JANUARY 2019
PLUS: SPHS FOOTBALL CHAMPS | L.A. CITY ARCHIVES VISIT | REAL ESTATE YEAR IN REVIEW
OUR HIDDEN TREASURES CLEAN SAN PEDRO CELEBRATES 20 YEARS & TOPS OUR LIST!
MARITIME DENTISTRY
Comprehensive Dental Care & Implant Center Backed by 25 years of experience WHEN YOU VISIT OUR DENTAL OFFICE IN WEYMOUTH CORNERS, YOU FEEL RIGHT AT HOME. Whether you require a cleaning, teeth whitening, invisible braces by Invisalign®, crowns, implants or any other General or Specialty dental procedure, our office will ensure that you are comfortable and have a pleasant experience. OLD-FASHIONED STYLE OF PATIENT CARE IS WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT!
Great Smiles Begin Here! Dr. Ardalan, D.D.S. Education: USC school of Dentistry Doctor of Dental Surgery Professional Association: American Dental Association, member California Dental Association, member Western Dental Society, member
ASSOCIATES Ian Woo, D.D.S., MD. Education: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Los Angeles County / University of Southern California Medical Center
Dr. Marvis Sorrel, D.M.D., M.D.S.
SERVICES & SPECIALTIES • General Cosmetic and Children’s Dentistry • Oral Surgery • Dental IMPLANTS • Permanent Implant Supported Dentures • Orthodontics (Traditional Braces & Invisalign) • Periodontics • Sleep Apnea
Located in Weymouth Corners 1411 W. 8th Street San Pedro, CA 90732
(310) 832-5559
Education: University of Pittsburgh, Master of Science in Dentistry, Doctor of Dental Medicine Advanced Education in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Orthognatic Surgery Externship / Invisalign Certification
Dr. Rebekah Coriaty Education: University of Pacific Professional Association: American Dental Association California Dental Association
Dr. Miles Madison Education: UCLA School of Dentistry Professional Association: American Academy of Periodontology California Society of Periodontists American Dental Association California Dental Association American Association for Dental Research
MARITIME DENTISTRY NEWSLETTER Comprehensive Dental Care & Implant Center
Midlife Tooth Loss Associated With Higher Risk Of Cardiovascular Disease, Research Suggests
M
edical News Today (3/23, Paddock) reported that preliminary research found “tooth loss in middle age is tied to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, independent of traditional risk factors such as high blood pressure, poor diet, and diabetes.” Study co-author Lu Qi, who is a professor of epidemiology at Tulane University, said, “Our findings suggest that middle-aged adults who have lost two or more teeth in [the] recent past could be at increased risk for cardiovascular disease.” The study is not yet published but the abstract is available in the journal Circulation. “This pattern is concerning, given that
HPV Causing “Epidemic Of Oral Cancer” In Men
T
he Philadelphia Inquirer (3/6, McCullough) reports
that HPV is “unleashing an epidemic of oral cancer among men.” The article reports that “men are four times more likely than women to be diagnosed with oral cancer,” which has “overtaken cervical cancer as the most common HPV-related malignancy in the United States.” The article states that this trend is due in part to men’s immune response, explaining that “compared with women, men are more likely to get infected with HPV – including ‘high-risk’ cancercausing strains,” and “they also are less able to wipe out infection on their own, and more likely to get reinfected.” The authors of one study examining HPV in men, said, “HPV vaccination is the only reliable method to ensure immune protection against new HPV infections and subsequent disease in males.”
timely dental care is essential for good oral health, especially in individuals with diabetes.” - Dr. Huabin Luo, a researcher at East Carolina University
People With Diabetes Visit Dentist Less Often, Study Finds
I
n a news release on its website, New York University (4/2) states that a new study led by researchers at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing and East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine found “adults with diabetes are less likely to visit the dentist than people with prediabetes or without diabetes.” The study “showed an overall decline in dental visits among adults with and without diabetes, but people with diabetes were consistently the least likely to obtain oral healthcare.” The findings were published in The Journal of the American Dental Association.
MouthHealthy.org offers additional information on above topics.
This patient educational material is provided by Maritime Dentistry. Please call us at (310) 832-5559 if we may be of further assistance.
Regards, Dr. Ardalan and Associates
Located in Weymouth Corners • 1411 W. 8th St., San Pedro
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Volume 10. Number 12. Ten years. One hundred and twenty issues. And with that, we close the book on our first decade of publishing San Pedro Today. Milestones are funny things. I’ve been trying to figure out how best to articulate my feelings about this particular moment in time, but the only words I can find that can accurately do that justice are simply these: thank you. Thank you to everyone who has read an issue the past ten years. You’re the reason we keep publishing. “Everyone reads it” is a common refrain when describing this magazine, and that’s because of you, which is all any publisher could ask for. Every month, we try to produce a publication that’s honest, accurate, entertaining, and something San Pedrans can be proud of. We haven’t won them all, but I’d argue that our batting average isn’t too shabby. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this publication. I’ve been lucky enough to work with some talented local writers the past ten years. I’ve also been fortunate enough to work with an amazing stable of columnists. Everyone from politicians to local leaders and experts have written for us. This publication has always tried to be representative of all of this town's diverse points of view. We can always do better, but I think we’ve done a pretty good job so far. Thank you to everyone who has criticized this publication in one way or another. You push us to produce better work. A special shout out to those who have gone the extra mile through the years to make us aware of our foibles, like the one person who photocopied an entire chapter in a grammar book and sent it in. That was impressive. Or the person who tore off and sent in a cover they disagreed with, even if their serious protest was over Star Wars characters. It just shows the passion we have for our community. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I just realized this is sounding like an Oscar speech, my apologies. Thank you to everyone who keeps
this magazine going every month. Our advertising reps, Patricia and Shana, who work their tails off every month to keep this engine running. Our graphic artists Joseph and Julie, who keep this magazine looking pretty. Our photographer, John Mattera (you have to spell his full name out), for making our covers look stunning. Our resident historian, Angela, for being a great soundboard for ideas. And our associate editor, Caitlyn, who is indispensable when it comes to the details. She’s saved me from enough embarrassing foibles more than I’d care to admit. Thank you to all the advertisers we’ve had through the years. San Pedro’s small business community has always been tremendously supportive of this publication, and for that I am forever grateful. San Pedro takes care of its own, and if it wasn’t for the hardworking small business owners who trust us to deliver their message every month, this publication wouldn’t have made it to ten years. And finally, I want to thank the entire community of San Pedro. For the past ten years, you’ve trusted us to tell your stories. You’ve grown with us as our town has evolved. We’ve celebrated and mourned together. Fought and made up. We’ve spurred some to action and have caused others to think. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding. In Bruce Springsteen’s Netflix special, Springsteen on Broadway, he says, “Everybody has a love/hate relationship with their hometown. It’s just built into the equation of growing up.” It’s true. There have been moments where I’ve wanted to leave and never come back. But I’m still here; a fourth generation San Pedran blessed with the unique opportunity to give back in some small way to his hometown. We start our year-long, 10-year anniversary celebration next month with a number of cool things planned for 2019. I’m excited to get the ball rolling. Happy New Year, San Pedro. There’s been a lot of life lived these past ten years. Thank you again for being a part of it. spt Joshua Stecker is publisher/editorin-chief of San Pedro Today. Letters to the Editor can be emailed to contact@sanpedrotoday.com.
