $60 Details: (562) 856-1999 ext. 4 www.musical.org Venue: Beverly O’Neill Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach
THEATER March 5
Forever Plaid Once upon a time, there were four guys who discovered that they shared a love for music and then got together to become their idols: The Four Freshmen, The Hi-Lo’s and The Crew Cuts. Rehearsing in the basement of a family plumbing supply company, they became Forever Plaid. Time: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 17 through March 5 Cost: $35 to $55 Details: (562) 436-4610 www.InternationalCityTheatre.org, Venue: International City Theatre, 330 E. Seaside Way, Long Beach
March 9
The Addams Family Musical Comedy Rolling Hills Prep School presents their Spring 2017 musical, based on the ghoulishly delightful characters created by Charles Addams. Time: 7 p.m. March 9 through 11 Cost: Free Details: www.rollinghillsprep.org/page, www. grandvision.org Venue: Grand Annex, 436 W. 6th St., San Pedro Letters From Young Gay Men Letters from Young Gay Men is a project that was inspired by Rilke’s Letters to a Young Poet. It is show that brings a unique intimacy between the gay youth and elders of the community. Time: 7 p.m. March 9, 8 p.m. Saturdays and 6 p.m. Sundays through April 2 Cost: $25 Details: http://tinyurl.com/letterstogaymen [See Calendar, page 16]
March 2 - 15, 2017
March 11
established himself as a unique musical talent. Time: 8 p.m. March 11 Cost: $25 Details: http://alvasshowroom.com/event/timweisberg Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro
WAR was plagued by fractured friendships and law suits among band members, some of which actually prevent Scott from using the band’s name in association with his music. However Scott hasn’t let these setbacks keep him from making the music he loves. Rather, it becomes apparent speaking with Scott that the man thinks in music, as though his words come to him in lyrics with a pre-formed melody attached to them. Every few minutes, he’ll break into song, demonstrating just how deep within him music runs. “Music is always going to be something that when you wake up in the morning, you have a melody in your head,” Scott laughed. “It’s going to make a change. Musical statements are always going to be there.” It seems that part of the reason Scott has not allowed WAR’s legal issues to become an impediment to his music making is simply because creating music makes him happy.
Arts Cuisine Entertainment MAR 2 - 15 • 2017
The Local Publication You Actually Read
Through this musical harmony, the band also politicized its message, spreading awareness within its song lyrics. “WAR was a political band,” Scott said. “We had political statements.” One such song was Get Down, which criticized the “police and their justice” as well as world leaders. Scott calls these songs “unity songs,” which he says made people think “about organization, and power to the people.” Scott even came up with a kind of musical campaign riffing on the political nature of WAR songs called Peace in the Streets. “The world we are in now, politically, we need peace in the streets,” Scott said. “The kids today are not writing those kinds of songs anymore to get people thinking.” However, Scott credits the lack of politics in music as a part of why WAR songs continue to be so popular. “The songs we came up with during those days are still around,” Scott said. “The message still resonates as something the people can latch onto. It doesn’t have a time period on it … We came up with a memorable tone that will last forever.”
“You can always make somebody smile with music,” Scott said. Scott has his hands in a few musical ventures. He still plays shows with some of his old WAR bandmates in The Lowrider Band — named, of course, after one of WAR’s biggest hits, Lowrider. The band just got back from a show in Panama.
