Our office is a multi-specialty private practice located in Weymouth Corners in San Pedro. With 28 years of experience, we provide high-quality modern dentistry at an affordable cost in an inviting setting. Our office is equipped to provide most specialty dental services efficiently under one rooftop. We use cutting-edge technology and are versed in all aspects of Cosmetic, Restorative, Dental Implants, Orthodontic, and Oral Surgery services.
Spring has officially arrived in San Pedro, and the signs are all around us—cool breezes giving way to warm sunshine, flowers blooming in bursts of color, and a calendar packed with exciting community events. This month, two happenings in particular have me especially excited.
First up, Arts Open San Pedro 2025, which we’re proudly featuring on this month’s cover. Organized by the team at Arts United San Pedro—a coalition of local artists and representatives from various arts organizations— this two-day celebration on April 26 and 27 is a love letter to San Pedro’s creative spirit.
Expect open studios, gallery tours, live performances, trolley and walking tours, and immersive art installations all across town.
It’s the first event of its kind to shine such a wide spotlight on our local art scene, and organizers hope to make it an annual tradition.
This is exactly the kind of mo-
mentum our arts community deserves. I’ll definitely be hopping on a trolley that weekend to explore some of the galleries—and I hope you will, too. You can dive into all the details starting on page 22. The second event is one that’s close to my heart, and I especially encourage longtime San Pedrans to join in. On Saturday, April 26, the San Pedro Heritage Museum is hosting a special San Pedro Show ‘N Tell event at Sirens Java & Tea. From noon to 3 p.m., we’re holding a photo scanning party— bring in your old San Pedro photos, and we’ll scan and preserve them for our archives while you keep the originals.
Then, from 3 to 4 p.m., we’re inviting folks to share personal artifacts and tell the stories behind them. It’s a chance to honor the people, places, and memories that have shaped our port town.
It’s going to be a lively afternoon at Sirens, and I’d love to see many of you there. If you’ve got questions about the Show ‘N Tell (or anything, really), feel free to reach out via my email below.
Email: ads@sanpedrotoday.com for our current media kit.
VOLUME 17 | NUMBER 3
ON THE COVER: Arts Open collage featuring photos and art by Soft Chick, Candice Gawne, Karena Massengill, Dawn Mendelson, Elyse Pignolet, George Simian, and Ann Weber. (photos: courtesy Arts United, collage designed by Heli Swensson)
San Pedro Today publishes the last Thursday of every month and is produced monthly by Empire22 Media LLC. No portion of this publication can be reproduced without written permission by Empire22 Media LLC. 20,000 copies are delivered to portions of San Pedro and Rancho Palos Verdes. San Pedro Today is a product of Empire22 Media LLC. Empire22 Media LLC, their subsidiaries and affiliates are released from all liability that may involve the publication of San Pedro Today Copyright 2009-2025, Empire22 Media LLC.
6 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2025 I sanpedrotoday.com
APRIL 2025
Every Friday – SAN PEDRO FARMERS MARKET (396 W. 6th St., corner of 6th and Mesa), 10a-2p. – Pick up essential fruits and vegetables from certified, small family farms. Get a head start on weekend meals with so many delicious and fresh options. For more info, visit sanpedrochamber.com/ san-pedro-farmers-market.
Thru April 14 (Mondays) – FREE TAX PREPARATION at San Pedro Service Center (769 W. 3rd St.). –FREE tax preparation every Monday from February 3 through April 14. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides in-person tax preparation help to anyone, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 with low to moderate income. AARP membership is not required. For appointments and more info, call (310) 519-6091 or visit taxaide-southbay.org.
3 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY in Downtown San Pedro, 6p. – The popular First Thursday ArtWalk is back in the historic core of Downtown San Pedro. The redesigned First Thursday will feature guided ArtWalk tours, open galleries, outdoor dining, and live music on the corner of 6th and Mesa streets.
April 3-May 10 – JAN GOVAERTS, THROUGH THE YEARS—A SURVEY OF HER WORK at Los Angeles Harbor Arts (401 S. Mesa St.), various dates and times. – This exhibition
showcases the evolution of Jan Govaerts’ artistic journey, from painting to sculpture, revealing a deep connection to nature, memory, and transformation. Exhibition dates are as follows: Opening Reception on First Thursday, April 3, 8-9p; Artist Reception on April 19, 2-5p; First Thursday on May 1, 6-9p; and Closing Reception on May 10, 2-5p.
6 (Sun) – SUNSET SAIL ON THE LA WATERFRONT at the West Harbor Promenade (boarding at W. 6th St. and Harbor Blvd.), 5p. – Join the Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI) to enjoy the sunset and views of the harbor from the deck of a tall ship on their monthly sunset sail. You can sit back and relax or become part of the crew—your choice! Tickets $60 for adults, $30 for children (12 and under). For tickets and more info, visit lamitopsail.org/events.