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310.241.0420 JANUARY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 5
JANUARY 2019
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ADVERTISING:
ASSOCIATE EDITOR/ SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Patricia Roberts (562) 964-8166 | patricia@sanpedrotoday.com
ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION
Shana Ghekiere (310) 753-5176 | shana@sanpedrotoday.com
AT-LARGE CONTRIBUTORS
EMPIRE22 MEDIA LLC OWNER/PUBLISHER
Joshua J. Stecker
Caitlyn Trudnich
Joseph A. Castañeda
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Mike Harper, Peter Hazdovac, Nathan Hoff, Mike Lansing, Ricky Magana, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Tim McOsker, Angela Romero, Jamaal K. Street
PHOTOGRAPHERS John Mattera Photography
CONTACT INFO:
Phone: (424) 224-9063 EMAIL: contact@sanpedrotoday.com San Pedro Today P.O. Box 1168, San Pedro, CA 90733
VOLUME 10 | NUMBER 12
General Inquiries: ads@sanpedrotoday.com
Joshua J. Stecker
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. 25,000 copies are delivered to San Pedro and portions of 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 2009-2019, Empire22 Media LLC.
ON THE COVER: Clean San Pedro crew (l to r) Casey Warren, Steve Kleinjan, Mike Ornelas, Robby Lorenzi, Cameron White and Steve Adams. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
6 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I JANUARY 2019
JANUARY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 7
JANUARY Every Wednesday – CREATIVE WRITING CLASS FOR KIDS at The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.), 4:30 – 5:45p. Taught by San Pedro Today columnist, Jennifer Marquez. $10 per class. For more info, email jennifermarquez@ yahoo.com. 1 (Tues) – 66TH ANNUAL NEW YEARS DAY SWIM & DIP at Cabrillo Beach (3720 Stephen M. White Dr.), 11:30a. Join the Cabrillo Beach Polar Bears as they crown this year’s king and queen, followed by a celebratory plunge in the ocean! 3 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY in Downtown San Pedro, 6 – 9p. Live music, food trucks, art gallery displays, and food and drink specials from local bars and restaurants. Experience the most anticipated monthly event in San Pedro! 5 (Sat) – COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP BELL RINGING at Korean Friendship Bell (3601 S. Gaffey St.), Noon. Ring in the New Year on the first Saturday of 2019! Open to the community. 7 (Mon) – COASTAL SAN PEDRO NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL HOMELESSNESS COMMITTEE MEETING at Angels Gate Cultural Center, Building G (3601 S. Gaffey. St), 10a.
8 (Tues) – CENTRAL SAN PEDRO NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL MONTHLY BOARD & STAKEHOLDER MEETING at Port of Los Angeles High School (250 5th St.), 6:30p.
19 (Sat) – JUDY WEXLER vala, who recently retired after QUARTET at Alva’s Showroom thirty years as Vice President (1417 W. 8th St.), 8p. A touring of News and Public Affairs at and recording artist, jazz vocalKCET, the largest independent ist Judy Wexler has headlined public broadcasting station in the at jazz festivals, performing arts United States. Zavala also ancenters, and major jazz clubs chored the award-winning news 11 (Fri) – BREAKFAST WITH both nationally and internation- magazines SoCal Connected and THE CHAMBER at Think Café ally. “Judy Wexler is more than Life and Times. Reservations (302 W. 5th St.), 8a. Join the San a mere singer of songs; She’s available at San Pedro Library Pedro Chamber of Commerce for an actress, mood painter, song and online at friendsspl.org. Ennetworking and breakfast with archaeologist, and vocalist par try at the door as space permits. other professionals in your com- excellence.” – All About Jazz. munity. To RSVP and for more For tickets and more info, visit 27 (Thurs) – CUATRO@CAinfo, email laura@sanpedroalvasshowroom.com/event/judy- BRILLO FILM SERIES: GRAVIchamber.com. wexler, call (310) 833-7538, or TY at the Cabrillo Marine Aquaremail showroom@alvas.com. ium (3720 Stephen M. White 12 (Sat) – OUTER HARBOR Dr.), 3:30p. The San Pedro WaWALKING TOUR, 10a. Happy 19 (Sat) – THE LONG RUN: terfront Arts District invites the New Year, San Pedro! Begin the TRIBUTE TO THE EAGLES at community to join us at the next new year with a brand new tour the Warner Grand Theatre (478 chapter of a new arts education of the outer harbor area, an area W. 6th St.), 8p. The Gathering series. Join arts scholar Gregorio that could very well be called the for the Grand Annual Gala is Luke as he leads us through three "fertile crescent" because of all transforming into a live concert films by Oscar-winning Mexican the potential it has. Join historian benefit series featuring profesdirectors in seminars designed to and San Pedro Today columnist, sional, in-demand tribute acts promote a deeper appreciation Angela "Romee" Romero, for an and popular local openers. This of the arts of Mexico, beginning informative walk through the three part series is happening with Gravity, starring Sandra area's history and future, from at San Pedro’s beloved art-deco Bullock and George Clooney. Spanish explorers to space rock- movie palace, the Warner Grand For tickets and more info, visit ets. Tickets are $15 and space is Theatre. For tickets and more sanpedrowaterfrontartsdistrict. limited. A second tour will be of- info, visit grandvision.org. com. spt fered Sunday, January 27th. Call (310) 808-7800 to reserve. 27 (Sun) – AN AFTERNOON WITH VAL ZAVALA at the 14 (Mon) – NORTHWEST SAN Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), PEDRO NEIGHBORHOOD 2p. Friends of San Pedro Library COUNCIL MONTHLY BOARD presents an afternoon with Za& STAKEHOLDER MEETING at Peck Park Community Building Want to see your event here? Email events@sanpedrotoday.com to place a listing. Deadline for the February 2019 issue is Friday, January 18. (560 N. Western Ave.), 6p. Find more events at facebook.com/sanpedrotoday.
