RLn 12 25 14 edition

Tackling Homelessness While Respecting Civil Rights pg. 2 Candidates Lineup for Open Seats on the Carson City Council pg. 5 NYE Eve Listings in the Los Angeles Harbor Area pg. 12 Jackson Wine Bar to Open in Downtown San Pedro pg. 14

By Paul Rosenberg, Senior Editor

A

The Local Publication You Actually Read

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

Graphic by Mathew Highland.

s soon as the Senate Intelligence Committee released the executive summary of its report on the CIA torture program, the response from experts in human rights law was swift and decisive.

“What would it mean to be a nation committed to the rule of law, if we don’t hold people responsible for crimes of this magnitude?” asked American Civil Liberties Union Deputy Legal Director Jameel Jaffer on MSNBC. “These aren’t mistakes. These are crimes,” Reed Brody, of Human Rights Watch told Amy Goodman on Democracy Now! “The individuals responsible for the criminal conspiracy revealed in today’s report must be brought to justice and must face criminal penalties commensurate with the gravity of their crimes,” added Ben Emmerson, the UN Special Rapporteur on Counter-terrorism and Human Rights.

Yet, the following week, a Pew poll found that 56 percent of Americans believe the lie that torture provided intelligence that helped prevent terrorist attacks. The poll also reported that 51 percent think that “the CIA’s interrogation methods…were justified.”

In response, journalist Dan Froomkin tweeted, “If 56 percent of Americans think ‘CIA interrogation’ was effective, all that tells us is that they’ve been misled.”

Torture Report: Rationalizations for Brutality/ to p. 6

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Community Announcements:

Harbor Area San Pedro Fish Market Scholarship

Students from Mary Star High School, Banning High School, POLA High School and San Pedro High School can apply for the San Pedro Fish Market Scholarship. There will be four winners, one from each school, who will each receive $1,000.

Post a video, preferably under 4 minutes, to YouTube (any YouTube page is fine) where you tell the viewers what you love about your community.

Students must acknowledge in the first 10 seconds they are doing this to enter the San Pedro Fish Market Scholarship contest. The video must have two hashtags: #ilovesanpedro or #ilovewilmington or both, and one of the following: #POLAHS, #MSHS, #SPHS or #BANNINGHS Additional Rules: Videos must adhere to YouTube’s rules, regulations and code of conduct.

Here’s a link for more information: https://www. youtube.com/t/community_guidelines.

Videos must be posted from Jan. 1 through Feb. 28 to be eligible to win. The video with the most views from each high school will win the scholarship. Winners will be notified the first week of March.

Details: (310) 350-8793; www.SanPedroFish.com

Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl Community Day

On Jan. 2, 2015, between 2 and 5 p.m., meet the nation’s top high school football players before they compete at 6 p.m. Jan. 4, 2015 in the 2015 Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl at StubHub Center in Carson. Learn how to pass, catch and kick a football during an afternoon filled with games and activities at this event designed to mentor young athletes. It’s free for students ages 5 to 12. Every participant will receive a special gift pack and invitations to the game. Register by Dec. 29, 2014 at your local park.

Details: (310) 847-3570; http://recreation.carson. ca.us Venue: Carson Park Location: 21411 Orrick Ave., Carson

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area

Become a Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Aquatic Nursery Volunteer Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is now recruiting Aquatic Nursery docents, “volunteer teachers” for a three-month commitment, one day a week between 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Tuesday through Friday.

Recruits should have an interest in marine research, raising public science literacy and a personal desire for continued learning. Join the Aquatic Nursery staff for training Jan. 7 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the front of the Aquatic Nursery laboratory.

Details: (310) 548-7562 ext. 204; kiersten. darrow@lacity.org Venue: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Location: 3720 Stephen White Drive, San Pedro

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Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women

Women considering divorce can participate in a four-hour workshop, from 8:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 10. The workshop addresses the legal, financial, family and personal issues of divorce. With the guidance of trained professionals, workshop participants gain greater understanding of the confusing divorce process.

Details: (310) 514-0240; www.

SouthbayDivorceWorkshop.com Venue: The Community Room at the Remedy Pharm Location: 23811 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance

New Recovery Support Group Recovery Choices, teaching skills and offering support for people recovering from alcohol and drug problems, is hosting weekly support group meetings in San Pedro. A $5 minimum donation is suggested to defray meeting room costs.

Recovery Choices meets at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays at San Pedro Recovery NOW, Inc., Office, 916 N. Western Ave., Suite 210, San Pedro.

Details: (310) 957-2099; www.RecoveryNowLA. com.

Committed to independent journalism in the Greater LA/LB Harbor Area for more than 30 years

Being Homeless is Not a Crime

By Zamná Ávila, Assistant Editor

Neecee, who asked that her surname be omitted from this article, has been homeless in San Pedro for the past three years. She often gets the free meals offered at Mary Star of the Sea Church or Kurt’s Kitchen on Pacific Avenue. At 45 years of age, she carries her life in a shopping cart filled with blankets, clothing and other personal affects. Neecee’s 23-year-old son and her brother also are homeless.

In circumstances such as these, a shower is difficult to come by. When the opportunity arises to get one, you take it.

A couple of weeks ago, around about the time the recent storm hit Southern California, Neecee was given permission to shower at a friend’s house. When she returned to the place at Plaza

Park where she left her cart, all of her belongings were gone.

Someone from the Beacon House, a men’s recovery home, told her that the city took her belongings.

“It’s hard to survive after something like that because, you have nothing but the clothes on your back,” she said. “I was really depressed after that.”

She doesn’t even know where to go to get her things. When it happened, she was trying to see if there was dump where she could take her stuff, but nobody knew anything. Since then she tries to take her things with her wherever she goes or asks someone to look after her belongings.

While other homeless people have attested to

getting harassed for being at the park and losing their belongings to some type of city department, no one, from the Los Angeles Police Department Harbor Division to District 15 Councilman Joe Buscaino’s office to the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks has taken responsibility for such actions, begging the question, “Who done it?”

At the urging of Random Lengths News managing editor, Terelle Jerricks, an employee called the council office as a constituent who was upset about the homeless population at Plaza Park. The rationale was to ensure the press was receiving the same information as concerned community members. The constituent services continued on following page

the community. There are organizations that offer assistance to homeless families but not individuals. While Los Angeles County operates a winter shelter program between Dec. 1 and March 1, there are not enough beds to accommodate all of the homeless, despite the extra beds that were added recently.

Moreover, people must be in the right place at the right time to be able to get on the list for shelter during the winter.

“What I’m really tired about is people making comments about, ‘these people don’t want

services,’” said Ceaser, who volunteers with the South Bay Coalition on Homeless and chairs the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on Homelessness. “That is absolutely, positively, not true.”

Even people who receive general relief cannot afford to rent a place.

“There is no true affordable housing,” Ceaser said.

Many, who carry their belonging in grocery carts, are hassled for doing so.

Homeless in Plaza Park/ to p. 4

Twenty-six year old Danny Madrigal is one of the homeless who can be found at Plaza Park in San Pedro. Photo by David Johnson.

representative told the Random Lengths News employee that homeless advocates make it more of a point not to criminalize homelessness, including the city attorney’s office. However, Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department issues 72-hour notices to vacate to the homeless camping out at local parks.

The Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation then cleans up whatever remains. Often, the homeless move, leaving little behind.

Plaza Parks has been placed very high on the council office’s list for homeless encampment clean up.

The Problem

“Property rights are civil rights,” said Karen Ceaser, a homeless advocate who volunteers with the Department of Mental Health. “Many times that’s everything they own. It’s devastating.”

And this is not an isolated incident, Ceaser said.

In San Pedro many homeless people congregate at Plaza Park, despite objections from neighboring residents and businesses. Because the ungated park officially closes at 10 p.m., the homeless have to find a place to go for the night.

The problem is that there is no housing in

The Local Publication You Actually Read December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

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Homeless in Plaza Park

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“That’s a big issue: the grocery carts,” said Ceaser. “That’s what they can criminalize them with.”

Councilman Joe Buscaino spokesman Branimir Kvartic said that’s the first he’s ever heard about the city taking homeless belongings.

“Nobody in the city can legally do that,” said Kvartic, who acknowledged that the council office has sent emergency response teams for the homeless. “They would never do something like that. Nobody in the city is allowed to take anything from them.”

Neecee said a man in a uniform, who identified himself as Officer Martinez, has been

harassing some of the homeless in the area.

“He said he’s the head of the Homeless Task Force and he gives out tickets for illegal lodging,” Neecee said. “I was sitting on a bench in the park.

That’s all I was doing.”

According to Los Angeles Municipal Code 41.18 (d), under a settlement agreement, “No person should be cited or arrested for a violation…unless a peace officer for the City of Los Angeles has first given the person a verbal warning regarding such section and reasonable time to move and the person has not complied with that warning.”

“I know that they are trying to clean San

Pedro, but the way they did it is just, you know, I don’t know,” she said. “If we could go somewhere without being told, ‘You got to go, you to go, you got go.’ If there was a designated spot where we could just be without being harassed, that would be helpful.”

While Neecee said the man had a uniform and a black and white car, the Los Angeles Police Department doesn’t even know who he his.

“I asked LAPD, ‘Is this guy even a cop or is he impersonating a cop?’ because something is going on,” Neecee said.

LAPD Harbor Division Capt.

Gerald Woodyard said that neither the possession of the homeless’ belongings nor the illegal lodging Neecee, a homeless woman who asked that her surname not has been an undertaking of his be mentioned, rests under a tree at Plaza Park in San Pedro.

Photo by David Johnson. officers.

“That was not spearheaded by homeless encampment situation on Beacon the LAPD by any stretch of the imagination,” Street in Plaza Park. We are working with Woodyard said.

LAHSA (Los Angeles Homeless Services Woodyard said that while he has gotten calls Authority) who also are familiar with from residents complaining about the homeless, the area and have history with some of his answer is always the same, “Being homeless the dwellers. When offered shelter by the is not a crime.” Unless, a homeless person, or LAHSA Emergency Response Team which any person, is committing a crime his department was requested by my office, the homeless does not get involved, he said. individuals were resistant to any offers of Yet, read some of the comments on social services or recovery programs. The ERT is media about them and you would think that going out regularly and attempting to work homelessness is exactly that: a crime. On Nov. with the homeless. Today, the area is clear, 14, Buscaino placed a post on the Central San and we hope it remains that way, but if not, Pedro Neighborhood Watch Facebook page that we will be vigilant and continue to offer read: services.

My office and I are familiar with the

Without a Home/ to p. 10

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area

Penance Tendered:

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Homeless Feeding Program Ends After 20 Years

By David Johnson, Contributing Writer

It began as an act of penance served more than two decades.

Frank Sowers, a recovering alcoholic searched desperately for a way to repay a life he felt had been gifted back to him from God. He found his platform as he began work with the Beacon House, an addiction recovery home for men. There, on the board of directors, he heard something he couldn’t ignore: No food banks in San Pedro were open on Sunday. With food bought in bulk and the help of seven friends, he began cooking and serving meals from vacant building on Pacific Avenue in San Pedro.

Within weeks, there wasn’t enough. Word spread and close to 50 people began cueing up in front of the former Burrito Factory at 19th St. and Pacific Ave. “It’s just something God put in front of us to do,” Sowers said.

For 20 years, that is exactly what he did.

When many of the restaurants closed up after the recession, the Federal Emergency Management Agency helped them through some of the lean years. After the first location was shut down due to lack of proper permits, the United Methodist Church on 6th Street and Grand Avenue opened up the basement of their fellowship hall.

“We used to get compliments that it was the best feeding program in town,” Sowers said.

It was a format based in consistency and simplicity. The homeless would show up in the

afternoon and gather in the church parking lot, Sowers gave 15-minute lessons from the Bible and members opened up the basement of their fellowship hall for hot meals.

“Some people hated the message, but it got them into rehab,” Sowers said. “Others stayed for a hot meal.”