12 (Sat) - SECOND SATURDAY CRAFTERS at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church (1648 W. 9th St., church social hall), 10a-12p. – Calling all knitters, crocheters, cross-stitchers, quilters, and any other crafty folks! Bring your current project and come enjoy crafting with other like-minded people in a FREE, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere. We meet every second Saturday of the month and provide time for crafters to give and get help from others, as well as share resources.
For more info, text (424) 350-1543 (text only, please).
12 (Sat) – URBAN RENEWABLE ENERGY SUMMIT AND CONFERENCE at AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles (2451 Signal St., Berth 60, door 35), 10:30a-2:30p. –This innovative conference will bring together over 200 urban Angelenos with multifamily developers, homeowners, commercial property owners, small business leaders, workforce professionals, and community advocates to explore the impact of climate change, the urgency of energy resiliency, and the vital role of diverse leadership as LA County begins to heal and rebuild from the devastating effects of the recent wildfires. Register soon because space is limited. For more info, visit altasea.org/events.
13 (Sun) – JUNIOR MAKERS MARKET at CRAFTED at the Port of LA (112 E. 22nd St.), 11a-4p. – Join junior artists and makers showcasing their talents! Local creative kiddos ages 5–17 are popping up with their handmade crafts for sale. Hosted by Homemade by the Hays. Sign up @homemadebythehays on Instagram.
13 (Sun) – 10th ANNUAL WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL ON TOUR at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Olguin Auditorium (3720 Stephen M. White Dr.), 12p & 4p. –Presented by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, this year’s
festival will feature eight films that will take the audience from Pinnacles National Park in California and the North Cascades in Washington across the world to Christchurch, New Zealand. With beautiful cinematography and stories about remarkable individuals, these films will thrill all ages and help to spark new ideas, actions, and awareness. Another presentation will be held on Earth Day, Tuesday April 22 at 5p at the Redondo Union High School Theater in Redondo Beach. Tickets $15 advance purchase online or $20 at the door. For tickets and more info, visit pvplc.org.
16 (Wed) – CANYON WALK at Peck Park (560 N. Western Ave.), 9a. – Meet in the lower Peck Park parking lot just below the Community Center; walk is relatively easy and takes about 1.5 hours. For more info, email diananave@gmail.com.
18-20 (Fri-Sun) – EASTER WEEKEND BUNNY FUN at CRAFTED at the Port of LA (112 E. 22nd St.). – Join us for a bunny birthday party, bunny wedding, bunny adoptions, and FREE bunny activities, crafts, story time, and education, plus an egg scavenger hunt throughout the market on Easter Sunday.
23 (Wed) – THE 10th EVENING OF FUN(D)RAISING at The Comedy & Magic Club (1018 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach), 5:30p. – Enjoy an evening of com-
edy and magic! The event will also include a live auction, cocktails, and dinner. The funds raised will benefit The Children’s Center of Harbor Interfaith Services, which gives kids a safe place to learn and study while their parents work or go to school in their efforts to gain financial independence and stable housing. Tickets $175. For more info, visit hisauxiliary.org.
26 (Sat) – GUIDED NATURE WALK at Peck Park Canyon (560 N. Western Ave.), 9am. – Learn about the flora and fauna of the canyon. Meet in the lower Peck Park parking lot just below the Community Center. The walk is family-friendly and takes about 1.5 hours. For more info, email diananave@gmail.com.
26 (Sat) – LEGO SHIPBUILDING CONTEST at Los Angeles Maritime Museum (Berth 84, foot of 6th St.), 10a-2p. – Build a ship using museum-supplied Lego bricks and your imagination, and compete for prizes! All ages and ability levels welcome. FREE. Sponsored by the Friends of the Los Angeles Maritime Museum and the Port of Los Angeles. For more info, visit lamaritimemuseum.org/event/legos or call (310) 548-7618. spt
Events deadline forMay 2025 is Friday, April 11.
Email: events@sanpedrotoday.com to place a listing. Find more events at sanpedrotoday.com.
SP OTLIGHT
BY SPT STAFF
SAN PEDRO HERITAGE MUSEUM INVITES COMMUNITY TO SHARE LOCAL HISTORY AT SHOW ’N TELL EVENT APRIL 26
The San Pedro Heritage Museum is calling on the community to help celebrate and preserve the town’s rich history at its upcoming San Pedro Show ’N Tell event, happening Saturday, April 26 at Sirens Java & Tea
This free event kicks off with a photo scanning drive from 12 to 3 p.m. as part of the museum’s San Pedro Built project. The initiative aims to create a digital archive that tells the story of San Pedro through the eyes—and photo albums—of its residents. Locals are encouraged to bring personal photos and artifacts that capture the spirit and evolution of the port town.
