LAPD proposed Drone Pilot Program draws fire p. 3 State Lands Commission acknowledges Rancho LPG threat, says it can’t act p. 6 QFilm Festival returns to Long Beach p. 19
Labor Day Edition August 31 - September 13, 2017
UNITE HERE Local 2850 organizers and activists march in Oakland against Trump’s presidency.
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August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.
POLA Faces Security Questions amid LAPD Drone Pilot Program Draws Fire During Breach
Committed to Independent Journalism in the Greater LA/LB Harbor Area
Public Comments
Police fail to give adequate public notice for meetings By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor
Community groups were taken aback by the lack of advance notice for community meetings Aug. 24 in Westwood, Van Nuys, Griffith Park and San Pedro to address a pilot drone program for use by the Los Angeles Police Department’s SWAT team. The timing of the Aug. 23 meetings was criticized by residents and advocacy groups. The Stop LAPD Spying Coalition, which has been among the most vocal, sent a letter to Mayor Eric Garcetti on Aug. 22, accusing the LAPD of failing to alert the public about the meetings in a timely manner. The group also took issue with the fact that none of the meetings were hosted in the southern or eastern areas of Los Angeles or in downtown. Jamie Garcia said the Stop Spying Coalition first heard of the hearings at an Aug. 8 police commission meeting. Garcia noted that her organization monitored the media for any information regarding the hearings but didn’t hear or see anything until an Aug. 22 alert on KPCC. Others saw a notice in the Daily Breeze during the same time frame. No advance notice was given out to the neighborhood councils.
Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council member Bob Gelfand, left, speaking with Capt. Pete Zarcone at the LAPD’s proposed pilot drone program meeting on Aug. 24. Photo by Raphael Richardson
Garcia noted that the biggest concern is the further militarization of the police department. Garcia also noted there are communities in other parts of the country that have not only decided to allow their police departments to acquire drones but to arm them with both lethal and nonlethal weapons.
Garcia was referring to states such as North Dakota, which passed legislation in 2015 to allow their police departments to acquire drones equipped with less-lethal weapons, such as tear gas, tasers and bean bags. Connecticut’s legislature introduced a bill [See Drone, p. 4]
SAN PEDRO — On Aug. 25 the Port of Los Angeles announced increased security measures at the West Basin Container Terminal after a man involved in high speed pursuit drove onto the site on Aug. 16. A port press release stated it is also conducting a thorough review of security at all of its terminals. At about 5:50 p.m. Aug. 16, a man drove through the West Basin Container Terminal at Berth 100. Police were chasing him after he stole a car from a dealership in San Bernardino. The man got out of his car and climbed up to Crane 85. Port Police and Los Angeles Police Department officers were present. Negotiators tried talk the man off the crane. However, at about 9:20 p.m. the man, after disrobing either fell or jumped, landing near a vessel berthed at dock. He was pronounced dead at the scene. “It could have been a lot worse,” said Harbor Commissioner Dave Arian at a recent meeting. “It creates a challenge for the port and how we respond to this in terms of security…. We just need to sit down and do what we need to do to make sure nobody can get into a facility unless they should be in a facility.” “At the direction of Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka, Los Angeles [See Breach, p. 4]
Labor Day Edition August 31 - September 13, 2017
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[Drone, from p. 3]
Drone Program
that would equip drones with lethal weapons. The bill, House Bill 7260, moved overwhelmingly out of the Judiciary Committee this past March but failed to pass the state’s House and Senate before the session ended in June. It’s unclear if [Breach, from p. 3]
Security Breach Port Police have launched a full investigation into all circumstances regarding Wednesday evening’s incident, including the security breach at the container terminal,” read a statement from the port issued Aug. 17. “This thorough review, including protocols necessary to address improvements, will be completed as soon as possible.” “I have asked Port Police Chief Tom Deasy to review the incident and advise on security
the bill will make it to the governor’s desk. The LAPD first obtained the unmanned aircraft three years ago, when Seattle police unloaded a pair of Draganflyer X6 drones that stirred criticism in their city. The controversy accompanied the drones to Los Angeles. After public outcry, the devices were locked away and never flown. The LAPD destroyed the Draganflyers this related issues and fixes moving forward,” said Seroka at the Aug. 17 Harbor Commissioners meeting. As interim steps, stringent modifications to access points are now in place at the West Basin Container Terminal, along with additional security personnel and road barriers, among other measures. Long-term solutions are being evaluated by the port and other agencies. However, Seroka refrained from divulging plans for more long-term solutions, so as to not make public sensitive information. “At the risk of telegraphing what we want to do to the bad guys, I will withhold any commentary on what steps we are taking, but I will ensure that under the California state law and Brown Act that the ambassador (Vilma Martinez) and you are briefed to the highest degree.” Aerial view of a man on top of a crane in the port. The man later jumped or fell to his death.
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month, just before the department revealed it wanted to test different drones as part of the pilot program. Mission creep was also a major concern. Garcia noted that when SWAT was initially formed, it was only intended for hostage situations. Now it is also being used to execute search warrants. Nadia Khan blasted the drone as a nonsolution and called out the LAPD for its lack of outreach and not holding any of the meetings in areas that has the most police presence, i.e. East Los Angeles and South Los Angeles. Khan noted that predator drones are being used at the border and other theaters of war, firing on targets at funerals and weddings in the Middle East. Once the program starts, she cautioned that it will lead to drones that kill [domestically]. Speaking during public comment as a former Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council president, Random Lengths News publisher James Preston Allen noted the department is going to receive significant push back if it doesn’t talk to the community. It will be like the backlash city governments received for the road diets that were installed in Playa Vista. Allen also suggested a possible solution: trading out police helicopters for the drones. Zarcone said that he hasn’t seen any evidence that the drones could replace all the functions police helicopters serve, but he begrudgingly acknowledged after some pressing by Allen that it is possible, in theory at least, to engage in such negotiations with the community. Kristina Smith, who served as a record keeper for 18 neighborhood council members, noted that the LAPD could put out a survey on all 97 neighborhood council websites to get feedback. Zarcone welcomed the idea. Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council member Bob Gelfand, representing only himself, noted that the War on Drugs has been used as an excuse for every kind of bad conduct initiated by government. Combined with the LAPD’s brutal past, he said it was understandable that there would be distrust. There were about as many LAPD officers present at the meeting as there were constituents. The drones, called SUAS, short for Small Unmanned Aerial System, are small measuring 7.5 by 11.5 inches. LAPD brass said the program would “enhance officer safety in tactical situations.” SWAT in the Western Division would use the craft in limited circumstances. The unmanned craft can see areas obstructed from view by trees and potentially dangerous building areas. Drones also can be used at times when helicopters can’t be used, such as indoors. The LAPD’s proposal to fly drones during a one-year pilot program is still in the early stages — the civilian police commission must sign off on both the pilot program and a policy for testing the drones before any are flown. LAPD Capt. Pete Zarcone noted that the drones could be used inside large venues such as shopping malls and warehouses. Now that LAPD is also responsible in part for servicing Metro’s rail systems, Zarcone noted that the drones could be used there as well. Zarcone noted that the unmanned aerial systems can be perched on high ground which can be used to great advantage in a hostage situation. Three-hundred-and-thirty California agencies, ranging from police and fire departments to coast guard units, use the unmanned aerial systems. In response, Zarcone said he understood the public’s critique, but, “All I can tell you is they will only be used for limited tactical situations.”
Community Announcements:
Harbor Area NWSPNC Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council is hosting its Public Safety Committee meeting, to discuss strategies to address quality of life issues, such as illegal dumping, robbery, burglary of homes and car theft. Time: 5:30 p.m. Aug. 31 Details: http://tinyurl.com/NWSPNC-CommitteeAgenda Venue: Via Dolce Coffee House, 29050 S Western Ave., San Pedro
CSPNC Budget and Finance Committee Meeting
The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council’s Budget and Finance Committee is scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. Sept. 5 at the Marine Exchange Conference Room. Time: 6 p.m. Sept. 5 Details: www.cspnc.org Venue: Marine Exchange Conference Room, 3601 S. Gaffey St., #803, San Pedro
Cuban Marine Educators Tour
Be part of the preparation group to plan a statewide California tour to leaders of the Cuban National Aquarium & University of Havana, Center for Marine Studies. The events feature refreshments and free parking. Time: 6 p.m. Sept. 6 Details: (310) 350-7515; Marklewisfriedman@ gmail.com Venue: Los Angeles Marine Institute, Berth 73, San Pedro
LA Harbor Commission Meeting
The next regular Harbor Commission Board meeting is scheduled at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 7. Details: www.portoflosangeles.org/commission/ schedule.asp Venue: Port of Los Angeles Administration Building, 425 S. Palos Verdes St., San Pedro
Gerald Desmond Bridge Closures
All eastbound lanes of Ocean Boulevard will be closed from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. weeknights through Sept. 8. A detour has been established on the eastbound Ocean Boulevard off-ramp to State Route 47. Drivers are advised to exit and get back on to Pier T Avenue. Eastbound and westbound Ocean Boulevard lanes will be closed at SR-47 from 7 to 9 p.m. weeknights through Sept. 8. Southbound Harbor Scenic Drive at Ocean Boulevard will be closed from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. weekends through Sept. 8. Drivers may use the detour on southbound Pico Avenue. Southbound and northbound Pico Avenue lanes will be closed at Broadway from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sept. 8. The northbound Harbor Scenic Drive lanes at Ocean Boulevard will be closed from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Sept. 8. Drivers may detour westbound on Harbor Plaza Drive to northbound Pico Avenue to the northbound 710 on-ramp. The eastbound Ocean Boulevard lanes to the 710 connector will be closed on weeknights from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Sept. 8.
UC California Naturalist Certification Course
Consider becoming a certified California naturalist. The Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum in Rancho Dominguez and Rancho Los Cerritos in Long Beach are hosting a California naturalist training. Participants complete a 40-plus hour hands-on course, studying natural history, environmental interpretation and conservation stewardship. Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 9 to Dec. 16 Cost: $300 Details: www.dominguezrancho.org, http://calnat.ucanr.edu/Take_a_class/ Dominguez Venue: Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum, 18127 Dominguez St., Rancho Dominguez
The Power of Unity Health Fair
The St. Luke Task Force team will be hosting its first health fair. Health education speakers, mammograms, blood pressure screenings, dance, music and prize giveaways will be part of [See Announcements, p. 5]
[Announcements, from p. 4]
Community Announcements
Fair Housing: Rights of Mobilehome Owners at Stake
the event. Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 16 Details: (310) 308-4754 Venue: Warren Chapel CME Church, 1039 Elberon Ave., San Pedro
By Lyn Jensen, Carson Reporter
Volunteer with LAMI
The rights of Carson residents who live in the city’s 21 mobilehome parks stand to be affected by a bill making its way through the California legislature. The Mobilehome Residents and Seniors Protection Act of 2017, Assembly Bill 1269, would shift enforcement of some landlord-tenant provisions of the state’s Mobilehome Residency Law to the Department of Fair Employment and Housing. At least two statewide groups that represent mobilehome residents argue the bill could resolve issues related to home sales, complaint responses and charges leading to eviction without having to go through an expensive, lengthy court process. Ultimately, AB 1269 may provide for a balance in the relationship between residents and park owners so disputes are resolved by merit rather than by a person’s resources. The Senate Appropriations Committee has scheduled a Sept. 1 hearing on the bill. Golden State Manufactured Home Owners League, a statewide volunteer organization that describes itself as “dedicated to protecting … the quality of life for all manufactured-home owners and for residents of manufactured-home communities throughout California,” originally sponsored the legislation. It argues on its website that AB 1269 gives mobile homeowners
The Los Angeles Maritime Institute is looking for volunteers to serve the Los Angeles youth by teaching them life lessons while encouraging ocean conservation. Volunteers will help students sail the boats and perform science experiments. Details: (310) 833.6055; volunteercoordinator@ lamitopsail.org
Chicken Sausage Products Recalled
DiLuigi Foods Inc., a Danvers, Mass. establishment, is recalling about 3,448 pounds of chicken breakfast sausage products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced Aug. 25. The product contains soy lecithin, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label. The chicken breakfast sausage items were produced and packaged from Aug. 10, 2017 to Aug. 24, 2017. The following product is subject to recall: One pound vacuum-sealed packages containing five pieces of Trader Joe’s Chicken Breakfast Sausage. The products subject to recall bear establishment number “P-4398” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to Trader Joe’s retail locations nationwide. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions about the recall can call (978) 750-9700 ext. 5805. The online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at www.fsis.usda. gov/reportproblem.
the opportunity to enforce their rights under California’s Mobilehome Residency Law. Western Manufactured Housing Communities Association, a park owners’ group, is lobbying against AB 1269. Its website contains a simple analysis of the proposal: “This bill creates the Mobilehome Residents and Senior Protection Act of 2017 and would require the Department of Fair Employment and Housing to perform dispute resolution activities, including investigations, negotiations, informal hearings determinations of violations of the Mobilehome Residency Law, and impose fines or other specified penalties. The bill authorizes an aggrieved resident to file a complaint with the department and would establish procedures for handling this complaint.” Ahead of the appropriations hearing, the association has sent an email blast that stated: “The needless program will be funded by a $5 fee on mobilehome owners. However, the Legislature’s analysis of AB 1269 says $5 is not sufficient revenue for the program.” The email directs persons to www. norentersfee.com, which includes an online petition against AB 1269. It does not mention the bill’s proposed remedies are unique to mobilehome residents. “I applaud AB 1269, it’s a step in the right
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direction,” said Frank Wodley, an advocate for mobile homeowners’ rights and AB 1269, who publishes Mobilehome/Manufactured Home Life Magazine. In an interview with Random Lengths, Wodley said that current laws passed to protect mobile homeowners have no viable means of enforcement. While admitting AB 1269 isn’t a perfect solution, Wodley said that to enforce it, the state needs to institute a process by which a $5 fee per mobilehome space is collected from park owners who may pass the cost on to park residents. He also said “the park owners” have promoted another possible outcome, having mobilehome residents’ complaints handled by a different state agency, Housing and Community Development, but he argued that agency “is not our friend.”