For some people, like 56-year-old Brent Dorman, it is a message they still carry.

“It was a very good sermon. I didn’t know anyone specifically there, but there was good in his sermon,” said Dorman, an oil company welder.

Eventually, members of the church began to wonder if their goodwill was being encumbered.

The Beacon House, which did all of the cooking and cleaning, would occasionally miss things. The residual smell became a problem and clean-up of the bathroom was a continuing burden. Sowers would have the recipients write thank you notes to the church. When there were talks of shutting it down, he dropped them in the suggestion box at the end of the night.

The program reached a crux of tension earlier this year. Some church members worried about child safety with the opening of a new Sunday children’s program at the same time. The program was put to a vote and ended in October.

No one from the United Methodist Church was available for comment as of press time.

Sowers is looking for a new location, big enough to host 50 to 60 people on Sundays.

“We’ve got the manpower,” he said. “We just need the food and a location.”

Isadore Hall Now Represents SD 35

By Lyn Jensen, Carson Reporter

For more than a month before the special election for the 35th Senate District, on Dec. 9, Isadore Hall III’s campaign bombarded Carson and the rest of the district with mailers and phone calls.

That paid off with an outright win for Hall, who was sworn into office the next day. Because he got more than 50 percent of votes cast, there will be no run-off.

According to unofficial results, Hall’s winning total was 55.9 percent of the vote. Republican candidate James Spencer was second with 25.9

State Senator-elect for the 35th District, Isadore Hall.

By Lyn Jensen, Carson Reporter

Now that the period for certifying candidates has ended, six challengers are hoping to unseat at least one of two council incumbents in Carson’s next general municipal election on March 3, 2015.

However, that’s being overshadowed by an unusual move in the Carson Mayor Jim Dear, above, city clerk’s race, where is running against incumbent the sitting mayor, Jim City Clerk Donesia Gause for her seat. File photos.

Dear, is challenging incumbent City Clerk Donesia Gause. The city treasurer is also up for re-election.

Gause and Dear are the only two candidates certified to run for clerk. If Dear defeats Gause, he’ll resign as mayor to take the clerk’s job. If Gause wins, Dear will continue to serve as mayor until at least 2017, when his seat is up for reelection. The clerk is charged with keeping the records, official proceedings and vital statistics of the city, including presiding over local elections.

The clerk’s job is more lucrative than the mayor’s. The clerk and treasurer are full-time positions that pay a minimum of more than $90,000 annually. The mayor’s job is classified as part-time (although in reality it’s a 24/7 job) and pays a maximum of $22,735 annually, according to the city website.

Two council incumbents are running for re-election: Elito Santarina and Lula Davis-Holmes. Six candidates are challenging them: Alene Harris, Jawane R. Hilton, Margaret I. Hernandez, Elisa Gonzalez, Stephen Anyaka and Rita Boggs, who’s run for council several times before. Former council member and mayor, Vera Robles De Witt, took out papers but was not certified.

Of the challengers for council, Harris is already waging an aggressive campaign. She’s a former candidate for treasurer.

The council is operating with four members. Mike Gipson’s seat has been vacant since he went to the state legislature, representing the 64th Assembly District, a few weeks ago. If the city has a special election to fill his seat, it will most likely happen in April. If Dear wins the clerk’s job, the city could have a special election to fill his council seat and select a new mayor, possibly in July. Alternately, the council could appoint someone to serve out Gipson’s (and/or Dear’s) term.

An unusually large field of challengers—four—are competing with incumbent Karen Avilla for city treasurer. The other candidates include Eddie Duque, Joe Merton, Emilio Ramos Loyola and Monica Cooper, who lost her campaign for the West Basin Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors this past November.

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1536 W. 25th St., Suite K San Pedro, CA 90732 Phone: 310.519.8600 Fax: 310.519.8008

46% of independent shopping dollars goes back into the local economy. Make the Pledge to support independent retailers & services whenever possible.

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

percent. Of the two remaining candidates, both Democrats, Louis Dominguez was third with 12.5 percent. Hector Serrano came in last with 6.5 percent. None of the three trailing candidates made more than a token effort to campaign.

Hall will serve out the term of Rod Wright, who resigned his seat following conviction on several charges related to not living in his district, including voter fraud. The seat is up for re-election in 2016.

Hall previously announced his decision to seek the SD 35 seat in the 2016 election. He served in the Assembly from 2004 until this past month. He was barred from seeking re-election in the 64th Assembly District because of term limits. Mike Gipson, former Carson council member, won election to the 64th AD this past November.

The 35th District is heavily Latino, black, and Democratic, and consists of all or part of more than a dozen cities and unincorporated areas in the South Bay and Harbor Area. Represented communities include Carson, Compton, Gardena, Harbor City, Hawthorne, Inglewood, Lawndale, Westchester, San Pedro, Watts, Wilmington, the unincorporated strip known as West Carson, about half of Torrance, and slivers of Long Beach and Los Angeles.

Candidates for City Election Certified

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Vopak Terminal Wilmington Community Benefit Agreement

WILMINGTON—On Dec. 9, Communities for a Safe Environment announced that Vopak Terminal Wilmington agreed to pay a $9.5 million mitigation fund in exchange for support for the company’s recent proposal to upgrade their existing dock at berths 189 to 184.

The mitigation fund, called the Wilmington Community Benefits Agreement, will be payable for 10 years to 21 community organizations.

Vopak, a Port of Los Angeles tenant, was obligated to upgrade the existing dock in order to comply with the California’s mandate under the Marine Oil terminal Engineering and Maintenance Standards. With this upgrade, Vopak was also asking the Port of Los Angeles to extend its operating permit.

Headquartered in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Vopak is the world’s largest independent tank storage providers, specializing in the storage and handling of liquid chemicals, gases and oil products. Vopak operates 80 terminals with a combined storage capacity more than 31 million cubic meters in 28 countries.

The funds will become available to all beneficiaries when Vopak receives approval from the Port of Los Angeles to begin construction of its standards compliant terminal.

City Councilman Joe Buscaino expressed his support for the company’s lease extension as well as the mitigation fund.

The coalition participated in recommending to Vopak the funding of a Wilmington Community Benefits Agreement and in the nomination of community organizations, foundations and public schools.

Torture Report: Rationalizations for Brutality

It’s not surprising that the report also revealed that the CIA had repeatedly misled policymakers and the public precisely about the effectiveness of its program. Indeed, the first two findings of the Senate report were: #1: The CIA’s use of its enhanced interrogation techniques was not an effective means of acquiring intelligence or gaining cooperation from detainees. #2: The CIA’s justification for the use of its enhanced interrogation techniques rested on inaccurate claims of their effectiveness.

In another tweet, Froomkin added, “Just like 70 percent of Americans once thought Saddam was behind 9/11, now 56 percent think torture worked.

This is a massive indictment of the US media.”

Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

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News Briefs/ to following page

The problem with Feinstein’s explanation is that it’s too wordy and complex, compared to the simplicity of a “ticking time-bomb” scenario on an episode of 24. But Feinstein has a response to that, as well: At no time did the CIA’s coercive interrogation techniques lead to the collection of imminent threat intelligence, such as the hypothetical “ticking time bomb” information that many believe was the justification for the use of these techniques.

“Just like 70 percent of Americans once thought Saddam was behind 9/11, now 56 percent think torture worked. This is a massive indictment of the US media.”

Seventh LASD Deputy Sentenced for Interfering with Civil Rights Investigation

LOS ANGELES —On Dec. 17, the U.S. District Court sentenced the seventh and final Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy for obstruction of justice and interfering with a grand jury investigation into misconduct at the Men’s Central Jail.

James Sexton was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison. The jury determined that Sexton, 30, was part of a broad conspiracy to obstruct justice—a plot in which conspirators, including two lieutenants, attempted to influence witnesses, threatened an FBI agent with arrest and concealed an FBI informant who should have been turned over to federal authorities.

The conspiracy to obstruct justice began in the summer of 2011 after sheriff’s deputies assigned to the Men’s Central Jail learned that a jail inmate was cooperating in a federal investigation into civil rights violations at the Men’s Central Jail as an FBI informant.

Those involved in the obstruction scheme took steps to actively hide the informant from the FBI and the U.S. Marshals Service, which was attempting to bring the informant into federal custody. The deputies went so far as to alter records to make it appear as if the informant had been released. Instead, he was re-booked under different names.

The jury heard evidence that Sexton, who was part of a gang intelligence unit called Operation Safe Jails, changed the name of the informant and his booking number in the jail computer system, which allowed members of the conspiracy to hide the informant from the FBI. Following the year-and-a-half prison term, which the judge ordered to begin on Feb. 16, 2015, Sexton will be on supervised release for one year.

Six co-conspirators, who were tried separately, were found guilty of obstruction of justice and other charges earlier. They

unavailable,” which was the standard for effectiveness the CIA presented to the Department of Justice and policymakers.

—Dan Froomkin, journalist

Indeed, one of the main purposes of the torture program was the generation of false and misleading propaganda. A prime example was the case of Ibn Sheikh al-Libi, who claimed under torture that al Qaeda had ties to Iraq’s mass destruction programs, a key piece of “evidence” that helped propel us into the Iraq War. To knock down claims that torture “worked,” the report examined 20 of the most-cited examples of “successes” that the CIA claimed for its torture program.

“Each of those examples was found to be wrong in fundamental respects,” wrote Sen. Dianne Feinstein, in a press release that accompanied the report. Feinstein, who chairs the committee, went on to explain: In some cases, there was no relationship between the claimed counterterrorism “success” and any information provided by a CIA detainee during or after the use of the CIA’s enhanced interrogation techniques. In the remaining cases, the CIA inaccurately represented that unique information was acquired from a CIA detainee as a result of the CIA’s enhanced interrogation techniques, when in fact the information was either (a) acquired from the CIA detainee prior to the use of the CIA’s enhanced interrogation techniques or (b) corroborative of information already available to the intelligence community from sources other than the CIA detainee, and therefore not unique or “otherwise

Another popular line of defense is to claim that it wasn’t really torture, and that everything done was legal. But it’s long been known that laws were broken and people were tortured, and this new report adds further confirmation.

The April 2004 “Taguba Report” found “incontrovertible evidence” of detainee abuse under military command, and stated that, “While those who perpetrated the criminal acts are individually responsible, the command climate, unclear command structure, and insufficient training created an environment conducive to the commission of these offenses.”

A year later, on the first anniversary of the release of the Abu Ghraib photographs, Human Rights Watch released a report, “Getting Away With Torture: Command Responsibility for the U.S. Abuse of Detainees,” which focused on the George W. Bush Administration’s failure to investigate command responsibility for these admittedly obvious, widespread war crimes.

Six years later, in 2011, a broader follow up report, “Getting Away With Torture: The Bush Administration and Mistreatment of Detainees,” argued, among things, for the criminal prosecution of former President Bush, Vice President Cheney, Defense Secretary Rumsfeld and CIA Director George Tennant.

Nothing has changed since then, Human Rights Watch Executive Director Kenneth Roth said after the report’s release.

“We believe in 2011 and we believe just as strongly today that senior U.S. leaders have a

case to answer for torture and war crimes,” Roth said.

Indeed, the new report further reinforces this view on two counts—the brutality of the practices and the pattern of high-level legal rationalizations.

On the first count, the committee’s finding No. 3: “The interrogations of CIA detainees were brutal and far worse than the CIA represented to policymakers and others” included the following: At least five CIA detainees were subjected to “rectal rehydration” or rectal feeding without documented medical necessity. The CIA placed detainees in ice water “baths.”

The CIA led several detainees to believe they would never be allowed to leave CIA custody alive, suggesting to one detainee that he would only leave in a coffin-shaped box. One interrogator told another detainee that he would never go to court, because “we can never let the world know what I have done to you.” CIA officers also threatened at least three detainees with harm to their families—to include threats to harm the children of a detainee, threats to sexually abuse the mother of a detainee, and a threat to “cut [a detainee’s] mother’s throat.”