From 3 to 4 p.m., the event will transition into a lively open mic-style Show ’N Tell, where community members will have the chance to share their photos, keepsakes, and the personal stories behind them. Whether it’s a snapshot of a family fishing trip or a treasured heirloom from a neighborhood business, every piece helps paint a more complete picture of San Pedro’s past.
“San Pedro Show ’N Tell exemplifies the San Pedro Heritage Museum’s mission to preserve and share our town’s history with the participation and collaboration of the community,” says museum president Joshua Stecker. “It’s a fun and engaging way to bring San Pedrans together as we connect over the memories and artifacts that mean so much to us.”
To participate in the photo scanning drive or present during the Show ’N Tell session, attendees are kindly asked to register in advance at bit.ly/sphmshowntell.
The event is made possible thanks to the generous support of West Harbor and Sirens Java & Tea. Sirens is located at 402 W. 7th Street in Downtown San Pedro.
For more information about the San Pedro Heritage Museum, visit sanpedroheritage.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @sanpedroheritagemuseum spt
San Pedro buttons through the years. (photo: Angela Romero, San Pedro Heritage Museum)
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
CELEBRATION
MARCH 13, 2025
DALMATIAN-AMERICAN CLUB
PHOTOS BY ARTURO
GARCIA-AYALA
SAN PEDRO CHAMBER HONORS SIX INSPIRING WOMEN AT SOLD-OUT CELEBRATION
On Thursday, March 13, 2025, the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Women’s History Month Celebration at the Dalmatian-American Club, drawing a soldout crowd for an evening filled with inspiration, heartfelt moments, and community pride.
The event honored six remarkable women whose contributions continue to shape and strengthen the San Pedro community: Brenda Apolinar (Salsas Chingona), Dr. Ja’nae Brown (Physical Therapy San Pedro), Dr. Lupe Rivera (Toberman Neighborhood Center), Rachel Roth (Crail-Johnson Foundation), and Lisa Williams (Harbor Connects). A special posthumous tribute was given to Captain Alice Robinson
of the Los Angeles Maritime Institute, who passed away in January 2025.
Guests were treated to a delicious buffet prepared by the dedicated kitchen staff at the Dalmatian-American Club, featuring a spread of chicken, beef, pasta, and salad.
This year’s event took a creative turn thanks to title sponsor Marathon Petroleum LA Refinery. Instead of live speeches, the Chamber collaborated with Solasta Pictures to produce touching video tributes for each honoree, offering a glimpse into their work, passions, and personal stories.
The evening was a perfect blend of laughter, tears, and heartfelt appreciation, as the San Pedro community came together to celebrate the women who make a lasting impact. spt
HARBOR COLLEGE
ANNOUNCES 2025 HOF CLASS
Legendary coaches and standout athletes to be honored at May banquet in San Pedro
BY STEVE MARCONI
Sinceopening in 1949, Harbor College has produced hundreds of great athletes and has been home to dozens of great coaches.
One of the greatest Hall of Fame baseball coaches, Jim O’Brien, who won three state championships, recently died at age 86 in Fallbrook. When the Harbor College Athletic Hall of Fame committee inducts its 2025 class on May 2 at the Dalmatian-American Club in San Pedro, four more coaches will join O’Brien in the hall, along with six other individuals.
The coaches are Chris Ferragamo, Geoff Skarr, Roger Waialae, and Jacinto “Jesse” Espinoza. Inducted for individual achievement are Rossana Rivera-Caballero, Brenda Rosales Coria, Bryan King, Jasmine McNeal, David Olsen, and Ben Rowen.
Ferragamo, who played football at Harbor in 195859, is already a legend after leading his high school alma mater, Banning, to six consecutive City football championships and eight overall from 1976 to 1987. He coached the Seahawks for two seasons, then returned
to the Pilots in 2006, finishing with a record of 157-57-4 in 22 seasons.
Skarr was named Harbor’s women’s cross country coach in 2016 and won three straight conference titles in 201719. When the state held its first women’s cross country championship in 2018, the Seahawks took the title.
Port of Los Angeles high schools.
Rivera-Caballero (Morningside) was a two-time first-team all-conference goalie for the Seahawks in 2003-04 and played for Mexico’s junior national teams.
Waialae, a Narbonne grad, played football, baseball, and golf at Harbor in 1984-86, then starred at quarterback for Dubuque in Iowa before beginning his coaching career. He has been the head football coach at Division II West Liberty University in West Virginia for the past 21 years.
Espinoza, another Banning graduate, started the Harbor College softball program in 2010 and remained coach through 2014. He’s also the school’s event assistant and game announcer. Before and after Harbor, he coached league championship teams at Mary Star and
Coria (Long Beach Poly) was the main reason
for Skarr’s early success in cross country, winning the state title in 2018 after finishing second as a freshman. In track, she was back-toback state champion in the 1,500- and 5,000-meter races, adding the 800 title as a sophomore.