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VOICES
VETERANS GET SHORT SHRIFT IN HOLIDAY CONFUSION by Steve Marconi It’s either a failure of our educational system or the fault of preening politicians who can’t say no to a photo op, but when did we begin confusing Veterans Day with Memorial Day? These are two distinct holidays honoring two distinct groups of people. Memorial Day is the day set aside to remember the men and women of the armed forces who died in service to their country. Veterans Day is the day we salute all who have served, in war and peace. I bring this up because of two events this past Veterans Day in which San
Pedro’s Roger Gonzales was honored. Gonzales, who was killed during the Korean War, received much publicity when his remains were recovered and buried in Green Hills. He had a solemn and dignified military funeral, richly deserved after 68 years. The holiday for heroes like him is Memorial Day. San Pedro is full of living veterans, Green Hills is full of dead ones, from WWII to Korea and Vietnam. It would have been much more appropriate for the Los Angeles City Council or the USS Iowa to honor any one of them. Two come immediately to mind. One is Harold “Hal” Garvin, who died Sept. 20 at age 94. Garvin was a WWII veteran who survived 50 missions as a crew member of a B-24 Liberator with the 759th Bomb Squadron. A Gardena
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High graduate, he returned from the war and began a teaching career at Dana Junior High in 1948. Three years later he moved to San Pedro High, where he taught history for 10 years before joining the faculty at Harbor College. He taught history and political science from 1961 to 1978. In 1979, he was elected to the Los Angeles Community College Board of Trustees, where he served 12 years. I first met Garvin at Harbor, where I enrolled in his political science course in 1969, and we reconnected decades later through email after he read one of my columns. That’s when I first learned about his wartime experiences, which can be heard in an audio interview he gave in 2005 to Robin Williams as part of the Veterans History Project. (A Google search of his name and the Veterans History Project will take you to the interview.) In light of Roger’s story, another deserving honoree would have been his late cousin, Freddie Gonzalez (with two z’s), who died in 2002 at 72. Gonzalez, like Roger, was a native San Pedran who grew up in the same La Rambla neighborhood. He was a year older than his cousin and joined the Marine Corps Reserves soon after graduating from San Pedro High. He urged Roger to join up after he graduated. When the Korean War broke out, they were both called up and remained together as members of the 7th Marines’ Fox Company. The company’s heroic role in the legendary battle of the Chosin Reservoir is told in The Last Stand of Fox Company: A True Story of Marines in Combat. The book details the unit’s nightmarish struggle from November 27 to December 4, 1950, in subzero temperatures while surrounded by thousands of Communist Chinese. This include Roger’s death on the first night from a sniper’s bullet and Freddie’s recurring role in the defense of Fox Hill. Freddie did not survive unscathed. Like most of his foxhole buddies, he suffered severe frostbite to his feet, the affects of which hampered him the rest of his life. He returned to San Pedro, married his high school sweetheart,
Delia, who still lives in San Pedro, and they raised seven children at First and Patton, not far from his parents’ home. Freddie eventually went to work for San Pedro Boat Works and retired after being injured. Asked if his dad ever talked much about the war, oldest son Jimmy said, “He would give us bits and pieces over the years but didn’t talk about the actual war until I was in my 20s. He opened up about it. Most of the time he talked about it, he felt sorry for the Chinese; he saw how underfed and underarmed they were. He felt bad he had to kill a lot of those guys. “He was always fairly stoic about it, just did his job and tried to stay alive like everybody else and keep his buddies alive. He was very proud of the service and proud of his country.” Jimmy once told Ron Gonzales, another cousin of Roger and Freddie, “From the time I can remember, I don't think I ever saw my dad cry. It could possibly be because of the things he did and saw for those seven days of his life. However, it did give him an appreciation of life and an extraordinary sense of humor. He was almost always in a good mood. He loved his kids, but also just about every kid he met. I never asked him, but I think Roger was never far from his thoughts and prayers.” One More Book Continuing the military theme, San Pedro native Michelle (Duval) Ule has a new book out, A Poppy in Remembrance, a WWI comingof-age novel. The protagonist is a woman journalist who comes to know evangelists Oswald and Biddy Chambers, the subjects of Ule’s excellent biography that I reviewed here last year. You can find more information about the book at Ule’s website (michelleule. com). The book is available at amazon. com. spt Steve Marconi can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.
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VOICES
TIPS FROM THE HELICOPTER DAUGHTER by Jennifer Marquez My father has macular degeneration and is losing his vision. He has lived in the same house for more than 52 years. He never wants to move, he tells me. My mom passed away five years ago, so I help when I can. It is an hour away if there is no traffic. With my own family and career in social services, I offer care and support from a distance when I cannot get out there. He does not need a caretaker yet. I have found some solutions that have helped him and me too, so I worry less. Some of my ideas do not always fly with him, like an indoor camera with an intercom. Okay, so he wasn’t ready for me to see him in his living room every day, I get it. This is what is working for us: Call Blocker for Landline: My brother bought a Sentry brand call blocker for my dad two years ago on Amazon. There are many varieties and brands now. My dad used to get at least five telemarketing calls a day. With the Sentry there are no more spam calls. The phone rings once and it is cut off then the number can be blocked. Everybody else, like me, can still call but it eliminates all the other annoying calls. There are no monthly fees for this device, it is a one-time purchase. He hasn’t had any telemarketing call for two years since he got this. Large 'No Solicitations' Sign: I don’t like the idea of strangers knocking on my dad’s door. He is 85 years old, so I am protective. There has been a huge reduction of salespeople since we posted this sign on his front door. They sell these signs on Amazon and at Home Depot. Shower Grab Bar: My husband bought a grab bar at Home Depot and put it in with a diamond drill bit. Some people bath less if they do not feel secure in the shower. He does not need a shower chair at this point. He is very happy with the shower bar and feels much more confident while bathing. Meals On Wheels: My dad can’t prepare food due to his vision and has lost weight, so we signed up for Meals On Wheels. He pays a minimal fee to have two meals delivered on designated days. This was one of my ideas that he hated at first, but we eased into it.
