Business versus Labor Champion: The power struggle behind efforts to recall Jeanine Pearce in Long Beach
[See Recall, p. 6]
Ports O’ Call development phasing questioned p. 8
50 choices to celebrate Cinco de Mayo p. 15
Ted Lieu Rising Second-term representative brings strength, power to Southland By Sara Corcoran, Washington, D.C. Columnist
examine Russian interference, including exploring any links between Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign and the Russian government, as well as multiple scandals that seem to engulf Trump’s presidency. In his short three years in office Lieu stands to supercede the legacy of Waxman. Lieu recently spoke about his effort in an April 2018 interview
Sara Corcoran: It has been widely discussed in the media that Trump is not the target of a criminal investigation but a subject. Can you envision any scenarios where a subject could become a target? Ted Lieu: There are basically three classifications: witness, subject and target. A witness is someone who has
May 3 - 16, 2018
Taking over Henry Waxman’s job was no easy undertaking. With 40 years as a U.S. representative and one of the most powerful members of his day, Waxman’s departure created a void in 2015. Since being elected to California’s 33rd Congressional District, Rep. Ted Lieu has managed to cement his reputation as one of the most powerful and influential Democrats in Congress. As a formidable leader of the resistance movement, Lieu had made blocking the Trump agenda and advocating for his constituents his top priorities. Though California Congressional District 22 Rep. Devin Nunes may have shut down the House of Representatives investigation against the wishes of many Democrats, Lieu continues to offer on air perspective on Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation to
Just in time for Mother’s Day: Dining and other Mother’s Day activities, plus tea time at Elise’s Tea Room p. 12
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There are many stories to tell about the former Navy port city of Long Beach, known as the “Iowa by the Sea.” The city has evolved over the years, some even say it now reveals a new tale of two cities. The first city has successfully harnessed the tourism sector as a host to global travelers. Long Beach, especially downtown, is home to a number of high-end hotels such as the DoubleTree by Hilton, The Renaissance, Hotel Maya, The Hyatt Regency and The Westin, with more on the way. In April, the New York Times reported that Seattle-based real estate investor, American Life Inc. had plans for a 29-story glass high-rise adjacent to a redevelopment of the city’s civic center. The second city belongs to the residents, many who work in the hotels. A 2009 Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy report, Tale of Two Cities, stated that the “second” Long Beach consists of the surrounding working-class neighborhoods where poverty concentration is listed as sixth highest in the nation by the Brookings Institution. Long Beach District 2 Councilwoman Jeannine Pearce represents both.
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By Melina Paris, Staff Writer
[See Lieu, p. 4]
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May 3 - 16, 2018
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Community Announcements:
California State Lands Commission Notice of Draft SB 50 Regulations
The State Lands Commission staff is seeking public comment on draft regulations regarding Senate Bill 50. Commission staff believes that the Legislature intended for SB 50 to address conveyances of federal public lands with high value for environmental conservation or preservation, tourism, scientific study, or recreation, such as national parks and monuments. The draft regulations focus the application of SB 50 on these categories of conveyances by limiting or eliminating the application of SB 50 to other conveyances, such as conveyances of lands associated with a military defense base realignment or closure. The commission staff has received numerous inquiries about conveyances of forfeited property. Under the draft regulations, transfers of property forfeited under federal criminal statutes would not qualify as “conveyances” subject to SB 50. If that provision is not included in the proposed regulation, alternatively, commission staff anticipates that the regulation would be modified such that conveyances of property forfeited under federal criminal statutes would qualify as “routine” conveyances under SB 50. Submit any comments to Patrick. huber@slc.ca.gov by May 11. After this informal comment period, staff will consider public comments received, revise the draft regulations, and initiate the regular rulemaking process in which the public will have the opportunity to comment again. Details: https://tinyurl.com/draft-regulations.
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On April 19, a Valero Oil Refinery in Texas City, Texas exploded and caught fire. No injuries and fatalities reported. A week later, an explosion rocked Husky Refinery in Superior, Wis. injuring at least 11 people.
accidents in the five preceding years, the report ends by stating that: “Fortunately HF alkylation can be entirely eliminated. The industry has the technology and expertise. It certainly has the money.” If refinery management says they don’t have the money, activists’ response is “Open your financial books.” Which, of course, they won’t. Many community activists believe that if the
local steelworkers union were to join with the community and urge other unions to participate in this community and worker safety fight, they would win this battle overnight. Until then, hundreds of thousands of South Bay citizens live in the hazard zone, according to Torrance Refinery Action Association.
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A Risk Too Great
The United Steelworkers, North America’s largest industrial union, issued a national report in 2010 called A Risk Too Great, which called for the immediate elimination of hydrofluoric acid (virtually identical by all scientific reports to Modified Hydrofluoric). Citing more than 131 HF
Way M ar illo
Opponents of the continued use of the toxic hydrofluoric acid at Torrance PBF and Valero refineries had little impact at the latest is a series of public hearings regarding unsafe conditions at the facilities. The South Coast Air Quality Management District board failed to make any determination but a majority of members implied their support for refinery management and no ban, while calling for yet another hearing in 90 days. The Torrance City Hall auditorium on April 28, was packed with 500 community residents, unionists, company representatives and scientists. Testimony was heard for five hours for or against the refineries continued use of the dangerous chemical. This came on the heels of three explosions this past week, near miss accidents with tanks of this same acid, in Superior, Wis. and Texas City, Texas. Tens of thousands were evacuated for an area of 25 miles. Leading the AQMD hearing agenda was a presentation by Craig Merlic, UCLA scientist and an expert on the human impacts of modified hydrofluoric and sulfuric acid, commonly referred to as MHF. The science was clear: Hydrofluoric is far deadlier than sulfuric acid. Hedge fund PBF Corp. purchased the Exxon Mobil refinery in Torrance, after a 2015 explosion. The Torrance Refinery Action Alliance has been educating local communities on the dangers posed to refinery workers and communities within a several mile radius. They have gathered the support of people in Congress, state senators, city and neighborhood councils, the NAACP, some unions, environmental groups and more than 10,000 residents who signed petitions for a ban on modified hydrofluoric and hydrochloric acid. On the other side, opposing a ban and fighting any meaningful new safety measures are Torrance and Valero refinery management, union officials and unionists working at these two locations, who are being threatened with plant closure and loss of their livelihoods if the AQMD mandates a MHF and HF ban. Hundreds of workers attended the hearing to attack the residents fighting for safety in and outside of the refinery, walking in step with the management that appears only interested in its bottom line. These refineries have the money, especially with new tax breaks, to retrofit with safer sulfuric acid, used in all other California refineries. The retrofit to the safer sulfuric acid is estimated to cost $300 million. Public records show that PBF earned $250 million in 2017 and expect earnings to increase $350 million. PBF calls this their most profitable refinery. But members of the International Association of Machinists are being pitted against their natural allies in the neighborhoods surrounding the refineries and safety is being characterized as a threat to the jobs of steel workers, carpenters, iron workers, electrical workers and laborers.
a in
The Los Angeles Port Police are looking for qualified men and women to join their team. The range of duties include the safety and security of all passenger, cargo and vessel operations. Officers patrol the port’s 43 miles of waterfront by boat, helicopter, automobile and bicycle; monitor vessel berthings to ensure safe docking; issue hazardous cargo and dangerous goods permits; inspect vessels to guard against drug smuggling and pollution violations; enforce local, state and federal laws; provide special training and general assistance to customer security operations. Officers are assigned to the Port of Los Angeles and undergo basic police academy training followed by field training with a field training officer. They may be assigned to patrol by vehicle or boat. Boat patrols include the enforcement of laws regulating vessel traffic, pollution investigations, handling of navigational hazards, inspections of docks, wharves, marinas and all port-controlled waterways. Details: https://tinyurl.com/POLAEmployment-App/
By Mark Friedman, RLN Contributor
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The Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach are offering seed money to promote the development of new goods movement technologies that improve air quality. The funding is part of the ports’ Technology Advancement Program, or TAP. The 2018 Call for Projects requests concept papers for projects that have the potential to reduce emissions, including diesel particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides and greenhouse gases. Projects for vessels, trucks, trains, terminal equipment and harbor craft that warrant further consideration will be invited later to submit a full proposal. Concept papers are due May 22. The ports have distributed over $21 million in funds, since 2007, to advance the commercial availability of technology that will help lower health risks posed by air pollution from ships, trucks, harbor craft, cargo handling equipment and rail locomotives serving the Ports. Details: www.cleanairactionplan.org.
AQMD Fails to Act on MHF Use
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and misguided [executive order] that will harm families. Proposals to cut housing benefits through work requirements, time limits, and rent increases will only increase the ever growing homelessness and poverty issue Americans are facing in California and around the country. I also reject dividing our nation. Federal policies that help rural families also help urban families, and vice versa.
[Lieu from p. 1]
Lieu on the Rise relevant information. A subject is someone who engaged in conduct that is under investigation. A target is someone that the grand jury has substantial evidence linking him to a crime. The Washington Post reported that Mueller told Trump’s attorneys in March that he was investigating the president, but did not consider him a “criminal target” in the Russia probe “at this point.” That is an important qualification. As a former prosecutor, I can tell you that during any investigation things are fluid and often depend on new evidence or real-world events. A subject can always become a criminal target as the investigation progresses.
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SC: What active steps are you and your fellow committee members taking to limit Russian and foreign agent influence in our elections? TL: I’m proud to serve on the House Judiciary Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Department of Justice. We have questioned Attorney General [Jeff] Sessions,
Deputy Attorney General [Rob] Rosenstein, and FBI Director Chris Wray during appearances before our committee about Russian interference in our democracy. I was glad our committee recently came together to pass an amendment to the Foreign Agent Registration Act that would close a legal loophole and improve transparency around foreign lobbyists. Ultimately, though, I am deeply disturbed by this administration’s failure to take the threat of foreign meddling seriously on all fronts. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter are coming to grips with the fact that although they are private companies, they can affect billions of people very quickly. They can impact lives in ways no government can. Discussions about regulating technology companies shouldn’t happen in a vacuum. There are real, technical considerations that need to be addressed. The [European Union] has a … unique legal regime surrounding
Democratic Rep. Ted Lieu is running for reelection to represent 33rd Congressional District.
privacy and information disclosure. We can learn a lot about their approach. SC: Do you embrace the “Silicon Beach” moniker for the growing tech sector in the Santa
SC: Given the role of beach-related tourism in your district, what are you doing to ensure the oceans and beaches remain clean? TL: According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in 2014, the ocean economy contributed $41.9 billion to California’s gross domestic product, nearly half of which came from the tourism and recreation industries. That’s why I am committed to supporting policies that protect the ocean and the environment. One threat to the ocean I am particularly worried about is increased offshore drilling in the Pacific. In the last year, I have sent several letters to the Trump administration with my California colleagues to express our opposition to this drilling. I’m committed to fighting to protect our coastlines.
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Monica area? What can be done at the federal level to avoid the San Francisco crisis with housing costs? TL: I love the name! It shows how innovative and impressive our creative constituents are. In terms of housing, I support increased funding at both the state and federal level for additional housing.