King (North Torrance) was a two-time first-team All-Metropolitan Conference shortstop, but his first season was at El Camino before he transferred to Harbor. With the Seahawks, he batted .304 and was conference MVP. He was drafted and played five seasons in the minor leagues.
McNeal (Venice High) was an All-American in softball
as a freshman (2010), set the school’s career home run record, and led the NCAA Division II in hitting as a senior at Lane College in Tennessee in 2015.
Olsen followed up his HOF career at San Pedro High (W’61) by making first-team all-conference back-to-back at third base in 1961 and 1962. He was also a basketball starting guard and was named Harbor’s Athlete of the Year as a sophomore.
Rowen (Palos Verdes High), famous for his submarine delivery, was Harbor’s closer, and as a sophomore in 2008, was first-team all-conference. Drafted after two seasons at Virginia Tech, he played 11 years of pro ball, making 20 appearances in the majors.
Tickets ($85 adults/$45 for those under 13) remain on sale for the 15th annual banquet at lahc.edu/about/ foundation/hall-of-fame. The ceremony also will include a silent auction of NFL gear and memorabilia. Doors open at 5 p.m. spt
Steve Marconi is a San Pedro native and a former columnist for the Daily Breeze for 20 years. He is also a retired longshoreman. He can be reached at spmarconi@ yahoo.com.
Jim O’Brien.
Chris Ferragamo.
BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF CARE
San Pedro Wednesday Club offers friendship, fun, and support for ages 50 and up
BY JENNIFER MARQUEZ
Whatbegan
as a small gathering of five Hispanic women over 40 years ago has blossomed into one of San Pedro’s hidden gems—a vibrant senior club with nearly 400 members.
Entirely volunteer-driven and with no paid staff, the San Pedro Wednesday Club offers a warm, welcoming space where seniors connect, socialize, and support one another. The club meets weekly, organizes regular outings and trips, and is known for its friendly atmosphere—often with treats to share and plenty of laughter.
A true grassroots organization, the San Pedro Wednesday Club has grown organically through community spirit, word of mouth, and the dedication of its members. Board member
Theresa Sardisco describes the group as a social club for individuals aged 50 and up that also gives back to the community.
“The club provides scholarships to local high school students, has supported recent fire victims, and donates new pajamas and books to local shelters,” Sardisco explains. “It’s a great social club that does a lot for others.”
ment to community service and outreach.
Membership is open each year in February and is limited to 400 members. Guests are welcome to attend meetings throughout the year to get a feel for the club—meetings begin at 10:30 a.m., but many members arrive 30 minutes early to socialize.
The annual membership fee is $40, with additional costs for trips and some special events. While trips are primarily for members, guests may join if space allows. Outings have included visits to Huntington Gardens, Descanso Gardens, and SoFi Stadium, with plans for a Mexican cruise in December and a trip to Avila Beach.
about an hour and vary each Wednesday with activities such as potlucks, bingo, or guest speakers.
After the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, members were eager to reunite in person. To maintain a positive, welcoming environment, political discussions and selling items among members are not allowed.
The importance of community and connection cannot be overstated, especially for seniors. Social interaction has been shown to boost emotional well-being, reduce isolation, and contribute to healthier aging. The club fosters a sense of belonging, offering friendship and support to its members.
In addition to these efforts, the club regularly contributes to different causes and nonprofit organizations throughout the year, further strengthening its commit-
Rachel Viramontes, club president, shares that the group celebrates various holidays and even crowns a king and queen for Valentine’s Day.
“The camaraderie is incredible. People help each other—some members give rides to others who can no longer drive, just to make sure they can still attend,” she says. “We send out cards for birthdays and special occasions, and we check in on members we haven’t seen in a while to make sure they’re okay. Everyone is so kind.”
In a digital world, the San Pedro Wednesday Club is refreshingly old-school—it has no website or social media presence. Yet, it continues to thrive through word of mouth and community connection. The meetings last
While it is rooted in San Pedro, guests and members also come from surrounding areas, reflecting the broad appeal of this warm and inclusive group. The club welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and income levels—what truly matters is kindness, connection, and community. It’s not just a club—it’s a place where everyone belongs and contributes in their own way.
Weekly meetings are held every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the L.A. County San Pedro Services Center located at 769 W. 3rd Street (in the cul-de-sac near McDonald’s on Gaffey Street). Parking can be challenging, so carpooling is encouraged. In addition to hosting the Wednesday Club, the center also provides food services for seniors, daycare, and support services for veterans.