Now he loves it. He receives a hot meal, a drink, fruit and a cold sandwich for later. Dial-A-Ride: I got my dad signed up for Dial-A-Ride in the city he lives in shortly after he quit driving. He looked pretty annoyed with me when we were registering and did not use the service for months. Then one day he decided to start using it to go out to lunch every week at his favorite restaurant as he used to when he drove. It costs 25-cents one way. My dad is a good tipper and it pays off, he gets exceptional service. Free Talking Books: The Braille Institute provides a free talking machine and books designed for people with low vision or those who cannot hold a book. Books can be ordered online or by calling their library. They provide a free return envelope for the books. I also was able to get my dad a reading magnifying glass at no charge through the Braille Institute. For more information, visit brailleinstitute.org or call (800) 808-2555. Free Phone through The California Telephone Access Program (CTAP): My dad was having trouble dialing his home phone, so I applied for a specialized phone from californiaphones.org. Somebody came to his house and trained him (and me) to use his new phone. Now he can feel for the button that dials me and others with one touch. Anybody in California who has difficulty using a standard telephone qualifies with a doctor’s note. They can be contacted at (800) 8061191. Ring Doorbell: I have had a Ring Doorbell and have found it very useful. I ordered one for my dad. I can see when a delivery is made at my dad’s house or somebody is on his porch. Sometimes I get on the intercom and pretend like I am in the other room. Nobody needs to know he is home alone at times. It is a one-time cost of approximately $100 and then $30 annually. My dad also wears a medical alert button, and I have meals delivered to him through apps like Postmates and Uber Eats. There are many services and programs to assist seniors and caregivers. Looking for assistance and asking for help is the first step. spt Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com and @jenntmqz on Twitter and Instagram.
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VOICES
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The above is a quote from George H.W. Bush, whom we buried last month after a lifetime of public service to our country as a fighter pilot, congressman, U.N. ambassador, CIA director, vice president and, of course, president. He was a Republican president who believed in “serving some higher purpose than ourselves.” He rallied for “A Thousand Points of Light” as a call to service – to make this nation both kinder and gentler. He sent us to war in the Gulf, got our troops out immediately after the conflict was won and made the tough but correct call to raise taxes to pay for that war rather than blow up the deficit and/or take away public services for the poor. Our current president is the antithesis of President #41 – an ignorant narcissist who doesn’t care about the poor, mocks public service, and increases the military budget by billions while at the same time providing tax cuts for the wealthiest and corporations. The result: our national deficit is increasing by trillions, which leads to talks about cutting Social Security and Medicare to make up the deficit. A kinder and gentler nation? Cutting Social Security or Medicare benefits should never occur. First of all, I have been paying into both systems for 45 years – this isn’t an entitlement – these are programs I and tens of millions of Americans are entitled to because we paid for these delayed benefits throughout our lifetimes. As people live longer, the continuation of these resources is more important than ever – they will be the lifeline for so many Americans. A kinder and gentler nation takes Social Security and Medicare off the chopping block forever. Another major social issue is our homeless. There is no silver bullet for homelessness, but there are ways to easily address the invisible homeless who live in cars or non-traditional
housing. Temple Beth El planned to allow people living in their cars to utilize their parking lot for a safe place to park and sleep. The outcry from my Vista Del Oro neighbors was so loud and continual that the temple was forced to back down. Really? A kinder and gentler nation starts in our own backyard. I don’t understand the hate and fear that did not allow this simple act of kindness and service to prevail. This, at a time when our poverty rates and cost of housing continues to rise and more and more families are forced to live in their cars, garages, or 10 in a single bedroom apartment. Kinder and gentler? One of our Club kids and his mom (they both work) live in their car and could have used that parking lot opportunity – they would be a threat to no one. On a similar note, I’ve been informed that a large number of Harbor Community College students are living in their cars and are food deprived. I understand many have tried to park near the campus but are rousted by the authorities and must move on and/ or get ticketed. Why can’t the college allow those students with I.D. to park in their gated lot at night and find funding to place a security guard there to monitor access? Cost would be about $50,000 annually to house maybe 50-100 homeless students each night. This isn’t brain surgery, but we have to be willing to see the real face of homelessness and provide kinder and gentler options other than ticketing these homeless students and relegating them to the streets. Also, the school has a great culinary program – something tells me that with a little creative planning and minimal funding, you could also feed these students at a very low cost to them each morning. We can be kinder and gentler in 2019. spt Mike Lansing is the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.
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Last year was momentous for AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, with milestone achievements that will shape future success in 2019 and for years to come. Our dream is that AltaSea and the work of its partners will be a catalyst for waterfront renovation, a jobs creator, and an economic development jump-start for the entire region. But, for those who may not be familiar, a little background: AltaSea is a nonprofit, public benefit company that has leased 35 acres from the Port of Los Angeles at City Dock 1. The site includes the historic warehouses and former Westways Terminal at the bottom of 22nd Street, next to Warehouse 1 and the Port Pilot Station. It is a spectacular location on the Main Channel, close to the breakwater and Angel’s Gate lighthouse. The vision of AltaSea is to develop a world-class campus of marine and ocean science, business innovation, and community education and engagement – all dedicated to discovery and the preservation of our ocean resources. The first phase of campus development is in three projects: (1) the adaptive reuse of Warehouses 58, 59, and 60 for businesses that are engaged in aquaculture (ocean farming) and blue tech (underwater robotics); (2) the renovation and improvement of Warehouse 57 for the Southern California Marine Institute (SCMI), a consortium of 23 universities, colleges, and institutes; and (3) new construction of an iconic engagement center, designed by the world renowned architectural firm, Gensler. Work on AltaSea has already begun by activating the existing warehouses and wharf on the East Channel. Over the past twelve months, we have secured significant tenants to the site including Boeing (and its ocean exploration submarine, the Echo Voyager), Catalina Sea Ranch (ocean farmers), Blue Robotics (creators of small, ocean robots), and others. We have welcomed innovators and ocean researchers to our docks, such
as Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL), National Geographic, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In addition, AltaSea has partnered with the Ocean Exploration Trust, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor, the L.A. Maritime Institute, and other educators at all levels of study. The bold vision of an AltaSea campus is coming to life, where the best of business, science, and education come together to protect the oceans for future generations, while accelerating our economy, and inspiring the next generation of scientists. Last August, we reached a significant funding milestone that allowed AltaSea to take possession of a large portion of the site and proceed to the first project in phase one - the renovation of our three historic warehouses, home to the aquaculture and blue tech business clusters. Our 180,000-square-foot warehouse complex will be called the Center of Innovation. With this first project, AltaSea will create jobs in new ocean industries, and develop a pipeline to better careers for students in the Los Angeles and Long Beach Harbor communities. These are the “Blue Economy” jobs that will provide opportunity and prosperity to future generations. Later this year, AltaSea will release bid documents and award construction contracts for the Center of Innovation. Work will take a little less than a year, after which the entire space will be available for tenants, jobs, and community education and engagement experiences. All this progress shows that AltaSea has advanced from a wonderfully audacious idea into a tangible reality. But none of it would be possible without the support of our friends, benefactors, and this community. Significant support has come from the City family, most especially Mayor Eric Garcetti, the Port of Los Angeles, and Councilmember Joe Buscaino. The AltaSea team is grateful for the progress of 2018. Together we have come so far, and together we will complete the full vision of AltaSea. spt Tim McOsker is the CEO of AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles.