15
Arts Cuisine Entertainment MAR 2 - 15 • 2017 [Calendar, from page 15] Venue: Studio C Artists, 6448 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles
March 12
The Perfect American Long Beach Opera will present the U.S. premiere of Philip Glass’ The Perfect American, a fictionalized version of the final days of Walt Disney. Time: 2:30 p.m. March 12 and 8 p.m. March 18 Cost: $49 to $150 Details: www.longbeachopera.org/tickets Venue: Terrace Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach
FILM
March 3 Singin’ In the Rain – 65th Anniversary SPIFFest is celebrating the 65th Anniversary of the classic Singin’ In the Rain. Time: 7:30 p.m. Cost: $10 Details: www.grandvision.org Venue: Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St., San Pedro
ARTS
March 4
Cao Yong The world renowned artist Cao Yong returns to the Parkhurst Galleries in downtown San Pedro for a one-night event. Time: 5 to 9 p.m. March 4 Cost: Free Details: (310) 547-3158 Venue: Parkhurst Galleries, 439 W. 6th St., San Pedro
March 2 - 15, 2017
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
March 11
16
Benefit for Water Protectors Cornelius Projects and Danny Lou Partida host an art exhibition to benefit the Water Protectors at Standing Rock in North Dakota. An eclectic mix of artists/musicians contributed to show support for the cause. Works will be offered in a silent auction from the opening festivities on March 11, 6 to 9 p.m. to the closing on March 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. Time: 6 p.m. March 11 and 25 Cost: Free Details: www.corneliusprojects.com Venue: Cornelius Projects, 1417 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro
Continuing Exhibitions
Significant Otherness Significant Otherness is a benefit exhibition for the Spay and Neuter Project of Los Angeles. It explores the unique bond between animals and humans through artworks of eight contemporary artists. Time: 10 to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 12 to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sunday, through March 12 Cost: Free Details: http://angelsgateart.org Venue: Angels Gate Cultural Center, Building A, 3601 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro Anthisisthis Anthisisthis pairs Eric Johnson’s formalist elegance with the inelegant, art informel of Zac Roach. Anthisisthis runs through April 22. Time: Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by appointment. Details: (310) 600-4873 Venue: Los Angeles Harbor College Fine Arts Gallery, 1111 Figueroa Place, Wilmington Ann Weber, Sculpture TransVagrant and Gallery 478 present Ann Weber, Sculpture. Ann Weber’s organic sculpture is abstract, formally elegant and composed of inelegant salvaged cardboard. Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through
Friday, through April 30 Cost: Free Details: (310) 600-4873 www.transvagrant.com Venue: Gallery 478, 478 W. 4th St., San Pedro Dreamland The Museum of Latin American Art presents a retrospective of the work of one of the original Los Four founders, Frank Romero in the exhibition entitled Dreamland. Romero’s most iconic works, including his mural work, such as Driving to the Olympics on the Hollywood Freeway, address life in the barrios of Los Angeles. Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, through May 21. Cost: $7 to $10 Details: (562) 437-1689; molaa.org Venue: Museum of Latin American Art, 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach
COMMUNITY March 3
Half Pint Havurah The family Shabbat Service features birthday blessings for children younger than 13 and recognizes the National Day of Unplugging. Time: 4:30 March 3 Cost: Free Details: (310) 833-2467 Venue: Temple Beth El, 1435 W. 7th St., San Pedro Back to Broadway This variety show features music from Broadway musicals and even some audience participation. Time: 7:30 p.m. March 3 Cost: $15 to $25 Details: (310) 544-0403 www.PalosVerdesPerformingArts.com Venue: Norris Theatre, 27570 Norris Center Drive, Palos Verdes Peninsula
March 4
PVPLC First Saturday Family Hike at George F Canyon Bring your family and join our naturalist guide to discover habitat, wildlife and more on an easy hike up the canyon with amazing views of the city. Time: 9 a.m. March 4 Cost: Free Details: (310) 547-0862; www.pvplc.org, Venue: 27305 Palos Verdes Drive East, Rolling Hills Estates Peninsula Seniors’ Coffee & Cars This event if for all car hobbyists and enthusiasts. It features hot rods, custom, muscle and sports cars and antique, classic and exotic cars. Time: 7:30 a.m. March 4 Cost: Free Details: (310) 377-4867; www.MaryJoseph.org Venue: Mary & Joseph Retreat Center, 5300 Crest Road, Palos Verdes Peninsula
March 5
Ukulele Hootenanny Bring your instrument and play or just sing along. Time: 3 p.m. March 5 Cost: Free Details: (310) 832-2424 Venue: The Corner Store, 1118 W. 37th St., San Pedro Happy 129th Birthday, San Pedro! Learn about San Pedro history while enjoying a great day with friends. You are welcome to bring a piece of San Pedro history to share or to record a memory in our video booth. Time:1 to 4 p.m. March 5 Cost: Free Details: www.sanpedrobayhistoricalsociety.com Venue: Muller House, 1542 S. Beacon St., San Pedro
Write-in Candidate Joins the Race for CD15 By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor Donald Galaz, Vice President of the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council and longtime proponent for a sanctioned racetrack for street racing, announced his write-in bid for the Los Angeles City Council District 15 seat, Feb. 24, on Youtube. Galaz is a protegé of Big Willie Robinson, a widely respected founder of the International Brotherhood of StreetRacers. Robinson got wayward youths involved with cars as an alternative to causing trouble in the streets. Galaz, a San Pedro native, followed in Robinson’s footsteps when he founded Project Street Legal, an organization that similarly reaches local youths through cars. He’s lobbied City Hall to open a dragstrip in an effort to cut down on illegal street racing and the deaths that result from it. It was that activism to open a dragstrip
that led him to join the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council. In his campaign announcement, Galaz said he wants focus his attention on public safety, the environment, port issues and vocational education. He argued that CD15 isn’t getting its fair share of resources, particularly in regards to street services and police officers. “After I’m elected, my plan is [to] give my constituents back the power and champion them in City Hall, not taking “no” for an answer,” Galaz said. “All too often, the politicians say one thing and do another, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of those that elected them,” said Galaz, reflecting on his disappointment Mayor Eric Garcetti and the city council incumbent. Galaz has less than two weeks to make his case.