For more information about the San Pedro Wednesday Club, contact Theresa Sardisco at (310) 9910012. spt
Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com and @jenntmqz on X and Instagram.
Rachel Viramontes and Theresa Sardisco, members of the San Pedro Wednesday Club. (photo: Theresa Sardisco)
WE CAN BE FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE—AND COMPASSIONATE
The former Boys & Girls Club executive director urges compassionate fiscal policy over harmful cuts
BY MIKE LANSING
Fulldisclosure: I am a self-described “conservative liberal” Democrat who recently retired after 30 years as executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.
While the current administration is trying to develop a balanced budget and even decrease the $36 trillion national debt, the following are some key terms, definitions, and thoughts regarding this most important time.
COMPASSION: Compassion is a deep feeling for and understanding of suffering and a desire to alleviate it. If we prioritize “those who need us most” when making difficult fiscal decisions, we would be a much more compassionate
nation than what we are currently exhibiting.
NONPROFITS: Not conducted or maintained for the purpose of making a profit. Nonprofits in our community work hard to support and address youth development, seniors, medical needs, housing, education, food insecurity, domestic violence, and much more. With the administration stating that federal human services funding will be dramatically cut, nonprofits are expected to do more in the future with fewer resources. It is not a good formula for success nor compassionate.
TARIFFS: Tariffs are used to restrict imports. Simply put, they increase the price of goods and services purchased from another country, making them less attractive to domestic consumers. Bottom line: The ever-increasing tariffs being
levied now result in price increases on everything from food staples, cars, energy, and many other items, and are expected for the short and long term. This primarily impacts our neighbors who are already struggling to survive each day.
BALANCED BUDGET: A balanced budget (particularly that of a government) is a budget in which revenues are equal to expenditures. Having run a nonprofit for three decades, we had some years where revenues exceeded expenses or vice versa. However, we operated in a break-even mentality and were mostly successful overall in achieving that annual goal. I am a huge fan of balanced budget financial management. However, you can prioritize those most in need with a compassionate mindset when making balanced-budget decisions.
BAD MATH (How I define it): When an anticipated and rationalized mathematic outcome has no chance of happening. This administration is promoting $4.5 trillion in tax cuts over the next 10 years and $2 trillion in expenditure cuts as the formula for addressing the national debt. Therefore, $4.5 trillion in tax cuts minus $2 trillion in expenditures equates to $2.5 million in additional national debt. There is no debt reduction, and not even close to a balanced budget. Eliminating tax breaks, especially for billionaires, corporations, and those with middle six-digit incomes, and eliminating some of the expenditure cuts that largely hurt our most in-need Americans would be a much more compassionate strategy and would actually balance the national budget.
ENTITLEMENTS: Entitlement is the state or condition of being entitled to something, or a right to
benefits specified by law or contract. For 50 years, I paid into both Social Security and Medicare. Millions of others have made the same investment over many decades, and we are all entitled to a reasonable and continuing return. Politicians need to stop using entitlements that we are owed as bad words. For millions, especially the poorest of our nation, these are the most critical safety nets for our retirement years and should not be cut.
DEPORTATIONS: No definition is needed given the extensive coverage by all the networks. I have no complaints when we deport thousands of undocumented individuals who have been guilty of violent or recurring crimes. But we must differentiate that from our Dreamers, visa holders, and those who have lived here for decades as contributing members of our society (those who fill important workforce positions, pay taxes, etc.) but still do not have their citizenship. Get rid of the criminals, but show some compassion and common sense by keeping the good folks in our country. As a nation, we can be fiscally responsible and compassionate. It all comes down to making the right choices so that all of our neighbors have the best opportunity for the American Dream.
Bottom line: If we are going to give $4.5 trillion of recurring tax breaks, we are not being serious about being fiscally responsible. Nor are we being compassionate while targeting cuts to basic needs and services necessary for our nation’s poorest. We should be better than this. spt
Mike Lansing is the former executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.
JEDI ZONE BRINGS FRESH MOMENTUM TO PACIFIC AVENUE
San Pedro’s beloved corridor poised for comeback with economic incentives and community collaboration
BY LEE WILLIAMS
Ifyou’ve driven down Pacific Avenue lately—from 1st Street to 14th—you’ve probably felt it.
The empty storefronts. The worn facades. The graffiti that pops up almost daily, gets removed, and is back again before the paint dries.
For many of us who live, work, play, and raise our families here in San Pedro, it’s been hard watching one of our main streets slowly lose the energy it once had. But this week, something changed.
On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved a motion that officially designates Pacific Avenue as a JEDI Zone—a “Jobs and Economic Development Incentive” zone.
That means a real chance to revitalize our downtown corridor, bringing back businesses, jobs, and life to the heart of San Pedro.
The motion was introduced by our Councilmember Tim McOsker, a lifelong San Pedro resident and someone who’s been pushing to breathe new life into this area from day one.