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Broken Trust
State Lands Commission Agrees Rancho LPG Poses Threat but Sees No Option to Act By Paul Rosenberg, Senior Editor
August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.
The dangers posed by San Pedro’s Rancho LPG facility have become undeniable for statewide officials, as a result of years of grassroots activism. The repository was the main agenda item at the State Lands Commission’s quarterly meeting in San Diego on Aug. 17, taking up more than half of the almost five-hour meeting. “I find this whole matter pretty appalling, that it has gone on for so long where community concerns have not been addressed,” State Controller Betty Yee said after public comments had concluded. “The risks are real and the concerns are real and sincere,” SLC Executive Director Jennifer Lucchesi added. Yet, neither the staff nor the commissioners saw much they could do. Having looked at the commission’s powers to act, “It’s extremely limited,” Lucchesi said. “This commission does not have jurisdiction over the facility,” Yee said. “Having said that, it is of concern to us, obviously, the potential safety risks that the community is experiencing,” she added. “We can’t just turn our backs to the communities that are affected here.” This left Yee and fellow commissioner Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom grappling with the question
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of what could be done. “This is not an agency that’s immune to making big, tough, bold decisions,” Newsom said. “So I take responsibility in this issue, very seriously, and to the extent we can lean in and use our moral authority, if not our formal authority to effectuate some closure here…. I’m willing to lean into that.” But what that means, in concrete terms, remains to be seen. “We often feel that we have a sympathetic ear when we speak before you, but then nothing happens,” San Pedro Peninsula Homeowners Coalition’s Vice President Kathleen Woodfield said in her public testimony. And the result seemed to confirm her statement. Testimony kicked off with a 17-minute powerpoint presentation by homeowner activist Janet Gunter who represented San Pedro Peninsula Homeowners United, which has played the lead role in petitioning the commission since 2014. At the very beginning, Gunter made two key points — first, she noted that SPPHU had been fighting Rancho since 1977. “It took them three years to find out that this thing was going within 1,000 feet of their own neighborhoods, because it was issued an emergency exemption by the Nixon
Former mayor of Richmond California, Gayle McLaughlin, spoke against Rancho LPG at the Aug. 17 State Lands Commission meeting. Photo courtesy of the McLaughlin campaign for Lt. Governor 2018
administration, under the false assumption that propane would become America’s energy source of the future,” Gunter said. Second, Gunter questioned Rancho’s intrinsic legitimacy. “The phrase is used a lot with this facility that they are grandfathered in and they are in compliance with all existing regulations. That’s not true,” Gunter said. “This facility was entered with multiple exemptions, from multiple different areas and it exists now only because of those exemptions. So, it will never be in actual compliance.” In her later remarks, Yee appeared to echo Gunter’s argument. After calling for a risk analysis “that would be comprehensive, public, and really involve all the stakeholders,” she said, “This [facility] has been in place for decades, and because of the exemptions that were grandfathered in, there was never an opportunity to have that happen. And to say, now that we have regulatory agencies coming in and there are no serious violations, what are we measuring that against?” The claim of “no serious violations” was one of two key arguments advanced by Ron Conrow, Western district manager for Plains All American, which owns Rancho. “They keep saying things that they can’t validate,” Conrow said of Gunter and other Rancho critics. “Since 2010, the Rancho LPG facility has been inspected and audited approximately 71 times by city, state and federal regulatory agencies, with outstanding results.” Somehow Conrow had overlooked the $265,000 Environmental Protection Agency fine for risk management violations in 2014, which Rancho itself agreed to in a secret negotiated settlement from which the public was excluded. Peter Rosenwald, the only Rancho critic speaking after Conrow, highlighted that fine. “How can this be, if they claim that they’ve always been in compliance?” he asked. Conrow’s second main argument was that critics were wrong to question Rancho’s claim of a half-mile consequence [blast] radius, “based on EPA’s regulatory formula.” However, retired oil industry safety consultant Connie Rutter explained in her earlier testimony why this argument was specious. The EPA’s initial requirement was to assume 10 percent of the gas would be involved in the “worst case scenario” for a risk management plan. “Assuming 10 percent gives you three miles, so that the original calculation should’ve been three miles,” Rutter said. But the American Petroleum Institute pressured the EPA to account for only
10 minutes of gas release, which is where the half-mile figure comes from. “Then the EPA made it worse by saying LPG facilities could use a 10 percent figure, they could use a 10 minute figure, they could use a computer analysis, and so therefore whatever the LPG facility submitted, was not approved by the EPA, but was just accepted,” Rutter said. “So essentially the EPA shot down their own rule, as far as effectiveness is concerned.” Afterwards, Rutter told Random Lengths, “The regulations then contradicted the purpose of the law, because the community did not know the true threat, since three facilities that were the same could come out with vastly different risks of a ‘worst case.’ But they were never called on it.” Both commission staff and the commissioners seemed to see through the bogus nature of Rancho’s arguments. They showed little doubt that the risks were real and inadequately analyzed, much less planned for or ensured against. But they were stymied on what to do about it, despite comments from attorneys Anthony Padgett, Noel Weiss and Pat Nave, who proposed several possible courses of action they claimed were available to SLC. There was also a call from County Supervisor Janice Hahn, via her representative Jayme Wilson, asking SLC to “require extensive new environmental, seismic, and risk analysis studies.” Jesse Marquez, executive director of the Coalition for a Safe Environment, prefaced his organization’s comments about their public safety concerns and recommended actions by sharing something about his own personal experience of the kinds of risks that Rancho posses. “In Wilmington I grew up on Lomita Blvd., and when I was 16 years old, the Fletcher oil refinery, that was located in the City of Carson, blew up,” Marquez said. “Several of the jet fuel tanks blew up at that time, all seven members of my family were burned, from first to third degree burns, over 200 people were burned or injured as a result of that. So I know the reality, and how frightening something like that can be.” In addition to these and others who have been involved in fighting Rancho recently, were new voices added as well, giving the arguments even greater heft. One was actually an old voice — Robert West, SPPHU’s president in 1977, when the homeowners’ fight against the threat of Rancho (then Petrolane) first began as a result of an Los [See Rancho, p. 8]
Labor Day Edition
August 31 - September 13, 2017
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[Rancho, from p. 6]
Broken Trust: Rancho LPG
August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.
Angeles Times investigation by Larry Prior. This investigation first exposed how the facility was built without proper oversight — most notably, without a city building permit or environmental impact report (one was completed just as it was finished) — so that public input was non-existent. “I was homeowner’s president at the time, but I got involved with Vincent Thomas, who was the area assemblyman,” West recalled. He and his wife flew up to Sacramento at Thomas’s request, trying to get legislative help. “I learned in my opinion, who runs the government and the lobbyists came out of the woodwork like flies …. I learned the big lessons about how government operates, and I’m sorry to say this but they let us down,” West said. Forty years later, virtually nothing has changed. Another new voice was Gayle McLaughlin the former mayor of Richmond, whose recent experience is chillingly relevant to San Pedro. “Rancho LPG stores 25 million gallons of very explosive and flammable propane and butane gases and there’s no way possible to make these tanks safe,” McLaughlin said. “I speak from some experience. I was serving as mayor of Richmond, Calif. when in August 2012, the local Chevron refinery exploded, and burned for many hours, sending 15,000 people to local hospitals; 19 Chevron refinery workers barely escaped with their lives. “Years before the fire, Chevron ignored safety demands from the people in city government of Richmond. They gave the same type of empty reassurances that the good people of San Pedro continue to receive from Rancho LPG — ‘It’s all
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fine and safe.’ Well, after the refinery explosion, Chevron pleaded no contest to criminal neglect and was mandated to initiate repairs for $25 million, mostly to replace corroded pipes they had refused to fix until now.” The moral was obvious, she continued. “It’s all too clear that corporations put profits before people, and companies like Chevron and Rancho LPG gamble with the safety and wellbeing of the community,” McLaughlin said. “Furthermore, too often our regulatory agencies have allowed and enabled these companies to do this gambling at our expense. The fact that other agencies have acted irresponsibly and granted permits to Rancho, and are allowing this disaster in the making does not relieve you, Lt. Gov. Newsom and members of the commission, of your responsibility to protect the lives of the people of California. Use the powers bestowed on you by the state of California to protect the people of California.” The fact that the commission sees little it can do merely perpetuates the problem. And local activists are feeling deeply frustrated once again. Yet, compared to just a few years ago, they have managed to get a broad segment of public officials to realize there is a problem. The larger problem is not just Rancho itself, but that — as McLaughlin highlighted — the entire regulatory framework is broken. If the commission really cannot do anything through existing formal channels, it can seek to use its moral leadership — as Newsom suggested — not just to push the Port of Los Angeles to do an [See Broken, p. 9]
LOS ANGELES — On Aug. 30 the Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted to eliminate Oct. 12 observance of Columbus Day from the city’s calendar. District 15 Councilman Joe Buscaino, a firstgeneration Italian American reared in San Pedro, however, objected to the renaming of the holiday to Indigenous People’s Day. In “All Lives Matter” fashion, he argued that he wanted a day that celebrated “all of the diverse cultures in the city,” noting prejudice that Italian Americans have also encountered in this country. Buscaino, Councilman District 1 Councilman Gil Cedillo, District 4 Councilman David Ryu and Mitchell Englander tried to propose having Indigenous Peoples Day be on Aug. 9, a day when native peoples are celebrated by the United Nations, but the rest of the council disagreed. A second motion on a report to establish Indigenous People’s Day as a legal city holiday passed 14-1 with Buscaino opposed. The report recommended that Oct. 12 be designated as Italian Heritage Day and create Indigenous People Day as an official city holiday to be observed on the second Monday of each October, and to be recognized no later than 2019. “As my colleague Mike Bonin mentioned so eloquently, ‘This is a very, very small step in the right direction, but it is a critical step in the right direction,’” said District 13 Councilman Mitch O’Farrell at a rally after the votes. “We know that this is not the panaceum to cure all of the ills that afflict our community…. It is a victory for all peoples … we acted boldly today, we acted with courage.”
AltaSea, Boys & Girls Clubs of LA Harbor Sign Long-Term Deal
SAN PEDRO — AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Los Angeles Harbor have signed a long-term agreement to combine [Broken, from p. 8]
LONG BEACH — Chick-fil-A may soon open another store near the Long Beach Traffic Circle, amid objections from the area lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. On Aug. 25, The Center Long Beach released a statement declaring its disappointment to learn that a private property owner has allowed construction of a new Chick-fil-A which will soon be opening in Long Beach’s District 4. Chick-fil-A has a longstanding history of exhibiting animosity and discrimination towards the LGBTQ community and continues to funnel hundreds of thousands of dollars to anti-LGBTQ organizations through their private foundation. The Center has contacted both the office of Mayor Robert Garcia and 4th District Councilman Daryl Supernaw and asked them to disavow any support for Chick-fil-A in Long Beach.
planning. The latter — which we have now — clearly is not working. Obviously, San Pedro activists alone cannot accomplish this. And, quite frankly, many are exhausted. But they’ve raised the issues involved to a level of state-wide visibility that could credibly lay the foundation for a wider coalition of groups to take up the challenge. It might seem like a pipe dream, but it’s
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adequate risk assessment of Rancho LPG, but to fix the whole regulatory process that allows such ticking timebombs to exist. The prospect of fixing the EPA’s brokenness is clearly out of reach for the time being. But a state-level reform effort would make a great deal of sense, especially with a race for governor (Newsom is a candidate) and other statewide races coming up next year. A draft proposal could be circulated to all candidates, seeking to get their commitments, much the same way that the PCAC proposal was put to Los Angeles mayoral candidates in 2000/1. The combination of developing climate goals (zero emissions targets, etc), increasingly evident costs (pipeline leaks, explosions, etc) and emerging new challenges Robert West, SPPHU’s president in 1977, led the fight against (sea level rise, a subject also the threat of Rancho (then Petrolane) as a result of an LA Times considered by the commission at investigation by Larry Prior. Screen capture of meeting the August meeting) creates a favorable climate worth recalling Gunter’s role as one of three for arguing that a complete regulatory overhaul is initial plaintiffs who fought against the Port needed. of Los Angeles when it tried to build the China Long-range planning with the intention of Shipping terminal without an EIR. That fight went guiding the state to a safe, sustainable future is from being a wild-eyed pipe-dream to producing fundamentally different from piecemeal planning massive, systemic improvements in how EIRs against a background of taking existing property are completed, and ushering in the current era in rights and relations for granted as immutable facts which POLA and Port of Long Beach constantly that take precedent over all else. The difference is tout themselves as America’s leading green ports. between future-oriented public interest planning Perhaps lightning can strike twice in the Harbor and backward-looking private interest non- area.