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SC: Given your Trump tweets, is there any one or two you wish you could take back? TL: I have approximately 665,000 followers. Since Trump was elected, I’ve learned to hone my voice on social media to represent my constituents and oppose stupid ideas or outrageous behavior by Trump. I believe we must not normalize what cannot be normalized. Constituents are upset. And, I’m upset. I realized the most patriotic thing I could do is to tell the truth. SC: As somebody who represents a very urban area and who began public service on the Torrance City Council, how do you access the apparent urbanrural divide when it comes to Trump? TL: I am very concerned and alarmed by President Trump’s recent executive order that would cut critical benefits, including housing, [which] help low-income families. It is a deeply flawed
SC: Do you ever get to Taiwan to visit? What do people there make of your being in Congress? TL: I still have family in Taiwan and visited a few years ago. My family immigrated to the United States when I was three years old. We first lived in the basement of a person’s home and my parents sold gifts at flea markets to make ends meet. That business grew into eventually opening up six gift and jewelry stores. It occurred to me that my family had achieved the American Dream, from coming here with almost nothing to starting a business that provided for my brother and me. I’m so grateful to the United States because I can genuinely say it was the land of opportunity for my family. It’s one reason I joined the Air Force, because I learned that American ideals are worth defending. SC: What do you think of the recent tit-for-tat tariff spat with China? TL: As with most of the president’s foreign policy decisions, the tariff spat with China is impulsive and lacks any real plan for success. Instead of pursuing our trade disputes through the World Trade Organization to give our claims international legitimacy, the president has set us on an uncertain path and left our manufacturers and exporters to bear the brunt of it. SC: What is your role with the ports, and what do think is its biggest challenge now? TL: The Los Angeles and Long Beach ports are the largest in the U.S., driving economic growth not just in the Southland, but across the nation. At the same time, though, the high volume of traffic coincides with high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. In the next few years, the port and related industries will need to take serious steps to green the infrastructure to ensure that it reduces the climate impact and meets California’s emissions goals. SC: What effect have the Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids had in our district? TL: ICE should be targeting individuals who are dangerous, but its current practice of conducting random raids without discretion is instilling fear in our communities. Students are fearful that parents will be deported and are less productive at schools, parents fear seeking medical help and individuals are less likely to report crimes to the police. All of these make our communities less safe. SC: What legislation of significance will be passed before November that will [See Lieu, p. 5]
Carson Mayor Ordered to Leave Water Board, Refuses By Lyn Jensen, Carson Reporter
Carson Mayor Albert Robles still refuses to surrender either of two elected offices — on the Water Replenishment District board of directors and the Carson City Council — despite a judge’s ruling that he’s violating state law by doing so. On April 17, Superior Court Judge James Chalfant agreed with a lawsuit greenlighted by former California Attorney General (now Sen.) Kamala Harris and filed by Los Angeles District Attorney Jackie Lacey that Robles holds incompatible offices that create a conflict-of-interest. Robles has served as a Water Replenishment District director since 1992. Since March 6, 2013 he has simultaneously served on the Carson City Council, and has been the city’s mayor since April 1, 2015. State law forbids an elected official from simultaneously holding two offices that are incompatible. Robles has steadfastly maintained he may hold both offices because, he argues, they are not incompatible. Final ruling is scheduled for May 29. Robles may attempt to show cause of why the final judgement
should not be entered. If he does not show cause, or his argument is not accepted by the court, final judgement will be entered that day. State law does allow for “simultaneous holding” of offices when “compelled or expressly authorized by law.” Carson recently passed an ordinance stating that members of the Carson City Council may hold office in the Water Replenishment District. The water board also passed an ordinance that their directors may have city council offices. At a previous court proceeding, on Feb. 27, Chalfant stated that the state’s carve-out exception for “authorized by law” was not intended to “permit local officials to wiggle out of” compliance. The court’s decision on April 17 concluded that, even if a city might perhaps had power to override the state, the Water Replenishment District couldn’t do so. Robles argued the decision at length, first asserting that since the original complaint dated back to his previous terms in both offices,
it didn’t apply to the terms he’s serving. “Your argument does not make sense,” the judge told him. “Why do we care what term it is?” The judge reminded him the case was about holding incompatible offices, regardless of terms. Robles appeared confused, at times asking where his own brief was and another time complaining he forgot his glasses. He kept arguing about common law and general law and exceptions. “I’ve already ruled the offices are incompatible,” the judge responded. “You argue but you cite to me nothing.” Robles said he intended to appeal. He asked for a stay pending the appeal. It was not granted. At a Carson City Council meeting that night, Robles said he would stay on the water board at least until May 29 and he would ask the judge to reconsider. He accused the district attorney of “persecuting” him. “The main reason they are
Recently a pay-or-quit notice was delivered to Robles’ law office near South Bay Pavilion. It was from Regent West Corp. and dated April 3, 2018. According to it no rent had been paid since the beginning of 2018. coming after me is because I am not a friend of the oil industry,” he said. He complained that another “individual” has been holding two offices for decades and the district attorney has “never gone after him.” He did not name the individual he was referring to. A court document states Robles is willing to resign from the water board, “upon the construction of a wastewater treatment plant scheduled to be completed in September 2018.” Another Water Replenishment District director, Sergio Calderon, recently resigned his seat on the Maywood City Council rather than give up his water board seat. According to the Transparent California site, which calls itself California’s largest public pay and pension database, Robles’ total pay and benefits in 2016 from the water board was $80,092. That same year his total pay and benefits from Carson totaled $54,740.
[Lieu from p. 6]
Lieu
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impact Los Angeles — Housing and Urban Development funding or lack there of, cuts to local sanctuary cities? TL: Just this week, a U.S. district judge ruled that the Department of Justice cannot deny federal funds to cities with sanctuary type policies.
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If the Democrats manage to flip the House in 2018, expect to see a hear a lot more of Ted Lieu. Armed with subpoena power, Lieu could lead the push to have Nunes’ midnight White House runs investigated. So, while Nunes faces a formidable challenger to his seat, the real challenge will be Lieu, waiting for him to return to Washington.
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SC: What is your position on the Torrance refinery? TL: The Torrance refinery has been a key pillar of our local economy for generations. Like any major facility anywhere, the Torrance refinery has an obligation to the community and to its workers to maintain the safest possible operations. While recognizing the refinery’s contributions, this community knows that there are legitimate questions surrounding the use of a highly-toxic chemical, hydrofluoric acid, in its operations.
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[Recall from p. 1]
POLA Names Deputy Executive Director of Stakeholder Engagement
SAN PEDRO — On April 18, David Labatique was promoted to deputy executive director of stakeholder engagement on the Port of Los Angeles’ executive management team. A nationwide search was called for by executive director Gene Seroka to promote better community engagement on waterfront development and environmental issues. Labatique’s latest job description includes oversight of government affairs, trade development, community relations, media relations and the labor relations and workforce development divisions at POLA. Libatique previously served as the port’s senior director of government affairs, leading advocacy efforts at the local, regional, state and federal levels to advance the port’s priorities in infrastructure, environmental, and supply chain policy.
San Pedro Man Pleads Guilty to Making Death Threat Against Rep. Maxine Waters
SAN PEDRO ― Anthony Lloyd Scott, 45, of San Pedro pleaded guilty this week to a federal felony offense where he called the Washington D.C. office of U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters and threatened to kill her. Lloyd pleaded guilty to one count of threatening an official before U.S. District Judge Stephen V. Wilson. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 16. Lloyd will face a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. According to the plea agreement, Lloyd called Waters’ office on Oct. 22, 2017 and left a voicemail laced with expletives and epithets. The message used the words “dead” and “kill” a total of four times. Lloyd admitted that he left this recorded message with the intent to impede, intimidate, interfere with, and retaliate against Waters while she was engaged in her official duties.
Brown Mobilizes National Guard Against Transnational Crime
May 3 - 16, 2018
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SACRAMENTO — On April 18, Gov. Jerry Brown announced that the state will mobilize up to 400 California National Guard personnel to combat criminal gangs, human traffickers and illegal firearm and drug smugglers — within the state, along the coast and at the U.S.-Mexico border. This comes after Brown secured the federal government’s commitment to fund the mission. The personnel will add to the staffing of the National Guard’s ongoing program. The program includes 250 members statewide, 55 of whom are currently supporting counter-drug work at the U.S.-Mexico border in California. Consistent with the terms laid out in Brown’s letter April 11, the order specifies that the California National Guard will not enforce immigration laws or participate in the construction of any new border barrier. The location of Guard personnel — and number specifically working in support of operations within the state, along the coast and at the U.S.-Mexico border — will continue to be dictated by the needs on the ground. The mission will continue until at least Sept. 30 — the end of the federal fiscal year.
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Recall
Some say that the power struggle between the business and labor communities that divide the city have led to the effort recall the councilwoman. An effort anchored by the events of one night.
The anchor
Despite the end of a personal affair months earlier, Pearce’s former chief of staff Devin Cotter and she celebrated his birthday on a June night in 2017. Pearce was driving when an argument erupted between them. She pulled over to the center median of the 710 Freeway. The Committee to Recall Council Member Jeannine Pearce issued a press release, August 2017, accusing Pearce of domestic violence and sexual harassment against Cotter from that June night. No arrest has been made and no charges have been filed against Pearce. Recall proponents also claimed that Cotter was kept on the payroll after he left his position. This has not been confirmed. Reports from the Long Beach Police Department and California Highway Patrol state that the CHP initially spotted Pearce’s car and stopped to investigate and subsequently called LBPD to assist in what appeared to be a domestic violence situation. Pearce was given a DUI test, which she passed. That night set the framework for the efforts to recall Pearce in August. It has become the cover story for what has ostensibly become an effort by the hotel industry to take out a political opponent supported by the hotel workers’ union. For many, it was a harsh reaction to a personal incident. Many wonder what is behind such a strong reaction to a personal issue. These type of situations are common in and out of politics. In fact, in the recent past both Democratic frontrunners for California governor had similar personal situations. Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa both had extra-marital affairs while in office, but neither man faced a recall. As we know, Donald Trump has had his share of infidelities. “So, while yes, I had a personal mistake; Gavin Newsom had personal mistakes,” Pearce said. “He’s running for governor, likely going to win. Villaraigosa, another gubernatorial candidate, he’s likely going to stay in politics. There wasn’t a recall campaign against these men [who made] mistakes. The only reason that this recall campaign has teeth is because of $180,000 funded by the hotels for my advocacy for women speaking out.” Pearce said she has tried to remain private about the incident because it was already welldocumented in police reports. As an elected public figure, she is more vulnerable to scrutiny. Nevertheless, she believes her personal life is being used as red herring to mask political attacks on a progressive politician. The two groups behind this effort are The Committee to Recall Jeannine Pearce and a wellfunded group called Friends of Long Beach. Ian S. Patton manages the committee supporting the recall. He also owns Cal Heights Consultancy, a political consulting firm. Patton initially responded to an interview request but did not follow through by press time. Victor Sanchez, the director of The Long Beach Coalition for Good Jobs and a Healthy Community, which is anchored by LAANE, knows Pearce from her work through city council. He said the recall effort is unfortunate.
Supporters of Councilwoman Jeanine Pearce got together at a March 28 fundraiser at Ashley’s on 4th in Long Beach. Photo by Jessie Drezner.
“It’s really about power,” Sanchez said. “When you follow the money you get a clearer picture of what this is about. It’s about a larger power struggle in the city and you have a few interests that are trying to use a personal issue as a front and as a means to take back power in Long Beach. Jeannine has been a champion and is meeting the immediate needs for her constituents. We’ve seen nothing less from her. She is a great partner. We’re obviously continuing to do our work within council but the thing I would be able to say is that you just have to follow the money and you will see what this is about.”