“Pacific Avenue is home to many great businesses and also so much unrealized potential,” McOsker says.
“It was once a thriving hub where people shopped, dined, and gathered. This JEDI Zone gives us the tools to bring that vibrancy back.”
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SAN PEDRO
The JEDI Zone designation isn’t just a title; it comes with real, tangible support for our local business
community. That includes reduced permit fees for new developments, help navigating city red tape, expert consulting for small business owners, and funding for sprucing up storefronts through a Façade Improvement Program.
This initiative will be overseen by the city’s Economic and Workforce Development Department (EWDD), which studied the corridor extensively before recommending it for designation. Their findings confirmed what many of us already knew: While Pacific Avenue has over 170 active businesses, ranging from restaurants to barber shops and auto repair services, the area has been struggling. Unemployment here is higher than the city average. Many families are living on limited incomes. And too many buildings show signs of neglect or stand vacant altogether. This JEDI Zone aims to change that—and do it in a way that centers our local community.
A VICTORY FOR LOCAL COLLABORATION
This didn’t happen in a vacuum. McOsker’s Economic Development deputy, Amanda Enriquez, had countless conversations with neighbors, business owners, neighborhood councils, and the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce.
“The JEDI Zone for Pacific Avenue is a true game-changer,” says Elise Swanson, president and CEO of the Chamber. “It brings new investment and powerful tools to uplift this historic corridor. We’re so grateful to Councilmember McOsker, our Chamber members, the Business Improvement District, and all three San Pedro neighborhood councils who made this happen.”
It’s worth celebrating that Council District 15, which
includes San Pedro, Wilmington, and Watts, is now the only district in the city with three JEDI Zones. That is a direct result of McOsker recognizing the deep need for investment in our neighborhoods and taking real steps to meet that need with action.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR PACIFIC AVENUE?
If all goes well, the JEDI Zone will be in effect for five years, with a possible fiveyear extension. During that time, EWDD will coordinate resources and programs to benefit our local businesses directly.
Improvements won’t happen overnight, but they will happen—especially with input and involvement from the community. There are 171 identified businesses and storefronts along this corridor, and they may each be eligible for up to $75,000 in funds for business and façade improvements. From helping longtime shops update their facades to supporting new entrepreneurs ready to set up shop, the zone creates opportunities we haven’t seen here in decades.
It’s a step forward. One that feels like it honors our past while preparing us for the future. Because at the end of the day, San Pedro is more than just a dot on the map. We are a community of artists, longshore workers, small business owners, families, dreamers, and folks who love our town. And with this new JEDI Zone, we’re planting the seeds to bring Pacific Avenue back to life— block by block, business by business. spt
Lee Williams leads The Lee Williams Real Estate Group at REAL Broker and is a LA harbor commissioner. He can be reached at lee@ lamove.com.
A CITYWIDE CELEBRATION OF CREATIVITY: ARTS OPEN SAN PEDRO 2025
FREE, TWO-DAY EVENT TO FEATURE MORE THAN 100 ARTISTS, PERFORMANCES, TOURS, AND HANDS-ON ART EXPERIENCES
BY LINDA GRIMES & SPT STAFF
San Pedro is preparing to welcome the public for a weekend of art, expression, and connection during the inaugural Arts Open San Pedro, taking place Saturday and Sunday, April 26–27, 2025.
This free, two-day event invites guests to explore San Pedro’s vibrant creative scene through open studios, gallery visits, live performances, and interactive experiences—all designed to highlight the town’s thriving arts and cultural community.
Over 100 artists will participate in the celebration, opening their studios and sharing their work with the public. Attendees will get the chance to explore dozens of galleries and creative spaces, watch performances, engage in hands-on art activities, and meet the artists
who make San Pedro such a rich cultural destination.
“Our goal is to inspire discovery of San Pedro’s Arts and Cultural District and all it contributes to the greater Los Angeles arts community,” says Michael Stearns, Arts United partner and local gallery owner. “We aim to highlight and uplift our incredible local artists, performers, and musicians, showcasing the unique creative spirit that thrives throughout this vibrant city.”
Visitors can look forward to exploring creative spaces like Angels Gate Cultural Center, CRAFTED, LA Harbor Arts, Pixels, The Winthrop Gallery, Hearts Respond, Gallery Azul, Collage, and the National Watercolor Society, among many others. From live mural art to experimental installations, the week-
end promises something for everyone.
Performances will take place each day from 2 to 6 p.m. on two main stages— one located at CRAFTED and the other at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. Expect live music, dance, and theatrical showcases, as well as free dance lessons. Interactive exhibits and hands-on art classes will also be offered throughout the weekend, encouraging guests to not just view the art—but be part of it.