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Chick-fil-A May Soon Open near LB Traffic Circle
The Shortest Run to Catalina
Ca
Say Bye to Columbus Day, Hello Indigenous People’s Day
vision and resources of the two organizations to bring future-facing education and job training to the region’s youth. Under the agreement, Boys and Girls Clubs will share administrative office space at AltaSea’s offices at 222 W. 6th St. in San Pedro over the next four years. Together, the organizations will operate a classroom facility in Warehouse 58 in the L.A. Harbor. AltaSea is transforming Warehouse 58 and neighboring facilities on 35 acres of City Dock No. 1 into a center for scientific research, sustainable business incubation and education in science, technology, engineering and math. The classroom facility will be created from a modular building donated by Green Hills Memorial Park. Joining the partnership, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium will provide educational curricula on sustainable aquaculture. After the initial four-year period ends, AltaSea and Boys and Girls Clubs plan to jointly relocate to permanent administrative quarters on AltaSea’s site.
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Churches. Schools. Cities. Workplaces. By David Bacon
A
August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.
lbeit far from its intentions, the Donald Trump administration has put the idea of sanctuaries on steroids — spaces free from the threat of raids and deportations. As immigrant workers, unions and their allies look for creative ways to counter anti-immigrant onslaughts, they’re adopting the sanctuary framework to deal with the dangers faced on the job. This is not just a recent response to administration threats of increased enforcement. Immigrant workers have been battling jobsite raids and firings for many years, seeking ways to prevent la migra (immigration agents) from using their employment to sweep them into the enforcement net. “When we go to work, we should be valued for the contributions we make and we should be able to do our jobs free from fear of deportations,” said Wei-Ling Huber, president of Unite Here Local 2850, a hotel union in the East Bay area of northern California. Those contributions should be obvious. One in every 10 workers in California is undocumented. So are more than half of the nation’s farm laborers and nine percent of its restaurant workers. In April, Huber’s union asked the Oakland City Council for a policy that would protect immigrants on the job. The council passed a resolution, noting it has been a “City of Refuge” since the anti-apartheid movement of the mid-1980s, a policy reaffirmed this past November just days after Trump’s election. “The City Council ... calls upon all employers to establish safe/sanctuary workplaces where workers are respected and not threatened or discriminated against based on their immigration status,” the measure stated. Local 2850 wanted the statement to define public policy, but the actual implementation of an enforcement-free workplace requires more than resolutions. Ten years ago, the union headed a fight in neighboring Emeryville when the Woodfin Suites, a hotel in the Southern California-based chain, fired 12 immigrant female housekeepers. Emeryville had just passed a living-wage ordinance for hotel employees and at the Woodfin Suites’ workers demanded its enforcement. The hotel accused the 12 women of not having legal immigration documents. Protests over the retaliatory firings went on for four years. Eventually, the company had to pay several hundred thousand dollars in back pay. In the process, the Emeryville City Council became committed defenders of the housekeepers. Moving further toward making the sanctuary workplace a reality, Local 2850 began negotiating protections into union contracts. The union is trying to make a standard out of one key provision, which cautions that 10
Showing how they won: At the February training, Local 6 workers re-created scenes from their successful struggle to improve wages and working conditions for East Bay recycling workers. Photo by David Bacon.
“Should a federal immigration agent or a Department of Homeland Security agent demand entry into the Employer’s premises or the opportunity to interrogate, search or seize the person or property of any employee, then the Employer shall immediately notify the union by telephone to the union’s office. Except as required by law, the Employer shall not permit the agent(s) to enter the premises without a valid warrant.” The contract prohibits retaliation against workers due to immigration status. If the hotel accepts the documents provided by workers when they’re hired, it can’t go back later and use the government’s E-Verify database to revisit their immigration status. The need for this was evident in a recent change in one hotel’s ownership, when the new owners wanted all the employees to submit new evidence of legal status. The workers banded together and refused, thus protecting anyone who might have trouble doing so. The company backed down, and everyone went back to work. In San Francisco, when another boutique hotel chain changed hands, Unite Here Local 2 mobilized community pressure to stop the new owners from similarly re-verifying workers’ immigration status. At issue is a provision of the 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act, which, for the first time in U.S. history, prohibited employers from hiring undocumented workers. The law required employers to verify workers’ immigration status
when they are hired and led to the creation of the huge E-Verify database of all workers’ immigration status. After 1986, undocumented workers could no longer apply for Social Security numbers. Since then, to get hired, workers without papers have made up numbers or used those of other people. Employers deduct contributions from their paychecks for Social Security — about $13 billion per year. But workers without papers can’t collect the benefits the contributions pay for. In the meantime, the government uses the discrepancy in numbers as a tool for immigration enforcement. A number of unions are beginning to train workers to act together on the job to resist raids and firings. This spring, in a session organized by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, Filipino Advocates for Justice and several other groups, workers acted out scenarios that used job action to protect each other. ILWU members from a local recycling company, Alameda County Industries, dramatized their own strike three years ago, when they stopped work to keep the company from firing employees for not having papers. In another skit, they suggested that workers take action to demand that their bosses bar ICE agents from the workplace without court order. Other unions described their experiences over the past decade in organizing workers to fight off raids and firings. As a result of this activity, unions with a
significant membership of immigrants and a history of fighting to defend them were very visible during May Day’s “Day Without Immigrants” marches. Many had participated in the crowds that shut down airports in January in response to Trump’s attempted ban on migrants and travelers from Muslim countries. It was similar to what happened in 2006, when marchers protested a bill in Congress to make undocumented status a federal felony. This year, marchers protested similar threats from Attorney General Jeff Sessions. In a highly publicized event in April on the Arizona-Mexico border, Sessions told the press that enforcement would now prioritize identity theft among other factors. “And it is here that criminal aliens, and the coyotes, and the document-forgers seek to overthrow our system of lawful immigration,” he announced. By employing phrases like “identity theft” and “document-forgers,” Sessions makes it a criminal offense to give a bad Social Security number to an employer. The Pew Hispanic Center estimates that more than 8 million undocumented people are in the workforce, working under bad numbers, making them potentially subject to these charges. Anger over workplace enforcement actions has a long history in California. One of the first battles took place at the Kraco car radio factory in the early 1980s. workers joining the United [See Sanctuary, p. 12]
Labor Day Edition
August 31 - September 13, 2017
11
Bloody Thursday Remembered B
By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor
efore 2011, the ILWU commemorated the martyrdom of Dickie Parker and John Knudsen, two longshore workers whose deaths inspired a general strike that shut down the entire West Coast in 1934, with a classic car cruise. The organizers of the event began reconsidering the event when a member received a traffic ticket during this car cruise and began asking the question, “Is this the best way we can honor our history and our martyrs? This year’s Bloody Thursday on July 3, began with a morning memorial at Roosevelt Memorial Park in Gardena, where Parker and Knudsen are buried. Local 13’s Angel Blanco coordinated the event as he has in past years, accompanied by ILWU International Vice President (Mainland) Ray Familathe with Southern California District Council President Cathy Familathe, ILWU Poet
Ronald Reagan Inducted into the Labor Hall of Fame
August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.
By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor Men in dark suits and black government cars hovered around Sirens Java & Tea in San Pedro this past week on Aug. 10. Few outside of the coffeehouse knew it was U.S. Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta, who stopped into downtown before heading off to the Port of Los Angeles.The International Longshore and Warehouse Union invited Acosta to meet with port officials and union leaders to show the importance of the twin ports to the U.S. economy. Acosta gave no inkling that the following day at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum he would announce the induction of the 40th president of the United States into the department’s hall of fame. Reagan’s induction was an ironic choice considering his betrayal of labor during his presidency. The director of POLA, Gene Seroka said that the secretary was there to discuss, “jobs, jobs, jobs and how important this port complex is to our nation.” The ILWU leadership was mute in response to the visit. According to remarks reported by the Washington Examiner, Acosta noted that the former actor served as president of the Screen Actors Guild. “I hope you’ll forgive me if I point with some pride to the fact that I’m the first president of the United States to hold a lifetime membership in an AFL-CIO union,” Reagan said in 1981, referring to SAG’s affiliation with the AFL-CIO. Acosta also mentioned the former president’s role promoting the USSR’s first free and independent trade union, Poland’s Solidarity movement. But Reagan had a combative relationship with unions while in office. Reagan fired more than 11,000 air 12
[See Reagan, p. 18]
Laureate Jerry Brady, Pacific Coast Pensioner President Greg Mitre and Brother Jessie Lopez, who offered a prayer and reflection. When the brief service was over, a group aboard classic cars and bikes from the Longshoremen’s Motorcycle Club left the cemetery and cruised to Wilmington’s Harbor Sports Complex for the picnic. Ritualizing Bloody Thursday is a conscious effort that’s undertaken as a means to better connect younger generations to the ILWU’s roots and history. But it probably would not have been possible had one member not received a traffic ticket for participating in the Bloody Thursday car cruise in 2010. Although Parker and Knudsen had been honored with an annual car cruise for years, a couple of members felt the attention it attracted was misdirected — shifting the focus away from the sacrifices that men made for the movement. Blanco and Jesse “Nacho” Enriquez, president of the Bloody Thursday Committee, turned the car cruise into a solemn ritual that redirects attention back to the history of sacrifices — including losses of life — that made the ILWU possible. Blanco’s first thought was to adjust the event
The labor community observed Bloody Thursday this past July 5 with a commemoration at Roosevelt Memorial Park in Gardena. Photos by Michael Hunter
by including a motorcade of motorcycle officers like a funeral procession. But this soon turned into an “a-ha” moment for the 14-year Local 13 member. “It dawned on me,” Blanco started. “What are we really celebrating on Bloody Thursday? What is it about?” Blanco noted that the majority of members don’t know the history. He went to Enriquez with the idea, saying it would be nice if they led a procession commemorating Dickie Parker and
John Knudsen. This year’s committee included Lenares, Cesar Hall and Diane Chavez-Feipel, along with core volunteers Paul Zuanich, Franc Bodnar and Pak Chung Won. “We’re so big now that we need parking for 700 to 800 cars,” Enriquez told the ILWU’s The Dispatch. “That kind of space just isn’t easy to find.” The Dispatch reported that 1,800 cars participated in this year’s event.
[Sanctuary, from p. 10]
Sanctuary
Electrical Workers stopped the plant to force the owner to deny entry to immigration agents. Later that decade, the Molders Union Local 164 in Oakland joined the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund in suing the Immigration and Naturalization Service over its practice of having agents bar the doors of factories, hold workers prisoner, interrogate and detain those without papers. The case went to the Supreme Court, which found the practice unconstitutional. During the Day Without Immigrants, unions and immigrant rights organizations sought to tap into this history and linked the sanctuary workplace to the enforcement of labor rights in general. Sixty workers from Oakland and Emeryville hotels left their jobs and picketed the site of a proposed new hotel that has refused to guarantee workers’ freedom to organize. After tearing down a symbolic “Trump wall,” they joined the main May Day march. In New York City, immigrant workers at one of the world’s largest suppliers of photographic materials, B&H Photo Video, struck for the day, protesting a plan to relocate 330 jobs from Brooklyn, New York, to Florence Township, New Jersey. Workers have been trying to negotiate a union contract with the help of the Laundry Workers Center and the United Steel Workers, and they have accused the company of using the move to punish workers for their union support. A thousand people marched in Yakima at the heart of central Washington’s apple orchards. Most were farm workers who had taken off work for the day, including a large contingent from the Chateau Ste. Michelle winery who belong to the United Farm Workers. Some workers were released for the day
support for the center’s detainees, in part because they are forced to do all the work at the privatelyrun prison (with the exception of guarding themselves) at an illegal wage of $1 a day. [A fairly widespread practice in private prisons]. In the mobilizations around May ILWU organizer Agustin Ramirez helps community groups in Hayward, Calif., preDay, support grew pare for workplace immigration raids. Photo by David Bacon on a national level by their employers at local packing sheds. Mike for immigrant workers facing raids. Four unions Gempler, executive director of the Washington (Communications Workers of America, AmalGrowers League, criticized the Donald Trump gamated Transit Union, National Nurses United administration, calling officials like Sessions and the United Electrical Workers) sent out a let“very zealous.” ter urging workers and labor activists to partici“Trump’s enforcement program will eco- pate in the Day Without Immigrants strikes and nomically destroy much of the agriculture in- marches. dustry and ... we will also end up treating people “As leaders of the unions who supported Berunfairly,” he said. nie Sanders for president, we refuse to go down And a week after May Day, the country’s that road of hatred, resentment and divisiveness,” newest farm worker union, Familias Unidas por they declared. “We will march and stand with our la Justicia, marched 17 miles from Lynden to sister and brother immigrant workers against the Bellingham in Washington. In addition to protest- terror tactics of the Trump administration.” ing Trump’s anti-immigrant policies, farm workOver a month later, the Trump administraers demanded that Washington grower Sakuma tion appears strangely reluctant to implement Brothers Farms sign a union contract. The union Sessions’ threats in the nation’s workplaces, but mounted a 3-year boycott of Driscoll’s Berries, organizers are far from declaring victory. which markets the berries they pick for Sakuma. “The threats from Trump tell us this is comCombined with strikes in the fields, the boycott ing,” said Agustin Ramirez, an organizer for forced the grower to agree to a union election, the ILWU in California. “We just don’t know won by workers this past September. Their march when.” David Bacon is a photojournalist, author, political coincided with a hunger strike by immigrants in activist and union organizer based in the San FranTacoma, Wash.’s Northwest Detention Center. Familias Unidas por la Justicia has a history of cisco Bay Area.