On the high-level legal side, initially the CIA insisted on maintaining strict standards, and once it changed course, there were repeated fears of consequences. Immediately after 9/11, CIA leadership clearly recognized the existence of legal limits, which would later be intentionally set aside: On Sept. 27, 2001, CIA Headquarters informed CIA Stations that any future CIA detention facility would have to meet “U.S. POW Standards.” … In early November 2001, CIA Headquarters further determined that any future CIA detention facility would have to meet U.S. prison standards and that CIA detention and interrogation operations should be tailored to “meet the requirements of U.S. law and the federal rules of criminal procedure,” adding that “[s]pecific methods of interrogation w[ould] be permissible so long as they generally comport with commonly accepted practices deemed lawful by U.S. courts.

The Bush administration would later draft self-serving legal memos purporting to legalize torture, but here the CIA explicitly spelled out a higher standard, “accepted practices deemed lawful by U.S. courts,” which it would later completely ignore. As for those memos, the 2011 Human Rights Watch report quotes an editorial from the American Journal of International Law: [T]hese memoranda cannot in themselves insulate or immunize persons engaging or complicit in torture or war crimes from international or domestic criminal responsibility for their conduct. It is well settled that advice of counsel—the “My lawyer said it was OK” defense— cannot serve as an excuse for violating the law, especially in cases where legal advice is deliberately sought and given for the very purpose of providing such an excuse. continued on following page

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were sentenced in September to federal terms of up to 41 months.

APWA Honors Port with Two 2014 Project of the Year Awards

“United States is committed to the worldwide elimination of torture and we are leading this fight by example,”

—President George W. Bush in a speech to the United Nations, 2003

attitudes, such as sadism. The unprofessional conduct revealed over and over again completely undermines the heroic image, which the CIA’s defenders keep trying to promote.

Even President Barack Obama engaged in this, when he released a set of torture memos back in April 2009. At the time he said: This is a time for reflection, not retribution…nothing will be gained by spending our time and energy laying blame for the past…

The men and women of our intelligence community serve courageously on the front lines of a dangerous world. Their accomplishments are unsung and their names unknown, but because of their sacrifices, every single American is safer.

November Container Volumes Drop at POLA

A detainee being led around at Guantanamo Bay Detention Center, Cuba. File photo.

For more info on this topic, see:

Senate Intelligence Committee’s executive summary report on the CIA’s use of “enhanced interrogation techniques”: http://tinyurl.com/ SIC-Report-on-Torture Human Rights Watch Reed Brody interview with Amy Goodman on Democracy Now! at: http://tinyurl.com/DNow-Report-on-TortureReport Human Rights Watch report, “Getting Away With Torture: Command Responsibility for the U.S. Abuse of Detainees: http://tinyurl.com/ Getting-Away-with-Torture

SAN PEDRO—The Port of Los Angeles recently released its November 2014 containerized cargo volumes.

In November 2014, overall volumes decreased 3 percent compared to November 2013. Total cargo for November was 663,346 twenty-foot equivalent units, TEUs. For the first 11 months of calendar year 2014, overall volumes (7,681,498 TEUs) have increased 6.5 percent compared to the same period in 2013 (7,215,224 TEUs).

Container imports decreased 2.7 percent, from 342,247 TEUs in November 2013 to 333,153 TEUs in November 2014. Exports declined 16 percent, from 179,176 TEUs in November 2013 to 150,568 TEUs in November 2014. U.S. exports have declined in 2014 due to weaker demand abroad and a stronger U.S. dollar, which makes U.S. goods more expensive.

Combined, total loaded imports and exports fell 7.2 percent, from 521,423 TEUs in November 2013 to 483,721 TEUs in November 2014. Factoring in empties, which increased 10.6 percent year over year, overall November 2014 volumes (663,346 TEUs) declined 3 percent compared to November 2013 (683,849 TEUs).

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

But that is simply not the case for those who participated in the torture program. False intelligence has not made Americans safe, nor has torture itself, which has justifiably diminished America’s standing in the eyes of the word. Those who tortured captives held in secret prisons were not heroes “on the front lines of a dangerous world,” they were co-conspirators in creating a dangerous world—along with all those above them who gave the orders.

The real heroes were the ones who stood up and tried to stop the torture. And, one reason we need to have trials for these crimes is to bring those heroes forward, so that they can remind us of who we really want to be. The need for heroes is real. Which is all the more reason for ridding ourselves of false ones.

Just as Germans needed the Nuremberg Trials after World War II to disavow their past, and move forward, we Americans today have a similar need for torture trials to help restore our national sense of right and wrong, and make sure we never repeat the crimes of torture again.

SAN PEDRO—On Dec. 11, the Southern California Chapter of the American Public Works Association named two Port of Los Angeles projects as “2014 Project of the Year.”

The projects include the Berth 100 Wharf South Extension and Backland Development initiative and the port’s LA Waterfront Downtown Harbor Landside and Rail Improvement project.

In addition, trade industry publication Engineering News-Record announced that the port has won an “Award of Merit” for its Downtown Harbor project. The project won in the Landscape/ Urban Development category of Engineering News-Record’s “Best Projects” award program.

Officially unveiled in June and considered a centerpiece project of the LA Waterfront in San Pedro, the port’s Downtown Harbor Plaza and Town Square is on 1.2 acres between the Los Angeles Maritime Museum and Fire Station 112.

Previously a parking lot, the space was transformed into a new harbor inlet for recreational vessels.

Surrounding the inlet is a public plaza and pedestrian promenade featuring trees and landscaping, decorative lighting, a picnic area and a Main Channel-overlook pier. Adjacent rail lines were also realigned to accommodate improvements.

As the third and final phase of the China Shipping terminal development program, the Berth 100 Wharf South Extension and Backland development project included construction of a 325-foot reinforced concrete wharf and 14 acres of PCC pavement backland. The port’s existing Alternative Maritime Power system – which allows ships to plug into clean power while at berth – was expanded to the site to allow for an additional berthed vessel to connect to shore-side “AMP” electrical power and enhance air quality.

The Southern California Chapter of APWA (Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties) gives awards each year in recognition of outstanding capital improvement projects and public works programs by public agencies.

This year’s awards were presented at the organization’s 15th Annual Public Works Awards Luncheon on Dec. 11.

The Local Publication You Actually Read

Business Insider drew attention to a later development, in a story, “This Paragraph Shows How CIA Lawyers Knew the Criminality of Torture Techniques”: Aug. 27, 2004, Gul’s CIA interrogators reported that “in terms of overt indications of resistance, [Gul’s] overall resistance is currently judged to be minimal.”

Nonetheless, on August 31, 2004, the CIA interrogators asked CIA Headquarters to approve an extension of all CIA enhanced interrogation techniques against Janat Gul. The CIA’s associate general counsel objected, writing: “In the end, its [sic] going to be an operational call. I just want to be sure that the record is clear that we’re not acting precipitously and are taking into consideration everything we’re learning about this guy. We open ourselves up to possible criminal liability if we misuse the interrogation techniques. I reflect again on the cable or cables from the interrogation team that opines that physical EITs (facial slap, walling, etc.) do not work on him.

I would strongly encourage, then, HQS not to approval [sic] the use of physical interrogation techniques because if they don’t work, then our motives are questionable. If our motives might be questioned, then we get ourselves in trouble.” [Emphasis added]

The bolded passage underscores the importance of the fiction that torture was necessary: it went to motive, and motive, in turn, goes to criminal intent, as any TV crime drama fan well knows.

CIA lawyers also got in a tizzy in 2003, when Bush gave a UN speech condemning torture and calling on other nations to investigate and prosecute torture allegations.

“United States is committed to the worldwide elimination of torture and we are leading this fight by example,” Bush said, which was so at odds with what the CIA was actually doing that they sought “written reaffirmation by some senior White House official that the Agency’s ongoing practices... are to continue.” And continue they did.

Yet another major lie that the CIA promoted was that it took a very professional, carefully calibrated approach. But the program as a whole was poorly managed in multiple ways—in fact, Feinstein’s press release noted, “Of the 119 known detainees that were in CIA custody during the life of the program, at least 26 were wrongfully held”—and so were the torture practices at the heart of it. The press release also said: Records do not support CIA representations that the CIA initially used as “an open, non-threatening approach,” or that interrogations began with the “least coercive technique possible” and escalated to more coercive techniques only as necessary. Instead, in many cases the most aggressive techniques were used immediately, in combination and nonstop.

This was the atmosphere in which the worst abuses appeared, not as aberrations from standard practice, but as logical consequences of it. Even if the torture program had been carefully calibrated, it would still have been a criminal activity. The fact that it wasn’t, but was carried out recklessly, reveals two further points: First, the frequent practice of the CIA to lie about different aspects of the program and second, the role played by uncontrolled emotions and unprofessional

7

If Not Now When?

How We Fail at Democracy, and How It Fails Us James Preston Allen, Publisher

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area

We spend a lot of time in this country talking or posturing about defending democracy. How many times have we gone to war in the past 100 years on this very premise?

Yet, I am constantly reminded of how often we don’t live up to those hallowed words, let alone the intent behind them. The recent U.S. Senate report on the CIA’s use of torture, the egregious acts of brutality by various police agencies against people of color and the militarization of police forces nationwide all lead me to question once again, the “rule of law” and its service in protecting our liberties and freedom.

If we cannot trust those who are sworn to protect us, then who do we trust? It’s that part about “liberty and justice for all” that seems to get lost in the execution.

My friend William Below Jr., who is now working for a think tank in Paris, France, recently handed me a white paper entitled, “The Trust Dividend—Governments That Don’t Rely on Coercion Must Ultimately Count on Trust.” In it, he wrote, “That trust is at a historic low.”

Surely one example of this is the abysmal turnout in the midterm elections which was at a 72 year low of 36.4 percent of eligible voters or nearly half of those who voted 2008 presidential election.

“In trust there are no firewalls between the public and private sectors,” Below continued in the report. “The unchecked greed, unwarranted risk-taking and reckless practices that sparked the financial meltdown and that have made the financial industry the least trusted private sector institution globally, are paralleled by glaring failures in government regulation and oversight.”

This observation only confirms what most of us already understand by reading the news or listening to our neighbors complain about everything from their taxes to their cable TV bills.

Friends and colleagues ask me from where I get my outrage. And I reply, “How can you not be?” It’s a bit like the 1976 film, Network, written by Paddy Chayefsky.

In it, Howard Beale, the long time news anchor on UBS played by Peter Finch, goes on TV after he was fired and exclaims, “I’m

8

mad as hell and I’m not going to take it any more!”

That’s probably one of the most memorable film lines ever.

The outrage does not just come from the killings of black men in Ferguson, Mo., or New York City or Ohio. The outrage doesn’t just come from the revelations of sanctioned torture of prisoners under the George W. Bush administration’s War on Terror. The outrage doesn’t even come from former Vice President Dick Cheney going on national TV saying that “he’d do it all over again.” Never mind the fact that the practice yielded scant intelligence.

I suppose his full-throated defense of the torture tactics was personal to Cheney. But from my perspective, he’d be at the top of the list of war criminals that should be indicted. Like the Wall Street banksters who robbed the poor to give to the rich, the long arm of justice doesn’t ever seem long enough to reach those who call the shots.

It’s not even the biggest of these failures that undermines the public trust. It is the accumulation of smaller transgressions, petty corruption and indifference to public transparency in our smallest institutions (whether public or non-profit) that’s most aggravating.

On the local level, the transgressions of the public trust caused by conflicts of interest are hardly noticed, if not condoned outright.

These transgressions are often caused by wellintentioned people never realizing they have crossed the ethical line between public service and personal gain. Yet, we expect places with a longer history of corruption with fewer democratic traditions to be better.