The players behind the recall effort
The Friends of Long Beach is made up of local hoteliers and developers, including, American Life Inc. Pearce said the group was formed by former Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster and labor consultant, George Urch. Foster did not respond to an interview request and his affiliation with Friends of Long Beach is not confirmed. However, longbeachreport.com reported that Friends of Long Beach supported Robert Garcia for Mayor under the belief he would continue many of Foster’s policies The recall campaign disclosure statement lists the major hotels and businesses that have put money behind this effort, totalling $180,000. They are American Life Inc., The Breakers, Long Beach Hotel Properties, Pabst Kinney, Kristie M. Pabst, Reed and Davidson LLP, Hotel Maya and The Marriot. Pearce has a long history of supporting workers’ rights in Long Beach. Ten years before she ran for city council, Pearce was a community activist working with Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy in the fight to improve working conditions and to pass a living wage ordinance for hotel workers. This culminated in two ballot measures from 2013 to 2016: Measure N and Claudia’s Law. Measure N was a Long Beach living wage ballot initiative to support low-wage hotel workers, which passed in November 2013. Claudia’s Law was named after a female Long Beach hotel worker who sustained a cerebral hemorrhage after working a 14-hour shift at the Long Beach Renaissance Hotel. Claudia’s Law would have limited the work loads of hotel employees and required hotels to supply staff
with panic buttons as protection against sexual harassment and assault. Long Beach City Council rejected the proposal in a 5 to 4 vote in 2017.
A Tale of Two Cities
After losing 100,000 jobs in the late 70s from defense spending cuts and closure of the naval base and aerospace plants, Long Beach began a redevelopment plan. The plan was based in trade and tourism being the most significant parts of the economy. Long Beach transitioned from a manufacturing-based economy to a servicebased one. The Tale of Two Cities showed the city tax dollars that go to the major hotels since the 1980s. It cites that more than $2 billion of private and public investment has been made in the hospitality and tourism industries in Long Beach. After making $2 billion in investments, the influence hotel’s and developers have on Long Beach city politics is obvious. Long Beach aims to realize huge economic progress, progress that ideally should be good for the entire city. The Tale of Two Cities conclusion lists factors behind the emphasis on tourism, one being that successful redevelopment efforts should capitalize on natural assets of an area. For Long Beach that means taking advantage of its coastal location. Tourism and hospitality have also been fast growing sectors of the U.S. economy. Joining the city’s economic fortunes to tourism is not new to Long Beach. Between 1900 and 1920, city leaders tried to make Long Beach the Coney Island of the West. It never quite materialized and Long Beach became a military, industrial and port town. Today, with revitalization of those sectors unlikely, the question is: “Can the currently conceptualized tourism-based strategy halt the erosion of the middle class and replace outsourced jobs and downsized areas with good jobs” Pearce spoke about the recall effort and her background with LAANE. She explained LAANE’s position: Its organizing efforts are based on the idea that because tax subsidies are given to hotels, Long Beach residents should be able to reap the benefits of having a good paying job in return. “The Hyatt was one (hotel) that received rent free for 10 years that was on city land,” Pearce said. “Long Beach has a long history of trying [See Pearce, p. 7]
[Pearce from p. 6]
Pearce
to make it easy for hotel developments. The Westin and The Renaissance also received a large subsidy.” LAANE worked toward getting the Long Beach City Council to pass a living wage for hotel workers. It was unsuccessful. Then in 2010, The Long Beach Coalition for Good Jobs, of which LAANE is a coalition member, changed their mission from just policy to becoming an organizing and leadership development
organization. A subgroup, called Long Beach Rising was started to bring everybody in for representation. For two years their focus was on base building and leadership development. In 2012, Long Beach Coalition for Good Jobs began a field campaign to support a living wage for hotel workers, Measure N. When they were not able to get the city council to pass measure N, they took it to the voters. Pearce was a co-lead on that campaign, which won with 64 percent of the vote. The power shifted for hotel and lowwage workers and for the progressive movement. After Measure N was passed, a worker retention
Ringing-in the Prospect of Peace
policy was passed that stated that if the Long Beach Airport and Convention Center changed operators, they would need to retain their workforce. This happened after new operators were coming into convention spaces, laying off employees and hiring new ones at lower wages. “After Measure N, you saw tourism go up in Long Beach,” Pearce said. “I firmly believe that you have social justice tourism out there that says, here is a city that cares enough about their employees, their residents, their neighbors, to pass policy to protect them. I want to check out that city. That’s why people go to Seattle. That’s why people go to Portland. And, Long Beach should be a city where we can say, ‘We’ve got a thriving tourism industry that respects its workers.’” A large base of people were fighting for progressive issues and were walking door-todoor for progressive candidates and the mayor’s
race. The next round of elections in 2014 saw progressives, Rex Richardson, Roberto Uranga and Lena Gonzalez win.
Pearce as advocate
When the 2016 election came up and Councilwoman Suja Lowenthal chose not to run, Pearce decided to take a chance. She knew that hotel workers, truck drivers, those living on some of the corridors with the highest asthma rates, probably weren’t going to have a voice. So, she decided to run. Pearce said many people believed Eric Gray, her opponent, would win. He had the support of the Long Beach Police Officers Association and he had Foster’s support. “It was old guard Long Beach and new guard Long Beach,” Pearce said. “We were at this time of this shift and when voters have to decide, ‘Do we go backwards or do we progress forward?’ [See Pearce, p. 10]
On April 27, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, left, rung the Korean Friendship Bell in San Pedro in honor of historic peace talks and an agreement signed by President Moon Jae-in of South Korea and Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un of North Korea. “For the last 18 years, I have rung the Korean Friendship Bell in the name of peace and a unified Korea,” Supervisor Hahn said in a released statement. “Today we may be closer to that goal than ever before and I invite you to join me to commemorate this historic moment with a message of peace and solidarity.” Photo by Larry Hodgson.
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7
Bombshell of Report on Harbor Benefits By James Preston Allen, Publisher
Angeles website states, “[the two ports] handle more containers per ship call than any other port complex in the world. When combined, the two ports rank as the world’s ninth busiest container port complex.” But what has not been explicitly quantified until now is how little direct benefit goes to the residents who live closest to the ports. The rather innocuous title of this study might not inspire many in the community to sit up and take notice until they get to the conclusions. However, it does challenge POLA’s assertion that “70 percent of the … direct, indirect and induced benefits connected to the port occurs within L.A. county.” After a study of the Harbor Area’s 135,327 residents and analysis of the 45.3 percent who are actually employed in the study area surrounding the Port of Los Angeles, the conclusion is dismal: If we assume that resident workers are evenly distributed across all industry sectors, we can make a rough estimate that 2,153 Port and Port-related jobs in the study area are held by residents. This means that 3.5 percent of all employed study area residents work in the port or port-related jobs. So, out of all the 190,000 jobs that create the “economic engine” of the Port of Los Angeles, only 3.5 percent are actually residents here? I’m thinking that the local chambers of commerce might want to reassess their evaluation of the economic value to the local economy. This just might factor into business leaders’ forecasts on future prosperity and revitalization. However, the final point is even stronger: This biggest takeaway of this analysis is that while almost all study area households bear the direct and indirect negative impacts from living near the port and port-related operations, very few households reap the economic benefits [from it]. This almost sounds like something John Papadakis has been telling Councilman Joe Buscaino for years, perhaps both of them and the San Pedro Chamber will actually read this report. It can be found at https://tinyurl.com/HCBFReport
Big Reveal Threatens Ports O’ Call Restaurant By Carlos M. Garcia
I attended the presentation at the Warner Grand Theatre on March 20 on the San Pedro Public Market. San Pedrans had all been waiting with great anticipation for the unveiling of the new design plans. Many who attended remember our business district in its glory days. I only wished that there had been more young folks there, second and third generation San Pedrans and new younger arrivals. After all, they and their children will be the primary beneficiaries of the Port of Los Angeles’ $100 million commitment in public access waterfront project funding over 10 years. The big reveal was that there was a new phasing plan that threatens to close the Ports O’Call Restaurant for three years before transitioning to the SPPM. The new phasing plan requires that the restaurant be demolished in a first construction phase to make way for the relocation of the San Pedro Fish Market and Restaurant at the completion of that phase (1A). This decision to tear down the POC Restaurant before the first phase of development rather than before a second construction phase (1B), as originally planned, put the future of this San Pedro landmark and its employees in immediate jeopardy, particularly after the port served an eviction notice on March 7, 2018. Hence, the consternation in the community about the uncertain fate of the restaurant. To say that the port and the San Pedro Public
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
For as long as I can remember, the narrative pushed by the Port of Los Angeles and other boosters of industry and commerce has been this: the twin ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are an “economic engine” that are jointly responsible for more than $400 billion in annual cargo value and create some 190,000 jobs in Los Angeles and Long Beach. That’s 1 in 12 jobs with an impact of creating 2.8 million jobs nationally in direct or indirect employment. I’ve never questioned these statistics until today. That is, until I read the report, Harbor Community Off-Port Land Use Study — a Look at the Port of Los Angeles, San Pedro and Wilmington. The Harbor Community Benefit Foundation recently released this report, which analyzes the benefits and deficits to the Harbor Area communities of San Pedro and Wilmington, both directly and indirectly related to port activities. The Harbor Community Benefit Foundation was created in 2008 as part of a settlement resolving a dispute over the expansion and environmental impacts created by the TraPac terminal. That agreement provided $8 million in mitigation funds paid by the Port of Los Angeles to be administered by the foundation. As part of this agreement, the foundation was charged with the responsibility of assessing the port’s impact on surrounding land uses. To that end, the foundation hired the outside firm Raimi + Associates to conduct the study 10 years later. As I read the report, the voices of community activists from 20 years ago calling the areas surrounding the Port of Los Angeles a “diesel death zone” began to echo in the back of my mind. This was their assessment before the port shifted gears following the China Shipping settlement; It was their assessment before the creation of the Port Community Advisory Council; it was their assessment before that advisory council called on the port to significantly reduce air pollution and before the port admitted to being the single largest stationary source of pollution in all of Southern California. As I read this report, I thought, “Surely, things have changed?” No one can dispute the fact that the twin harbors have a huge economic impact on the San Pedro Bay region. The Port of Los
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May 3 - 16, 2018
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8
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Market LLC have been thoughtless with respect to the importance of the restaurant to the San Pedro community is to put it mildly. The change in project phasing raised all the old fears about whether the port can be trusted —warranted or not — and whether the developer really understands San Pedro. While the port rightly claims that it is entirely the developer’s decision about which of the current tenants are invited to be part of the new development, both the port and developer must agree on the phasing of the development with respect to the promenade that is being paid for out of the first five years of public access waterfront funding. So, the port cannot absolve itself completely of responsibility in this publicprivate project. There is, however, an alternative phasing plan for the developer to consider that would keep both the restaurant and the Fish Market in continuous operation throughout the construction of the SPPM, if a suitable interim location cannot be found. The restaurant would be kept open in its current location until the completion of the first phase of construction, scheduled for late 2020 or early in 2021, and then be relocated to another location in the SPPM. The Fish Market would remain in its current location for one more year [See Reveal, p. 9]
Random Lengths News editorial office is located at 1300 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro, CA 90731. Address correspondence regarding news items and tips to Random Lengths News, P.O. Box 731, San Pedro, CA 90733-0731, or email: editor@randomlengthsnews. com. Send Letters to the Editor to james@randomlengthsnews.com. To be considered for publication, letters must be signed with address and phone number (for verification purposes) and be about 250 words. For advertising inquiries or to submit advertising copy, email: rlnsales@randomlengthsnews.com. Annual subscription is $36 for 27 issues. Back issues are available for $3/copy while supplies last. Random Lengths News presents issues from an alternative perspective. We welcome articles and opinions from all people in the Harbor Area. While we may not agree with the opinions of contributing writers, we respect and support their 1st Amendment right. Random Lengths News is a member of Standard Rates and Data Services and the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies. (ISN #0891-6627). All contents Copyright 2018 Random Lengths News. All rights reserved.