To make it easy for visitors to explore the many venues and performances across town, complimentary trolleys will run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on three scenic routes: Harbor, Coastal, and Angel. Event maps and wristbands will be available at all trolley stops, and most stops are
within walking distance of key event locations. Some studios are also accessible with a short drive or ride. In addition to self-guided exploration, the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District will host four guided tours—two walking tours and two red trolley tours—departing at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. both days. Walking tours begin at Port Town Brewery (285 W. 7th Street), while trolley tours depart from the corner of 7th Street and Pacific Avenue. Onboard narration will be provided by San Pedro Explorers, sharing the stories behind local landmarks and creative spaces.
Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead by reviewing the event schedule and registering online at artsopen. artsunitedsp.org.
Beyond the art, San Pe-
(photo: George Simian)
dro’s culinary scene is also on full display. Known for its non-chain, chef-owned restaurants, the neighborhood offers a wide range of flavors and atmospheres. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase at the CRAFTED trolley stop, and some local restaurants may offer discounts to wristband holders.
Parking is readily available throughout Downtown San Pedro, including public lots at 6th and Mesa, 7th and Mesa, and 6th and Centre, as well as at CRAFTED, Trani’s Dockside, Battleship USS Iowa, and the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. Early arrival is recommended for best parking availability.
HOW IT BEGAN
The inspiration behind Arts Open San Pedro stems from a belief that the city’s arts scene deserves more recognition and visibility. While San Pedro has served as a haven for artists since the 1940s, its creative depth is still underappreciated in wider circles. In 2017, the city was officially designated a California Cultural District by the California Arts Coun-
cil, becoming one of just 14 districts across the state.
The designation was made possible by years of dedication from a coalition of local organizations and leaders, including the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District, San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, Friends of the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, Angels Gate Cultural Center, Grand Vision Foundation, Windy Barnes Farrell, Michael Stearns, the San Pedro Business Improvement District, and San Pedro City Ballet. These groups united as Arts United San Pedro, with the shared goal of elevating local artists and promoting authentic cultural experiences throughout the community.
Arts United aims to amplify San Pedro’s diverse artistic
voices through shared marketing, advocacy, and programming efforts—ensuring the city continues to grow as a creative destination.
For many visitors, Arts Open may be the first opportunity to meet the artists behind the work, ask questions, and build connections. Organizers hope that such interactions will inspire a new generation of artists and art lovers, and establish San Pedro as a place where creativity is not only welcomed—but celebrated. spt
For full event details and registration, visit: artsopen.artsunitedsp.org.
For more information about Arts United, visit: artsunitedsp.org.
Clockwise from left: Ceramic art by Elyse Pignolet; a recent crowd at Angels Gate Cultural Center Art Gallery; the Downtown San Pedro red trolley will be running all weekend for Arts Open. (photos: courtesy Arts United)
STILL SERVING LOCAL
LOVE: EAT IN SAN PEDRO TURNS FIVE
What started as an online lunch tradition became a celebration of the town’s food scene
BY SANAM LAMBORN
AsI write this article, daily Facebook memories remind me of what I posted five years ago as we were becoming acquainted with the looming threat of the COVID-19 virus.
Schools were going online, many were switching to remote work, and restaurants were closing for what we initially thought would be a short period of time. By midApril 2020, I had to accept that COVID-19 was not going away within a few short weeks of social distancing. My daily human contact opportunities with the outside world were gone. The types of social activities I enjoyed were not possible, like outings, concerts, group exercise, sharing a meal with friends, whether out at a restaurant or hosting people for a homemade meal. Being unable to gather with friends like I used to was one of the most challenging aspects of the pandemic.
While I felt incredibly fortunate that as an educator, I still had a job, and so did my longshoreman husband, I couldn’t shake off the worry that I felt for all the workers who had been unable to keep their employment. In particular, I worried about how the closures were affecting our restaurant owners and their employees, most of whom live locally.
Inspired by the Los Angeles Times food writers, who at the time were having mukbang sessions together—eating while broadcasting—on Instagram to support the local restaurants, I decided to do something similar. Mukbang usually means consuming large quantities of food for shock value. However, in this case, it was regular portions with the purpose of keeping restaurants afloat while their dining rooms were closed. I reached out to local friends to see if they could pick up lunch at the same time from a mutually chosen San Pedro restaurant and then hop on Zoom to
eat our food together. The original rotating crew was Geri Gioiello, Army Feth Linderborg, Ana Jelenic, Diana Roman, and Janet Tawa Kate McLaughlin from San Pedro Sourdough suggested sharing our adventure on social media. And that’s how Eat in San Pedro began. Every Friday, we picked a San Pedro restaurant and ate together on Zoom for a couple of months. Whoever could joined in.
Eat in San Pedro has been a labor of love to highlight our eateries and my desire to support our local economy.