The failure of democracy on the world stage is exactly the same kind of failure of democracy at home. If the past few wars haven’t taught us anything else, they should have taught us that we can’t give people freedom by coercion at the point of a gun, whether in Iraq, Afghanistan or even now, in Ferguson.

We can only lead by example. And, right now, we are failing miserably at it. Our failure is our lack of faith in our own creed of universal rights and liberties, and our inability to practice them locally. The question really comes down to whether we trust ourselves?

Publisher/Executive Editor James Preston Allen james@randomlengthsnews.com Assoc. Publisher/Production Coordinator Suzanne Matsumiya info@graphictouchdesigns.com

“A newspaper is not just for reporting the news as it is, but to make people mad enough to do something about it.”

—Mark Twain Vol. XXXV : No. 27

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 seven cities of the Harbor Area.

Managing Editor Terelle Jerricks editor@randomlengthsnews.com Assistant Editor Zamná Ávila zamna@randomlengthsnews.com

On the Beach:

Thinking Outside of the Port’s Artificial Box

By Bob Gelfand

A few weeks ago, San Pedro residents were up in arms because the Port of Los Angeles was planning to put the Cabrillo Beach Youth Center (aka the Boy Scout Camp) up for bid.

After all, we’ve been holding onto our own little dream for the past 11 years, namely that this terrific piece of beach-front property would finally come into public usage and accessibility.

There’s a 50-yard pool, a meeting facility, shops and a nicely equipped kitchen. All the amenities that public access would glorify.

Unfortunately, the property has been controlled by the Boy Scouts organization for 31 years, even though it is public land controlled under the Tidelands Act. Due to its location, it’s under the rule of the POLA. The neighborhood councils have asked the port to rescind its request for proposals, RFPs, so that locals and lots of others with a stake in this property could have their proper say. The port responded by announcing in its own quiet way that the bidding process will continue. Apparently, the 1999 Charter Amendment that created neighborhood councils doesn’t mean all that much to the port.

The response from potential bidders is, as yet, unknown, but there are rumors aplenty.

Some people think that the Boy Scouts have the inside track in a bidding contest, Despite its history of various kinds of discriminations, both sexual and religious. Others, point to the popular

Columnists/Reporters Lyn Jensen Carson B. Noel Barr Music Dude John Farrell Curtain Call Lori Lynn Hirsch-Stokoe Food Writer Andrea Serna Arts Writer Malina Paris Culture Writer Calendar 14days@randomlengthsnews.com Photographers Terelle Jerricks, Jessie Drezner, Betty Guevara, Phillip Cooke Contributors Joseph Baroud, David Johnson, Greggory Moore, Danny Simon, Bob Gelfand

Cartoonists Ann Cleaves, Andy Singer, Matt Wuerker Advertising Production Mathew Highland, Suzanne Matsumiya Advertising Representatives Mathew Highland reads@randomlengthsnews.com David Johnson, Richard Olivarez rlnsales@randomlengthsnews.com adv@randomlengthsnews.com Editorial Intern Cassandra Magdaleno Display advertising (310) 519-1442 Classifieds (310) 519-1016 www.randomlengthsnews.com

local group, the Cabrillo Beach Boosters. For all we know, the YMCA and the Girl Scouts may have their own plans. There are no rumors that the ACLU would like to place its own bid.

So your old friend and mine, Doug Epperhart, had a chat with me the other day and raised this point: Everyone is getting obsessed over who will rule the place and we’re not actually talking about how it could best be used. This is a good point.

For example, the facilities that are already in place (and for which the Boy Scouts could be adequately reimbursed) could serve the public good in a lot of different ways. There is room for historical society meetings, scientific gettogethers, surfer conventions and so many other possibilities. There could be a small buildout to create dorm facilities for visiting speakers and researchers. Likewise, the space could be used for educational activities put on by some of the local naturalist organizations and groups. And, of course, there is a lot of room for fun and games.

Sailing clubs and kayakers and the dragon boat people could all have their turn.

And, what this conversation came down to was this simple, slightly out of the box idea: Let’s think about how the current Cabrillo Youth Facility could be used by AltaSea, the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, the Los Angeles Public Access/ to p. 10

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 adv@randomelengthsnews.com or reads@ randomlengthsnews.com.

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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 2014-2015 Random Lengths News. All rights reserved.

RANDOMLetters Editor’s Note: Dan Salvo recently submitted to Random Lengths News the following letter-to-the-editor that originally ran in the Daily Breeze in 2010 believe that its applicable today’s current events.

Neighborhood Fascism

The Local Publication You Actually Read

Yesterday, Aug. 5, 2010, I heard very loud chanting sounds on S. Kerckhoff Avenue in San Pedro. This neighborhood is known for its quietness. I was shocked to hear the chants growing louder as a group of marchers passed.

There were about 30 males in shorts and t-shirts, sporting lose-cut haircuts, all chanting, “Power to the Marines” very loudly as they all marched by in military style formation, led by platoon commander shouting cadence.

This was what I experienced in “Boot camp” military training in 1954. I shouted at them, “Shut up!” and “Disturbing the peace!”, but they just kept marching. They passed continuing across 34th Street. they were escorted by two white vans, front and back, with large black letters saying, “CLOVIS POLICE.” This made no sense to me at all.

I telephoned the LAPD, Harbor Division and was left holding because, “The lines are busy” and after about 12 minutes, I decided to go over to the Harbor Division and report the disturbance there.

As I approached the counter where two young officers were attending, I asked to speak to the Watch Commander, but the taller of the two insisted on knowing “What’s going on.”

I briefly explained to him the disturbance, as above, but his officer asked, “Sir, are you under a doctor’s care?”

I was outraged and expressed it demanding to speak to the Watch Commander. Instead, the sergeant appeared, who was dismissive when I complained of the D.P. further explaining (Penal code Section 415) it defined it as “Any loud or unusual noise.” The sergeant was argumentative, further vitiating the disturbances asI counseled them that our Society was civil, not military and our Commander in Chief was a civilian.

The sergeant would not let me speak, saying he was too busy and would not summon the Watch Commander for the same reason.

However there were no other persons at the counter while I was there, and there were no telephone calls at the counter while I was there either. He refused to supply me with a piece of notepaper and pencil such that I might make notes, directing me instead to the complaint forms on the distant wall.

I further charged that the group was apparently marching without a permit. He dismissed this also. I was not given the chance to demand an investigation of this obvious DP incident, and of course the sergeant stated, as to the marching group, “I think it’s a good thing—it keeps the kids off the streets. I will proceed with a formed complaint to internal affairs, identifying the officers by name.

It seems our country is headed for a fascist state as it seems to be when a residential neighborhood is subjected to military march/chant. I also questioned whether the Clovis Police had jurisdiction in this area. The sergeant’s response was also plain horse-puckey, as he stated, police officers from any jurisdiction can go into any jurisdiction (perhaps in hot pursuit only). He also objected when I replied that he was argumentative. He took my name and I left. Ask your readers whether they want to see and hear street militance!

Dan Salvo San Pedro

Queen of the Hop: Lost in San Pedro

More Letters/ to p. 19

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

My friend came by the other day. All she wanted to talk about were our high school classmates, Frankie and Johnny.

Frankie was an all-American girl and an all-American student. She was brilliant with math and often helped other students. She was senior class president and was on the girls’ volleyball team. She loved to dance and at the Wednesday sock hops she was always the first one on the floor jiving to “Poison Ivy” or her favorite, “Rockin’ Robin.”

Frankie’s boyfriend Johnny played on the football team and was an average student. He was popular because he had a car and his parents operated a local teen hangout. Johnny’s parents loved Frankie. She was queen of the hangout.

Frankie and Johnny walked hand-in-hand around campus so much, a crowd of classmates would yell at them to get a room. They had been together since they were sophomores, so what others thought did not matter. They knew they were in love forever: serendipity in a sandwich, a coke and french fries, and a white cupcake with sprinkles. Love would conquer all.

Frankie’s parents were college graduates and she was expected to attend UC Berkeley. Her goal was to get a

9

from p. 4

Without a Home

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

Serving the Seven Cities of the Harbor Area

Some of the community comments: “Move em to skid row I’ll donate a blanket. No more nodding n smiling and just doing what officials say. Get rid of em for good.”

“I live on Beacon and to have them camping out with all their stuff and not just one but many, is unappealing and disrespectful to the people that live in that area.”

“This is TOTALLY Unacceptable. A Park is not a Sleeping home for the homeless. It is for people to re-create in. Some of you may want this, but the residences around the Parks want it to be humane and usable for them. It is INHUMANE to encourage and allow people to do this to themselves and Society. Thank You, Councilman, for doing The Right Thing!”

10

“My kid should be able to use a park and not have to worry about disturbing the “sleepy man” or go to the bathroom without seeing someone “bathing” in the sink.”

Other responses were more compassionate: “I wonder how many of the angry neighbors take the time to say hello...bring coffee in the morning…ask to hear their stories? We are all a few steps away from homeless...a bad break or bad decisions and everybody acts like they have the plague.”

from p. 9

Public Access

Seeking Solutions

In fact, on Dec. 3, Officer Jacqueline Lopez, who several homeless people referred to highly, organized a Homeless Outreach Day at the Bartlett Center, across the street from Plaza Park.

Several organizations set up booths to provide resources to homeless people in the area.

“Transients have been, and homeless have been, an eyesore for the San Pedro residents,” Lopez said. “There are people who complain about them, there are people who also are advocates for homeless. So, I wanted to be the mediator, the middle person, and help these individuals get off the street.”

She believes in building a partnership between the City of Los Angeles, LAPD Harbor Division and these organizations, so that everyone can have a better understanding of how the process works.

“We’re committed to partnering with anyone who wants to help with the homeless issue,” he said. “We are also committed to identifying services for the homeless population. But we can’t do it by ourselves.

One solution is looking at better options for permanent housing. Once that happens, other issues such as mental health or substance abuse could be addressed through case management.

That can be accomplished through government assistance programs, foundations and private

John Kinbrough reclines by his cart in Plaza Park Dec. 8. Photo by David Johnson.

donations, as well as advocacy for landlords to be more open to renting to homeless people or people living in poverty.

“We need permanent housing for individuals, because once they are in housing their whole life changes,” Ceaser said. “If people really, really want to embrace the cause, it’s there. Our elected officials have to be willing to proceed to recognize the need and be willing to maybe go against the grain and not worry about what the NIMBYs say.”

Neecee also suggests having a locker system that they could rent affordably so they don’t have push around their carts.

Neecee is on a waiting list for housing.

Winter shelter just opened up, but she feels guilty because she dreads the idea of Jared, her son, being out on the streets while she is in a shelter.

“The rain was hard, because there was nowhere to go and I was just sitting in the rain getting wet,” she said.

Unified School District’s Marine Magnet High School and by all sorts of other fraternal and scholastic organizations. Instead of letting the port select one bid from one organization, which will necessarily limit the scope of activities and limit who will gain the pleasure of participating, let’s move the conversation off in a different direction.

Let’s first ask what we think this property could be used for, and let’s have this conversation without a lot of preconceptions about how usage has to be limited or even the argument that somebody has to be in charge. The choice of the ruling agency and its procedures must necessarily depend on the broader goals.

Doug and I think that there can be lots of goals and a broad spectrum of uses for this property. I personally would like to see if Alta Sea could come up with a proposal for a week or two of summer science workshops, and yes, it would be possible to do this without making the place unavailable to everyone else.

Let’s extend the proposal one little bit more.

When the world’s leaders in oceanography and marine biology come to San Pedro, let’s allocate a certain number of the available seats to interested members of the public.

Our San Pedro Film Society in collaboration with the San Pedro International Film Festival would love to do movie nights and home movie nights open to the public and we’d like to be able to do them without charge.

When the neighborhood councils asked that the facility allow for public access, the port dutifully wrote that term into the RFP as one item to be scored by the port’s real estate judging committee. That’s really not enough.