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CLEAN MACHINE
CLEAN SAN PEDRO CELEBRATES 20 YEARS & TOPS OUR LIST AS OUR FAVORITE LOCAL HIDDEN TREASURE by Joshua Stecker Clean San Pedro crew (l to r) Casey Warren, Steve Kleinjan, Mike Ornelas, Robby Lorenzi, Cameron White and Steve Adams. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
It wasn’t supposed to last this long. “I was hoping the City of Los Angeles would take the hint and it would become something that they did,” says Steve Kleinjan, founder of Clean San Pedro, Inc. “Well, it’s been twenty years now, I guess they haven’t taken the hint.” That “hint” was to simply have a city-run local cleaning and maintenance crew that would take care of San Pedro’s streets and sidewalks on a regular basis, removing graffiti, weeds, and trash to keep the town presentable. Unfortunately, due to whatever myriad of excuses by the City of L.A., no such program was ever created. Instead, the city launched the MyLA311 mobile app, which is a reactive approach that still falls short on some features. “I would go around to other cities and check out their maintenance trucks and I’ll start talking to the workers,” says Kleinjan, 66, a lifelong San Pedro resident. “I look at what tools they carry and what they’re doing. You see these types of local maintenance crews in really nice cities. They have tools to remove weeds, or paint curbs, or take stickers off of signs, all the little things you need in order to maintain cleanliness.”
Kleinjan, armed with that knowledge, went the do-it-yourself route and formed Clean San Pedro, Inc., in 1999, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the environment and quality of life in San Pedro. Currently, the nonprofit provides a “two-pronged approach” towards revitalizing the port town. First is a large volunteer effort, usually once a quarter, to assist in community clean-ups. Second is the follow-up effort provided on a regular basis by the Clean San Pedro staff. STAYING CLEAN Regular maintenance is the hardest – yet most important – part of the process and was the catalyst for the creation of the nonprofit in the first place. In 1998, a group of San Pedro residents organized a clean-up along Pacific Avenue for the annual holiday parade. Impressed with their results, monthly clean-ups were scheduled. Unfortunately, days after these clean-ups, the streets would revert back to their unkempt condition. It was obvious Pacific Avenue would continue this cycle unless regularly scheduled maintenance occurred. “One major issue I have with the City
18 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I JANUARY 2019
is their lack of focus on Pacific Avenue,” explains Kleinjan. “I go to a city like Lomita, where nearly every curb is perfect. Why is that? It’s because when they see something that needs fixing, they act on it.” He continues, “In San Pedro, if you go up O’Farrell Street between Pacific and Harbor, there are no curbs there. They’ve disappeared. It’s been more than 100 years and there has been no repair work. And in the 20 years I’ve been running Clean San Pedro, there has been no repair work on Pacific Avenue done by the City. They should at least be able to do some measurable amount. The neighborhood councils should be holding the City’s feet to the fire on this issue, in my opinion.” KEEPING THINGS RUNNING Like any nonprofit, fundraising is essential. Fortunately for our port town, Clean San Pedro’s fundraising efforts have all been under the guise of community fun and entertainment. In the days before the City of L.A. squashed waiving permits, Clean San Pedro would put on the annual L.A. Wood car show and concert that always brought tons of people to Ports O’ Call Village. In more recent years, the
nonprofit has played host to fundraisers like the Thirst of San Pedro, the annual Hot Pedro Nites Cruise down Pacific Avenue, Doo Wop show and reunion party. “Besides cleaning up the community, we’ve sure done a good job of entertaining it, as well,” says Kleinjan. In 2014, San Pedro received a $250,000 state grant to create a greening plan for the port town. Clean San Pedro was enlisted as a subcontractor for the L.A. Conservation Corps. The grant was awarded in an effort to create green “nodes,” pocket parks, trails and more trees and landscaping throughout the port community. (Information on the San Pedro Urban Greening Implementation plan can be found at agreensanpedro.com.) From the beginning, the nonprofit has always had the support of the community’s local leaders, as well. “Janice Hahn has been a huge supporter. She always supported all our events, waiving fees and donating funds when she could,” says Kleinjan. “The Port of L.A. has also been a great supporter of us.” The creation of the Business Improvement District (PBID) in Downtown San Pedro has created a stable funding source, but it only helps cover
JANUARY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 19
Clean San Pedro through the years. (photos: Steve Kleinjan)
the area within PBID’s boundaries. It takes more manpower, equipment and funding to help maintain the rest of the Pacific Corridor and beyond. MAKING A DIFFERENCE For 35-year-old Casey J. Warren, Clean San Pedro’s manager of operations, the daily challenge of keeping the town clean can be a frustrating yet rewarding experience. “It takes patience and thick skin to do this job daily,” he says. “You'll work so hard to make a blighted area of town look its best only to find it thrashed again the following morning. I've learned over the years to not take anything personally; to do the best you can with what’s in front of you, and to remind yourself that even on days where you don't feel like you've made a difference, know that you have.” For employee Robby Lorenzi, 26, it’s about giving back to his hometown. “I love being able to give back to the town I was born and raised in,” he says. The nonprofit currently has five paid employees, all born and raised in San Pedro. “It just seems to work that way,” says Kleinjan. Through the years, he’s employed two Vietnam vets, and has
even employed three homeless people, eventually getting each of them off the streets. “We put them to work,” he says. “I’d subtract their rent from their pay, we’d get them a little apartment, and give them enough for spending money in order to keep a roof over their head and keep them from misusing their money. We’ve supported three homeless people so far that are now officially off the streets and leading better lives.” Looking ahead, Kleinjan says the biggest challenge for him is to keep the organization going without him. “What I would prefer is to see the City step up to the plate,” he says. “What we do isn’t that difficult. It’s just a matter of being proactive rather than reactive. Eventually, I’d like us to partner with a much bigger nonprofit, like the L.A. Conservation Corps.” He continues, “[Former L.A. City Councilman] Rudy Svorinich once told me that everyone comes up with a good idea, but you got to hang in there in order to make it happen. After 20 years, I guess I’ve hung in there.” spt For more information on Clean San Pedro, Inc., visit cleansanpedro.org.