Re-elect an Experienced Trustee By Nancy Pearlman, LACCD Seat 6 Trustee On March 7, voters have a chance to reelect me to the Los Angeles Community College District’s Board of Trustees Seat 6. The district’s nine colleges deserve to have my committed and knowledgeable leadership. With more than 25 years of experience serving the LACCD, first as an anthropology and communications instructor and now as a trustee, I am the most qualified candidate for this seat. As an advocate for students, I have expanded the colleges’ support services in order to aid students in achieving their goals. Student success must be the board of trustees’ highest priority, which includes working to realize free two-year education through the College Promise, guaranteeing that students are able to transfer to the University of California system or the California State University system, and providing joint high school and college classes. Students must also be afforded the resources they need to succeed, including mentoring and tutoring services. As an educator, I have worked within our shared governance system to get all nine colleges to be accredited without warnings. I also recognize that each campus is unique, reflecting the differences in the communities they serve; each campus must be treated as such. I regularly visit the colleges in order to understand their needs and to be sure that the board establishes the necessary policies to make them the best. These colleges include: Harbor, Southwest, West, Trade-Technical, East, City, Valley, Mission and Pierce. I am also an advocate for expanding satellite facilities into other communities. I have dedicated my life to public service.
The LACCD deserves to have a trustee who is seeking office because of a commitment to the district. Unlike my opponent, I am not using this as a stepping stone to higher office. I have successfully won my past elections to the board whereas my opponent has lost his bids for the California State Assembly and Los Angeles Unified School District. His vote will be a rubber stamp on the corporate agenda, whereas I challenge the status quo and work for positive change. Voters deserve an experienced, responsible representative who will advocate for their values on the LACCD Board of Trustees. During my tenure I was able to get the nation’s largest academic public building program to meet LEED green building standards. I continue to oversee the maintenance and operations of the district’s facilities in order to ensure that they continue to meet sustainability standards and are not wasting taxpayer dollars. I understand that education is the key to success for the district’s 250,000 students. Whether it is training the next generation of solar panel installers or providing the lower-division classes necessary for students to transfer to a four-year university, the Los Angeles Community College District provides an invaluable resource to the greater Los Angeles area. Our awardwinning workforce training programs include culinary arts, mechanics, dental hygiene, construction and fashion design. The excellent academic curriculum provide students with the resources they need to achieve their goals. I am committed to ensuring that the district continues to provide quality resources to students while simultaneously supporting the teachers and staff of the colleges.