There has to be not only public access, but a certain amount of public input into the scope of subject matter that goes into the decision making process. I’d like to see the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium be able to bring a proposal for a weekend symposium on the condition of the world’s whales and not have to be told, “Sorry, but the calendar is full until 2019.”

Camping and the organization which oversees it has been something of a bone of contention, since allowing children to sleep on public grounds offers inevitable security concerns. But this is also an issue that is susceptible of a resolution without going right to the most limited, authoritarian solutions.

So to borrow a little of Doug’s thoughts and perhaps one or two of my own, let’s approach this question as a wide-open opportunity. We should approach all these possibilities with optimism and happiness that the public has such a terrific place to make use of.

It makes sense for the city to rescind the port’s RFP for the moment, in order that we may have a legitimate conversation about wide-open ideas rather than limitations via authority.

One more thing, this is public property and it belongs to all of the people of California. It certainly should be appealing to people from all over Los Angeles, from the coast up to the northern edge of the Valley. It’s yours, too, and you have a right to be told about it and to have a say in how this property is ultimately going to be used.

Bob Gelfand writes on culture and politics for CityWatch. He can be reached at amrep535@ sbcglobal.net. Doug Epperhart contributed to this column.

Warschaw/Winter group exhibition at TransVagrant Gallery.

By Andrea Serna, Arts and Culture Writer

M

the wall. Happily, local artists and art enthusiasts follow his exhibitions devotedly.

Linden is an art professor at Los Angeles Harbor College and curator of the Harbor College art gallery. He kicked off his career with a masters in fine arts from the University of Illinois and left a tenured position in the Midwest to move to California. His resume contains positions at the some of the most prestigious art institutions in Los Angeles, but he supported himself for many years as a set builder and artist in the film industry. He has been instrumental in the development of the San Pedro arts district.

Lindens understated restrained work is included in the exhibit.

“Although Linden’s abstract painting utilizes, in unexpected and subtle ways, techniques acquired in his three decades working in the scenic industry, its deeper base is his ongoing interest in the philosophical conundrums of modern art,” wrote art critic Peter Plagens of Lindens work in the online website CUE Art Foundation. “Working with mixed materials, Linden’s layered compositions strike an odd but convincing sense of balance and solidity.”

Jay McCafferty’s delicate solar burned, process driven work is included in this show. As well as the whimsical paintings of Ted Twine.

Emerging artist Elizabeth Medina has contributed an abstract impressionist piece reflecting her interest in the work of Richard Diebenkorn. Medina is a masters in fine arts student

December 25, 2014 – January 7, 2015 December 25, 2014 – January 7, 2015, 2014

aybe it’s just me, but the quality of exhibitions at Warschaw/TransVagrant Gallery seems to get better and better with each new opening.

Warschaw/Winter is an eclectic group exhibition featuring artist works previously featured at Warschaw/ TransVagrant Gallery. Painting in its various guises, from geometric patterns to biomorphic abstraction to solar-burned works, play alongside large scale photographs, sculptures made largely of pigmented rubber, Sumi ink drawing and ironic 3-D assemblage. The common denominator is quality.

Linden is unfailing in his ability to curate artists with national and international reputations. This latest show includes emerging artists as well as the solidly established and mid-career artists that San Pedro is known for. Craig Antrim, Merwin Belin. Arnée Carofano, Katy Crowe, Nate Jones, Hyung Mo Lee, Ron Linden, William Mahan, Jay McCafferty, Elizabeth Medina, Heidi Pollard, Yong Sin, Gary Szymanski, Marie Thibeault, Ted Twine and HK Zamani are artists in the exhibit.

Warschaw Gallery is as unconventional as the artist who manages the exhibit space. Hidden in a breezeway in the Pacific Warner Building, with entrances on Pacific Avenue and on 6th Street. The gallery receives foot traffic primarily from people visiting Off the Vine wine bar, or the local pot shop. It is doubtful that most of the people passing through the gallery realize the significance of the art hanging on

ACE: Arts • Cuisine • Entertainment ACE • Art, Cuisine, & Entertainment

Winter Reflects the Season of Cool at Warshaw

at Otis College of Art and Design.

Angels Gate artist Hyong Mo Lee is another emerging artist, whose work on paper exhibits a rigorously detailed hand-penciled drawing. His education includes attendance at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, as well as at the San Francisco Art Institute and the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts.

“My drawing strategy is similar to the slow growing process of stones, trees and mountains,” Lee said. “It is an incremental process — laborious and time consuming — whereby a single cellular unit or mark is repeated until all surface is filled.”

Stand outs in this show are photographer Ray Carofano and his wife, photographer Arnée Carofano. The two photographers reside and work at Gallery 478 on 7th St. Their studio is a popular stop on the San Pedro art walk night.

Ray has worked in black and white abstract landscapes for much of his 50-year career. Recently, his composition has moved further away from representational references and muted color has lent a haunting impression to his photos.

His wife, Arnée, also an accomplished artist, has developed her own distinctive style. Two pieces focusing on the Pacific Ocean, confirms her shared interest in the abstract perspective.

Many more works stand out in this exhibition. The exhibition will be displayed in the hallways of the old building at the corner of 6th Street and Pacific Avenue. If you are stopping by the dispensary, or heading for a glass of wine, your visit will be enhanced by a few minutes spent viewing the art at Warschaw Gallery.

Winter runs through Jan. 16, 2015.

Details: (310) 600-4873 Venue: Warschaw/TransVagrant Gallery Location: 600 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro

1111

December 25, 2014 – January 7, 2015

Independent And Free.

The Queen Mary

12

DECEMBER 31

People’s Yoga, Health and Dance

Go to downtown San Pedro to ring in the New Year. There’s going to be a party at People’s Yoga, Health and Dance with local band, Down the Hatch cranking out rock, classic rock, blues, and rhythm and blues, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Tickets can be purchased at People’s Yoga, Health & Dance or at the San Pedro Elks Lodge, 1748 Cumbre Road in San Pedro. All proceeds will benefit the San Pedro Elks Lodge Rebuild Fund.

Admission is $40 per person. Light food and a cash only bar will be provided by the San Pedro Elks Lodge #966.

Details: (310) 547-2348, (562) 277-6195; sp966catering@gmail.com, stammiam@yahoo. com Venue: People’s Yoga, Health & Dance Location: 365 W. 6th St., San Pedro

San Pedro Brewing Co.

A few doors down from the People’s Yoga, Health and Dance is San Pedro Brewing’s New Years Eve party with Luke VonDuke, a multiinstrumentalist rocker and hip hop artist DJing the party. Admission is $5.

Details: www.sanpedrobrewing.com Venue: San Pedro Brewing Co. Location: 331 6th St., San Pedro

Celebrate the launch of 2015 under a fireworksfilled sky on the legendary decks of the Queen Mary. Toast the New Year in style and enjoy an unforgettable evening of great food, drinks and live entertainment. New Year’s Eve aboard the Queen Mary is a sell-out party every year.

Whether you want to dance the night away, or simply enjoy the music, there’s no shortage of entertainment aboard the Queen Mary.

The 21 and older all-night bash highlights seven destinations from the Queen Mary’s Mediterranean Cruise of 1966 through music, culture, food and entertainment. A global party made unforgettable by renowned headliners, The Gypsy All Stars featuring Gypsy Kings alumni, DJ Dennis Owens and DJ Groovy Lu. New Year’s Eve aboard the Queen Mary will be a brilliant welcome to 2015.

Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Morocco, Egypt and the United States will transform three-and-ahalf acres of the ship’s deck and salon space into an international celebration of festivities. Revelers can party from country to country, reminiscent of the Scottish tradition to celebrate from house to house. Destinations include: Cannes, France: A plum-hued Royal Casino (8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. blackjack, craps & roulette) and French cabaret vibrates with French Can-Can, champagne shows, Moulin Rouge Cabaret by Bling Divas Entertainment (9 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 10 p.m., 10:30 p.m., 11 p.m.).

Cartagena, Spain: The Queen’s Salon turned exotic Spanish Flamenco Lounge with tapas and flowing sangria served from the Matador Bar to the sounds of The Gypsy All Stars (8:30 p.m., 9:45 p.m., 11:05 p.m. and 12 a.m. balloon drop) and a famed Flamenco Duo 8:05 p.m., 9:20 p.m., 10:40 p.m.).

Mykonos, Greece: Its dynamic club scene now lights up the Sports Deck with an LED dance floor adjacent to the Arena Bar surrounded

by Greco ruins and busts of Grecian gods. The island nightlife is complete with a surprise guest DJ spinning electronic dance music from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Alexandria, Egypt VIP ONLY: Guests can channel their inner Cleopatra amidst golden pyramids, belly dancers (8:35 p.m., 9:35 p.m., 10:35 p.m., 11:35 p.m. and 12:15 a.m.) and snake charmers in the ship’s Britannia Salon where DJ Groovy Lu spins Top 40’s Hip Hop (8 p.m. to 1 a.m.) across from the Pharaoh Bar. Tangier, Morocco VIP ONLY: Vibrant energy is brought to life in a colorful Moroccan pavilion that hosts The Dancing Fire Belly Harem (9:05 p.m., 10:05 p.m., 11:05 p.m.), the Pyramid Hookah Lounge ($25) from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., henna art and the Elephant Bar. Portofino, Italy: Romantics can indulge in the country’s love of food and song with singing gondoliers at the Grand Salon’s Italian buffet and Gondola Bar. Enjoy Goldolier Serenades at 8 p.m., 8:30 p.m., 9 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

New York, United States: Party-goers can bring it back home sipping on a Manhattan at the Broadway Bar featuring Grand Dueling Pianos (8 p.m., 9:15 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.) in Verandah Grill. The Central Park-themed Sundeck is a magical place for another New Year’s tradition Continued on next page.

Enjoy the giant fireworks extravaganza and unforgettable family fun, this 4th of July aboard the Queen Mary. Photo courtesy of the Queen Mary.

– a Rockette-style (8:30 p.m. and 12 a.m.) countdown that culminates in a spectacular midnight fireworks show. Queen Mary favorite DJ Dennis Owens will spin Top 40 hits from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Details: QueenMary.com

New Years Eve in Downtown Long Beach

Downtown Long Beach New Year’s Eve is an annual NYE celebration on the waterfront and at the intersection of Pine Avenue and Broadway in Long Beach. Located smack dab in the middle of downtown Long Beach and just a few blocks from the beach, this intersection is home to the live music and outdoor party spanning throughout the night.

Combining two distinct parties into an encompassing celebration, Downtown Long Beach New Year’s Eve 2015 offers attractions for adults and children alike with everything from

live music, numerous bars, fireworks and childfocused activities to entertain guests all through the night. The more child-centric attractions are found at the waterfront celebration, which includes live music and child-focused carnival-esque activities along with a fantastic view of the fireworks. The party on Pine Avenue takes up two square blocks and features seven outdoor bar areas and three stages of live music featuring local performers covering many different genres.

The 2015 Downtown Long Beach New Year’s Eve tickets start at $15 for the party on Pine Avenue and are available for purchase online. Admission to the waterfront celebration is free for all.

Details: www.downtownlongbeach.org

Civic Center New Year’s Eve celebration.

Since 2010, the Carson Civic Center New Year’s Eve has featured an open bar and dancing through the night to beats by popular local DJs. The 2014 Carson Civic Center New Year’s Eve offers partiers a four-hour open bar and live beats by local masters of the mix like DJ JiJi Sweet. Come dressed to impress and be sure to honor the dress code by leaving the jeans and tennis shoes at home. Dance until the coming year to the best in rhythm and blues, oldies and top 40 hits, try your luck at the mock casino games, and fill up on appetizers before toasting to the future with a glass of champagne when the clock strikes midnight.

Tickets to the Carson Civic Center New Year’s Eve 2015 start at around $75 per person.

For the ultimate New Year’s celebration, opt for a Platinum Table Package ranging from about $560 for 8 guests, to about $700 for 10 guests.