OUR HIDDEN TREASURES 2019 brings new beginnings, new changes, and new perspectives. This New Year, we’re reminded to take a look around, and find value in our surroundings and local community. We asked San Pedro Today contributors and staff about their favorite “hidden treasures.” Some you might be familiar with, others may be new to you. Whatever the case, we hope you use 2019 to discover all that our town has to offer.
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L.A. MARITIME MUSEUM'S COMMERCIAL FISHING EXHIBIT
If your family has roots in the commercial fishing industry (like mine), then do yourself a favor and pay a visit to the L.A. Maritime Museum’s exhibit. Not only is it fascinating, but you may even see a few familiar names and faces. Definitely a mustsee and a great glimpse into the history of San Pedro. – Caitlyn Trudnich, San Pedro Today associate editor
SAN PEDRO WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL
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My hidden gem is, quite literally, hidden. It's the San Pedro World War II Memorial stashed away in the farthest southwest corner of Green Hills Memorial Park. Unveiled at the park's annual Memorial Day event in 2005, the massive granite monument was subsequently moved to be the centerpiece of a new development. It contains the names of 162 men from San Pedro who died in the war.
ROSY SCENARIO
It's the cutest little antique shop in Downtown San Pedro with amazing prices. I love seeing Rose, the shop owner, ride around town to all the garage and estate sales, transporting her finds back to the shop in her basket. Rose is such a great lady with an awesome eye. Don't sleep on Rosy Scenario, it's a treasure full of treasures! – Angela Romero, San Pedro Heritage Museum
– Steve Marconi, columnist
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PECK PARK CANYON'S RAY PATRICIO TRAILS & GREEN GIRL FARMS, located on 14th Street, is REMNANTS OF THE OLD HERNANDEZ RANCH As a kid, our grandma would give us carrots and sugar cubes to feed the horses and visit with Mr. H. Years later, we all played flag football at Peck for Coach Patricio, who advocated ceaselessly for safe, healthy uses of the canyon. Then, my own kids played every sport imaginable at Peck, and Connie and I would race through the canyon to get to games on time! Today, it is a beautiful morning walk and respite from the City. – Tim McOsker, CEO of AltaSea
open every Wednesday from 9–11 a.m. Master gardner, Lara Hughey, has a great selection of organic, locally grown produce. There is always something new to try. They are also open at the Corner Store on select Saturdays.
NAZELIE’S THE VACATION-STYLE WOODEN CHAIRS LOOKING And... LEBANESE CAFÉ is my NEAR THE ENTRANCE TO THE CATALINA EXPRESS family’s go-to restaurant PARKING LOT under the Vincent Thomas Bridge. once a week. I phone in Great place to pray, ponder, or plan a get-away. Parking is free for just enough time. And A CUP OF COFFEE AND A WAFFLE AT THE NORWEGIAN CHURCH. The cheapest trip you can take to Europe. No passport needed. Open Tuesday through Sunday in the middle of the day. – Pastor Nathan Hoff, Trinity Lutheran Church
our order, which is usually three chicken kabob plates, no salad, with extra hummus. The shawarma is also exceptional and the staff is always friendly. – Jennifer Marquez, columnist
THE PULL-UP RIG ON 10TH & BEACON STREETS
The annual POLAR BEAR SWIM at Cabrillo Beach on New Year’s Day – one of my favorites! And the HAPPY Grabbing a burger and a cold beer at WALKER'S CAFE, hidden across ROLL at Bonello’s Pizza. Point Fermin Park. – Mike Harper, realtor – Peter Hazdovac, realtor
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(photos: Yelp, Heyday Elite Fitness, Cabrillo Beach Polar Bears)
Lots of people don’t realize how big on fitness San Pedro locals are. There are several gyms and a vibrant fitness community, but even among us gym rats, few realize the best workouts in this town are free. There are beautiful strands for running, walking, and a free-toall pull-up rig overlooking the waterfront. – Ricky Magana, Heyday Elite Fitness
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E VERY NIGHT AT 9 P.M., THE SOUND OF TAPS COMING FROM FORT MACARTHUR. Named the 2018 NonProfit of the Year by the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, SAN PEDRO MEALS ON WHEELS is an organization that dedicates their time to feeding the mouths and souls of our local community.
The pizza at JOSEPH’S BAKERY. Everyone in town knows it’s even better for breakfast! BIG NICK'S PIZZA'S RANCH DRESSING & SANDWICH SALOON'S CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD DRESSING. (If you know, you know.)
SAN PEDRO’S HIDDEN STREET ARTISTS From the graffiti cat, to the young boy’s face. We see these creations pop up everywhere, but who creates them?
CABRILLO BEACH GRUNION RUN
Every March through August, the Grunion fish come to the shores of Cabrillo Beach to lay their eggs. Arriving at night after the high tide around the new moon and full moon, this spectacle is something worth seeing.
Led by Mike & Shirley (Vojkovich) Walker, SAN PEDRO PACKAGES FOR PATRIOTS supports the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces by providing letters, care packages, and comfort items to the deployed. (sanpedropackagesforpatriots.com)
GAFFEY ST. LOOKOUT POINT PARK Located across the street from Angels Gate Park, this scenic spot has a spectacular view of our town and working harbor. (For Mad Men fans, it's also the spot where Don Draper [left] arrived in San Pedro.)
731-741 S. PACIFIC AVE. FRIENDS OF THE LITTLE FISH THEATRE, SAN PEDRO LIBRARY ART DECO BUILDING BOOK STORE, located Built in 1930, the former which consistently The art of the stage at
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(photos: Yelp, Joshua Stecker, John Mattera Photography)
The BEACON HOUSE CREW, who constantly devote their time to community service and assisting at local events. Check out their thrift store, the Beacon House Exchange, located on Pacific Avenue.