[Reveal from p. 8]
Reveal
than currently planned before being relocated to the restaurant site either during or at the completion of the second phase of construction in late 2021 or early in 2022. This alternative phasing plan would be a win-win. Realizing the upset brewing in the community when this change in phasing plans began to be more widely known in the fall of 2018, the developer approached the port to see if Ports O’Call Restaurant could remain open through the end of 2018. To do this, the port required, as one condition, that the developer provide a letter of intent to the restaurant offering to include it in the new development, which the developer did on March 6, 2018. However, the port’s lawyers had laid down other hardball costs, schedule and legal conditions that the developer could not accept. The port required that the developer agree to pay any related cost impacts for keeping the restaurant open through 2018, release the port from any responsibility for project delays and pay for any resulting legal claims. While questions have been raised in the community about the actual risks associated with these three conditions, the primary complaint in the community is that the port and developer have not lived up to what was considered a commitment to the community to provide an interim location for the restaurant before transitioning to the SPPM; they, in effect, have reneged on that agreement. The port stated, for example, in its Staff 2009 Final Proposed Project Summary that: [The] Port will accommodate selected existing successful businesses as part of a redeveloped Ports O’ Call. Those selected businesses within the Ports O’ Call area would not be taken out of service until replacement locations are available.
Veteran Housing in the OC
This month Colette’s Children’s Home testified again before the Orange County Board of Supervisors. This time regarding the need for more emergency, transitional and bridge housing in our community. We have been actively involved in trying to identify properties, and aggressively seeking housing options for the homeless in our community.
This month CCH purchased another property in Orange County dedicated to serving the homeless and disenfranchised in our community. We also helped veterans that were abandoned with no hope and no place to go. The ones that had medical issues we helped get admitted into the VA Hospital in Long Beach. A big thank you to Veteran’s Voices, VA Crisis Team, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the County of Orange and the State of California for helping
the homeless veterans obtain the housing and services they needed. William O’Connell Executive Director Colette’s Children’s Home Huntington 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.
May 3 - 16, 2018
Carlos M. Garcia is a retired government accountability office senior analyst who monitored the C-17 program at Boeing in Long Beach over a number of years, analyzing the cost and schedule of the program during development and early production. He is a lifelong San Pedro resident and a member of a neighborhood council.
RANDOMLetters
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The port has not offered a suitable interim location to the POC Restaurant. The port has explained that two potential interim locations were offered to the restaurant, but the proprietor of the restaurant had rejected them as unsuitable. The port contends that it has done its due diligence in this regard and that all its actions have been legally sufficient. Moreover, the port points out that it is the developer who is solely responsible for making phasing and citing decisions; the port has no say in the matter. It is the developer’s decision to relocate the Fish Market to the restaurant site at the completion of the first construction phase. The restaurant’s proprietor has publicly stated that, despite receiving a notice of intent from the developer, it could not survive a three-year hiatus in operations until the completion of the second construction phase. Based on the current phasing plan, the restaurant will be evicted in 2018 and the restaurant building demolished before the port begins promenade construction in the spring of 2019. The developer’s current offer is to include the restaurant in phase 1B, which will not be completed until late 2021 or early 2022. The San Pedro neighborhood councils are taking steps to address this situation with both the port and the developer. Two of the three San Pedro neighborhood councils, Central and Coastal, passed resolutions at their April 2018 meetings requesting essentially that Ports O’Call Restaurant remain in continuous operation until transitioning to a new location in the SPPM. Mirroring the 2009 Project Summary, their
resolutions both include the following points: • The restaurant is to remain in its current site until relocation to a suitable interim location (size and location) can be completed; and, • The restaurant is to remain in the suitable interim site until relocated to the SPPM. At its April 24 meeting, the Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council’s Port Committee approved a resolution urging the SPPM LLC and the port to engage in negotiations to ensure that both Ports O’Call Restaurant and Fish Market remain in continuous operation before transitioning to the SPPM. The proposed resolution will be considered by the full board at its May 12 stakeholder meeting. I do not believe that the alternative phasing plan proposed here would result in significant cost increases or schedule delays to the SPPM construction plans. They are basically the same demolition and construction costs whether during the first or second construction phase, with an inflation adjustment for doing the work one year later. During the second construction phase there will be more work done concurrently elsewhere than at the restaurant site, so the developer’s completion dates should not be put at significant risk. Moreover, as reported by Paul Rosenberg in Random Lengths News’ March 22 edition, Phillip Sanfield, the port director of media relations, is on record as stating that there would not be significant cost or schedule impacts for delaying promenade construction between the Crusty Crab Restaurant and the Fish Market to a second construction phase. It’s now up to the developer and the port to reconsider the current phasing plan to address the community’s concerns about in its impact on Ports O’Call Restaurant’s future. The goal would be to revise the phasing plan so that it would not require a three year hiatus in restaurant operations that would threaten its survival. The key actions that the developer would have to take would be: (1) keep the Fish Market in its current location for two years instead of one, and (2) relocate the restaurant to the SPPM at the completion of the first construction phase instead of the second phase. These changes also need to be agreed to by the port as they affect promenade construction requirements and delivery dates. I believe there is sufficient time to analyze, evaluate and negotiate the required changes in project phasing well before the port issues a promenade request for proposals now planned for late 2018. By their resolutions, the neighborhood councils have implicitly expressed confidence in the ability and willingness of both port leadership, supported by an able and competent staff, and the developer, as a demonstration of good will, to revise the phasing plan to ensure that this valued community asset survives. This is the challenge now facing the developer, the executive director of the port, and by extension the Board of Harbor Commissioners, since it has approval authority over a promenade contract award. It is also a challenge for both Mayor Eric Garcetti and the Los Angeles City Council. They have important roles to play in responding to the concerns being raised by the three San Pedro neighborhood councils.
9
Columbine to Parkland:
Students Rise to Prevent Another Shooting
May 3 - 16, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
By Lyn Jensen, Carson Reporter Columbine. It’s a catchphrase of 21st century Americana, a reference to the 15 dead and 23 wounded scattered around Columbine High School, Littleton, Colo., April 20, 1999. It’s back at the forefront of American thought again. Fueled by an ongoing national response to a Valentine’s Day 2018 school shooting, even deadlier — 17 dead, at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla — students (and adults) across America joined a day of walkouts on the 19th anniversary of the earlier event. The walkouts commemorated the 1999 event while at the same time demonstrating how such horrific events are in danger of becoming commonplace. As with earlier post-Parkland events on March 14 and March 24, demonstrators questioned how many times mass school shootings must happen before the government takes action to prevent further tragedies. Carson High School did not participate in the April 20 walkout but a Carson High student, Fiorina Tabala, was quoted in an online Vox article, “We’re no strangers to gun violence.… When we heard about the shooting in Florida, it really spoke to us, and we wanted to have some kind of change.” An attempt to reach Talaba through her Facebook page for further comment was not successful before press time. While not entirely unprecedented, Columbine established a paradigm more closely resembling domestic terrorism than the majority of previous cases involving schools and guns. Eric Harris, 18, and Dylan Klebold, 17, brought a rifle, shotguns, handguns, knives, and bombs to school. They shot and killed 15, including themselves. Hundreds would have died had the bombs the two boys set in the cafeteria been wired properly. “[Columbine is] the most famous high school in all America, for the wrong reasons,” said survivor Craig Scott on a 2004 Oprah Winfrey TV report. His sister Rachel was the first victim. Craig lay in the blood of his two slain friends, popular school athletes Isaiah Scott and Matthew Kutcher. He carried the critically wounded Kacey Ruegsegger to safety. America was already reeling from at least four other eerily similar — if less deadly — school shootings that collectively amounted to a paradigm shift: • Oct. 1, 1997, Pearl High School, Pearl, MS: Luke Woodham, 16, stabbed his mother, took a rifle to school, killed two students, and wounded seven. He later said, “I’m the one they blame for starting it,” referring to the spate of school shootings that followed. • Dec. 1, 1997, Heath High School, West Paducah, Ky: Michael Carneal, 14, fired on a prayer meeting, killing three and wounding five. • Mar. 24, 1998, Westside Middle School, Jonesboro, Ar: Mitchell Johnson, 13, and Andrew Golden, 11, shot and killed a teacher and four students, and wounded 10 more. • May 20, 1998, Thurston High School, Springfield, Ore.: Kip Kinkel, 15, expelled 10 for having a gun, went home, fatally shot
his parents, the next day he brought several guns and knives to school, killed two and wounded 25 more. Perhaps the most comprehensive sociological study of Columbine and similar school shootings — one possible path to prevention — comes from Michael Kimmel, professor of sociology and gender studies at Stony Brook University New York. His and Matthew Mahler’s Adolescent Masculinity, Homophobia, and Violence: Random School Shootings, 1982-2001 found that before Columbine, school shootings tended to be non-random: typically boys in disputes about girls or drugs in inner-city schools. Kimmel’s study found that, of the 28 random school shootings in the period studied, 20 took place in “red states” that commonly vote Republican. Of the remainder most were in Republican-voting areas. Another striking pattern to emerge, Kimmel found, was that there is no evidence any of the Columbine-model perpetrators were gay, but they were constantly gay-baited. “Homophobia—being constantly threatened and bullied as if you were gay, plays a pivotal and understudied role,” Kimmel suggested. “All or most of the shooters had tales of being harassed—specifically, gay-baited—for inadequate gender performance, a construction that defines violence as a legitimate response to a perceived humiliation,” Kimmel stated. Kimmel was careful to note school shootings remain aberrations. “Most students, white or non-white, male or female, are not violent [and] schools are predominately safe.” He added 99 percent of public high schools have never experienced a homicide, offering Los Angeles as an example. “The Los Angeles school district has had no school shooting since 1984; in 1999, San Francisco, which has several programs to identify potentially violent students, had only two kids bring a gun to school,” he said. It must be noted the 1984 Los Angeles case referred to did not fit the Columbine paradigm. Besides what happened in Parkland, Florida on Valentine’s Day this year, some other recent Columbine-like events include varying components — but all involve an element resembling domestic terror: • Grossman Union High School District, Santee, Calif., suffered two similar Columbinelike incidents in March 2001. One boy killed two people and wounded 13 at Santana High School. Another wounded five at Granite Hills High School. • Before Parkland, the most recent school shooting with parallels to Columbine was at the Red Lake Indian Reservation High School, Minn., in 2005, when Jeffrey Weise, 16, killed 10 people including himself and wounded five others. • Virginia Tech, where 33 died in 2007, was a university, and the perpetrator and victims were adults. • Green Junior High School, Oxnard, Calif., 2008, Brandon McInerney, 14, killed Larry King, 15, who had dark skin and gender identity issues. • Sandy Hook Elementary School in Conn., 2012, when an adult outsider killed his mother, then invaded the school, killed 20 children, six
adults, and himself. Now, to this list may be added Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., on Valentine’s Day 2018, when Nikolas Cruz, a 19-year-old expelled student well-known around campus, used an AR15 style rifle to kill three faculty, 14 students and wound 17 more. He was arrested. Except this time the paradigm appears to have shifted again, perhaps partly because of
the emergence of social media that didn’t exist in 1999. Many courageous young Parkland survivors, including David Hogg and Emma Gonzalez, both 17, along with millions of other students from across America, stepped forward and became the faces of a new generation — one that refuses to allow Columbine-style terroristlike shootings to become any more commonplace than they already are.