CLASSIFIED ADS
Reach 63,000 Harbor Area Readers
Help WANTED PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 A Week Mailing Brochures From Home! No Experience Required. Helping home workers since 2001! Genuine Opportunity. Start Immediately! www.IncomeStation.net (AAN CAN) LOCAL DRIVERS WANTED! Be your own boss. Flexible hours. Unlimited earning potential. Must be 21 with valid U.S. driver’s license, insurance & reliable vehicle. 866-329-2672 (AAN CAN) Multimedia Account Executive Random Lengths News, is seeking an energetic, outgoing individual for Multimedia Advertising Account Executive position. The ideal candidate will be responsible for selling multiplatform advertising solutions including digital advertising, print advertising and event sponsorships to an exciting group of clients. We are looking for connected, social-media savvy, high-energy, hyperproductive individuals. Requirements: • Two-plus years of outside sales experience preferably in an advertising sales and/
or print and online media environment • Experience with Customer Relationship Management tools • Maintain a solid understanding of the online marketing and advertising industry. • Demonstrates the ability to sell with a consultative approach • Strong skill set with developing and building business relationships • Dependable transportation, valid driver’s license and auto insurance Responsibilities: • Making minimum of 125 outbound sales calls and securing and completing a minimum of 15 outside appointments per week. • Multimedia Account Executives will be responsible for prospecting leads, making calls and going on appointments to bring in new business. RLn offers: • Great work environment where creative thinking is encouraged • Unlimited earning potential • Base pay + commission + bonus Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States. Random Lengths News is an equal opportunity employe. Send resumé to james@
Bulletin Board
randomlengthsnews.com or drop by the office at 1300 S. Pacific Ave. in San Pedro.
Career Training Start your humanitarian career! Change the lives of others while creating a sustainable future. 1, 6, 9, 18 month programs available. Apply today! www.OneWorldCenter.org 269-591-0518 info@ oneworldcenter.org AIRLINE CAREERS begin here – Get started by training as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 800725-1563 (AAN CAN) EARN $500 A DAY As Airbrush Makeup Artist for: Ads . TV . Film . Fashion. HD . Digital 35% OFF TUITION One Week Course Taught by top makeup artist & photographer Train & Build Portfolio. Models Provided. Accredited. A+ Rated. AwardMakeupSchool.com (818) 980-2119 (AAN CAN)
FINANCIAL SERVICES Are you in BIG trouble with the IRS? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 844-753-1317 (AAN CAN) $$GET CASH NOW$$ Call 888-822-4594. J.G. Wentworth can give you cash now for your future Structured Settlement and Annuity Payments. (AAN CAN)
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
PLEASE SPAY/NEUTER YOUR PET! *In any condition. We will wash and mend.
• Payroll • Income Tax • Notary Service
Save time. Save money. Save stress. Just Relax Tax Service
Don Marshall CPA, Inc. (310) 833-8977
Don Marshall, MBA, CPA Specializing in small businesses CPA quality service at very reasonable rates
www.donmarshallcpa.com
VIOLIN LESSONS with Jim Sitterly. 310-548-1659. www. JimSitterly.com.
Big Bear cabin, 1 bdr/1 bath, sleeps 2, kitchen, laundry. $500/wk. (310) 534-2278.
Real Estate SERVICES Real Estate Investor seeks to purchase commercial or multi-unit residential properties in San Pedro. No Agents please. 310-241-6827
“Sweet”—getting that glazed-over look.
expiration. Effective Jan. 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the Affidavit of Identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 01/20/2017, 02/02/2017, 02/16/2017, 03/02/2017
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017000157 The following person is doing business as: Tommy’s Burgers, 137 E. Anaheim St., Wilmington, Ca 90731. Los Angeles
[Continued on page 18]
© 2017 MATT JONES, Jonesin’ Crosswords
ROOMMATES ALL AREAS ROOMMATES. COM. Lonely? Bored? Broke? Find the perfect roommate to complement your personality and lifestyle at Roommates. com! (AAN CAN)
VEHICLES A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR FOR BREAST CANCER! Help United Breast Foundation education, prevention, & support programs. FAST FREE PICKUP - 24 HR RESPONSE - TAX DEDUCTION 855-403-0215 (AAN CAN)
CASH FOR CARS: Any Car/ Truck 2000-2015, Running or Not! Top Dollar For Used/ Damaged. Free Nationwide Towing! Call Now: 1-888-4203808 (AAN CAN)
HEALTH Adult Diapers—large tape diapers $35/case, Pull-Ups, Under Pads & much more. Buy-sell. AA Discount Medical Supply, 17700 S. Avalon Blvd., #195, Carson, CA 90746. 310719-8884.Adult walker w/ wheels, $39.95
DATING Livelinks - Chat Lines. Flirt, chat and date! Talk to sexy real singles in your area. Call now! (877) 609-2935 (AAN CAN)
It’s Easy!