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SPORTS
RING SEASON SPHS FOOTBALL CAPTURES CIF-LA CITY SECTION DIV I CHAMPIONSHIP story by Jamaal K. Street photo by Vince Pirozzi With nine games in the books for the 2018 season, San Pedro High School football was mired in a fourgame losing streak with a 3-6 overall record, wondering how they would turn their season around. A month and five straight victories later, the Pirates are feeling like they're on top of the world. It wasn't easy, but sixth-seeded San Pedro thwarted a late charge by topseeded Dorsey of Los Angeles and won 22-20, capturing the CIF-Los Angeles City Section Division 1 championship in front of an estimated 4,500 fans at El Camino College Murdock Stadium on Saturday, November 24. This crowning moment capped off a wild season that many wouldn't believe would end in glorious fashion. At least on this night, San Pedro (8-6 overall) will not have to share this championship with anyone else, like the Pirates did in 2008 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Dorsey (8-6) was carrying an eight-game winning streak into the title tilt and carried that confidence into their opening possession of the game after forcing a San Pedro punt. On just the Dons’ third play from scrimmage, senior running back, Keeshawn Johnson, broke free for an electrifying 90-yard touchdown run to put Dorsey up 6-0 midway through the first quarter, as the Pirates stopped the ensuing two-point conversion. Senior quarterback, Justin Bernal, would hook up with senior wide
San Pedro High School Football CIF champs.
receiver, Cam Thomas, for a 41-yard first down to put the Pirates in the red zone before junior WR/DB/K, Andres Srsen, nailed a 25-yard field goal late in the first quarter to cut Dorsey's lead to 6-3, which would remain that way at quarter's end. After a big pass play on a wide receiver reverse, the Dons would strike again with a short three-yard touchdown run and ensuing two-point conversion run from sophomore Michael Sanford, for a 14-3 advantage. From there, San Pedro was awoken, and came up big on two plays to turn the game around in their favor. On San Pedro's ensuing offensive drive, a 19-yard first down pass from Bernal to Srsen would extend the drive to their own 40-yard line, then a personal foul on Dorsey put the Pirates past midfield. Three plays later, junior running back, Joshua Ward, would drive his way into Pirate football lore with one of the greatest runs ever. After taking the handoff from Bernal, Ward appeared to have been stopped behind the line of scrimmage, then after breaking for a couple of yards, he would shed off three more Dorsey would-be tacklers before escaping and running for a 29-yard touchdown with only eight minutes left in the second quarter for a 14-10 Dons lead. However, the Pirates weren't done. A crucial holding penalty on Dorsey wiped out a first down run, then two
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plays later, San Pedro's defense finally got a big break when the next pass was read perfectly by sophomore defensive back Joshua Johnson, who jumped the route and intercepted it, returning it 27 yards for an easy touchdown to put San Pedro ahead with 6:30 remaining in the second quarter. San Pedro would maintain a 16-14 halftime lead until the eight-minute mark in the fourth quarter. After Dorsey was stopped on fourth down after an attempted fake punt, three straight bruising runs of 14 yards from junior Alexander Prado, a ten-yard run by Ward, and then Ward again for a two-yard touchdown put San Pedro ahead 22-14 with 8:13 to play. The two CIF-LACS powers would trade punts, but the Dons somehow drove down field to score one more time with Sanford on a two-yard touchdown run, and it was 22-20 with 1:14 to play. There was no question Dorsey would go for a potential game-tying two-point conversion, but the Dons were flagged for a five-yard delay of game penalty. The Dons were forced to throw for two and went for a halfback option pass, but it fell incomplete, much to the relief of the Pirates. Once junior TE/DL Matthew McCabe recovered the ensuing onside kick followed by two kneel downs by Bernal, San Pedro could finally breathe again and celebrate their hard-earned crown.
During San Pedro's four-game losing streak towards the end of the regular season, the offense struggled to put points on the board after blowing a 17-0 halftime lead in a Marine League opening 27-24 loss to Carson on September 28. From there, the Pirates were routed in three straight defeats to CIF-LACS Open Division champion Narbonne, Harbor Area neighbor Banning, and CIF-Southern Section Division 3 champion Sierra Canyon. Playing those teams definitely prepared the Pirates for the long run, as they would finish the year with their only Marine League victory over Gardena, followed by three impressive playoff wins over Granada Hills Charter, Reseda and South Gate when the offense found its groove again and the defense was stingy when it mattered against a Dorsey team that was playing its third consecutive CIF-LACS Division 1 final. San Pedro would avenge a 10-8 loss to the Dons in the 1995 CIF-LACS Division 4A final, which also ironically enough occurred at El Camino College and also ending an eight-game losing streak to the reigning Coliseum League champions. San Pedro's latest sports championship just comes 21 days after the girls volleyball team captured a CIF-LACS Division 1 crown. It truly is “ring season” in Pirate Town. spt
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'TIL DEATH DO US PART A VISIT TO THE L.A. CITY ARCHIVES REVEALS A TREASURE TROVE OF SAN PEDRO HISTORY by Angela "Romee" Romero There’s a famous photo of the ceremonial marriage of San Pedro and Los Angeles, taken at the Harbor Day Celebration on July 4, 1908, an event sponsored by pro-consolidation interests. In the photo, Miss Pearl Pierson, sporting all white and a sweet dimple, plays the part of the young, virginal San Pedro, full of potential. Next to her stands L.A. Mayor Arthur Harper, a man who looks like he could be Miss Pierson’s least favorite grandfather. The infamously corrupt Harper would resign from office nine months later amid recall efforts and poor Pearl would die in her parents’ home in less than ten years’ time. I think about this photo often because a marriage is the best way to describe the relationship between L.A. and San Pedro. There was a consolidation of assets, L.A. got to make all the decisions, San Pedro, being the modern young woman that she was, decided to keep her name and she’s fantasized about divorce ever since. San Pedrans have never forgotten that we were once our own city. In fact, wishing that we could be independent, again, is a bit of a rite of passage for us. SPExit will always be that white whale we chase, but there’s a much less complicated way to get in touch with our strong independent roots: visiting the L.A. City archives. The L.A. City archives are located on