San Pedro High School Glee Club performed on April 20 during a student-led commemoration of the 19th Anniversary of Columbine High School shooting in Jefferson County, Colorado. The San Pedro High School demonstration was one of many across the country. Photo by Raphael Richardson. [Pearce from p. 7]
Pearce
That’s the tug and pull that you see on council right now.” Pearce was elected into office July 2016. In June, 2017 the incident with Cotter occurred. In September 2017, Claudia’s Law was put on the agenda with Lena Gonzalez leading it. Pearce said the hotels’ response to Claudia’s Law was that there was no sexual harassment happening and they opposed supplying their staff’s with panic buttons. “I was elected based on the premise that I was going to fight for these women,” Pearce said. “It was really clear to everybody who I was during my campaign. In September, the vote happened. Unfortunately it didn’t pass.” Pearce continued, saying her opponents will try to get her to talk about details of her personal life. They say she never publicly apologized but she counters that she did, four or five times. Pearce attended an outpatient program for two weeks and she sees therapists regularly.
The money talks
Pearce said she has to govern for everybody and that includes those who feel they haven’t had a voice. Pearce was told by her predecessor that some people in downtown don’t feel like she is listening to them as much. “I know a lot of these people were upset by the Westin Hotel pickets,” Pearce said. “Before they went union, there were picketers every morning, right across the street from residents and so that’s what I think stirred the pot.” Downtown residents often complained of the loud early morning protests in front of the hotel, where picketers used bull horns and noisemakers. Pearce said she has a problem with the hotels that come to the city and the taxpayers asking for transient occupancy tax deals, for subsidies to come here. Then “based on not
wanting to protect their housekeepers, … then ask taxpayers to foot the bill for an election that the majority of these folks don’t want.” So, in this tale of two cities an industry of hoteliers and developers has put $180,000 into a the recall of a council member who advocates for the labor within these hotels. This tale is an old story that has resurfaced in a city on the cusp of major growth. In a New York Times story, After Years of Decline, a California Port City Sheds Its Past, Mayor Robert Garcia said the downtown is being reborn and recreated. “We’ve got the welcome mat out,” Garcia said. “We’re constantly meeting with folks, hosting forums for development interest.” Garcia’s office was contacted for this article, but Communications Director Veronica Quezada said the mayor was not available for this interview.
Piercing the truth
Pearce said she realizes that people want to know a couple things. “They want to know if I was driving under the influence,” she said. “They want to know if I caused the damage to that gentleman’s face. I was drinking responsibly. I ate. I drank minimally and I did not make those marks to his face.” She said it has made her hyper-aware of how difficult it is to share a story and not be victimshamed. “It was a night that made me realize that I was going to have to get a restraining order and that it wasn’t a safe situation to be in,” she said. “The fact is, with narcissists, every time that you regain a little bit of the power that they have managed to take away from you, the more rage they have. That’s really at the crux of what happened that night.” She elaborated on the events of the night, as Cotter was getting in her car. “I said to myself, ‘What am I doing?’” she said. “I remember he got in my car and had some kind of attitude and I pulled over and said, ‘If you’re going to have an attitude, get out of my [See Pearce, p. 19]
Timely Topic Makes for Watchable Extremities By Greggory Moore, Curtain Call Columnist
Extremities runs through May 5 at Garage Theatre. Photos by Freshframephotos.com
[See Extremities, p. 16]
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It’s one of the better-known premises in modern theater: a man breaks into a house to rape a woman, but she fends him off, injuring and taking him prisoner. She knows it’s his word against hers. With him threatening to come back and finish the job, does she try her luck with the police or mete out her own version of justice? Despite its simplicity, William Mastrosimone’s Extremities is a bit difficult to pull off. Because the play’s intensity peaks so early in a scene whose resolution we already know, it’s completely up to the actors to sustain the audience’s interest for the next 80 minutes, which unfold without the benefit of a single scene change and more or less in real time. On this count, the Garage Theatre is largely successful. In the pivotal role of Marjorie, Maroon Stranger is fantastic. All at once, Marjorie is a victim and a survivor, scared and empowered, confused and decisive, sad and angry, engaged and withdrawn. Stranger plays all of it perfectly. Her big moments are excellent, but perhaps even more impressive is her subtlety, letting us see how much is happening behind her eyes. This is one play where the close confines of a black-box space like the Garage are a huge advantage. This is a performance you want to see up close and personal. If Marjorie is a role challenging for its number of facets, would-be rapist Raul is the opposite. He is a sociopath, completely unsympathetic and irredeemable. A bad actor could turn such a pure villain into pure caricature. I mean, it’s pretty much written as a caricature, which is not really a flaw. But Nicholas B. Gianforti makes him real, monstrous and menacing, yet also flesh and blood. We believe him — there really are monsters in the world — and together he and Stranger make their opening encounter nearly every bit as harrowing as it should be. For most of it we are truly in the room, watching a real assault, and because of that we’re on board for the rest of the play.
11
Local Treats for Mom Mother’s Day is May 13. How will you celebrate with Mom? Here are some local ideas.
Mother’s Day Dining Events
Ports O’ Call Waterfront Dining Restaurant Memories are made here. Enjoy an award-winning champagne brunch buffet. Reservations required. Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $20 to $50 Details: (310) 833-3553 www.pocdining.com Venue: Ports O’ Call Restaurant, 1200 Nagoya Way, San Pedro The Whale & Ale Bring the mother in your life to celebrate at The Whale & Ale. Every Mom gets a glass of French Champagne on the house. Time: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Cost: Varies
How about brunch on the rooftop of Michael’s on Naples Ristorante? File photo.
Details: (310) 832-0363; www.facebook.com/TheWhaleandAle/ MothersDay Venue: The Whale & Ale, 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro
Michael’s on Naples Ristorante Treat Mom to a well-deserved brunch on the rooftop. Enjoy a three-course brunch, plus a complimentary glass of Prosecco for all mothers Time: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
May 3 - 16, 2018
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12
Malainey’s Grill Treat the special woman in your life to an allyou-can-eat brunch by the bay. Reservations required. Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $35 Details: (562) 598-9431, busterslb@aol.com Venue: Malainey’s Grill and One Hell of an Irish Bar, 168 N. Marina Dr., Long Beach
Restauration Savour a Mother’s Day brunch on the patio. The photo booth will be set up for family photos. Time: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $14 to $36 Details: (562) 439-8822 Venue: Restauration, 2708 E. 4th St., Long Beach Gaslamp Long Beach The eatery will feature live music by Billy Blair & The Truth. Brunch starts at 10 a.m.; live music starts at noon. Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. [See Mother’s Day, p. 13]
Honor Thy Mother with Tea at Elise’s
Los Angeles Yacht Club Mother’s Day Brunch Reservations are a must for this special brunch. Time: 10 to 1 p.m. Cost: $40 Details: reservations@layc.org Venue: Los Angeles Yacht Club, 285 Whalers Walk, San Pedro
YOUR ENTIRE BILL w/RLn coupon, not valid w/other offers. Excludes alcohol. Exp. 5/30/18
Free Appetizer WITH 2 ENTRÉES
Cost: $50 Details: (562) 439-7080 www.michaelsonnaples.com Venue: Michael’s on Naples Ristorante, 5616 E. 2nd St., Long Beach
w/RLn coupon, not valid w other offers. Exp.5/30/18
By Lyn Jensen Mother’s Day and tea Amazon. service — two traditions She began with her that make a good grandmother’s recipes pair for a celebration. but has developed her To celebrate with own specialties over the generations of mothers years. She serves madeand children, Elise’s from-scratch soups, Tea Room in Long salads and baked goods. Beach will be hosting a She also blends her own Mother’s Day special, teas — about 50 flavors, May 13. Just be sure including five different you make reservations. Earl Greys. They’re necessary for At Elise’s Tea Room, Sunday at Elise’s and tea parties are always doubly so for Mother’s happening, regardless of Day. the day on the calendar. Owner and executive Benavidez said workers Elise’s Tea Room offers a special English tea chef Elise Benavidez from nearby businesses for Mother’s Day. File photo — a mother, herself — often stop in for lunch, says she opened the tea room because as a and her restaurant is a popular spot for bridal child she loved having tea with her English showers, baby showers and Red Hat Society grandmother, going to English tea rooms in gatherings. nearby communities. She thought Long Beach After Mother’s Day, Elise’s Tea Room will could use an English tea room, so she started host another special event: a party to watch the one. wedding of Meghan Markle and Prince Henry. So for nearly 23 years, Benavidez has been It’ll be televised live at 4 a.m. Pacific Coast replicating English tea service at her elegant time on May 19. For the occasion Benavidez little storefront restaurant at 3924 Atlantic will open up her tea room early so guests may Ave. in Long Beach. Through the years have tea and wedding cake while watching. No she’s managed the restaurant while raising breakfast at that hour, however. a family and earning her certificate in hotel “It’s not a breakfast,” she explained. “It’s a restaurant and institutional cooking, baking tea.” and chocolate from the Long Beach Culinary Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Institute. Friday. Reservations needed on weekends. She’s written a book, Elise’s Tea Room Details: (562) 424-2134; and Recipes: Where Tea Warms the Heart. www.ElisesTeaRoom.com It includes a history of tea along with her Venue: Elise’s Tea Room, 3924 Atlantic Ave., recipes. It’s for sale at the tea room and on Long Beach
[Mother’s Day from p. 12]
Mother’s Day
Cost: Varies Details: (546) 596-4718 www.gaslamplongbeach.com. Venue: Gaslamp, 6251 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach
Lola’s All moms will receive a complimentary glass of Chandon Rosé. Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: Varies Details: (562) 742-3614 www.lolasmexicancuisine.com Venue: Lola’s Mexican Cuisine 2030 E. 4th St. Long Beach
BIG NICK’S PIZZA
Tradition, variety and fast delivery—you get it all at Big Nick’s Pizza. The best selection of Italian specialties include hearty calzones, an array of pastas and our amazing selection of signature pizzas. We offer a wide selection of appetizers, salads, beer and wine. Call for fast delivery. Hours: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sun.-Thurs.; 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Big Nicks’ Pizza, 1110 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro • (310) 732-5800, www.bignickspizzasp.com
BRITE SPOT MEXICAN RESTAURANT
BUONO’S AUTHENTIC PIZZERIA
A San Pedro landmark for over 44 years, famous for exceptional award-winning 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. Dine-in, 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
Conrad’s menu offers cuisine of the Americas, with a fresh focus on local, seasonal selections for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Conrad’s changing menu represents the best of what’s local and in season. Whether it’s shrimp bruschetta and Oaxacan empanadas, omelettes or chilaquiles, fresh seafood to mole poblano, sourcing the freshest ingredients, combining them with traditional flavors and rewriting familiar recipes into exceptional cuisine is our mission and greatest joy. Open Tues. - Sun. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Conrad’s Farm to Table, 1902 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro • (424) 264-5454 www.conradssp.com
HAPPY DINER AND HAPPY DELI
The Happy Diner isn’t your average diner. It’s the idea of fresh creative dishes in two San Pedro locations, and now a third—the Happy Deli. The selections range from Italianand Mexican-influenced 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, 617 S. Centre St., San Pedro • (310) 241-0917 • Happy Diner #2, 1931 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro • (310) 935-2933 • Open for breakfast and lunch: Happy Deli, 530 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro, (424) 364-0319
SAN PEDRO BREWING COMPANY
A micro brewery and American grill, SPBC features handcrafted award-winning ales and lagers served with creative pastas, BBQ, sandwiches, salads and burgers. A full bar with made-from-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
10 p.m. Taxco Mexican Restaurant, 29050 S. Western Ave., Rancho Palos Verdes (310) 547-4554, www.taxcorestaurantpv.com
SONNY’S BISTRO AND THINK CAFE
Sonny and Carly Ramirez are the husband and wife team behind Sonny’s Bistro and Think Café. Their hands-on attention to detail makes the restaurants successful, in both quality and service. Sonny’s Bistro’s lunch and dinner menus feature locally-sourced and hand-selected meats, seafood and seasonal vegetables. Try the $10 lunch menu served Mon.-Fri. Think Café serves breakfast in addition to lunch and dinner with egg dishes, omelettes and griddle cakes. Both restaurants have a selection of fine wines and beers. Sonny’s Bistro, 1420 W. 25th St., San Pedro. Hours: Mon.Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sat. and Sun. from 4 p.m. • (310) 548-4797. Think Cafe, 302 W. 5th St., San Pedro. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. • (310) 519-3662.