DBA Filing & Publishing
$
135
310-519-1442 Remember, you must renew your DBA every 5 years.
Across
1 Put in stitches 5 Andreas opener 8 Cogitates, with “over” 13 Antioxidant berry in fruit juices 14 Nervous twinge 15 Like a game’s tutorial levels 16 Considered only in terms of money 19 Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America bestowals 20 Bird that runs 35 mph 22 Dating site datum 23 1986-to-2001 orbiter 24 Hi-___ graphics 26 Like “The Polar Express” 28 “Ain’t happenin’” 30 “Friends” friend 31 Filet mignon cut 35 Foul, as weather 36 Number sometimes decoded as “Z” 39 Friedlander of “30 Rock” 42 Amish, e.g. 43 “Buy It Now” site 47 ___ of troubles 49 Ashley and Mary-Kate, for two 51 Christmas tree choice 52 Fall back, tidewise 54 Quirky comic Philips 55 Unagi, at sushi bars 56 It’s provided by guild members 60 Advice that the four long entries with circles failed to
follow 63 Baby garment with snaps 64 Word heard by Marge a lot, I imagine 65 Extreme aversion 66 ___ Martin (007’s car) 67 Part of MS-DOS (abbr.) 68 Fairy tale preposition
Down
1 Trump tweet ender, often 2 Prefix before friendly or terrorism 3 Brownie ingredients, sometimes 4 Khartoum’s river 5 Uphill battle 6 Supermarket section 7 March Madness gp. 8 Cheese companion 9 Exploitative type 10 Retired hockey great Eric 11 “Dig in, everyone!” 12 High-class group, for short? 15 Hubble after whom a space telescope was named 17 “I’ve got ___ feeling about this!” 18 “Born on the Fourth of July” locale, briefly 20 “To ___ is human” 21 “Little Red Book” chairman 25 James Bond, for example 27 “Como ___?” (“How are you?” in Spanish) 29 Horns that are really winds 32 Iron-___ (T-shirt transfer patterns) 33 London or Brooklyn ending
34 Home of Times Sq. and Columbus Cir. 37 Brings by cart, perhaps 38 Bovine quartet 39 Peanut butter brand for “choosy moms” 40 Instances of agreement 41 Hackers’ hangout that’s tough to find via search engines 44 Keg attachment 45 “I’d like to buy ___” (request to Pat Sajak) 46 Armani competitor, initially 48 “I’ll have ___ Christmas without you” (Elvis lyric) 50 “Rio ___” (John Wayne flick) 53 Ask for a doggie treat, perhaps 54 Judy Jetson’s brother 57 “Make ___!” (Captain Picard’s order) 58 Some PTA members 59 Aloha Stadium locale 60 Morgue acronym 61 Judge Lance played by Kenneth Choi on “American Crime Story” 62 First number shouted before a ball drop, often ©2017 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords.com) For answers go to: www.randomlengthsnews.com
March 2 - 15, 2017
870 W. 9th St., Ste. 100A, San Pedro Call for appt. today 310.221.0034 • www.justrelaxtax.com
MUSIC LESSONS
VACATION RENTAL
is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000)). S/. Dario L. Ghio, CEO of HACC Inc. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Jan. 3, 2017. 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
Worry-Free Tax & Accounting Service
English-spanish translation services - legal documents, letters and manuscripts/ for business, academic or personal use. Call Mr. Avila at 310-519-1016
SAN PEDRO STOREFRONT/ office, 245 sq. ft., incl. bathroom. Great location, downtown adjacent. $600/mo. (310) 978-5160.
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017000158 The following person is doing business as: Harbor Area Substance Abuse Treatment Center, 599 W. 9th St., San Pedro, Ca 90731. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: HACC Inc., 599 W. 9th St., San Pedro, Ca 90731. This Business is conducted by a corporation. The registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 10/2006. 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
The Local Publication You Actually Read
Please help! The animals at the Harbor Animal Shelter have ongoing need for used blankets, comforters, pet beds.* Drop off at Harbor Animal Shelter, 957 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro. 888-452-7381, x 143
Architectural drafting, house plans, blueprints. Personal service, quality work, reasonable rates. All work guaranteed. 323-947-9029.