Labor Day Edition
August 31 - September 13, 2017
13
Building it Up – Tearing it Down Buscaino fights windmills while Garcetti grandstands By James Preston Allen, Publisher
August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.
Two years ago, the City of Los Angeles woke up to the shocking realization that it had a homeless crisis after a young activist by the name of Elvis Summers started building tiny homes and giving them to homeless people. The Los Angeles media blew this up and some people became enraged at giving “those people” shelter in anything other than sanctioned facilities — of which there was next to none. Out of this, San Pedro’s own anti-homeless reactionaries rose up, calling themselves “Saving San Pedro.” It was never quite clear as to what they were saving San Pedro from or for whom, but it definitely wasn’t about saving the homeless. In stepped Los Angeles City Councilman Joe Buscaino to the rescue. His first act was a carefully orchestrated town hall meeting concerning homelessness — after he ignored the pleas and motions from the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council. His second act was the formation of the Homeless Taskforce to which he appointed a select group of personal ass-kissers to study the problem. It’s been more than 24 months and the taskforce has never released the promised report, while the latest homeless count shows an increase of 28 percent in this district of the city — 5 percent more than the average rate for the city of Los Angeles. Meanwhile, along Beacon Street right outside the Art Deco U.S. Post Office, Bobby Nizich has his law office and the blight of the homeless persists. On an almost daily basis, Nizich comments and documents his displeasure with the “urban campers” congregating along the historic Plaza Park just one block south of San Pedro City Hall and one block east from Buscaino’s exercise studio. Nizich persistently emails pictures and comments to a very long list of friends, officials and media. It’s obvious to the lawyer that the councilman has taken notice and shows it with the occasional enforcement of Municipal Code 56.11 to chase out the homeless campers for sidewalk cleanup. Comprised of handing out ticket violations and warrants, and taking away possessions and trash, the enforcement measures only result in chasing the homeless a few blocks in any direction. I’ve witnessed this a dozen times and the people just move back. Two years ago when the city took homelessness seriously, the city council
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formed a homeless committee and move forward a series of motions to address the “crisis,” including the amending of Municipal Code 56.11 to shorten the 72-hour notice to 24 hours, putting a $1.2 billion bond for housing the homeless on the ballot, and charging a developer’s fee to help pay for affordable housing units. Yet, of all the development projects brought forward, approved or planned in the San Pedro area of Council District 15, none has come with a low income or even an affordable housing component. This, of course, is odd since Buscaino is now arguing against Mayor Eric Garcetti’s development fee saying that the recent construction boom transforming the rest of L.A. has largely missed “this last affordable seaside of Los Angeles, despite its ocean views and proximity to the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.” Two years ago, following the lead of other California cities, Garcetti proposed charging this fee on construction and using those funds to build affordable housing in Los Angeles. City officials say that the so-called linkage fee — a financing tool already in use in San Diego, San Francisco and Oakland — would raise $100 million a year. That $100 million also just happens to be the amount Garcetti pledged to spend this past year to build homeless housing but didn’t. It appears that the $1.2 billion homeless bond is now not much more than a pot of money for developers who won’t necessarily address housing the homeless. Then on the very day the U.S. Navy Fleet sailed into San Pedro Bay, Garcetti’s office announced that he will lead a coalition called the “Big 11 California Mayors” — a bipartisan group of mayors from the 11 biggest cities in the state — for a press conference to discuss the urgent need for more affordable housing across California in a bid to support bold, immediate action from Sacramento to address the statewide crisis. The mayor continues to “show boat” on issues like homelessness and hiring veterans, without having specific legislation to alter the economic downward trend in many parts of the city. Has the economic recovery actually happened in East LA or Watts? According to one of Nizich’s email pals, John “the-godfather-of–the-bridge-to-breakwater promenade” Papadakis, “the powers at City Hall and at the port have turned this community into the only ‘seaside slum’ in California.” Papadakis writes, “What meaningful jobs, Publisher/Executive Editor James Preston Allen james@randomlengthsnews.com Assoc. Publisher/Production Coordinator Suzanne Matsumiya
Columnists/Reporters Lyn Jensen Reporter Christian Guzman Reporter Richard Foss Restaurant Reviewer Andrea Serna Arts Writer Melina Paris Culture Writer
Managing Editor Terelle Jerricks editor@randomlengthsnews.com
Send Calendar Items to: 14days@randomlengthsnews.com
Paul Rosenberg Assistant Editor Zamná Ávila zamna@randomlengthsnews.com
Contributors Davic Bacon, Kym Cunningham
“A newspaper is not just for reporting the news as it is, but to make people mad enough to do something about it.” —Mark Twain Senior Editor Vol. XXXVIII : No.18 Published every two weeks for the Harbor Area communities of San Pedro, RPV, Lomita, Harbor City, Wilmington, Carson and Long Beach. Distributed at over 350 locations throughout the Harbor Area.
economic prosperity, improvements in our quality of life or environment have these current leaders accomplished? In truth, it has all gone the other way; into the anomaly of a Cali-fornicate, a seaside slum. They have betrayed their every public promise for a ‘Worldwide Waterfront’ transformation and prosperity.” It’s clearly not as bad as he alleges, nor has he seen the poverty evident near the port of Oakland. But he does have a point on jobs linked to economic prosperity. Buscaino has not accomplished much on that point. Oddly enough, the underlying solution proposed by both Buscaino and his one- time allies is development toward gentrification first. This solution has only made matters worse elsewhere in L.A. and the whole state, by exacerbating both the housing and homeless crisis. Nothing will be solved until city leaders get their minds around the concept of shelter first for the homeless — be it secure parking areas where people can live in their cars, RV’s or vans. Another possiblity is setting up emergency shelters on vacant cityowned properties (there’s some 9,000 vacant city owned properties) where urban campers can have sanitation services and eventually help getting off the streets. If this were a disaster like hurricane Harvey, Red Cross centers would be opened up across the city with 40,000 cots and blankets paid for by FEMA within days. Los Angeles has allowed 40,000 people to live out on our streets for decades. In the end, an array of temporary and semitemporary solutions must happen to begin to put an end to our very troubling humanitarian crisis — our very own moral challenge. This crisis is what’s stalling any development in the areas that most need affordable housing, permanent emergency shelters and humane treatment for Cartoonists Ann Cleaves, Andy Singer, Matt Wuerker Design/Production Suzanne Matsumiya Advertising Representative Meagan Beckham rlnsales@randomlengthsnews.com
Editorial Intern Photographers Terelle Jerricks, Raphael Richardson Nicolas Guzman Display advertising (310) 519-1442 Classifieds (310) 519-1016 www.randomlengthsnews.com
our most desperate neighbors. We as a city must address this most basic concern so that the great promise of being connected to the City of Los Angeles will bring the “transformation and prosperity” that Buscaino’s detractors are demanding. In terms of affordable housing, we must aspire to the saying “a rising tide lifts all boats.” This is something a seafaring town should understand. Until that time, Buscaino will continue fighting the windmills down at city hall, like his battle over renaming Columbus Day. He will continue to fail at bringing any game-changing development to his district even as he promotes the spectacle of Fleet Week and Growler 6 bread and circuses to keep the people amused and distracted. Real substantive change will not come from tearing down a historic bar on the supposed “Great Street” of Gaffey just to make way for another drive-thru Starbucks. The solution will come by careful land use planning, effective transportation plans, and historic preservation and adaptive reuse of the core waterfront arts district. These must be undertaken while we address the homeless issue. Everyone knows that you can’t build a stable house on a weak foundation. What is a city, but a extensive home? The weakest part of our home’s foundation is its homeless population. For what is a city but an edifice that encompasses many homes? Curing the social ills of homelessness must precede all of the great plans for building a “world class waterfront” or doing any other “great street developments” in the 15th Council District. Is this the city we wish to showcase to the entire world when the Olympics arrive in 2028? Random Lengths News editorial office is located at 1300 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro, CA 90731, (310) 519-1016. Address correspondence regarding news items and news tips only to Random Lengths News, P.O. Box 731, San Pedro, CA 90733-0731, or email to editor @randomlengthsnews.com. Send Letters to the Editor or requests for subscription information to james @ randomlengthsnews.com. To be considered for publication, all Letters to the Editor should be typewritten, must be signed, with address and phone number included (these will not be published, but for verification only) and be kept to about 250 words. To submit advertising copy email rlnsales@randomelengthsnews.com or reads@randomlengthsnews.com. Extra copies and back issues are available by mail for $3 per copy while supplies last. Subscriptions are available for $36 per year for 27 issues. Random Lengths News presents issues from an alternative perspective. We welcome articles and opinions from all people in the Harbor Area. While we may not agree with the opinions of contributing writers, we respect and support their 1st Amendment right to express those opinions. Random Lengths News is a member of Standard Rates and Data Reporting Services and the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies. (ISN #0891-6627). All contents Copyright 2017 Random Lengths News. All rights reserved.
RANDOMLetters An Injury to All
Oh this [healthcare] crisis is totally on the doctors. I do a lot of home improvement projects and every time I go in for an injury the doctor tries pushing opiates on me rather than me first trying something like Advil. I say no and they still say well go ahead and fill it just in case you need it. I have but have never used them. I just keep a supply in my emergency kit in case we are injured in an earthquake.