TAXCO MEXICAN RESTAURANT
We are proud to serve our community for almost three decades. Generous plates of traditional Mexican fare are the draw at this homey, family-friendly restaurant. For a limited time: Combos #1-12—buy one, get the second for half off (of equal or lesser value, expires 5-3018). Catering for every occasion, beer, wine and margaritas to your taste. Tony and Vini Moreno welcome you. Open Sun. and Mon. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m. to
Waterfront Dining
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 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 awardwinning 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
[See Mother’s Day, p. 14]
THE WHALE & ALE ENGLISH RESTAURANT & PUB
The Victorian oak panels & elegant brass fittings will make you feel like you’ve crossed the Atlantic. Featuring popular pub fare such as Fish & Chips, 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. International draft beers & ales, as well as domestic craft beers on tap. Full bar; free, gated parking lot. Happy hour five days a week. Hours: Mon. 5 to 9 p.m., Tues.-Thurs. 11:30 to 9 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat. 1 to 10 p.m., Sun. 1 to 9 p.m. The Whale & Ale, 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro • (310) 832-0363, www. whaleandale.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
May 3 - 16, 2018
Fourth-generation artisanal chorizo and meats. Purchase chorizo by the pound or try our burritos and tacos! Menu specials change weekly. Open Thurs., 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Fri. - Sun., 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For catering email: info@ thechoriman.com for catering and special orders. The Chori-Man, 2309 S. Alma St., San Pedro (424) 287-2414
CONRAD’S FARM TO TABLE
Mother’s Day Sail Come on a family sailing adventure. Reservations are required by May 11. Time: 1 to 3 p.m. May 13 Cost: $20 Details: reservations@layc.org. Venue: Los Angeles Yacht Club LAYC, 285
THE CHORI-MAN
Mother’s Day Special DIY Wood Sign Class Make & Take wood sign classes are a great way to have a crafty, fun day. Leave with a beautiful handcrafted gift for you or someone else and ready to display. Time: 12 to 2 p.m. May 12 Cost: $30 to $35 Details: www.squareup.com/store/n2coolstuffdiyclasses Venue: Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles, N2coolstuff, 112 E. 22nd Street, Bldg. 10, Booth # 184, San Pedro
Mother’s Day Memory Box Team up to create a memory box she is sure to treasure for years to come. Time: 1 to 4 p.m. May 13 Cost: $35 Details: www.meaning-fullart.com/book-a-class Venue: Crafted, Meaning-Full Art, 112 E. 22nd Street, San Pedro
Real News, Real People, Really Effective
No matter when your day begins, you can always get a hearty breakfast at a great price at Brite Spot. Breakfast is served all day long. We serve freshly prepared, authentic Mexican food. We offer all the family favorites, from tacos to tamales, from caldo to chile, fresh seafood and much more. Brite Spot Mexican Restaurant is your late-night spot for when you want a night out on the town. Hours: 7 a.m. to midnight, daily. Brite Spot, 615 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro • (310) 833-2599 www.britespotsanpedro.com
Beyond Mother’s Day Activities
13
Freestyle Evolution Transcends Time
[Mother’s Day from p. 13]
Mother’s Day
Whalers Walk, San Pedro
By Melina Paris, Music Columnist
The neighborhood of Carol City in Miami Gardens, Fla. is known for producing strong musical talent. Rick Ross and Flo Rida are from there, as are JT Money, Poison Clan, and megaproducer Bigg D. But before those artists grew to national attention, one local group, Freestyle Evolution, gained significant notoriety for combining electro-funk with hip-hop. They were the 80s pioneers of the freestyle genre — so much so that their initial group name was just “Freestyle” — and they worked alongside Debbie Deb, Pretty Tony, Stevie B and Trinere to help Miami’s freestyle sound go national. Their major hits, Don’t Stop the Rock and It’s Automatic, turned them into stars of the genre long before other New York acts like Lil Suzy and K7 were on the scene. The group has since changed its name to
Freestyle Evolution to show the longevity of their style. After the addition of two new members and all this time later, they’re still recording new music and touring nationally. On May 5, they will be performing at the Long Beach Freestyle on the Queen Mary along with other artists and supergroups form the 1980s including MC Hammer, Lisa Lisa, Jody Watley, The Sugarhill Gang and the Egyptian Lover. Cultivated in the early 1980s, Freestyle music flourished in the Latin communities of New York City and quickly spread across the states finding fans through to the West Coast hitting big in Los Angeles. Hits like Afrika Bambaataa’s Renegades of Funk (1983) and Soul Sonic Force’s Planet Rock (1982) and Shannon’s Let the Music Play (1983) saturated dance clubs through the decade.
Plant a Tree Join Long Beach Councilman Al Austin and the Ridgewood Triangle Neighborhood to plant trees. All tools will be provided. Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. May 12 Cost: Free Details: (562) 570-6866. Venue: 4709 Rose Ave., Long Beach
Freestyle Evolution will be performing on the same stage as MC Hammer, the Egyptian Lover and Jody Watley at the May 5th Freestyle Festival on the Queen Mary. File photo
It was at this time, in 1984 when two teenagers from Miami, Garfield Baker and Byron Smith, began a long musical journey in an unconventional and ingenious way. The duo generated a demo, recorded in the bathroom on a clock radio cassette player as they took turns beating on the walls and rapping their lyrics. By December of that year, they attracted the interest of an independent record label and were signed by local Miami producer, Pretty Tony Butler to a recording deal on Music Specialist Inc. The1980s freestyle, electro-funk group Freestyle was born. As Freestyle they were the first musical act from the Miami area to make national and international hit records. Smith and Baker wrote lyrics to songs such as Debbie Deb’s When I Hear Music, Trinere’s I’ll Be All You Ever Need and their own classics 1985’s Don’t Stop The Rock and It’s Automatic. Their production sound helped to launch a genre of
May 3 - 16, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
[See Freestyle, p. 16]
14
Mother’s Day Tea Rancho los Cerritos is hosting a Mother’s Day tea that will include sandwiches, scones, tea and champagne served by costumed docents. Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 13 Cost: $20 to $45 Details: www.rancholoscerritos.org/ upcoming-event/mothers-day-tea/ Venue: Rancho Los Cerritos, 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach Pie-Making Brunch at The Pie Bar Bakers will teach you and Mom how to make a pie from scratch. While your pies are baking you can enjoy a slice of quiche and bottomless mimosas on the patio. Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. May 12 Cost: $55 Details: (562) 444-8743 Venue: Pie Bar, 450 Pine Ave., Long Beach
Laurie Gray of the Pie Bar.
THE ALMOST COMPLETE LIST OF MEXICAN RESTAURANTS CARSON
Pura Vida Mexican Food
238 W. Carson St. (424) 364-0533
Top Shelf Tacos
23551 S. Avalon Blvd. 424) 364-0123 topshelftacos.com
Lupitas Family Restaurant 21917 Main St. (310) 830-8081
Chile Relleno
194 E. Carson St. (310) 549-4683
WILMINGTON
Santa Luna Restaurant
422 N. Avalon Blvd. (310) 513-1307
Isaac’s Cafe
632 N. Fries Ave. (310) 830-4933
Maya Mexican Restaurant
401 N. Avalon Blvd. (310) 830-6660 mayamexicanwilmington.com
Montoya’s
1133 Watson Ave. (310) 549-5553
Tacos y Mariscos Sahuayo 1134 E. Anaheim St. (310) 835-3534
Las Salsas Mexican Grill
702 N. Avalon Blvd. (310) 549-2824 1245 N. Avalon Blvd.
Los Tres Cochinitos 803 W. PCH (310) 549-0921
Baja Fish Tacos 5224 E. 2nd St. (562) 343-7360 bajafishtacos.com
1341 N. Wilmington Ave. (310) 221-7717
Tacos Estilo DF
Taco Surf
1005 Wilmington Ave.
Las Salsas
107 E. Anaheim St. (310) 830-4163
Mariscos Rosarito 1110 W. Anaheim St. (310) 549-2538
Huasteca
208 W. Anaheim St. (424) 364-0015
Al Cien Mariscos y Mas 636 N. Avalon Blvd. (424) 477-5373
Restaurante Estela 401 W. PCH (310) 952-0222
Camarena’s Taco Shop
516 1/2 W. Anaheim (310) 742-7348
Tamales Juanita
1163 Wilmington Blvd. (310) 835-7229
El Primo
1602 N. Avalon Blvd. (310) 513-8956
La Paz
SAN PEDRO
El Habanero MX 1024 S. Pacific Ave. (323) 394-4159 elhabaneromx.com
Green Onion
145 W. 6th St. (310) 519-0631 greenonionmexican restaurant.com
Pinas Cafe
1430 W. 25th St. (310) 547-4621 pinasmexicanrestaurant. com
Tacos Jalisco
740 S. Pacific Ave. (310) 521-8258 tacosjaliscosp.com
The Chori-Man 2309 S. Alma St. (424) 287-2414
facebook.com/TheChoriMan
Puesta del Sol 1622 S. Gaffey St. (310) 833-9765
Brite Spot Mexican Restaurant 615 S. Pacific Ave. (310) 833-2599 britespotsanpedro.com
Pacific Tacos 146 W. 10th St. (562) 495-9596
Taqueria La Mexicana
125 E. Anaheim St. (562) 591-8586
Taco Loco #3
1465 Magnolia Ave. (562) 437-6228
Los Primos Taqueria 225 W. Anaheim St. (562) 218-5217
Leo’s Mexican Grill 225 E. Broadway (562) 676-4053
El Bukanas
306 W. Anaheim St. (562) 349-0560
Padre
525 E. Broadway (562) 612-4951 padrelongbeach.com
Cinco de Mayo
351 Pacific Ave. (562) 432-1604 cincodemayomexicanrestaurant.com
El Torazo
603 Atlantic Ave. (562) 437-7755 eltorazo.net
La Frida
939 E. 4th St. (562) 283-9928
Merced’s Restaurant 1064 E. Broadway (562) 951-5755
5316 1/2 E. 2nd St. (562) 594-3777 tacosurf.com
Canadas Grill
3721 E. Anaheim St. (562) 494-4903 canadasgrill.com
Rivera’s
2901 E. 7th St. (562) 434-8489 riverasonline.com
Casa Sanchez
3948 E. Anaheim St. (562) 494-4156 casasanchez1.com
Tacos Chapala
3205 E. Anaheim St. (562) 498-0570
La Concha
Hacienda Ruan
2612 E. Anaheim St. (562) 438-9499 laconchalb.com
Tequila Jack’s
Los Reyes del Taco Sabroso
Taxco Restaurant
Lola’s Mexican Cuisine
Playa Amor
Avila’s El Ranchito
Maria’s Restaurant
Hole Mole
Enrique’s Mexican Food
La Revancha
Conrad’s Farm to Table 1902 S. Pacific Ave. (424) 264-5454 www.conradssp.com
Rancho pv 29050 S. Western Ave. (310) 547-4554 taxcorestaurantpv.com 28643 S. Western Ave. (310) 833-2688
LONG BEACH
Los Compadres
1144 Pine Ave. (562) 432-0061 loscompadreslbc.com
Mamy’s Place
1234 Long Beach Blvd. (562) 491-6181
Bierrieria Tepechi 1440 Santa Fe Ave. (562) 437-4141
2030 E. 4th St. (562) 343-5506 lolasmexicancuisine.com 421 Obispo Ave. (562) 439-2555
Super Mex Rest. & Cantina 732 E. 1st St. (562) 436-0707 supermex.com
1202 E. Broadway (562) 432-0163
407 Shoreline Village Dr. (562) 628-0454 tequilajacks.com 6527 E. Pacific Coast Hwy. (562) 430-2667 playaamorlb.com
6210 E. Pacific Coast Hwy. (562) 498-3622 enriqueslongbeach.com
Sancho’s Tacos 5272 E. 2nd St. (562) 588-7000 sanchostacos.com
2345 E. Anaheim St. (562) 433-1329
5345 Long Beach Blvd. (562) 428-7348 avilaselranchito.com 2634 E. Anaheim St. (562) 439-7702
Cantarito Mexican Grill 2300 E. PCH (562) 494-5597
If your favorite Mexican Restaurant was left off the list, email: rlnsales@randomlengthsnews.com