In fact, during the first couple of years, I predominately ate in town. In the past five years, I have eaten at many different places in San Pedro and documented it on my social media channels.
In 2021, I took it a step further. I pitched the idea for this food column to San Pedro Today. For the past four years, I have written about 108 unique eateries, some more than once.
I love hearing from restaurant owners that they notice
a boost in sales after appearing in this column. It is such a great feeling to have readers and social media followers inspired to try the places I feature.
So much has changed since the beginning of the pandemic in the local restaurant scene; many spots have come and gone. Inflation has also shifted how people spend their money on dining out. Truthfully, my accountant still questions my common sense about spending as much money as I do on eating out in town to maintain social media platforms without earning a dime from it.
A popular social media trend is, “I tried it, so you don’t have to.” I have reframed it into my own motto, “I tried it, so you should too!” Thank you for joining me on this hyperlocal foodie journey, San Pedro! spt
Sanam Lamborn created the Eat in San Pedro Facebook group and Instagram page @eatinsanpedro.
EAT IN SAN PEDRO FAVES (l to r): Penne alla Norma (La Siciliana), roast beef sandwich (South Shores Meat Shop), potato taco (Enchilada House), and a croissant and coffee (Distrito Coffee). Top: One of the original Eat in San Pedro Zoom lunches. (photos: Sanam Lamborn)
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO START
BY EDDIE Mc KENNA
Riddleme this: I grow when praised but shrink when ignored. Too much of me and I’m abhorred. I block the truth and fuel the pride, yet without me, you’d run and hide. What am I?
I finally convinced my friend Peter to join his local CrossFit gym in the town where he lives. Peter is retired and spends his time teaching basketball to youth groups. One day, he called me, sounding concerned. “I’m losing it,” he admitted. At 77 years old, he sought advice on getting into shape. I chuckled.
“Why are you laughing at me?” he replied, slightly offended.
“You’re 77 years old, and now you’re finally realizing you can’t keep up with the kids,” I said. “Good for you, Peter! But I hear you, and I’m
sure there’s a coach at your local CrossFit gym who can help.”
To my surprise, Peter listened. He joined a gym and hired a personal trainer to learn the basics and create a tailored program. After 10 weeks of training twice a week, he decided to try the larger strength classes. The day after his second class, he called me, exclaiming, “I’m quitting!” I chuckled again. “Okay, Peter, tell me why you’re quitting.”
“I’m at a point in my life where I don’t want to have to learn anymore,” he replied, frustration evident in his voice. I asked him about the gym and the coaching.
“The gym is awesome, the atmosphere is inspiring, and the coaching is great!” he said. “Okay, Peter, I’m not really seeing the problem.”
He hesitated before admitting, “I don’t want to slow anyone down.” I probed further, “Who did you slow down?” He explained that
the coach paired him with a nice man who helped him with the equipment and spotted him during bench presses. “Again, Peter, I don’t see the problem.”
As we continued discussing his concerns, it became clear that his ego was holding him back. “You know,” I said, “you need to check that big ego at the door before you walk into the gym next time.” He laughed and replied, “Maybe you’re right. Thank you.”
I encouraged him, “In four weeks, you’ll know that gym like the back of your hand. There will be another new person who is lost and needs help. I guarantee your coach will put you in a leadership role to assist that new person, just like he partnered you on your first day.” Peter acknowledged that his ego had gotten the best of him, and our conversation helped him decide to stay at the gym after all.
The answer to the rid-
dle is EGO. I’ve seen many people’s egos prevent them from reaching their true potential. It’s a powerful force, often masking our fears and inhibitions. Do not let the fear of failure stop you from empowering yourself.
Like Peter, we all face moments when our egos can cloud our judgment and hold us back from new experiences. Embrace vulnerability, seek help, and remember that growth often comes from discomfort.
It’s never too late to start your journey toward better health and well-being. So, let go of your ego, step into the gym, and allow yourself to learn and grow. You might discover a stronger, more resilient version of yourself waiting on the other side. spt
Eddie McKenna is co-owner of Heyday Elite Fitness. For more info, visit heydaytraining.com.
(photo: Kampus Production)
SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
GUARANTEE DELIVERY OF SAN PEDRO TODAY TO YOUR HOME EVERY MONTH!
Tired of your neighbors stealing your copy on their daily walk? Sick of sending your copies to out of town relatives? Solve that by becoming a print subscriber to San Pedro Today magazine!
For just $39.95 a year, you can have San Pedro Today delivered right to your mailbox every month. Cost includes 12 issues of San Pedro Today mailed in an envelope. (U.S. orders only.)
SUBSCRIBER INFO:
APRIL 2025
SEND TO: San Pedro Today P.O. Box 1168 San Pedro, CA 90733
Name _____________________________________________________