The Platinum Table Packages include tickets for all guests and a VIP table for the night.

Details: http://carenewyearsball.ticketleap.com/ carenye5/ Venue: Carson Civic Center Location: 801 E. Carson St., Carson

Joe Kincaid’s NYE Party at the Seabird Lounge

Admission is $35 to $60 including party favors and food. The doors open at 7:30 p.m.

Details: (562) 432-5240 Venue: The Seabird Lounge Location: 730 E. Broadway, Long Beach

5 th Annual Black, White Masquerade NYE Party

Southern California is full of options for bringing in the New Year. But for South Los Angeles socialites, the biggest party of the night is the Carson

ACE: Arts • Cuisine • Entertainment December 25, 2014 – January 7, 2015

13

New Jackson’s Wine Bar Complements Downtown Vibe

By Andrea Serna, Arts and Culture Writer

December 25, 2014 – January 7, 2015

Independent And Free.

For several months, Linda Jackson and her

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daughter Melissa Klug have been working to bring a spot with urban flair and sophistication to the heart of the 7th Street gallery row.

In January 2015 a new establishment, stocked with a wide array of wines and beer, will open in that area. For two generations, the family has owned 14 units occupying almost the entire south side block of 7th Street, between Mesa and Centre streets. Jackson’s father, Vartkes Barsam, purchased the property from the City of Los Angeles in the mid-1970s. Many years prior to his ownership, the historic location was a meat processing factory.

Many of the units are occupied by small business and artists. A few of the units are highly prized live-work spaces, but Jackson had one double width space that she was unable to keep occupied.

“Tenants would say, ‘it’s a nice big space,’ but it was a lot of overhead if you don’t have an aggressive business,” Jackson said.

Eventually Jackson and her daughter began kicking around the idea trying their hand at running their own business.

“After college I began getting into craft beer” said Klug, an engineer. “My mom has always been a really good hostess. She is the person who always entertains at her home. We got together and decided, ‘Why don’t we put something together?’”

They sat down with a pencil and paper one night and began to envision the possibilities.

“We hope to attract young professionals in the nearby apartments” Klug said .

The interior of the spacious location was designed by their neighbor Decha Ruangboonsuk of Visionary Arts. The designer occupies the

building across the street and operates the tattoo parlor UDOIDO. His creative talents have fashioned a rich wood interior with modern cement flooring and massive wall spaces that the business owners hope to fill with the work of local artists. Comfortable booths, modern design and a sophisticated atmosphere will provide an urbane alternative to the happy hour crowd.

Klug said the neighborhood business community has been supportive of the efforts to bring another drinking establishment to the area. In particular, they have already established relationships with local eateries.

“We are going to have all the menus from the local restaurants here and they will deliver to our customers while they are here,” Klug said.

They did not include a full kitchen in the remodel of the space, so they will not be serving dinner there in the future.

“We are planning to offer wines from small boutique wineries, things you can’t find in the local stores.” Jackson said. “We will depend on our distributors to help us with the offerings.”

Reserves from small labels will be a specialty for wine lovers. Tastings will be on the agenda, as well as special events and acoustic music. In the beginning the pair plans to test the waters with soft openings and private parties.

After many months of construction delays, it looks like wine and beer lovers will have a new place to relax and taste the undiscovered. With Jackson’s Place and Brouwerij West opening at the port, the choices for beer and wine lovers are getting better for 2015.

Details: (310) 251-2065; jacksonsplace.com Venue: Jackson’s Place Location: 335 W. 7th St., San Pedro

Entertainment DECEMBER 26

Joe Kincaid Joe Kincaid and the Soul Brothers Band will be performing Dec. 26 at Roscoe’s Seabird Lounge in Long Beach. There’s no cover and there is free parking.

Details: www.seabirdjazzloungelbc.com/ Venue: Roscoe’s Seabird Lounge Location: 730 E. Broadway, Long Beach Live Tribute to Depeche Mode Three live bands and two DJs give a live tribute to Depeche Mode, including: Wild Mood Swings, which features members of The Curse, Sweetest Perfection, and My Friends Cover Band. Carved Souls; the mother of synth-pop. The new combination of elements forged the fundamental sound of Carved Souls; Fr3qu3nc3, an EDM Band utilizing today’s technology and elements of yesterdays vibes to create a whole new genre of music. The DJs are Dark Chrystal (Perversion) and Eisbær (Berlin).

Details: www.alpinevillagecenter.com Venue: Alpine Village Location: 833 W. Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90502

December 28

Peter Matuchniak & Friends Peter Matuchniak & Friends will perform, at 4 p.m. Dec. 28, at Alvas Showroom in San Pedro.

Details: (310) 519-1314; www.alvasshowroom. com Venue: Alvas Showroom Location: 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro

January 2

Xntricks at the San Pedro Brewing Co. Rock band, the Xntricks, will be performing at the BrewCo from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Jan. 2.

There’s a $3 cover.

Details: www.sanpedrobrewing.com Venue: San Pedro Brewing Co. Location: 331 6th St., San Pedro

Tony Abatemarco and Paige Lindsey White in Joanna McClelland Glass’ Trying International City Theatre, Long Beach.

Photo by Suzanne Mapes.

And Plots Courses to Ever Greater Heights

By John Farrell, Curtain Call Writer

San Pedro and Long Beach have grown up

Continued on page 17.

January 4

Jazzedelics The Jazzedelics will perform, at 8 p.m. Jan. 4, at Alvas Showroom in San Pedro. Jazzedelics is the brainchild of singer and percussionist Tony Jones and guitarist Doug Perkins based on a simple premise: What if seminal rock giants of the 60s had written their songs in a jazz framework? With music from Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, The Who, The Rolling Stones, The Animals and others, Jazzedelics is a mash-up band that will excite audiences looking for something familiar but out of the ordinary. Admission is $20.

Details: (800) 403-3447 Venue: Alvas Showroom Location: 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro

January 6

John Daversa Progressive Big Band The John Daversa Progressive Big Band performs at 8 p.m. Jan. 6, at Alvas Showroom in San Pedro.

The band explores the vast catalog of The Beatles through Daversa’s imaginative, genre-fusing arrangements. Admission is $30.

Details: (800) 403-3447 Venue: Alvas Showroom Location: 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro

December 26

Chill at the Queen Mary A deep freeze will take over the Queen Mary this holiday season as Chill continues through Jan. 11. Enjoy Ice Skating, Ice Tubing and the incredible Ice Kingdom as a cold front overtakes Southern California.

Details: www.queenmary.com Venue: The Queen Mary Location: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach Tall Ships Offer Holiday Tours A pair of tall ships — Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain, are offering walk tours and cannon battles, Dec. 26 and 27, at Ports O’ Call Village in San Pedro. The ships are touring ports delivering K through 12 education programs to schools and service groups. Tickets for tours are $3. Tickets for sails range from $43 to $63.

Details: (800) 200-5239; www.historicalseaport. org Venue: Ports O’ Call Village Location: 1199 Nagoya Way, San Pedro

DECEMBER 27

The Waterfront Market Begins Take a stroll on the LA Waterfront Dec. 27 and purchase local, sustainable and certified organic food products. There are also prepared foods.

The market will be open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Venue: Waterfront Plaza Location: 6th Street at Harbor Blvd., San Pedro

DECEMBER 31

Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate!

This is one colossal party on ice, with all your favorite Disney friends at Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate! Dec. 31, 2014 through Jan. 4, 2015 at the Long Beach Arena. Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald and Goofy as they celebrate a Very Merry Unbirthday Party with Alice and the Mad Hatter; a Royal Valentine’s Day Ball with your favorite Disney princesses, including Cinderella, Ariel, Belle and Tiana; a Hawaiian luau with Lilo & Stitch; a whole new world with Jasmine and Aladdin; a winter wonderland with Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear; a Halloween haunt with the Disney villains and more in a magical medley of holidays, celebrations and festivities from around the globe.

Details: (800) 745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com/ venue/90208?brand=lbarena Venue: Long Beach Arena Location: 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach

January 1

New Year’s Polar Bear Swim Join the Cabrillo Beach Polar Bears for the crowning of the new king and queen of the Polar Bears on New Year’s Day at 11:30 a.m. and for the first swim or dip of the year at noon. Free coffee, hot cocoa, cupcakes and cookies made by the Lady Polar Bears will be available. The Cabrillo Beach Polar Bears are a club that is dedicated to swimming, fitness and community service.

Details: www.cabrillobeachpolarbears.com Venue: Cabrillo Beach Location: 3800 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro First Tidepool Walk of the Year Join Cabrillo Marine Aquarium educators and volunteers as they share the winter wonders of the natural habitats, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 1. Bring family and friends to the aquarium’s John M. Olguin Auditorium for an informative slide show, followed by a naturalist-led walk to see animals in their natural habitat at the nearby Point Fermin tidepools.

Details: ( 310 ) 5 4 8 - 7 5 6 2 ; w w w. cabrillomarineaquarium.org Venue: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Location: 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro Calendar continued on page 16.

December 25, 2014 – January 7, 2015

in the past few decades.

Once the cities were known for sailors and seamen celebrating in local bars. That died out more than 20 years ago, but there was little to replace that kind of entertainment.

In the first decade of this century much has changed. Now both communities boast an exciting and challenging theater scene, with companies that have developed into vital parts of their communities. Long Beach’s International City Theatre is probably the oldest, celebrating its 30th season next year.

San Pedro’s Little Fish Theatre, which begun in 2002, has grown to become a proud member of a growing downtown arts and theater scene.

Theatrum Elysium San Pedro Rep, which has just finished its first season in downtown and has plans for an exciting 2015 is across the alley from Little Fish.

The Long Beach Playhouse has been around for more than 80 years and has a schedule of plays on both its stages that brings everything from Shaw and Shakespeare to contemporary drama to their theater on Anaheim Street. The Garage Theatre, even if it is housed in a plain-wrap storefront on Seventh Street, is also celebrating

its 10th year in existence.

There is more: two regular production companies from California State University, Long Beach, including the prestigious Cal Rep, productions at the Warner Grand in San Pedro and a theater at Long Beach City College.

These productions are often wonderful.

There’s not enough room in this article to mention everything. This is a sample. You’ll need to go on your computer to find out all the information.

The Garage Theatre can’t announce their 2015 season yet. They are still negotiating the rights to one play and won’t have all the information ready until Feb. 1. But they do know what they are doing next: Wet Hot American Summer by David Wain, a play version of the 2001 film he wrote and directed.

The rest of their season will be announced in February. Go to www.thegaragetheatre.org for details.

Two-thousand-fifteen is already looking like a banner year for the Long Beach Playhouse. On Jan. 17, 2015 they are opening Murder on the Nile, an Agatha Christie thriller, in their mainstage space.

Soulshot at the San Pedro Brewing Co. Rock band, Soulshot, will be performing at the BrewCo from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Jan. 3. There’s a $3 cover.

Details: www.sanpedrobrewing.com Venue: San Pedro Brewing Co. Location: 331 6th St., San Pedro

Community/Family

ACE: Arts • Cuisine • Entertainment

Theatre Powerhouses Celebrate Anniversaries

January 3

American Monster Blues This is a night of excellent debauchery features a host of fiery red-hot burlesque dancers performing to the loud, raucous blues stylings.

Details: (562) 239-3700; http://longbeach. harvelles.com Venue: Harvelle’s Location: 201 E. Broadway, Long Beach

January 9

Richard Sherman Trio The Richard Sherman Trio and the Grammy Award winning Bili Redd will be performing at Alvas at 8 p.m. Jan. 9. Admission is $20.

Details: (800) 403-3447 Venue: Alvas Showroom Location: 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro

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Calendar from page 15.

JANUARY 2

Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl Community Day On Jan. 2, 2015, between 2 and 5 p.m., meet the nation’s top high school football players before they compete at 6 p.m. Jan. 4, 2015 in the 2015 Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl at StubHub Center in Carson. Learn how to pass, catch and kick a football during an afternoon filled with games and activities at this event designed to mentor young athletes. It’s free for students ages 5 to 12. Every participant will receive a special gift pack and invitations to the game. Register

by Dec. 29, 2014 at your local park.