FOR RENT
DBA FILINGS
17
[Gould, from page 7]
[Arnold, from page 7]
Noel Gould
March 2 - 15, 2017
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
before them, caved in to the developer. “The Times reports that a spokesperson for DA Jackie Lacey confirms the office is reviewing the donations.” “After the Planning Commission voted unanimously not to recommend the project, the council approved it anyway, with crucial support from Garcetti and Buscaino,” the article read. “Both Garcetti and Buscaino … received sizable contributions from associates of the project’s developer.” Another example of Harbor Area residents suffering from Joe’s inaction: Harbor Division lost 30 officers to other parts of Los Angeles and Joe has refused to fight to get them back. Six years ago, when the new Harbor Division station was built, it came with a stateof-the-art jail that’s NEVER BEEN OPENED. Even the LAPD officer’s union has supported protests by port area locals demanding staffing for the jail. Your safety is at stake because when local officers arrest a suspect, they have to drive to 77th Street Station at Florence and Broadway to book the arrestee. They have to do their paperwork there as well, which means they’re out of service here at home for 4 to 5 hours! If you call for help and our cops are in Los Angeles booking suspects, you are at great risk of harm or death. Buscaino could have fought to get the jail staffed, but he’s too busy trying to cram high-end condo highrises onto San Pedro lots that have always housed single-family residences.
18
Caney Arnold
And, by the way Wilmington, Watts and Harbor City — YOU’RE NEXT! Joe’s cozy relationship with billionaire developers and the District Attorney investigation, are now on full display. That’s one big reason why Measure S on the March 7 ballot is so important. For 20 years, the Los Angeles City Council has refused to update the Los Angeles General Plan that determines zoning in our neighborhoods. As a result, these billionaire developers from New York, Miami, Canada and Australia are opposing Measure S. They want to turn all of Los Angeles into a skyscraper skyline, right here, in earthquake country; and, here in the Harbor Area from Wilmington to Cabrillo Beach. Measure S simply tells the city it has two years to finally update that 20-year-old general plan or it can’t give special zoning favors to billionaires like Buscaino has been doing. Measure S does not affect the building of affordable housing or housing for the homeless. And if you build on a lot and comply with current zoning, Measure S doesn’t affect you either. However, if you want a 14story luxury condo project like Joe wants to squeeze in between the Beach City Grill at 6th and Nelson, and Neil’s Pasta & Seafood at 5th and Nelson, in downtown San Pedro making NO street parking available, Measure S says:
“No, you’re in violation of San Pedro’s local community plan.” Measure S stops Joe from these kinds of “political favors” in exchange for money from his out-of-state and foreign billionaire-developer sugar daddies. I support Measure S and I oppose everything Buscaino stands for because he is more committed to special interests and his dream of becoming Los Angeles’ next Mayor than taking care of crime and unacceptable developer- raping of our communities by his billionaire pals. “And why hasn’t Joe Buscaino done something about the homeless problem?” That’s an easy answer: The more homeless on the street, the faster property values drop and the cheaper the property deals his developer pimps can receive. I’m Noel Gould and I will open new communication channels with every community in the 15th Council District every two weeks during my term. My staff and I will make sure we hear YOUR concerns, and you will be able to hold us accountable on a constant basis for our promises.