Community Alert
Public Hearing Regarding Coastal Development of White Point Preserve
Dear Mr. Buono, It is far too easy to get drawn back into the confusion of the Affordable Care Act debate over what kind of insurance plans and choices we consumers should have. Hell, who doesn’t want to have choices? The point of my column is that the core issue is whether healthcare is a right or a choice? If we as a people decide that healthcare is a right, like we do education, then there are a set of principles that follow — just like everyone is entitled to a basic K-12 education that we all pay for. Once that is settled we need to stop arguing about insurance and decide on the best form of actually delivering medical care. A universal system of health care is more efficient and less costly thanwhat we now have. James Preston Allen, Publisher
Challenging the CAAP
The San Pedro Bay Ports recently released the draft of the 2017 Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP), which is supposed to improve on the previous two versions of the CAAP released in 2006 and 2010. Well, it doesn’t. The Ports set a zero-emissions target for 2035, which has garnered a lot of positive headlines and sounds great, but 2035 is 17 years away! How does this help our communities now? There are literally millions of dollars of Federal and State funds set aside to help transition dirty diesel trucks to new, near-zero and zero-emissions trucks — and that’s not counting the nearly $1 billion our state will receive from the VW dieselcheating settlement. Why not start getting dirty diesel trucks off our roads now? Community groups such as CFASE are challenging the Ports to go further and put some real teeth in the new CAAP to immediately start to dramatically reduce air pollution. CFASE works to protect, preserve and restore the natural environment in and around port communities. I’d like to arrange an interview with your publication to give the community’s perspective on this issue and the absolute weakness of this current iteration of the CAAP. The ports are forgoing a real opportunity to improve the air and health of port communities now. The Harbor Commission
is being held accountable by residents and community groups, and we hope your paper will cover this important issue. Jesse Marquez Executive Director Coalition For A Safe Environment Wilmington
Spain Attack and Rancho LPG
I find it extraordinarily “bizarre” that just a day after our testimony before the State Lands Commission on the peril that our
LA Harbor area residents face from the massive volume of butane gas at the Plains/Rancho LPG facility, this has been disclosed. The death and casualties from the Spain terrorism event would have been far worse if the terrorist’s bombs had not prematurely detonated. This information underscores the high vulnerability that is being blithely ignored regarding the Rancho LPG site. Couple this with the complete “lack” of security at and near the Port of LA (as understood by the “nut” entering the shipping terminal the other night and falling
to his death after climbing a gantry crane) and anyone MUST recognize the extreme jeopardy. The Rancho butane and propane gas storage facility has a chainlink fence and a hedge separating it from the highway. Its rail propane loading dock is within 20 feet of the road. Not addressing this unbelievably high risk situation cannot be tolerated any longer. ONE crazy man just lost his life falling from a crane at a “secured” terminal at the Port … [See Letters, p. 29]
ILWU Statement of Policy on Donald Trump
Donald Trump’s reaction to the protests and violence in Charlottesville, Va., is so unacceptable, so beyond the bounds of human decency and so revealing that it calls into question his suitability to continue as president of the United States. There can never be an acceptable reason to defend white supremacists, neo-Nazis and KKK members or sympathizers. What Trump has done with respect to the Charlottesville protests is no different from the actions of those who defended the Nazis in the 1930s, except that it is coming from the president of the United States. During the election, candidate Trump referred to Mexican immigrants as rapists and criminals, mocked a disabled reporter, bragged about groping women and otherwise put women down because of their appearance and weight. He has tried to ban Muslims from immigrating to the United States because of their religious beliefs. To those looking at Trump for alternative leadership, he managed to explain away these bigoted statements through carefully crafted press statements. This gave Trump supporters the political cover to continue their support of him. His statements following the protests and violence in Charlottesville have to cause his supporters to re-examine their views of Trump and explicitly renounce his views. After nearly seven months in office, Trump has clearly demonstrated his lack of ability to carry out the duties of the president of the United States for the benefit of all Americans — black, brown, women, LGBT community, Jews and Muslims. His behavior has reached the point that he is not suitable to continue as president of the United States. International Longshore and Warehouse Union International Executive Board Vancouver, British Columbia, Aug. 17 – 18, 2017
Labor Day Edition
The City of Los Angeles is hosting a public hearing regarding the relocation of power lines from Paseo Del Mar to the White Point Nature Preserve by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. The LADWP provides electrical power properties within Los Angeles to include areas within the San Pedro community. After White Point slide the LADWP relocated the powerlines found along Paseo Del Mar to locations within the White Point Nature Preserve. The project includes installation of temporary utility poles and electrical lines to serve residents adjacent to the preserve. All written comments must be received on or before 4 p.m. Sept. 8. Written comments can be sent by email to james. tebbetts@lacity.org or hand delivered or mailed to: City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works Bureau of Engineering Environmental Management Group 1149 S. Broadway, Suite 600, Mail Stop 939 Los Angeles, CA 900152213 Time: 1 p.m. Sept. 6 Details: james.tebbetts@lacity. org Venue: San Pedro Public Library, Community Meeting Room, 931 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro
I also read your article on healthcare [Both Sides of the Health Care Battle are Missing the Point, RLN, July 6 2017]. Yes, I agree we need to get the government out of dictating the types of plans they think we need and let the consumer decide. I would be worried about setting up a system like the schools. The California public schools are corrupt. I think that is due to public employee unions dumping billions into the politicians, who will give unions more, but that’s a whole different story. We have Medi-Cal for the poor who cannot afford insurance. Before the ACA we had Healthy Families where the working poor would pay what they could toward health insurance. We had a California insurance high risk pool for those with preexisting conditions. California did not need the ACA. All we needed to do is better fund the high risk pool plans. With the ACA I don’t need pediatric dental and vision and maternity care (to mention a few). I would like to have a hospital only plan that would cover the big ticket items like hospital, ER surgeries. I will pay for my own wellness exams, doctor visits and lab and X-ray to the providers I want to see. That is the main reason why I don’t agree with ObamaCare. The ACA developers were in bed with the insurance and pharmaceutical companies. It allowed pharmaceutical companies to extend their patents from 15 to 20 years. Insurance companies were able to add all kinds of unnecessary stuff some of which I mentioned above. The only part of the ACA I thought was good is the Medical Loss Ratio mandating 80 percent of the premiums must go toward paying claims. The remaining 20 percent is for overhead, payroll, buildings etc. By mandating all this other stuff be built into the policy, insurance companies can charge more which increases the profits they get. If we allowed consumers to pick the levels of benefits they personally want, the insurance companies would get less. Thanks for sharing. We do not agree eye to eye on everything but I appreciate the opportunity to discuss our political differences. David Buono Torrance Health insurance broker
August 31 - September 13, 2017
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August 31 - September 13, 2017
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Doomsday Scenario of Panama Canal Widening Falls Flat
SAN PEDRO — The Urban Land Institute magazine Urbanland reported recently that rents for industrial space at the Port of Los Angeles are at an all-time high while vacancy rates are hovering around one percent, despite the opening of the Panama Canal expansion a year ago. Cargo traffic to Los Angeles and other West Coast ports was expected to drop in the wake of the much-anticipated canal expansion, as Asian shippers diverted cargo through the canal to the East Coast. In fact, container shipments through Gulf Coast and East Coast ports have soared since the new locks opened in June 2016. But the drop-off in cargo to the West Coast has not materialized. Instead, the volume of TEUs (containers) to the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach was up
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Reagan
traffic controllers who were on strike after their negotiations with the Federal Aviation Administration failed in 1981. The president of the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization had originally demanded a wage increase and a reduction to their five day, 40-hour work week. Reagan called the strike illegal. Long time labor writer for the The San Francisco Bay Guardian Dick Meister reminds casual readers and students of labor history that before Reagan, no GOP president had dared to challenge labor’s firm legal standing, gained through Democratic President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the mid-1930s.
The newly widened Panama Canal able to transit up to 13,000 TEUs through the canal. File photo
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[Reagan, from p. 12]
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5.2 percent in the first half of 2017 in comparison to a year earlier, according to a new report from Transwestern, the real estate advisory. “In terms of container volume, the Panama Canal expansion resulted in zero slowdown in the Port of Los Angeles and the port of Long Beach,” Michael Soto, Transwestern’s research manager for southern California, told Urbanland. Los Angeles is not alone. Up and down the West Coast, prime industrial space around ports is in short supply. Vacancy rates for industrial space in Seattle-Tacoma, Oakland and Vancouver remain below 5 percent, according to a recent report by JLL. In Long Beach, south of Los Angeles, only 1.8 percent of space is available.
U.S. Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta. File Photo
“Reagan’s Republican predecessors treated union leaders much as they treated Democratic members of Congress — as people to be fought with at times, but also as people to be bargained with at other times. But Reagan engaged in precious little bargaining. He waged almost continuous war against organized labor,” Meister wrote. Reagan had the benefit of a labor movement that the general public saw in a negative light. Meister said Reagan had little apparent reason to fear labor politically, with opinion polls at the time showing that unions were opposed by almost half of all Americans and that nearly half of those who belonged to the unions had voted for him in 1980 and again in 1984. Aside from firing 13,000 striking air traffic controllers, Reagan put in charge dedicated union foes of the federal agencies that were originally designed to protect and further the rights and interests of workers and their unions. This was particularly so on the five-member National Labor Relations Board, which he stacked with union foes, including NLRB Chairman Donald Dotson, who believed that “unionized labor relations have been the major contributors to the decline and failure of once-healthy industries” and have caused “destruction of individual freedom.” Under Dotson, a House subcommittee found, the board abandoned its legal obligation to promote collective bargaining, in what amounted to “a betrayal of American workers.” Meister noted that union-busting was only one aspect of Reagan’s anti-labor policy. He attempted to lower the minimum wage for younger workers, ease the child labor and antisweatshop laws, tax fringe benefits, and cut back job training programs for the unemployed. He tried to replace thousands of federal employees with temporary workers who would not have civil service or union protections. The Reagan administration all but dismantled programs that required affirmative action and other steps against discrimination by federal contractors and seriously undermined worker safety.
Making It Visible Long Beach’s QFilm Festival Shines Light on LGBTQ Diversity By Kym Cunningham, Contributing Writer
[See QFilms, p. 25]
Saturday Church explores the sexual awakening of protagonist Ulysses. Photo courtesy of The Center
Labor Day Edition
Expect narrative styles that will entrance you, make you think, laugh and cry through a broad spectrum of visual experiences at this year’s QFilms Festival in Long Beach. From 90s-inspired lesbian comedies to documentaries that feature activists, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer and/or questioning community takes the stage, front and center. A particularly resonant short documentary, Umbrella, which was directed by Rhys Ernst, provides a quiet examination of the everyday challenges faced by transgender individuals. The film notes that while our society has come a long way in the acceptance of transgender individuals, their unemployment rate is twice as high as that of the general population, and the murder rate has skyrocketed in recent years. Particularly poignant is the insight of Monica Helms, navy veteran and creator of the transgender flag, which now hangs in the Smithsonian as an integral part of American history. “I protected the rights of everybody in this country, and yet I don’t get to have those same rights,” said Helms in the documentary. With more than 134,000 transgender veterans in the United States, this film becomes increasingly more relevant when taken in context with Donald Trump’s recent ban on transgender military personnel. But Mara Keisling, executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality, maintains that this biased attitude against transgender individuals is nothing new in politics. In the film, she catalogues the abhorrent reactions she usually receives when meeting with political officials. “We would bet on whether or not the person was going to flinch when we shook hands with them,” Keisling said. Another documentary-style film, Butches, Lies, & Feminism directed and edited by Greggorio Davil, pays homage to the life-work of LGBTQ activist Jeanne Córdova who died in 2016. Through a spliced collection of old interviews with Córdova, overlaid with recordings of her close friends and family members, Davil paints a unique portrait of LGBTQ history. Although the initial trajectory is a bit muddled, the film closes with an interesting examination of the confluence of activism, feminism and the early gay rights movement.
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S
an Pedro is widely known for its ethnic cuisines and independent restaurant operators and owners. There are 31 full-service, family-owned and operated restaurants in town — many of them well established and nurtured over many years. No other community that I can name has so many owner-operators on the premises every day. That may surprise people who remember San Pedro’s reputation for not having big named or celebrity-owned establishments — for being consistently overlooked and frustratingly unable to attract investment and generate development. Apparently, it’s now a restaurant town. What changed? Some will argue almost nothing. Other communities like Long Beach, Pasadena or Santa Monica have experienced more growth and attention in the dining industry than the Los Angeles Harbor. Yet, San Pedro retained its character and familiarity while those other neighborhoods constructed newer, larger, cookie-cutter chain restaurants. Newly arrived on the local dining scene is Pappy’s Fish House, which has made a remarkable renovation of one of this town’s signature establishments and venerated institutions, Papadakis Taverna. That restaurant closed several years ago after many decades on the corner of 6th and Centre streets. Raffaello’s at 400 S. Pacific Avenue (at 4th Street) is one of the most affordable Italian places. Senfuku, at 380 W. 6th Street, is rated 4.5 out of five on Trip Advisor for sushi lovers. The San Pedro Brewing Company, 331 W.
Authentic Dining Traditions at the Downtown San Pedro Waterfront By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor
The Whale & Ale’s signature fish and chips. File photo
6th Street, offers top-notch American food and award-winning ales brewed on site with a full bar. Niko’s Pizzeria, 399 W. 6th St. is more than the usual pizza parlor, as it offers a
August 31 - September 13, 2017
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Buono’s Authentic Pizzeria
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A San Pedro landmark for over 44 years, famous for exceptional awardwinning pizza baked in brick ovens. Buono’s also offers classic Italian dishes and sauces based on tried-and-true family recipes and handselected ingredients that are prepared fresh. 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
BUNZ GOURMET BURGERS
Bunz Gourmet Burgers is not your average burger joint. Founded in 2014, this family owned and operated restaurant serves special, oneof-a-kind, gourmet burgers with personality. With eight different buns to choose from and your choice of chicken, ground beef, turkey or veggie patty, and over 26 “styles” of burger — the possibilties are endless. Try their loaded up fries topped with pastrami, pepperoni or bbq chicken and more. The enormous portions and savory flavor will leave you more than satisfied. Open daily until 9 p.m.. • 655 W. 7th St. San Pedro • (310) 514-8773
Happy DineR AND HAPPY DELI
The Happy Diner isn’t your average diner. It’s the idea of fresh creative dishes in tow San Pedro locations, and now a third—the Happy Deli. The selections range from Italian- and 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
MARIA’S RESTAURANT
If you are in the mood for authentic Mexican food, at an affordable price, try María’s Mexican Restaurant. The inconspicuous eatery on Pacific Avenue and 22nd Street in San Pedro offers a wide variety of savory, traditional dishes from tortas and burritos to chiles rellenos and camarones a la diabla. The exceptional service matches its well-proportioned meals. On a time crunch for lunch or dinner? Give María’s a call and they’ll have your food warm and ready for you within minutes. Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. María’s Mexican Restaurant, 2215 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro • (310) 833-6666.