Details: (310) 847-3570; http://recreation.carson. ca.us Venue: Carson Park Location: 21411 Orrick Ave., Carson Explore The Shore Spend exploring the shore, from 12 to 2 p.m. Jan. 2, at Cabrillo Beach. This free activity will include guided interpretation of inner Cabrillo Beach, saltmarsh, outer wave-swept sandy beach and the Cabrillo Beach tidepools.

Details: ( 310 ) 5 4 8 - 7 5 6 2 ; w w w. cabrillomarineaquarium.org Venue: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Location: 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro

JANUARY 3

Tidepool Wonders Explore low tides on the rocky shore, Jan. 3 through 31, at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro. There are six dates to select from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Jan. 3, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Jan. 4, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 17, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Jan. 18 and 31. Additionally, a presentation in Spanish will be offered from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Jan. 4. Bring family and friends to the aquarium’s John M. Olguin Auditorium for an informative slide show with an education staff member, followed by a guided walk to the nearby Point Fermin tidepools.

Details: ( 310 ) 5 4 8 - 7 5 6 2 ; w w w. cabrillomarineaquarium.org Venue: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Location: 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro

Independent And Free.

JANUARY 7

Join SEA Club Kindergarten through 2nd grade students enrolled in Cabrillo Marine Aquarium’s SEA Club (Science Education Afternoons) will learn while having fun exploring the local marine environment, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on four consecutive Wednesdays, Jan. 7 through 28. The Aquarium’s marine laboratory classroom will serve as a base station for hands-on ocean exploration. The cost for four weekly sessions is $30 ($27 for members).Financial assistance is available. Pre-registration is required.

Details: ( 310 ) 5 4 8 - 7 5 6 2 ; w w w. cabrillomarineaquarium.org Venue: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Location: 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro

on her own childhood experience, the play tells the story of Lisa and a mysterious visitor who comes into her life, introducing her to the old world traditions of superstitions, mysticism, and cooking as she questions her Mexican American roots. General admission is $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

Details: www.grandvision.org/ Venue: Grand Annex Location: 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro

JANUARY 9

Pick of the Vine: Season 13 Get your tickets to a veritable bounty of short plays offered up by authors from all over the world. What happens when you don’t throw a pinch of dropped salt over your shoulder? Or to the trash you throw out? Or when a prank phone call turns into a conversation? Come find out the answers to these questions and more as this season’s “picks” serve you a delectable evening of entertainment in 5 to 10 minute bites, Jan. 9, at Little Fish Theatre in San Pedro.

Details: www.littlefishtheatre.org/ Venue: Little Fish Theatre Location: 777 S. Centre St., San Pedro

Art Transformations The Museum of Latin American Art presents Transformations, through May 17. Transformations is an exhibition that visually depicts how everyday people deal with, and are transformed by, life altering challenges. Utilizing art from MOLAA’s collection, participants will select works that reflect their emotional state before and after their transformative experience. Five local community members will share inspiring stories ranging in topics from cancer to gang violence.

Details: (562) 437-1689 Venue: Museum of Latin American Art Location: 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach

January 9

Latin American Lifestyles Join scholar Jorge N. Leal in a discussion that highlights the creative methods used by migrants to move across borders, Jan. 9, at the Museum of Latin American Art. He will also present artwork created by artists who address themes of mobility and innovation, ideas central to the work of Esterio Segura. Leal earned a masters of arts in history from Cal State University Northridge and is pursuing a doctorate in history at UC San Diego. Leal researches topics in the history of ethnic Mexicans in the United States from a transnational historical perspective. Admission for members is free; non-members pay $9.

Limited to 40 participants.

Details: (562) 437-1689 Venue: Museum of Latin American Art Location: 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach

January 11

The 94th International Watercolor Exhibit

Theater/Film

December 25, 2014 – January 7, 2015

DECEMBER 26

16

The Christmas Carol is ‘Sung’ Art-In-Relation will produce The Christmas Carol, Dec. 26 and 27 at Long Beach’s Ernest Borgnine Theatre. The Christmas Carol tells the story of a bitter old miser named Ebenezer Scrooge, the curmudgeonly businessman who requires the intervention of a few spectral guides to understand the true meaning of Christmas and life. Tickets are $25 for general seating, with discounted seats at $20 for seniors older than 55, and $15 for children 12 and younger.

Details: (800) 838-3006; http://thechristmascarol. brownpapertickets.com Venue: Ernest Borgnine Theatre Location: 855 Elm Ave., Long Beach

JANUARY 8

Shadows Playwright and San Pedro native, Linda Dunton Delmar presents the 15th anniversary of her off-Broadway play, Shadows, Jan. 8 through 17, at the Grand Annex in San Pedro. Based

The 94th International Watercolor Exhibit runs through January 11, 2015, at the National Watercolor Society Gallery in San Pedro. This event is a juried exhibition of today’s top international and national watercolor artists. This year’s exhibit has more than 80 original paintings, never before shown in a national exhibition.

Details: www.nationalwatercolorsociety.wildapricot. org Venue: NWS Gallery Location: 915 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro

Listening in to LACO’s Baroque Conversations T

By Melina Paris Music Columnist

he Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra has a well-loved tradition of performing the five concert “Baroque Conversation” series.

Now in its ninth year, music director Jeffrey Kahane leads the program. This year the program uniquely included four harpsichords with the chamber orchestra. There were two performances: Dec. 11 at Zipper Hall in downtown Los Angeles and on Dec. 13 at The Valley Performing Arts Center in Northridge Former San Pedro resident and artist, Curtis Berak, is the builder and owner of the four harpsichords that were played. Two were modeled after Italian designs (Italians were the first to make harpsichords), the other two were French designs.

The tops of the harpsichords also were on display at the back of the stage. Each was finely painted

by San Pedro artist Timna Pilch, depicting country side scenes and painted marble.

“Baroque Conversations” studies the beginning of orchestral repertoire from early Baroque through the pre-classical periods. Kahane, a notable keyboardist, was featured on harpsichord as he led the Baroque orchestra of musicians and eight featured soloists. This performance honored the connection between Vivaldi and Bach, who transcribed many of Vivaldi’s compositions.

The orchestra opened with Vivaldi’s “Concerto in B minor for Four Violins, Opus 3, No. 10.”

The harpsichords alongside the violin’s sounded elegant and refreshing. This is one of the works that Bach adapted six concertos from for different instruments. As this concerto progressed the music transitioned to a more nuanced and emotional expression. It was perfect in every way.

Next was Albinoni’s “Concerto in D minor, Opus 9, No. 2.” This one took my breath away. It is the most famous work in this genre by Albinoni and featured musician, Mr. Vogel on oboe. Vogel’s playing had a distinct timbre that resonated deeply.

This number consisted of long luxurious notes that Kahane described accurately as “heaven on earth,” ethereal and rustic at once.

They followed with a work for the season with Corelli’s Concerto Grosso in G minor, Opus 6, No.8 “Christmas Concerto.” It was a soothing piece that expressed both peace and joy.

Today, the term ‘Baroque orchestra’ often refers to chamber orchestras that give historically informed performances of baroque or classical music with period instruments or replicas. (Hence the name Baroque Conversations.) After the performance Kahane and the other musicians had

Mural of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra visible from the northbound 110 FWY. File photo.

the traditional Q-and-A with the audience.

This year Berak stayed for the talk as well. It was a highly interesting addition to the concert.

Not only did it offer an in depth look into the music of the period, it allowed the audience to see through the composers eyes in his time. It translated that experience to present day scenarios for musicians.

One of the questions asked of Mr. Berak was, “What makes someone want to build a harpsichord?”

Berak said he was an artist and a painter. While he worked he had lots of time to listen to music and he had a passion for baroque music and the harpsichord. Someone suggested to him that he build a harpsichord. He said there are kits available so he just learned. The most recent harpsichord he built took him three years because he was doing other work at the same time.

He also explained there is no standardization of harpsichords.

“It is an instrument unique to itself,” he said.

When asked if you could hear the difference between harpsichords Kahane explained that the Italian designed harpsichords have a more direct, active sound where the French ones sound more sensual.

An intriguing question asked was, “Where would Albinoni and Bach concerto’s first have been played?”

Albinoni would have played in Venice, Italy at the time the oboe was a new instrument. Bach played concertos in coffee houses with student orchestras or any musicians that would have been available to perform.

Kahane also noted that the word “concerto” originally meant to battle and later came to mean to work in concert, back and forth as in a debate or discussion perhaps, which fortunately for us, connects us to the musicians and brings us to the present day dialogue of Baroque Conversations.

D e t a i l s : w w w. la co . o rg /a tte n d / baroque-conversations-1/

Continued from page 15.

Theatre

Boardwalk Grill

C a s u a l waterfront dining at its finest! Famous for slabs of Chicago-style baby back ribs, fish-n-chips, rich clam chowder, cold beer on tap and wine. Full lunch menu also includes salads, sandwiches and burgers.

Indoor and outdoor patio dining available. Proudly pouring Starbucks coffee. Open 7 days a week.

Free Parking. Boardwalk Grill • 1199 Nagoya Way, LA Harbor - Berth 77, San Pedro • (310) 519-7551 Buono’s Authentic Pizzeria A San Pedro landmark for over 40 years, famous fo r exc e p t i o n a l award-winning pizza baked in brick ovens. Buono’s also offers classic Italian dishes and sauces based on tried-and-true family recipes and hand-selected ingredients that are prepared fresh. You can dine-in or take-out. Delivery and catering are also provided. Additionally, 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

Lighthouse Cafe

The favorite local cafe for the point Fermin area of San Pedro great breakfasts, lunches and even dinners. Serving traditional offering for breakfast along with specialty omelets, espresso and cappuccino.

Lunches include a delicious selection of soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches with hearty portions as well as Chef’s Creations. Dinners feature Top Sirloin Steak or Prime Rib as well as a kids menu. Beer and wine are served. Free Wi-Fi and is pet friendly on the patio. Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. close to Cabrillo Beach and the Korean Bell, Point Fermin area.

Lighthouse Cafe • 508 West 39th St., San Pedro.

310- 548- 3354 Mishi’s Strudel Bakery Mishi’s is a fragrant landmark on 7th Street, where it is possible to find Nirvana by following your nose.

The enticing aroma of baking strudel is impossible to resist, and the café is warm and welcoming like your favorite auntie’s house. Aniko and Mishi have expanded the menu to include homemade goulash, soups and a variety of sweet and savory Hungarian strudels, crépes and pastas. Take a frozen strudel home to bake in your own kitchen and create that heavenly aroma at your house.

Mishi’s Strudel Bakery and Café, 309 W.7th St., San Pedro • (310) 832-6474 www.mishisstrudel. com Nazelie’s Lebanese Cuisine

Nazelie’s Lebanese Cuisine is a favorite of the neighborhood for the terrific kabobs, beef or chicken shawarma, lamb dishes and falafel. Nazelie’s chicken and rice soup with lemon is like a warm embrace—it takes chicken soup to a whole new level. Nazelie uses a recipe handed down in her family for generations, starting with homemade chicken broth, and adding a refreshing touch of lemon for taste and nutrients.

Nazelie’s Lebanese Café, 1919 S.Pacific Avenue, San Pedro. (310) 519-1919 PHILIE B’S ON SIXTH Owner Philie Buscemi welcomes you to Philie B’s on Sixth, where New York style pizza, Sicilian rice balls and pizza by-the-slice are the specialties. Fresh hot or cold sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, and fresh salads are also served. Try the “White Pizza” with smooth ricotta, mozzarella and sharp Pecorino-Romano cheeses topped with torn fresh basil. Extended hours accommodate San Pedro’s unique lifestyle and work schedules. Catering and fast, free local delivery ($15 min.) available. Philie B’s On Sixth • 347 W. 6th Street, San Pedro (310) 514-2500 www.philiebsonsixth.com

The newcomers to the San Pedro theater scene, TE San Pedro Rep, have just finished their critically acclaimed production of Sophocles’ Oedipus and have big plans for the next year, including plays by Chekov and As You Like It by Shakespeare. Everything they have done in their store-front on 7th Street in San Pedro has been more than memorable.