But that way is not Councilman Joe Buscaino’s way. He is on record as saying he supports the housing-first approach in transitioning our neighbors without homes off the streets. Yet, his policies say he favors transitioning them off the streets into jail. Buscaino led the charge in rewriting Los Angeles City Ordinance 56.11, which authorizes more aggressive encampment sweeps and increased criminal penalties. Despite the fact that Los Angeles gets sued every year and loses in federal district court, Buscaino continues to push for even tighter restrictions, wanting to limit people to only be able to carry what can fit into a backpack. The housing-first approach gets people off the street as soon as possible and places them into shelters where they can escape the trauma of the streets and receive any mental health or substance abuse treatment they might need, along with job training. Cities that practice the housing-first approach reported 80 percent success rates and was no more expensive than the “move along” approach. Seeing how ineffective and uncaring our city is to our
homeless neighbors, I decided someone needed to run against Buscaino because his policies just didn’t make sense. I watched the short videos produced by his office making it appear that he was actually working on behalf of all of his constituents. What I found instead was a string of broken promises and ethics violations. Then I researched those subjects and found promises being broken by Buscaino, the rest of the city council and the mayor. I decided I needed to run for Buscaino’s seat on the city council so I could bring the ethics, constituent-based dedication and the project management discipline to help turn around the management and direction of our district. As I campaigned I found more abuses and failures: • The SeaBreeze money laundering scandal — where Buscaino accepted $90,000— was written up in the Los Angeles Times. • The Exxon pipeline leak in Watts that leaked into the Jordan Downs water system so people were drinking polluted water — similar to what happened in Flint, Mich., but it wasn’t a big story like Flint’s was. I learned about
contaminated soil at Jordan Downs. • The pay-to-play politics going on at the Port of Los Angeles, where requests for proposals, known as RFPs, are tailored for a campaign contributor to win the award. • The broken promise of the Bridge to Breakwater revitalization, a $1.5 billion project promised by thenMayor Antonio Villaragosa and Buscaino among others. • The Ezell Ford settlement that Buscaino voted against, which sparked outrage when he stated in a radio interview that the police officers who killed Ezell Ford acted “righteously.” Many people from many different corners have asked me why I chose to go on this quixotic quest to represent Los Angeles’ Council District 15. I am a Sandernista and from the very start, I’ve been encouraged by people in our district who supported Bernie Sanders. His message of change did not begin and end with his presidential campaign. It was a call to action to protect the bedrock American values of hard work and equal opportunity. I would be honored to have your vote and to serve you as our next council member.
DBA & LEGAL FILINGS [From page 17] County. Registered owners: T Burgers Inc., 137 E. Anaheim St., Wilmington, Ca 90744. This Business is conducted by a corporation. The registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: N/A. 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/. Troy Spropoulos, CEO T Burgers Inc. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Jan.3 , 2017. 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. Effective Jan. 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the Affidavit of Identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business
name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 01/20/2017, 02/02/2017, 02/16/2017, 03/02/2017
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2016302330 The following person is doing business as: (1.) Just Relax Tax, (2.) Just Relax Property Management, (3.) JRTS (4.) Just Relax Notary Service (5.) Just Relax Tax and Accounting Service, 870 W. 9th St., San Pedro, Ca 90731. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Just Relax Financial Management Inc., 870 W. 9th St., San Pedro, Ca 90731. This Business is conducted by a corporation. The registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: N/A. 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/. Palma Mejia, CEO Just Relax Financial Management Inc. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Jan. 3, 2017. 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. Effective Jan. 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the Affidavit of Identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 01/20/2017, 02/02/2017,
02/16/2017, 03/02/2017
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017011699 The following person is doing business as: Red’s Cheesecakes, 25026 Feijoa Ave., Lomita, Ca 90717. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Amanda Marie Zuanich, 25026 Feijoa Ave., Lomita, Ca 90717. Michael J. Zuanich, 25026 Feijoa Ave., Lomita, Ca 90717. This Business is conducted by a general partnership. The registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: N/A. 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/. Amanda Marie Zuanich, partner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Jan.17 , 2017. 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 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: 02/02/2017, 02/16/2017,
03/02/2017, 03/16/2017
The Local Publication You Actually Read
March 2 - 15, 2017
19
Memorial Paddle-Out for Eric Melzer
March 2 - 15, 2017
Serving the Seven Communities of the Harbor Area
Saturday March 18th, 2017 at Noon, Cabrillo Beach
20
Come and celebrate the life of Dr. Eric Melzer, whose generosity, care and love touched so many in our community. The number of people he touched in his personal life and in his practice is enormous. His chiropractic skills and the love he felt for everyone in his life changed lives every day.
The Melzer Family thanks you for being a part of their lives and for your support. The healing hands of Vital Health & Chiropractic Center, started by Eric 25 years ago, are still going strong. They continue to offer the best Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Physical Therapy and Wellness services in the Harbor Area. THE VITAL CHIROPRACTIC CENTER 660 W. 7th Street San Pedro, CA 90731 (310) 832-4476 vitalchiropracticcenter.com