San Pedro Brewing Company
A microbrewery and American grill, SPBC features handcrafted award-winning ales and lagers served with creative pastas, bbq, sandwiches, salads and burgers. A full bar with madefrom-scratch margaritas and a martini menu all add fun to the warm and friendly atmosphere. Live music. Open from 11:30 a.m., daily. San Pedro Brewing Company, 331 W. 6th St., San Pedro • (310) 831-5663 • www.sanpedrobrewing.com
The Whale & Ale English Restaurant & Pub The Victorian oak panels & elegant brass fittings will make you feel like you crossed the Atlantic. Featuring popular pub fare such as
carefully thought-out Italian and Greek menu, serving both beer and wine. Just down the street is Beach City Grill, 376 W. 6th St. It serves up Cajun, Creole, Cuban and Caribbean food: chicken and sausage gumbo, fried okra,
Fish & Chips (a regular “Best in L.A.” winner), Shepherd’s Pie, & entrées of Choice Steaks, Roast Prime Rib, Beef Wellington & Roast Rack of Lamb. Seafood selections include Chilean Sea Bass, Atlantic Salmon, Jumbo Tiger Shrimp & Sand Dabs. Try hard-to-find international draft beers & ales, as well as domestic craft beers on tap. Full bar; free, gated parking lot. Open daily for dinner and lunch Tues.-Sun. 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro • (310) 832-0363 • www.whaleandale.com
Waterfront Dining
Boardwalk Grill
Casual waterfront dining at its finest! Famous for slabs of Chicago-style baby back ribs, fish-nchips, rich clam chowder, cold beer on tap and wine. Full lunch menu also includes salads, sandwiches and burgers. Indoor and outdoor patio dining available. Proudly pouring Starbucks coffee. Open 7 days a week. Free parking. Boardwalk Grill, 1199 Nagoya Way, LA Harbor - Berth 77, San Pedro • (310) 519-7551
PORTS O’ CALL RESTAURANT
Since 1961 this landmark restaurant has extended a hearty welcome to visitors from around the globe. Delight in an awe-inspiring view of the dynamic LA Harbor while enjoying fresh California cuisine and varietals. Relax in the bar or patio for the best happy hour on the waterfront. With each purchase of the award-winning Sunday Champagne Brunch, receive the first Spirit Cruises harbor cruise of the day free. Open 7 days, lunch and dinner. Free parking. Ports O’Call Waterfront Dining, 1199 Nagoya Way, LA Harbor, Berth 76, San Pedro • (310) 833-3553 • www. portsocalldining.com
jambalaya, and Cuban pulled pork. It is a unique and charming tiny eatery. Along the Cajun food theme is the newly reopened Jackson’s Place, 335 W. 7th St. Diners will find authentic gumbo and shrimp etouffee along with a selection of draft beers and wines. It is becoming a great place to hangout and listen to live music. If you have a hankering for some English cuisine, San Pedro’s own gastropub, The Whale & Ale is the place to be. The Whale & Ale, 327 W. 7th St. has been run by Andrew Silber since 1995. Originally from Northern England, Silber ran a successful restaurant in London before coming to the United States, so he knows English cuisine and is a champion of making it correctly. The Whale & Ale menu is stocked with pub classics like sausage rolls in pastry, shepherd’s pie, award winning fish and chips and chicken curry. On any given night, you’re likely to hear the accents of expatriates who have come in for a taste of home. The fish and chip plate demonstrates a point about the food here: it’s measured on execution rather than innovation. This doesn’t mean The Whale & Ale offers no novelties for those who want to try something new; a few items on the menu here are so rarely encountered that most people have never tasted them before. One of these is roast duck in Cumberland sauce, which is red currant berries simmered in port wine with citrus and a hint of ginger. The tart berries [See Authentic, p. 22]
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
Labor Day Edition
August 31 - September 13, 2017
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LA Fleet Week Visitor’s Log:
T
he Battleship Iowa welcomed USS Scout, USS Anchorage, USS Dewey, HMCS Ottawa and USCGC Active with a gun salute this past Aug. 29, as they arrived at the Port of Los Angeles. They floated down the Main Channel to the berths they’ll occupy during LA Fleet Week Festivities. The festivities run through the Labor Day weekend and include free ship tours, military equipment demonstrations, live entertainment and educational activities. But, it is the arts and culture arm of the Annenberg Foundation that is supplying the heavy hitters performing at this year’s Fleet Week, bringing Los Angeles legends like Mötley Crüe’s Vince Neil and Los Lobos. Vince Neil’s return, a year after the band retired is a coupe for fans of the Wild Side band. Neil is going to be performing a number of Mötley Crüe’s hits at the Delta Airlines stage on the USS Iowa the night of Sept. 2. His performance will cap a long day of guided tours, basketball tournaments, military search and rescue drills and blockbuster performances. Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Famers, Los Lobos, will be headlining Friday night preceded by rock band
Los Lobos Headlines at the USS Iowa By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor
LA’s legendary band Los Lobos performs for LA Fleet Week. File photo.
Quiet Riot and comedian-magician The Great Omar. The Great Omar, also known as Omar Covarrubias, started honing his act at Santa
Monica’s Third Street Promenade, learning how to engage spectators from all walks of life. Over the years, Covarrubias appeared at open-mic nights and weekly magic events, such as Magic in the Valley. Covarrubias later segued
from magic shows to the Los Angeles comedy circuit — a transition that was encouraged by comedian Rudy Moreno. Moreno has hosted the Latin Comedy Showcase for almost 20 years at the Ice House Comedy Club. Moreno is performing during Fleet Week as part of the Latin AllStar Comedy Jam alongside Luz Pazos, Gilbert Esquivel and DJ Cooch on Aug. 31. The culinary competition Galley Wars is back for a second year. Staged and filmed on the Battleship Iowa , Galley Wars is a competition between culinary specialists and their teams from three Navy ships and Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach. Last year, each chef team was challenged to create their best “Steel Beach Barbecue,” including an “LA-style” hamburger, two side dishes and a dessert. The competition was judged by TV’s Top Chef winner, Chef Mei Lin, award-winning owner of Los Angeles’ Sotto restaurant, Steve Sampson, and Rear Admiral James S. Bynum, Commander of the U.S. Navy’s strike group nine. Nastassia Johnson, dessert aficionado and “Let me eat cake” blogger, hosted the event. Details: http://tinyurl.com/ IowaFleetWeek2017
[Authentic, from p. 20]
Authentic Dining
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and sweet wine cook into a fruity, aromatic sweet and sour sauce, one ideally suited to flavorful duck meat. The flavor balance is almost reminiscent of some sauces used in Vietnamese cuisine, but this is no fusion dish — there are recipes for it going back to the early 1800s. Try it here and you will wonder how this could have ever gone out of fashion. Think Café, 302 W 5th St., is a favorite dearly
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Mahimahi tacos at Pappy’s Seafood on 6th St.
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1432 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro • (310) 547-0655 Visit www.BuonosPizza.com for more coupon values
beloved by locals who return over and over again for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Down on the San Pedro Waterfront you can have everything from Mexican food to fresh fish and a Sunday brunch along with a harbor cruise. One of the best places to eat lunch or dinner while watching the boats go by is the classic Ports O’ Call Restaurant, at berth 76 (if you get lost finding this place just ask any local or take the trolley). This restaurant has both casual and table cloth dining and serves up some of the best seafood on the waterfront in an upscale setting with a full bar and extensive wine list. There are at least three places to catch a harbor cruise or whale watch boat along the main channel near Ports O’ Call. The history of San Pedro as a port town is noticeable from many aspects and is well-suited for sailors of any navy who call here. There are ample tattoo parlors, full service bars, many with live music or a local dance hall; they are all within easy walking distance from where the ships tie up at dock. It’s also one of few place in Los Angeles where you don’t have explain the difference between the bow and the stern of a ship. Contributing to this article-Richard Foss and James Preston Allen
SEPT 7 A R T G A L L E R I E S | O P E N S T U D I O S | L AT E D I N I N G & S H O P P I N G | L I V E M U S I C O N T H E S T R E E T S
The Loft Galleries
LOS ANGELES ASSEMBLAGE GROUP The Los Angeles Assemblage Group was created in 1994 by Annemarie Rawlinson as a way to promote assemblage as an art form and to meet with other like-minded artists. The group honors Rawlinson for her tireless support and navigation of the group with a show at The Loft Galleries. The show opens with a reception on Sept. 7 and runs through October. The Loft Galleries, 401 S. Mesa St., San Pedro. To view the group’s assemblage art, go to www.la-assemblagegroup. org. Artist and founder of the Los Angeles Assemblage Group, Annemarie Rawlinson
Pinta*Dos Phillipine Art Gallery
DISRUPTIONS: THE ART OF ELISEO ART SILVA
Michael Stearns Studio 347
Studio Gallery 345
LIFE LINES BY KARENA MASSENGILL
ALL ABOUT COLOR
Pat Woolley
Studio 345 presents work by artists Pat Woolley and Gloria D Lee. All About Color features watercolors, acrylics and mixed media. Open 5 to 9 p.m. on First Thursday or by appointment. Studio 345, 345 W. 7th St., San Pedro. For information, call (310) 545-0832 or (310) 374-8055; artsail@roadrunner.com or www.patwoolleyart.com.
Pac Arts Gallery YOUNG AT ART
Pac Ar ts in hosting a closing reception for Young at Art, featuring the work of emerging artist Alexis Velasco on Sept. 7 from 6 p.m.PacArts, 303 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro. For more information (562) 436-0700, www. engagedaging.org.
Skylark and Skylark Echo by Karena Massengill.
Karena’s mixed media sculpture incorporates metal, glass, casting and fabrication. She begins with a drawing created while engaging the subconscious, accessing both visceral, instinctive and at times, emotional ideas, reflecting life’s difficult and fun stages. The evocative sculptures, paired with mirrored images on paper result in three- and two-dimensional works. Life Lines runs through Sept. 23. Michael Stearns Studio 347, 347 W. 7th St., San Pedro, www.michaelstearns studio.com
Alexis Velasco Eliseo Art Silva
Labor Day Edition
Eliseo Art Silva, painter and muralist, is a weaver of history and heritage. His goal is to reconcile the history of his lineage with the history of painting. “Art is the best way to document communities; providing an effective means for communities to connect, thrive and flourish in urban environments: inviting all to make the first step towards compassionate interaction.” Pinta*Dos presents works by Silva in an exhibition that celebrates 430 years of Filipino Americans in the United States — October is Filipino American History Month. The show runs through Oct. 28. Pinta*Dos Phillippine Art Gallery, 479 W. 6th St., Suite 107, San Pedro. (310) 514-9139.
1st Thursday After Party 9 p.m. to midnight
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Daily Happy Hour 3 to 6 p.m.
August 31 - September 13, 2017
LIVE JAZZ SUNDAYS, 3 to 6 p.m.