May 3 - 16, 2018
Janet Restaurant
951 Redondo Ave. (562) 439-2121
Mi Pueblito San Juan
1227 N. Avalon Blvd.
El Pollo Lico
Linda’s Mexican Delights
600 N. Avalon Blvd. (424) 570-0622
Las Tres Aceguedas (310) 834-6567 907 N. Avalon Blvd. (424) 339-9353
3937 E. Broadway (562) 433-7999 panxacocina.com
623 W. PCH (310) 549-1033
Panxa Cocina
1110 W. Anaheim St. (310) 987-9644
Real News, Real People, Really Effective
Marisco Agua Verde Restaurant
Quiero Mas Tacos
15
[Extremities from p. 11]
Extremities
May 3 - 16, 2018
Real News, Real People, Totally Relevant
Unfortunately, from this point onward we find little bits of sloppiness that remind us we’re watching a piece of fiction. Reference is made to Raul’s being hogtied, but his feet are never bound, making for a double gaffe when he sits idly during a moment where clearly he would kick Marjorie. Later, one of Marjorie’s roommates asks whether she can loosen the noose around Raul’s neck (because otherwise he won’t be able to swallow the food she’s giving him), yet we clearly see the noose hanging like a loose necklace. There’s also no cause to hand-feed him, as his bonds don’t come close to preventing him from reaching his mouth. In fact, the overall physicality is too restrained. That’s not really a problem during the attempted rape, but the rest of the physical action never feels as believable. Gianforti never truly struggles to free himself, asking for us to suspend our disbelief in a play that pays off most handsomely if we don’t have to. Clearly, part of the reason he never truly struggles is that the fireplace in which he’s
16
confined for most of the play is not built sturdily enough to withstand any real thrashing about. It’s the only weakness in Rob Young’s solid set design, which otherwise helps us feel immersed in the action. Despite a compelling premise, at times
Mastrosimone’s text seems much like he’s going down a checklist (debate about whether Marjorie dresses like she wants it: check; turn the tables on the would-be rapist: check; convenient confession: check), rather than the characters’ words emanating organically from the deep emotional well such a situation would draw from. That failing (which, to be fair, is minor, not fatal) makes the acting all the more
important. So it is a tribute to the cast, especially Maroon Stranger, that the Garage’s production works as well as it does. Time: Thursdays through Saturdays, through May 5 Cost: $18 to $25 Details: (562) 433-8337; TheGaragetheatre.org Venue: The Garage Theatre, 251 E. 7th St., Long Beach
[Freestyle from p. 14]
Freestyle
Nicholas B. Gianforti plays would-be rapist Raul in Garage Theatre’s production of Extremities. Photo by Freshframephotos.com
music known as Freestyle drawing from their band’s name. As the 80s ended, Smith and Baker were no longer with a label but kept on in their pursuit to put their music out. They recorded new material and headed for Los Angeles. There they connected with MCA Records’ A&R representative, Mike Ross, who recruited the Freestyle duo to join producers Nile Rodgers and Michael Narden Walden to produce Star Search winner Myleka for MCA. Since then, Smith and Baker have collaborated with a long list of contemporary artists and producers including Flo Rida, Pitbull, Jim Jonson, Scott Storch, Lil Kim, Ginuwine, Trick Daddy and Luke Campbell. More than two decades later they are still touring and performing their hits making crowds of fans move in major venues across the nation. With both live and recorded music, their songs remain in demand, particularly as samples for new music. Yet, according to a 2014 suit in Miami-Dade court, Warner/Chappell Music has not paid Freestyle- Evolution for new hits using their old instrumentals.
Smith and Baker are now trying to collect the royalties for one song in Don’t Stop the Rock. The opening instrumental of that hit has been used in numerous songs but most notably in the 2007 number, Muévelo. The Spanish platinum single by Los Super Reyes received critical acclaim as the first single from Mexican cumbia singer Cruz Martínez after he separated from his group Los Kumbia Kings. Smith and Baker were credited for their role in writing the song but claim they did not receive any of the profits. After internet sales and downloads, the songwriters hope to get their cut from the song. It now has more than 12 million YouTube views. In 2009, Smith & Baker was honored at the BMI Latin Awards for their contribution to one of the most played Latin radio songs of 20072008 Muévelo by Los Super Reyes. They created a great hook and broke through boundaries in Don’t Stop The Rock, as it has carried across generations and as we see with their lawsuit, even transcends language. Like their music, Freestyle- Evolution has found a way to recreate themselves and be relevant in today’s music and culture.
COMMUNITY May 5
018 2 • 6 1 3 Y A M Beyond the Brink
ENTERTAINMENT May 3
Harbor Jazz Ensemble Trio HJE Trio (Ruri, Taura and Liz) will play popular jazz tunes at the outdoor Feed & Be Fed urban farm. Time: 6:30 to 9 p.m. May 3 Cost: Free Details: www.feedandbefed. org Venue: Feed & Be Fed, 429 W. 6th St., San Pedro
May 4
Friday Night Jazz Bassist Paul Gormley brings his jazz trio to The Whale & Ale. Time: 7 to 9 p.m. May 4 Cost: Free Details: https://tinyurl.com/ Whale-Ale-JazzNight Venue: The Whale & Ale, 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro
2800 Kitchen and Lounge Featuring Hugh von Kleist Duo performing traditional hardswingin’ jazz styled after Zoot Sims and Lester Young. Time: 6 to 9 p.m. May 4 and 18 Cost: Free Details: (310) 514-3344 Venue: DoubleTree Hotel, 2800 Via Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro
May 6
Ranky Tanky Ranky Tanky, the Charleston, South Carolina quintet, performs exhilarating music of Gullah culture born in the sea island region of the United States. Time: 2 p.m. May 6 Cost: $35 to $40 Details: (562) 985-7000; www.carpenterarts.org, Venue: Carpenter Performing Arts Center, 6200 E. Atherton St., Long Beach
THEATER May 3
May 5
A still from Beyond the Brink
Venue: James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance
May 8
Taking a Leap of Faith Several big-hearted individuals will take to the stage for one night only. Each performer will share a personal story or talent in five minutes (or less) on the same topic: taking a leap of faith. Time: 7 to 9 p.m. May 5 Cost: $12 to $15 Details: www. longbeachcommunitytheater.com Venue: St. Thomas of Canterbury Church, Crosby Hall, 5306 E. Arbor Road, Long Beach
West High School Dance Concert Students in this dance program entertain with music and movement for a family-friendly evening. Time: 7 p.m. May 8, 9 and 10 Cost: $12 Details: (310) 781-7171 Venue: James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance
May 13
Unstoppable The annual Precision Dance showcase features performances of jazz, lyrical, contemporary and hip hop dance. Guest vocalist Robert Vann and Anointed Feet Dance Company will be featured for this special evening Time: 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. May 12 Cost: $20 Details: (310) 326-2939; www.precisiondance.org Venue: James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance
The Love Potion Le Vin Herbé (The Love Potion) is based on The Romance of Tristan and Isolde, a retelling of the Tristan legend by historian and medievalist, Joseph Bédier (published 1900). Twelve singers are used as both the soloists and chorus, much in the manner of ancient Greek tragedy. Time: 2:30 p.m. May 13 and 10 p.m. May 19 Cost: $49 to $150 Details: (562) 470-7464; www.longbeachopera.org Venue: Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St., San Pedro
Ongoing
May 12
FILM May 4
Mending Fences It’s been 13 years since Drew has seen or talked to his father, Harry. But marital upset in Drew’s life drives him to make the 32-hour trek to visit and seek answers from the man who shaped his life. Time: 8 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, through May 27. Cost: $23 to $27 Details: (310) 512-6030; boxoffice@littlefishtheatre.org Venue: Little Fish Theatre, 777 S. Centre St., San Pedro
Beyond the Brink Jim Thebaut’s Beyond the Brink is the latest series of documentaries dealing with public policy and national security issues. It presents a possible future world that no longer supplies enough food or water to sustain its inhabitants and the inevitable impact on national and international security. RSVP. Time: 6:30 to 9 p.m. May 4 Cost: Free Details: (562) 590-3100; https:// tinyurl.com/Aquarium-Lectures, Venue: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
May 3
May 3
Dance
North High School’s Dance Spring Show Enjoy this exciting dance show. It includes a variety of styles: jazz, hip hop, and contemporary. Time: 7 p.m. May 3 Cost: $12 Details: (310) 938-7033
ARTS
Gina Herrera: New Vision Natural and manmade objects are reconfigured into lithe, energetic, being-like assemblages. Figures emerge, in gravity defying postures on the brink of movement, alive with possibility. Time: 5 to 9 p.m. May 3
May 12
Cost: Free Details: (562) 400-0544; www.michaelstearsstudio.com Venue: Michael Stearns Studio at The Loft, 401 S. Mesa St., San Pedro
Sam Arno Retrospective
The paintings of Sam Arno, who died in 2017, will be exhibited in his former studio at The Loft. Along with fellow Loft studio artist, Muriel Olguin, Arno helped establish Angels Gate Cultural Center and later The Loft studio and gallery space. Time: 5 to 9 p.m. May 3 Cost: Free Venue: The Loft, 401 S. Mesa St., San Pedro Treasures from the Voyage of Dreams Sculptures and small assemblages by James Preston Allen on view Time: 6 to 9 p.m. May 3 Cost: Free Venue: Gallery 741, 520 W. 8th St., San Pedro. San Pedro: Above & Below Long Beach artist Robyn Feeley visits iconic areas above San Pedro accompanied by a little blue seal, while also visiting some rather interesting sea creatures down below. In this new show, she manages to create and blur the lines of reality, in her signature style. Time: 6 to 9 p.m. May 3 to 19. Cost: Free Details: www.galleryazul.com Venue: Gallery Azul, 520 W. 8th St., San Pedro Big Postal Show, Part 1 The new group show features several prominent graffiti artists and live performances from the Gone man, Eada Breax and Jose Morge Time: 6 p.m. May 3 Cost: Free Details: (323) 644-8200; www.machinestudio.com Venue: Machine Art Studio, 446 W. 6th St., San Pedro
May 5
Empower Arts West Long Beach Enjoy visual art by Living Arts Students at United Cambodian Community and music instruments by students participating in Empower Arts. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 5
Cost: Free Details: (562) 435-2787; www. artslb.org Venue: Gold Star Manor, 3021 N. Gold Star Drive, Long Beach
May 6
Art in Bixby Park A diverse collection of art by a wide ranging SoCal artists will be available for sale. Oil and watercolors to recycled material and found objects.. Proceeds to benefit Bixby Park renovation Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 6 Cost: Free Details: (562) 298 7094 Venue: Bixby Park, 130 Cherry Ave., Long Beach
May 12
Artists Unlimited An opening reception celebrating Artists Unlimited 14th group exhibition, entitled Keleidoscope. The exhibit features a wide variety of works by eight artists from the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Torrance, and San Pedro who are members of Artists Unlimited. Time: 12 to 4 p.m. May 12 Cost: Free Details: (310) 548-8570 Venue: Malaga Cove Library Gallery, 2400 Via Campesina, Palos Verdes Estates. In the Now Figurative A painting and drawing figurative exhibition featuring local artists who push the boundaries with the human figure in their work. Time: 6 to 10 p.m. May 12 Cost: Free Details: www.instagram.com/__ flatline/ Venue: Flatline, 6023 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach Begin (Again) — Wallace Richard Mills Wallace Richard Mills of Long Beach has for the past decade been building his collection of abstract collage-like photograms. They will be on display for the first time. Time: 7 to 10 p.m. May 12 Cost: Free Details: (562) 584-6233; www.madebymillworks.com Venue: MADE by Millworks, 240 Pine Ave., Long Beach