Look for more of the same. Their web site is www.sanpedrorep.org.

PORTS O’CALL WATERFRONT DINING S i n c e 19 61 we ’ ve extended a hear ty welcome to visitors from every corner of the globe. Delight in an awe-inspiring view of the dynamic LA Harbor while enjoying exquisite Coastal California Cuisine and Varietals. Relax in the Plank Bar or Outdoor Patio for the best Happy Hour on the Waterfront. With 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 San Pedro Brewing Company A microbrewery and American grill, SPBC features handc r a f t e d aw a r d - w i n n i n g ales and lagers ser ved 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. WI-FI bar connected for Web surfing and e-mail—bring your laptop. Live music on Saturdays. Hours: From 11:30 a.m., daily. San Pedro Brewing Company • 331 W. 6th St., San Pedro • (310) 831-5663 • www.sanpedrobrewing.com SPIRIT CRUISES

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Our three yachts and seasoned staff provide for an exquisite excursion every time, and “all-inclusive” pricing makes party planning easy! Dinner Cruise features a 3-course meal, full bar, unlimited cocktails and starlight dancing. Offering 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 The Whale & Ale

San Pedro’s British G a s t ro P u b o f fe r s comfortable dining in oak paneled setting, featuring English fish & chips, roast prime rib, sea bass, rack of lamb, beef Wellington, meat pies, salmon, swordfish & vegetarian dishes. Open for lunch & dinner, 7days/wk; great selection of wines; 14 British tap ales, & full bar. Frequent live music. First Thursday live band & special fixed price menu. Hours: Mon.-Thu. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri. 11:30 a.m.-midnight Sat. & Sun. 1-10 p.m. Bar open late. The Whale & Ale • 327 W. 7th St., San Pedro • (310) 832-0363 • www. whaleandale.com

December 25, 2014 – January 7, 2015

Happy Diner The Happy Diner isn’t your average diner. If you pay attention to their special menu on their blackboards (yeah plural, they have about three), it’s almost a certainty you’re going to find something new from week to week. The cuisine runs the gamut of Italian and Mexican cuisine to American continental. The Happy Diner chefs are always creating something new. They believe that if an item is good, its reputation will get around by word of mouth. You can even find items normally found at curbside lonchera trucks.

You can take your pick of grilled salmon over pasta or tilapia and vegetables, prepared anyway you like. Another item that’s emerged from their flair for the creative is their chicken enchiladas soup made from scratch, a soup Roman describes as very thin and flavorful. Happy Diner • (310) 2410917 • 617 S. Centre St., San Pedro

life of Troy Maxson, a former Negro League homerun king who has to come to terms with his former disappointments.

ICT produces the Los Angeles premiere of Sondheim on Sondheim as their last work of the year, featuring interview footage with the composer and new arrangement of more than two dozen Sondheim hits. Sondheim on Sondheim opens Oct. 16. For details go to www.

InternationalCityTheatre.org.

ACE: Arts • Cuisine • Entertainment

Next comes Tom Stoppard’s comedy and play-with-a-play The Real Thing, starting Feb. 28 and running through March, with Sean F. Gray directing. By the Way, Meet Vera Stark is set for April 11 through May 9, directed by Gregory Cohen. It takes a 1930s screwball look at the relationship between an African-American maid and her actress mistress.

Death of a Salesman is one of America’s great dramas. It will be presented May 23 and it will be directed by Carl da Silva. Next, in a new Playhouse tradition, comes the musical from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice Jesus Christ, Superstar. It will be directed by Producing Artistic Director Andrew Vonderschmitt.

In addition, another new tradition the Playhouse hosts The Studio Collaborative Season upstairs in their Studio Theatre a series that lets other producing companies present plays at the Playhouse. That season begins with She Kills Monsters and continues through May. For information on all these productions please go to www.lbplayhouse.org.

Little Fish Theatre is the big fish in San Pedro theater, beginning its 14th year in their home on Centre Street with Pick of the Vine, their 13th annual (they started Pick after they were founded) festival of new works, which they choose from more than 100 original submission they get each year. That begins Jan. 9.

Ronald Harwood’s Taking Sides, a 1996 play about the investigation and trial of famous conductor Wilhelm Furtwangler (he was cleared of all charges of cooperating with the Nazi government) is next in line, with performances beginning March 6. The Ladies Foursome, a comedy by Canadian playwright Norm Foster, begins its run March 12.

Monica Lewis’ Oh, Baby, a play about a woman who wants a baby but doesn’t trust men, opens at Little Fish April 24. Noel Cowards classic farce Private Lives debuts there June 12.

David Graham has long been a stalwart actor in Little Fish productions. This time around, beginning Aug. 7, he is also the playwright in And the Stones Will Cry Out, which tells of the rocky path to archeological fame.

Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me by Frank McGuinness opens Aug. 13 at Little Fish.

Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Part I opens there Sept.

25. Private Eyes by Stephen Dietz, a farcical backstage comedy, opens Oct. 1. Norm Foster is heard from again in his play Ethan Claymore, set to begin Nov. 13. For details go to www. littlefishtheatre.org.

International City Theatre has established itself, since it was founded by Sashin Desai at Long Beach City College 30 years ago in a 99 seat house and has made the transition few theater companies can do to a full-sized theater and is Long Beach’s premier professional theater company. For many years now it has called the Center Theatre at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center home, and it begins its 2015 season there in January with End of the Rainbow, Peter Quilter’s tour de force musical drama about Judy Garland, which opens Feb. 20 after two preview performances Feb. 18 and 19.

Next on their schedule is Abigail/1702, a play by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa that takes the

immortal stage villain who cried “Witch!” in The Crucible and tells her story 10 years later. It’s a thrilling story, and it begins May 1.

The Heir Apparent is all in hilarious verse by playwright David Ives. It tells the story of a young man who has everything, riches, a lovely fiance and a great inheritance, except he doesn’t. The fun begins June 19.

The sixth play in August Wilson’s “Century Cycle” Fences, which opens Aug. 21, looks at the

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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAMES/LEGAL FILINGS Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014295900 The following person is doing business as:(1.) Carinas Flowers and Gift, 700 S. Pacific Ave, San Pedro, CA 90731, Los Angeles County.

Registered owners: Zoila Murillo, 700 S. Pacific Ave, 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/. Zoila Murillo, owner.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Oct. 16, 2014. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code).

Original filing: 11/14/14, 11/28/14, 12//11/14,

12/23/14

12/23/2014, 01/08/2014

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014326508 The following person is doing business as: Butch’s Auto Repair Inc., 1204 N. Gaffey, San Pedro, CA 90731. Articles of Incorporation #: 2384509. Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Butch’s Auto Repair Inc.,1204 N. Gaffey, San Pedro, CA 90731. This Business is conducted by a corporation. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: Jan. 1, 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/. John Malinofsky Jr, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Nov. 17, 2014. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920.

A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code).

Original filing: 12/11/2014, 12/23/2014,

01/08/2015, 01/22/2015

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014342227 The following person is doing business as: Acuspeed, 1218 W. 14th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731, Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Diane Beccerra, 1218 W. 14th 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: 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/. Diane Beccerra, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Dec. 4, 2014. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920.

A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration.The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in

01/22/2015, 2/5/2015

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014347808 The following person is doing business as: Mae Jacquet Publishing, 1337 W. 9th Street, San Pedro, CA 90732, Los Angeles County.Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5187, San Pedro, CA 90733.

Registered owners: Wilson N. Simmons III, 1337 W. 9th Street, San Pedro, CA 90732. This Business is conducted by an individual. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) S/.

Wilson N. Simmons III, owner.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Dec. 10, 2014. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner.

A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration.The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code).

Original filing: 12/23/2014, 01/08/2015,

bachelor’s degree, a masters and a doctorate and become a university math professor. Johnny would immediately go to work with a construction company—a job gotten through family connections. He would make good money, but be out of town frequently.

Frankie and Johnny told all they were going to get married. Despite family objections, they were married a month after graduating from high school. Johnny went to work and the pair rented an apartment on S. Kerckhoff Avenue. Johnny made good money and he would come and go. Frankie enjoyed the ordinary miracle so much so that she became sidetracked from her goals.

In August, Frankie learned she was pregnant. Berkeley was no longer an immediate priority.

Frankie had a baby that next April and everyone was happy. The unplanned child was not going to upset her lifelong goals. She would take care of her baby, read, walk to Cabrillo Beach and talk to mom on the phone. Johnny would come

home Friday evenings, enjoy the baby and her then be gone Sunday nights for San Diego, Ventura or Santa Barbara.

When the baby boy was 14 months-old, Frankie discovered she was pregnant again. And, when that child was 15 months—another pregnancy. Johnny paid the bills and loved her and the children when he was home. But the days he was at home began to have no meaning, and Friday and Sunday became one.

At age 22, Frankie had three babies and virtually no man. All she could see was baby food, baby diapers, baby clothes and baby smell. Her clothes were splotched with baby formula and she felt she was no longer attracted to men. She had no friends and never an adult conversation (she was a master at baby talk). She was married with babies, trapped on Kerckhoff Street—no more Berkeley, no more life.

Frankie called my friend and said she was either going out of my mind, or was now out of her mind.

Johnny now slept in his truck and

01/22/2015, 2/5/2015

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014347807 The following person is doing business as: Ink Pad, 14057 Arthur Ave., Paramount, CA 90723, Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Raymond M. Hoskins, 14057 Arthur Ave., Paramount, CA 90723. 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/.

Raymond M. Hoskins, owner.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Dec. 10, 2014. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner.

A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration.The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code).

Original filing: 12/23/2014, 01/08/2015,

01/22/2015, 2/5/2015

December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014327878 The following person is doing business as: (1) The Mak Look, (2) Elise Mak, 302 W. 5th Street Suite 303, San Pedro, CA 90731, Los Angeles County. Registered owners: Elise Young, 302 W. 5th Street Suite 303, 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/. Jeanna Ynfante, owner. This statement was filed with

01/08/2015, 01/22/2015

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: 12/23/2014, 01/08/2015,

from p .9

no longer came home. She hated him, her children and what her life had life had turned out to be. Her life was the total antithesis of all she and her family had envisioned.

My friend told me she had been contacted by Frankie’s father.

He said Frankie had a nervous breakdown. This was a succinct way to say Frankie had lost her mind (the Queen of The Hop could not reconcile grandeur and disenchantment). Frankie was now in a lost world had and a patient at Point Fermin by the Sea Psychiatric Center.

My friend was told Frankie wanted to see her. She asked me, “What could I have said to her?”

I said typically metaphors serve to simplify thought process to a minimum of words I proposed words like: “There’s a reason for everything;” “can you run with the lead pack, or can you swim in the deep end of the pool.” My friend could have told her someone once said, “Things always get better.”

But I’m glad she didn’t tell her, “I told you so.”

John Gray San Pedro

The Local Publication You Actually Read

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014327879 The following person is doing business as: Hair Force 1 Staffing, 884 W. 12th Street., San Pedro, CA 90731, Los Angeles County.

Registered owners: Jeanna Ynfante, 884 W. 12th 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: 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/. Jeanna Ynfante, owner.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Nov. 18, 2014. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code).

Original filing: 11/25/2014, 12/11/2014,

the County Clerk of Los Angeles on Nov. 18, 2014. Notice--In Accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920.

A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920. were to expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code).

Original filing: 12/11/2014, 12/23/2014,

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December 25, 2014 - January 7, 2015

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