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COMMUNITY Sept. 2
ENTERTAINMENT Sept. 1
Susie Hansen Latin Band Listen to jazz and chow down on food from the market. Time: 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 1 Cost: Free Details: www. farmersmarketla.com Venue: The Original Farmers Market, 6333 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles Quiet Riot, Los Lobos Guests can come on and feel the noise on the Delta Air Lines stage for performances by Quiet Riot and Los Lobos, preceded by the comedy magic of The Great Omar and the Metallica tribute band Masters of Puppets. Time: 3 p.m. Sept. 1 Cost: $10 Details: http://tinyurl.com/ IowaFleetWeek2017 Venue: Battleship Iowa, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro
Vince Neil Vince Neil, the legendary voice of Mötley Crüe, will be performing all the Mötley Crüe hits, with thanks to the generous underwriting of the Annenberg Foundation. The entertainment starts with local rock group Purple Sugar followed by comedians Wendy Liebman, Sean Carrigan and Culture Clash. Time: 4:30 p.m. Sept. 2 Cost: $10 Details: http://tinyurl.com/ IowaFleetWeek2017 Venue: Battleship Iowa, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro New Blues Festival IV More than 30 of the biggest names in Blues Music join us this Labor Day Weekend in the beautiful El Dorado Park in what promises to be its most ambitious event to date. Time: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 2 and 3 Cost: $40 to $75 Details: www. newsbluesfestival.com Venue: El Dorado Park, Long Beach
August 31 - September 13, 2017
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Sept. 2
Brent Payne, Shannon Rae Country stars Brent Payne and Shannon Rae headline the entertainment. They will be preceded by tribute bands Dog n Butterfly (Heart) and Mirage (Fleetwood Mac). Time: 3 p.m. Sept. 3 Cost: $10 Details: http://tinyurl.com/ IowaFleetWeek2017 Venue: Battleship Iowa, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro
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Sept. 3
AUG 31 - Sept 13 • 2017
Sept. 4 2H2H Join the all-female tribute to UFO on the USS Iowa for a “Shoot Shoot” holiday afternoon. Time: 4 p.m. Sept. 4 Cost: Free Details: http://tinyurl.com/ yd55onwp Venue: Battleship USS Iowa, 250 S. Harbor Blvd, Berth 87, San Pedro
Cost: $7 to $10 Details: molaa.org Venue: MOLAA, 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach
Sept. 8
Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 47 Classical Crossroads’ First Fridays at First! recital series presents the Los Angeles Ensemble: violinist Joanna Lee violin, violist Tanner Menees, cellist Bingxia Lu and pianist Sung Chang. Time: 12 p.m. Sept. 8 Cost: Free Details: (310) 316-5574; www.palosverdes.com/ ClassicalCrossroads/FirstFridays. htm Venue: First Lutheran Church & School, 2900 W. Carson St., Torrance
Sept. 10
Catherine Gregory, David Kaplan Rolling Hills United Methodist Church’s Second Sundays At Two concert series presents flutist Catherine Gregory and pianist David Kaplan. Time: 2 p.m. Sept. 10 Cost: Free Details: (310) 316-5574 Venue: Rolling Hills United Methodist Church, 26438 Crenshaw Blvd., Rolling Hills Estates
Sept. 14
San Pedro Jam Session Instrumentalists and vocalists are invited to sit-in and play the Jazz Standards from the American Songbook. Hugh von Kleist Quartet will host the event. Time: 9 p.m. Sept. 14, 21 and 28 Cost: Free Details: www.facebook.com/hugh. vonkleist, www.facebook.com/ hughvonkleistmusic Venue: Crimsin Lounge, 345 W. 6th St., San Pedro
THEATER Sept. 1
Kill Climate Deniers The global premiere of playwright/ activist David Finnigan’s hyper-real story for the stage, told in the style of an action film, that looks squarely into our battle against man-made extinction. What happens when the unstoppable force of climate change meets the immovable object of politics? Time: 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturdays, Sept. 1 through Oct. 7 Cost: $15 to $25 Details: www.thegaragetheatre. org Venue: The Garage Theatre, 251 E. 7th St., Long Beach
Sept. 1
AARP…Silver Sneakers… And We Based on the idea of the 1970
Peninsula Seniors’ Coffee & Cars Car hobbyists and enthusiasts will enjoy hot rods, custom, muscle and sports cars, antiques, classics, exotics. Time: 7:30 a.m. Sept. 2 Cost: Free Venue: Peninsula Shopping Center, 67 Peninsula Center, Rolling Hills Estates
Vince Neil of Mötley Crü performs all the hits at the USS Iowa as part of the LA Fleet Week celebration. File photo. Broadway musical, The Me Nobody Knows, which gave voice to the lives, hopes, loves, and frustrations of inner-city youth, this version is told from the perspective of the silver sneakers: elders. Time: 6 p.m. Sept. 1 Cost: $5 to $10 Details: (323) 350-1962 Venue: Barbara Morrison Theatre, Leimert Park, 4305 Degnan Blvd., Los Angeles Papa’s Bathtub Gin This is a story about 1931 bootleggers hiding in plain sight in an African American community in Cleveland Ohio. It was inspired by true events. Time: 8 p.m. Sept. 1 Cost: $5 to $10 Details: (323) 350-1962 Venue: Barbara Morrison Theatre, Leimert Park, 4305 Degnan Blvd., Los Angeles The Trial of One Short-Sighted Black Woman vs. Mammy Louise and Safreeta Mae Enjoy a courtroom satire about racial stereotypes. A struggling black businesswoman is suing the all-giving, malleable Mammy Louise and her sex-kitten daughter Safreeta Mae because their stereotypes hobble her progress. Time: 8 p.m. Sept. 1 and 5 p.m. Sept. 3 Cost: $5 to $10 Details: (323) 350-1962 Venue: Barbara Morrison Theatre, Leimert Park, 4305 Degnan Blvd., Los Angeles
Sept. 2
All in the Timing The Studio Theatre presents All in the Timing by David Ives. This critically acclaimed, award-winning collection of comedic short plays combines wit, intellect, satire and just plain fun. Time: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 2 through 30 Cost: $14 to $24 Details: (562) 494-1014; www.lbplayhouse.org Venue: Long Beach Playhouse, 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach Pick of the Vine An exciting night of entertainment awaits you in these 7 to 15 minute short plays hand-picked by Little Fish Theatre from authors across
the country. Time: 7 to 8 p.m. through Sept. 2 Cost: $23 to $45 Venue: Little Fish Theatre, 777 Centre St., San Pedro Details: (310) 512-6030; www. littlefishtheatre.org
Sept. 9
The Glass Menagerie This autobiographical “memory play” captures the fragility and stifled yearning of characters clinging to hope against the harsh realities of a rapidly changing world. Confined to a tiny St. Louis apartment on the eve of World War II, the Wingfield family struggles to find beauty amid the rough circumstances that surround them. Time: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays through Sept. 9 Cost: $35 to $55 Details: (562) 436-4610; www. internationalcitytheatre.org Venue: International City Theatre, 330 E. Seaside Way, Long Beach
Sept. 10
Silent Sky The true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Swan Leavitt explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific discoveries. Time: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, through Sept. 10 Cost: $35 to $55 Venue: International City Theatre, 330 E. Seaside Way, Long Beach Details: (562) 436-4610; ictlongbeach.org
ARTS
Frida Kahlo: Through the Lens of Nickolas Muray In May 1931, photographer Nickolas Muray (1892–1965) traveled to Mexico on vacation where he met Frida Kahlo (1907– 1954), a woman he would never forget. The two started a romance that continued on and off for the next 10 years and a friendship that lasted until the end of their lives. Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, through Sept. 3 Cost: $7 to $10 Details: molaa.org Venue: Museum of Latin American Art, 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach
Sept. 5
17th Annual Frida Kahlo Artist Exhibit Enjoy another awe-inspiring exhibit featuring several artists at Picture This Gallery. The opening reception night, from 4 to 8 p.m. Sept. 16, will include live musical performances featuring CASI SON and Omar Perez, and a Frida look-alike contest. Time: 12 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Sept. 5 through Oct. 31 Cost: Free Details: (562) 233-3726 Venue: Picture This Gallery, 4130 Norse Way, Long Beach
Sept. 7
blink•point TransVagrant Projects and Gallery 478 are pleased to present blink•point, recent work by Ellwood T. Risk, a self-taught artist who appropriates, alters, re-contextualizes, shoots (here and there), and re-presents the ordinary in unanticipated iterations. An artist’s reception is scheduled 4 to 7 p.m. Sept. 9. Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, Sept. 7 through Nov. 25 Cost: Free Details: (310) 600-4873, (310) 732-2150 Venue: TransVagrant Projects and Gallery 478, 478 W. 7th St., San Pedro
Sept. 4
Conquer The Bridge 9 Walk or run 5.3 miles across the Vincent Thomas Bridge. Time: 7 a.m. Sept. 4 Cost: Free Details: www. ConquerTheBridge.com Venue: Vincent Thomas Bridge, starting and ending along Harbor Boulevard at 5th Street, San Pedro
Sept. 9
Dancing in Old California Rancho Los Cerritos will invoke a 19th-century style fandango in celebration of California statehood. A dance lesson, covering waltzes, polkas, and set dances like the Spanish Waltz and El Coyote, will be followed by two sets of live music and dancing. Time: 4 p.m. Sept. 9 Cost: $25 Details: www.rancholoscerritos. org/upcoming-event/dancesold-california Venue: Rancho Los Cerritos, 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach
Sept. 10
Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder Gunnar Eiisel’s program “Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder” will explore shape, texture, and unworldly features of cactus and succulents to explain why we become attracted to, and even passionate about, these plants. Time: 1 p.m. Sept. 10 Cost: Free Details: southcoastcss.org Venue: South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula
Sept. 12
Tai Chi Returns to Long Beach Senior Center Tai Chi with David returns Tuesdays. Tai Chi is an evidence-based fall-prevention program proven to reduce falls in mobile, community-dwelling older adults. Time: 10 to 11 a.m. Sept. 12 Cost: Free Details: www.heartofida.org Venue: Long Beach Senior Citizen’s Center, 1150 E. 4th St., Long Beach
Sept. 3
Cada Mente en Su Mundo The Museum of Latin American Art is proud to host a solo exhibition of new and recent works by Luis Tapia, a pioneering Chicano artist from Santa Fe, New Mexico. For 45 years, Tapia has taken the art of polychrome wood sculpture to new levels of craftsmanship while utilizing it as a medium for social and political commentary. Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays, through Sept. 3
Transvagrant Projects and Gallery 478 presents blink•point, an exhibition of recent work by Ellwood T. Risk.
[QFilms, from p. 19]
QFilms
On the narrative end of the film spectrum, The Feels features a more light-hearted examination of the security that love must provide in a healthy relationship. The film centers on a wine-country bachelorette weekend gone awry when Lu unwittingly admits to her fiancée, Andi, that she has never experienced an orgasm. If Wes Anderson ever created a So-Cal reality show, it would view like this film. Occasionally awkward, The Feels is rarely laugh-out-loud funny, but provides opportunities for inward examination uncommon in modern-day cinema. In contrast, Saturday Church presents a more earnest account of a black youth, Ulysses, as he explores his sexuality. Although narratively predictable and uninspired in regards to dialogue, the true beauty of this film lies in the juxtaposition of movement and stillness. The musical numbers, which happen just often enough to breathe life into the film, are the film’s emotional backbone, as the range of song and the intricacies of dance mesmerize. The film’s ending leaves a bit to be desired; the main character’s journey of self wraps up with too nice of a bow for the narrative to be believable. As far as musicals go, this film was still enjoyable, even for a viewer who does not enjoy the genre. Overall, the films to be featured in the 2017 QFilms Festival present a diverse array of experiences, narratives and mediums through which attendees can celebrate the many facets of the LGBTQ community. “It’s important for folks to be able to access stories that resonate with them in their own lives as LGBTQ people,” said Porter Gilberg, executive director of The Center Long Beach. “Sometimes film is one of the only places where folks are able to see themselves reflected back…. You’re not going to find anything nearly as diverse as an independent LGBTQ film festival. Additionally, storytelling … is a really powerful way for us to share our various lived experiences. It’s also a great way to meet other folks in the community and to really celebrate where we’ve come from and where we’re going.”
A Long beach History
community and affords our community the opportunity to see themselves reflected on the screen.” Although the lineup changes every year to accommodate the submissions of filmmakers, some short film programs are recurring, such as Men in Briefs and Women in Shorts. “Every year, the festival has its own unique flavor,” said Gilberg. “We obviously have our freestanding programs. We know we’re always
[See QFilms, p. 26]
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Labor Day Edition
Since 1993, Long Beach has hosted the QFilm Festival, the longest-running film festival in the city’s history. Originally named the Long Beach International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, this four-day event showcases the diversity and experiences of the LGBTQ community via film. This Sept. 7 through 10, more than 1500 attendees will mingle with the filmmakers and cast members in celebration of the LGBTQ community. All festival proceeds benefit the The Center Long Beach, which has hosted this event since the early 2000s. Officially incorporated in 1980, The Center operates as the only comprehensive LGBTQ resources and services center in Long Beach, assisting more than 25,000 clients every year. “In order to serve as diverse an LGBTQ community as we can … we are continually revising and refining our programming and expanding our programming to meet the emerging needs of the LGBTQ community,” Gilberg said. “Part of supporting our community is ensuring that there are cultural programs and opportunities for folks to see additional LGBTQ visibility, especially in the arts. QFilms … is a vital cultural arts program that both helps build
Based on the popular young adult novel, Something Like Summer explores the alternately heartwarming and harried trajectory of true love. Photo courtesy of The Center.
25
The Los Angeles / Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition presents the largest Labor Day event in the western half of United States, Sept. 4 at Wilmington’s Banning Park. The labor solidarity parade will march on the streets featuring dozens of unions, labor organizations and schools. The theme of the 38th annual Labor Day Parade is Union Proud Union Strong. Union members, supporters and their families are all expected and the public is invited to the parade and rally from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adding music to the festivities will be the popular Brian Young and the Blues Station returning for the 10th year. There will also be a special guest performance by rapper Jacob Cerna, also known as Phamiliar. In keeping with the trend in labor to remove
LA/LB Harbor Labor Coalition:
Entertainment for the Masses on Labor Day By Melina Paris, Contributing Writer
biases in the workplace, Phamiliar addresses biases in scholastic settings via an anti-bullying campaign. Young won the 1999-2000 Battle of the Blues Bands in Irvine Lake. The self-taught musician hails from East St. Louis, Illinois. His influences include BB King, Albert King, The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix. He has worked with many artists such as Harmonica Fats and Lowell Fulsom. Young keeps audiences entertained with his soulful style and his passion to keep the blues alive. Phamiliar brand of rhyme is unique and homegrown; he hails from San Pedro. You can find his weekly Hot 16 videos on YouTube, often filmed at local popular spots in the Harbor Area.
The United Firefighters of Los Angeles City AFL-CIO will prepare and serve barbeque. The event will feature speakers from a number of unions and have more than 40 information booths. “Labor Day is a day set aside to honor working people. Workers exercise their right to organize and march together,” said Los Angeles / Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition Chairman Larry Barragan. “Fortunately, the labor movement in California has demonstrated to the nation how we can resist [the Trump] administration’s unprecedented policy by rallying together and fighting back. We will not be threatened easily as we have historically set the standard for working men and women in this country if not the world. From Hollywood to the docks and from San Diego to Sacramento, we stand proud and fight strong! We are the UNION!” [QFilms, from p. 25]
August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.