Superhero Run Battle through planet-saving obstacles. The Superhero Run dashes through two kilometers of trails at South Coast Botanic Garden with participants taking on villains that lie in wait. Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 12 Cost: $10 to $20 Details: www. southcoastbotanicgarden. org/superhero Venue: South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula Crawling Down Cahuenga: Tom Waits’ Los Angeles Starting in 2008, and once each year, Esotouric offers a guided tour celebrating the life and work of Tom Waits, a rare opportunity for fans to get to know the artist better by following in his footsteps. Time: 12 to 4 p.m. May 12 Cost: $65 Details: (213) 373-1947; https://esotouric.com/ waits2018 Venue: The Daily Dose, 1820 Industrial St., Los Angeles Bird LA Day Open House To celebrate Bird LA Day, the International Bird Rescue will conduct tours of its visitors center every half hour. There will be arts and crafts and educational displays. Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 12 Cost: Free Details: (310) 514-2573; w i l d l i f e c e n t e r. l a @ b i r d rescue.org Venue: International Bird Rescue-LA Wildlife Center, 3601 Gaffey St., San Pedro 19th Annual Senior Faire The Senior Faire celebrates a day of camaraderie, arts, crafts, entertainment, food booths, blood pressure screenings, health and community resource information and special door prizes. Time: 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 12 Cost: Free Details: (310) 618-2930 Venue: Ken Miller Recreation Center, 3341 Torrance Blvd., Torrance
May 3 - 16, 2018
Provenance Cleo is a librarian in selfimposed isolation high atop a
May 5
BOOM An explosive solo performance by Rick Miller that documents the music, culture and politics of the baby boom generation (1945 to 1969). Miller gives voice to more than 100 influential figures and musicians in a mind blowing experience for all generations. Time: 8 p.m. May 5 Cost: $30 to $40 Details: www.torrancearts.org Venue: James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance
Anifest Anifest celebrates the beauty and fandom that is all things anime. A more intimate anime event where fans can interact with exhibitors, artists, talent and industry members and create content. Time: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. May 5 Cost: $10 to $20 Details: www.anifest.org Venue: Toyota Meeting Hall, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance
Cardboard Piano Confronting the religious and cultural roots of intolerance, Cardboard Piano explores violence and its aftermath, as well as the human capacity for hatred, forgiveness, and love. Time: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, through 20 Cost: $30 to $35 Details: (562) 436-3636 Venue: Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach
Filmmaker Jim Thebaut’s new documentary Beyond the Brink presents a possible future world that no longer supplies enough food or water to sustain its inhabitants and the inevitable impact on national and international security. The film will screen on May 4 at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.
Real News, Real People, Really Effective
Dylan Festival Andy Hill and Renee Safier with Hard Rain present their 28th Annual Bob Dylan Fest. This is an all-day music festival showcasing the music of Dylan played by many top LA musicians. Time:12 to 8 p.m. May 6 Cost: $10 to $35 Details: www.andyandrenee. com Venue: Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Dr., Torrance
mountain; her solitude is broken only to teach an older gentleman to read. Time: 8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursday, and 2 p.m. Sundays, through 24 Cost: $25 to $27 Details: (310) 512-6030; boxoffice@littlefishtheatre.org Venue: Little Fish Theatre, 777 S. Centre St., San Pedro
Samson and Delilah USA Muscle Classic The event will feature competitions in categories including body-building, bikini, figure and physique. Time: 1 p.m. May 5 Cost: $20 to $35 Details: www.unba112aol. com Venue: Ken Miller Recreation Center, 3341 Torrance Blvd., Torrance
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May 3 - 16, 2018
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[continued on p. 19]
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04/19/2018, 05/03/2018
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2018057371 The following person is doing business as: Paul Original Shoe and Working Boot MFG, 631 S. Mesa St.,, San Pedro, CA 90731. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Jose L. Rivera, 424 W. 3rd St., #10, San Pedro, CA 90731. This Business is conducted by an individual. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: Jan. 1, 2018. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) S/. Jose L. Rivera, owner. This statement was
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(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.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: 03/22/2018, 04/5/2018,
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Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2018068669 The following person is doing business as: Hair Force One Staffing, 884 W. 12th St., San Pedro, CA 90731. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Ricardo Salinas, 884 W. 12th St., San Pedro, CA 90731. This Business is conducted by an individual. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: January 2018. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) S/. Ricardo Salinas, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 20, 2018. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision
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DBA FILINGS
135
310-519-1442
ACROSS
1 Cereal aisle consideration 6 Former Senate Majority Leader Trent 10 Carpet protection 13 Diagnostic machine 15 Hawkeye’s state 16 “Here ___ Again” (1987 Whitesnake hit) 17 Spicy appetizers 20 Like chai, sometimes 21 M&Ms color replaced by blue 22 Parlor furniture 23 Charged subatomic particle 24 “Wild” author Cheryl 25 Some barnyard noises 29 Gender pronoun option 30 Card game where you match adjectives with nouns 36 Girl in “Calvin and Hobbes” 37 “The Subject Was Roses” director Grosbard 38 Ancient Aegean region 40 Slice choice 43 T or F, e.g. 44 Sleeper’s breathing problem, to a Brit 45 “You Might Think” band 50 ___ Awards (event held in Nashville) 51 Outburst from a movie cowboy, perhaps 52 Massage
53 “That ___ not fair!” 57 “Wacky Races” character who later got her own cartoon 60 Director Roth 61 1982 Disney movie with a 2010 sequel 62 Pi±a ___ (rum drink) 63 Sugar suffix 64 Bypass 65 Cobalt, for one
DOWN
1 Tonga neighbor 2 Desktop that turned 20 in 2018 3 Hay unit 4 Watsonian exclamation 5 Certain theater company, for short 6 Pride member 7 Alley ___ (basketball play) 8 “Texas” dance move 9 ___ off (dwindle) 10 Devoutness 11 Give a thumbs-up 12 Gave a shot, perhaps 14 Mix again, as a salad 18 Photographer Goldin 19 School fundraising gp. 23 “Why do ___ trying?” 24 Olympic snowboarding medalist White 25 ___ in “questionable” 26 “___ and away!” 27 Domed church area
28 Movie snippet 29 One-person performances 31 Goes sour 32 Kate Middleton’s sister 33 Pork cut 34 Auto manufacturer Ferrari 35 10 1/2 wide, e.g. 39 Abbr. on a tow truck 41 Tune that’s tough to get out of your head 42 Like much of Keats’s poetry 45 Blood group known as the universal donor 46 High shoes 47 Kids’ rhyme starter 48 “Weekend Update” cohost Michael 49 Finnish architect Alvar who’s the first entry in many encyclopedias 50 Sippy ___ 52 “Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes” musical 53 Spot in the ocean 54 Sports page number 55 Scotch mixer 56 Birthstone that shares a first letter with its month 58 Luau delicacy 59 Cruise around Hollywood ©2018 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords.com) For answers go to: www.randomlengthsnews.com
[Pearce from p. 10]
DBA FILINGS [from p. 18] filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 8, 2018. Notice-In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920, 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.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: 03/22/2018, 04/5/2018, 04/19/2018, 05/03/2018
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2018 The following person is doing business as: Excel Funding R.E.S., Inc, Excel Funding RES, Inc., 28924 S. Western Ave, STE 110, San Pedro, CA 90732. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Excel Funding Real Estate Services, 28924 S. Western Ave, STE 110, San Pedro, CA 90732. This Business is conducted by an individual. The date 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 information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) S/. Frances T. Baldwin, owner. This statement
was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 20, 2018. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920, 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.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: 03/22/2018, 04/5/2018, 04/19/2018, 05/03/2018
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2018085372 The following person is doing business as: A&J Enterprises, 5718 Ravenspur STE #207, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275. Los Angeles County. Mailing Address: 300 N. Rampart Street, #37, Orange, CA 92868. Registered owners: Jeffrey Scott McElhaney, 300 N. Rampart Street, #37, Orange, CA 92868. This Business is conducted by an individual. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 06/1993. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) S/. Jeffrey Scott McElhaney, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on April 9, 2018. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920, 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.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: 04/19/2018, 05/03/2018, 05/17/2018, 05/31/2018
Pearce
car,’ and he said, ‘No, I’ll be fine.’” Looking back, that’s exactly when she should have kicked Cotter out of her car, she said. “From that moment on it was the most anxiety driven evening that I can recall having,” Pearce said. “The only thing that mattered was, [that] it was abusive [and] it was sick … Because I didn’t have a mark on my body, I was dubbed the abuser. The wounds that women and men face through narcissistic abuse are often harder to get over than physical violence because [with] physical violence they see it, they understand it, they believe you. “The officers that night told me to get a restraining order. They said, ‘If you see him again call 911.’ If they hadn’t told me that I might not have called 911 when he showed up at my house later. Because your mind doesn’t work the same way when you’re under attack. “So that happened but
that’s not why I’m being recalled. These guys are trying to re-traumatize me re-abuse me, victim blame. That’s why women don’t speak out.” Pearce said that one thing that has kept her in office and to fight the recall is believing that nothing that horrible could have happened to her without a reason, without being able to share her story. She hopes people in similar abusive situations realize it’s not their fault and that there is help out there. The recall campaign has until May 9 to gather 6,400 signatures. Then it would go to a November election. If enough signatures are turned in by May 3, that would trigger a special election. A special election would cost the city taxpayers up to $275,000. Should they be successful in recalling Pearce, there would then be another special election costing the taxpayers up to another $275,000. To view The Tale of Two Cities report visit: https:// tinyurl.com/LBTale-TwoCities
Real News, Real People, Really Effective May 3 - 16, 2018
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May 3 - 16, 2018
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