QFilms
26
going to show the best and brightest narrative features and … documentary features of the LGBTQ community…. But there’s a lot of creativity for us to be able to pair films and create additional shorts programs.” This year, QFilms is proud to present the first-ever Latinx Shorts Spotlight, showcasing the diversity of the Latinx community. “We’re also hosting a Queer & Trans Shorts program to ensure that we’re also speaking to the diversity of genders and sexualities in addition to our gay and lesbian communities as well,” Gilberg said. “The film programming is really diverse.” Along with the diversity of the film programming, the 2017 QFilms Festival is also hosting an art opening. “Some really wonderful LA-based queer artists … are lending their works specifically
Rapper, Jacob Cerna, also known as Phamiliar will perform at the Labor Day rally and picnic in Wilmington. Photo by Phillip Cook.
for display for QFilms,” said Gilberg. “We have another visual arts opportunity that will hopefully spark discussion in our attendees. And we’ve got a number of opportunities for folks across the LGBTQ community to connect and share stories.” Gilberg hopes that some of the other events during the festival — which include nightly post-screening parties, a Saturday Ice Cream Social and the infamous Sunday Drag Brunch — will also provide attendees with the opportunity to get to know one another and share experiences throughout the LGBTQ community. “Part of supporting our community is ensuring that there are cultural programs and opportunities for folks to see additional LGBTQ visibility, especially in the arts. QFilms … is a vital cultural arts program that both helps build community and affords our community the opportunity to see themselves reflected on the screen,” Gilberg said.
Umbrella showcases the narratives of many transgender activists, including Mara Keisling, executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality. Photo courtesy of The Center.
Labor Day Edition
August 31 - September 13, 2017
27
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VACATION RENTAL Big Bear cabin, 1 bdr/1 bath, sleeps 2, kitchen, laundry. $500/wk. (310) 534-2278.
Real Estate SERVICES Real Estate Investor seeks to purchase commercial or multi-unit residential properties in San Pedro. No Agents please. 310-241-6827
DBA FILINGS Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017196277 The following person is doing business as: Colonial Construction & Design, 1275 W. 11th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: David Peter Buxton, 1275 w. 11th Street, 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: 01/01/2002. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) S/. David
“5 PM”—
Peter Buxton, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on July 25, 2017.. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. Effective January 1, 2014, the Fictitious
Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the Affidavit of Identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). 08/03/2017, Original filing: 08/17/2017, 08/31/2017, 09/14/2017
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017196276 The following person is doing business as: Purpose Wear, 1807 N. Anzac Ave., Compton, CA 90222. Los Angeles County. Registered
[continued on p. 29]
© 2017 MATT JONES, Jonesin’ Crosswords
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Across
1 “Get outta here!” 5 Windshield attachment 10 Be boastful 14 “No can do” 15 Beginning of Caesar’s boast 16 Gutter holder 17 Vicu±a’s land, maybe 18 Recycled iron, e.g. 20 B-movie bad guy who emerges from the deep 22 Sound heard during shearing 23 Those, in Tabasco 24 Food drive donation 27 G.I. entertainers 30 Olive ___ (Popeye’s love) 32 “The elements,” so to speak 34 Pastries named after an emperor 38 “Eric the Half-___” (Monty Python song) 39 Decisive statement 42 “Beloved” novelist Morrison 43 Happening in L.A. and N.Y. simultaneously, maybe 44 “Queen of Soul” Franklin 47 Liq. ingredient 48 157.5 deg. from N. 49 Late Pink Floyd member Barrett 50 Start to matter? 53 Tuna type 55 “I’m gonna do it no matter what!”
60 They might appear when rightclicking 63 Shearing stuff 64 “Moby Dick” captain 65 Bear with patience 66 Good poker draws 67 Star of “Seagulls! (Stop It Now): A Bad Lip Reading” 68 Word on an empty book page 69 Zilch
Down
1 Eats dinner 2 Gnaw on 3 Ineffable glow 4 Large digit? 5 Daunted 6 ___ Domani (wine brand) 7 ___ asada 8 Build up 9 Subatomic particle with no strong force 10 It’s served in the video game “Tapper” 11 Maze runner 12 Director DuVernay of the upcoming “A Wrinkle In Time” 13 Shaving cream choice 19 City east of Phoenix 21 City SSW of Kansas City (that has nothing to do with bribing DJs) 24 Biblical ark measures 25 Giant concert venues
26 Tattooist’s tool 27 Baltimore Colts great Johnny 28 Very tasty 29 Played before the main act 31 “Stay” singer Lisa 33 Bagpipers’ caps 35 Leave off 36 “Rapa ___” (1994 film) 37 Adoption advocacy org. 40 Spread that symbolizes slowness 41 America’s Cup entrant 45 47-stringed instrument 46 Average guy 51 Billy Blanks workout system 52 “Am I right?” sentence ender, to Brits 54 Elijah Wood or Grant Wood, by birth 55 Brass band boomer 56 “Brah, for real?” 57 A little, in Italy 58 Ohio-based faucet maker 59 “What ___ is new?” 60 You might do it dearly 61 “So the truth comes out!” 62 Apartment, in ‘60s slang
©2017 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords.com) For answers go to: www.randomlengthsnews.com
RANDOMLetters
DBA FILINGS [from p. 28]
owners: Ricky D. Willis, 1807 N. Anzac Ave., Compton, CA 90222. This Business is conducted by an individual. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: May 15, 2017. 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/. Ricky D. Willis, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on July 25, 2017. Notice-In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. Effective January 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the Affidavit of Identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 08/03/2017, 08/17/2017, 08/31/2017, 09/14/2017
09/28/2017, 10/12/2017
08/31/2017, 09/14/2017
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017153521 The following person is doing business as: (1) Lost Harbor Tattoo, 950 N. Avalon Blvd., Wilmington, CA 90744, Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Oscar Montez, 751
Gladys Ave., Apt. 3, Long Beach, CA 90804. Luciano Munoz, 1816 Cabrillo Ave., Unit A, Torrance, CA 90501. This Business is conducted by a general partnership. 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/. Oscar Montes, partner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on June 14, 2017. Notice--In accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920 where it expire 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 08/17/2017, 08/31/2017,
09/14/17, 09/28/17
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017195463 The following person is doing business as: Dreamy’s Ice Cream and Bakeshop, 285 W. 6th St./ 610 S. Centre St. San Pedro, CA 90731. Los Angeles County. Mailing Address: 1846 Trudie Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275. Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number: AI #ON : 4021358. Registered owners: TR Yamada, Inc., 1846 Trudie Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275. This Business is conducted by a corporation. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or
09/28/2017, 10/12/2017
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Our community is home to one of the largest above-ground butane gas storage facilities in the nation. These types of facilities pose a danger to our neighborhoods when they’re located in urban areas. Butane is highly flammable and a chemical hazard and this facility can store 25 million gallons of this gas. An industrial accident could cause the emergency relocation of hundreds of families and disrupt the education of thousands of kids attending schools in very close proximity to this facility. Giant tanks storing combustible chemicals are simply incompatible with residential neighborhoods. Recent reports and rulings have found this facility to be compliant with federal regulations governing rail transportation, safety and proximity to dwelling spaces. Federal law allows this facility and others like it to be located next to populated areas without taking into account the risk to the public. I plan on using all the resources at my disposal to change these laws and regulations to ensure that this terrible risk isn’t dismissed. Too often we hear the excuse of “legally compliant” in the aftermath of a disaster. I am going to work to make sure that being “legally compliant” isn’t an excuse to leave communities in fear. Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán San Pedro
No Vision on the Waterfront
They all want to keep us on our economic and environmental
August 31 - September 13, 2017
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017185752 The following person is doing business as: Peninsula Mortuary Transport Service, 1840 S. Gaffey St., #226, San Pedro, CA 90731. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Joseph Voss, 1840 S. Gaffey St., #226, 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: 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/. Joseph Voss, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on July 17, 2017. Notice-In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. Effective January 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the Affidavit of Identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 08/03/2017, 08/17/2017,
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017232465 The following person is doing business as Agua Vida, 734 N. Fries Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744. Los Angeles County. Mailing Address: 1180 W. 7th St. #1, San Pedro, Ca 90731. Registered owners: Virgilio Gutierrez, 660 W. 11th St., #4, San Pedro, Ca 90731, Ghilbeys Gutierrez, 660 W. 11th St., #4, San Pedro, Ca 90731, Rodel Filio, 1180 W. 7th St. #1, San Pedro, Ca 90731. This Business is conducted by a general partnership. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: Aug. 17, 2017. 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.) Rodel Filio, partner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Aug. 23, 2017. Notice--In accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920 where it expire 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 08/31/2017, 09/14/2017,
Rep. Barragán’s Statement on Rancho LPG
knees, and controllable. They congratulate and protect each other. They are hiding the environmental crimes that they commit daily. And, they are hiding the PORT/UNION/CARGO triad’s need to control and solely profit from “OUR” Harbor. They want no commercial, residential or recreational corporate entities to interfere or compete for power and control. That’s why they are destroying the bridge to the breakwater, because it would generate the businesses and gentrification that they do not want. They want public stupidity and total political compliance. The healthy industries (commercial, recreational, residential) bring about environmental challenges that the industrial sector is not ready to answer. Thus they perpetuate the property crime and drug addiction homelessness and violence that we suffer to make the area very undesirable for those who are powerful enough to challenge them. I saw Joe Buscaino run his first campaign for office on the premise of transformational waterfront development. I thought I had a disciple. He quoted me daily about creating an urban waterfront mecca for the people of the city in the state and a world-class waterfront. When he got into office, he sided with the destructive port that had no intention of transforming the waterfront culture. So Joe did an about face. Even his own feasibility study from his office dictated no corporate commercial development, no hotels, no corporate chain restaurants, no anchor tenants and no brandname businesses are necessary or welcome. The present waterfront plan is not even a redevelopment. It is a joke. It is an anemic rearrangement of the present businesses which only attract a monoculture on weekends. He is big phony, who compromised himself to the powers that have cut our legs out from underneath us a long time ago. When this fella runs for higher office we should all invite everyone he’s promoting himself to good old San Pedro, so that they may closely observe the fruits of his labor. The anomaly of real California Seaside poverty! John Papadakis San Pedro
08/31/2017, 09/14/2017
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/.Terry R. Yamada, CEO. TR Yamada, Inc. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on July 24, 2017. Notice--In accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920 where it expire 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 08/31/2017, 09/14/2017,
and so, NOW … the Port and our wonderful city councilman ... are going to “do something” about the flimsy security around these terminals. However, “thousands” of lives will be lost when Rancho is either attacked, has an accident ... or is engaged in the impending mega quake. Who believes that waiting for that catastrophic event to act as the “catalyst” for action is appropriate? That seems to be the ONLY way that our government and its officials ever take responsible action. It is reckless and deplorable. This City and its supposed leaders need to wake up fast! Janet Gunter San Pedro
Labor Day Edition
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2017189240 The following person is doing business as: NMB Boutique, 667 W. 23rd St, San Pedro, CA 90731. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Evelyn Cook, 667 W. 23rd 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: July 2017. 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/. Evelyn Cook, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on July 25, 2017. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. Effective January 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the Affidavit of Identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 08/03/2017, 08/17/2017,
[Letters, from p. 15]
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Local 20 Gets Contract with Rio Tinto at POLA
SAN PEDRO — A new five-year contract has been ratified covering 77 members of ILWU Local 20 who work on a private dock at the Port of Los Angeles. These workers load and process materials mined at Rio Tinto’s giant borate mine and plant in the Mojave Desert which employs more than 500 members of Local 30 in Boron, Calif. The Local 20 Negotiating Committee of Rudy Dorame, Mike Gonzolo, Tim Simpson and Robert Frazier began negotiating in December of 2016. They reached a tentative agreement with the company on June 3, and members ratified the new contract a week later. The new agreement will increase defined pension benefits from the current $75 per year of service to $80 at the end of
the 5-year contract. The company also provides a 401(k) savings plan for newer employees. A previous contract opened the door for a “two-tier” pay and retirement scheme that caused divisions between newer and older workers. To help, the new contract guarantees minimum raises of 2.5 percent to everyone for each of the 5 years, while also providing 3.5 percent raises to lower-paid, newer workers in years 4 and 5. Another improvement restores seniority bidding rights to everyone hired after 2011. The new agreement also provides more vacation carry-over, better death benefits, more funeral leave, and higher allowances for safety shoes and glasses. The probationary period was reduced from 120 to 60 days, improving job security for new members. The company also agreed to post overtime equalization charts and share testing
ILWU Local 20 on the waterfront. Courtesy of ILWU
results required for bidding certain jobs. A last-minute effort by the company to claw back a $1,000 signing bonus was also defeated and that cash payout became part of the package. “We tried to keep everyone informed and members stayed united,” said Local 20 President
Rudy Dorame. Dorame thanked “all of our brothers and sisters from the surrounding locals in our area,” noting that “the ILWU family here in the harbor really came through for us.” He also mentioned international support that included Australia’s CFMEU.
Congratulations to the
Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition on the 38th Annual
August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.
Labor Day Parade & Rally
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From Union Brother Joaquin Miramontes SEIU Local 721 Watch the Labor Day Parade video on YouTube LA/LONG BEACH LABOR DAY PRADE FILM 2015
Labor Day Edition
August 31 - September 13, 2017
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August 31 - September 13, 2017
Real News. Real People. Totally Relevant.