the roof of the infamous “Piper Tech” building in Downtown Los Angeles, also home of the LAPD helicopter squadron and crime lab. The entrance is a little non-descript. If there wasn’t a sign over a filthy roll-up door that read City Records Center and Archives, you’d have no idea of the informational riches being housed there. Inside is a sleepy looking room of long wooden tables and stacked file boxes awaiting their researchers. I’m greeted by city archivist Michael Holland. It was Michael who had told me that the old San Pedro city records were in the city archives. Like any good spouse, the City of L.A. took possession of all the San Pedro city records after the consolidation. I’ve wanted to visit ever since. Before making the trip up to Downtown L.A., I had searched through the online index of available materials and chose several boxes from the San Pedro Municipal Records collection, specifically the city ordinances. When Michael wheeled the stack of boxes to my table, the history moths in my stomach started to flutter. It was as if I was being given boxes of personal effects from a long-lost ancestor and that looking at them would somehow help me understand myself a little more. All the boxes contained large ledger books wrapped in archival paper. Some of the ledgers contained typed tran-
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The ceremonial marriage of San Pedro and the City of L.A.; (inset) the final, handwritten tally of votes for and against consolidation. (photos: San Pedro Bay Historical Society, Angela Romero)
scripts of minutes, some had typed copies of deed transfers. I wasn’t looking for anything in particular, this was more of a reconnaissance mission. I just wanted to acquaint myself with the materials. One volume was filled with big round script, it was the clerk’s book full of handwritten ordinances, the very first happening on March 5, 1888, establishing the meetings of the city trustees to take place every Tuesday in Judge Weeks’ courtroom on Front Street at 7:30 p.m. The book of published ordinances included those that changed the name of West Street to Pacific Avenue and the 1903 ordinance that designated Beacon and First Streets as the zero point, where all addresses would be designated north, south, east and west of. Beyond those, most ordinances had to do with grading the streets. That means that the city of San Pedro spent its entire life making the streets more navigable and really just laying the foundation for the town we know, today. Probably the most interesting volume was the old Harbor View Cemetery ledger. This old book contained a handwritten account of nearly every plot sale and burial at the small cemetery
from 1887 to 1915, with a huge gap in 1909 right after consolidation. Unfortunately, the baby that I had been looking for in a previous article was buried some time during the gap in the records. I made sure to take a picture of each page for future reference. After I finished looking through all of the boxes, I chatted with Michael about the city of San Pedro and consolidation. In the conversation, the question of vote records came up and Michael said he could show me the giant ledger that contained the special election for the consolidation vote. I nearly jumped out of my seat at the mention. When he brings out a book that, when opened, is the size of a small card table, and opens it to the vote record, I am awe-struck. In front of me is a handwritten tally of all the votes for and against consolidation in August of 1909. The tallies for the L.A. precincts take up most of the page, only one precinct has a double digit no vote. The Wilmington and San Pedro votes are dwarfed by comparison. It was so strange that I was staring one of the most consequential records in San Pedro history, right in the face. It was the marriage certificate of San Pedro and Los Angeles. spt
GIVE A DOG A FOREVER HOME
San Pedro Today has partnered with volunteers from Harbor Animal Care Center to feature dogs currently in need of a new forever home. The dogs featured on this page are all available for adoption as of press time. If you’re interested in adopting any of the pups featured, contact Harbor Animal Care Center at (310) 548-2632.
Meet Kona! This debonair senior gent is just as sweet as he looks, and he has a smile for everyone he meets. He's gentle and calm, and likes to be with people. Kona loves to go for walks and he has plenty of kisses to share! He deserves to spend his golden years in a warm and loving home, please open your home and heart to Kona.
Meet Johnny! A delightful super senior who was surrendered to the shelter by his family. Johnny is sweet and understandably confused. He's on Medical Alert and kept in ISO where no one can see him, because he has a small mass on his rear left paw, and is in need of dental work. He's an old grandpa who needs a loving someone to take him home. Is it you?
Meet Dolly! We love, love, love this senior lady! Dolly is pure love and sweetness wrapped up in a snuggly fur coat. Dolly loves people and has been kenneled with other dogs. She knows her sit command and just wants to be close to you. Her teeth are pretty worn but she is happy and full of life. Please open your home and heart to this delightful beauty.
Meet Peaches! Pretty Peaches is a full-figured gal who is sweet as pie and easy on the eyes. Peaches is gentle and calm, and totally content to sit quietly at your side and listen in on your conversations. She knows her sit and shake commands, loves to play fetch and run in the yard. Please consider rescuing or adopting Peaches!
Meet Eddie! Eddie is pure happiness bundled up in a soft brindle coat. He’s playful and fun, and his tail is always wagging. Eddie knows his sit command and takes treats in a gentlemanly manner. He leans up against you for pets and flops over so you can rub his belly – this boy definitely loves attention! Eddie’s ready, come and get him!
Meet Joey! Joey is a sweet, beautiful boy with distinctive phantom-like markings. Joey’s sweetness and good-nature shine through and he always has a ready smile for his friends. Joey is calm and gentle, and walks nicely on leash. He deserves a real home where he will be cared for and adored, and he deserves to be loved forever.
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ON THE TOWN
The 38th Annual Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade took over the streets of Downtown San Pedro on Sunday, December 2, 2018. Presented by the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, this year’s parade included returning Grand Marshal, KOST 103.5’s Mark Wallengren, and Honorary Mayor of San Pedro, Domenic Costa. Other special appearances included Timmy the Duck, San Pedro City Ballet, and, of course, Santa Claus. (photos: John Mattera Photography)
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HEALTH & FITNESS
TEENAGE ADVICE FOR YOUR BEST YEAR EVER by Ricky Magana
I started working out when I was a sophomore in high school. Prior to that, I spent most of my days watching TV and eating fast food. Had I kept on the road I was on, I was headed towards heart disease and diabetes (both prevalent in my family). It changed my life. It changed how I looked at life. Your life has certain moments where things can swing one way or another. What you choose to do today can change the entire trajectory of your life. One of the best things you can do is recognize those moments and decide to do something your future self will thank you for. Something that will change the direction of your life when the current one has you headed towards a dangerous outcome. Lou Mardesich, a San Pedro native and principal at Harry Bridges Span School in Wilmington, noticed a disturbing trend. Many children at his school were overweight, obese, and had poor eating habits. Largely the result of socio-economic forces outside of their control, these kids were headed towards many health problems that were completely preventable. So, one day he had a crazy idea, start a CrossFit program at his middle school. After lots of planning and securing the funding, he launched the program with this objective: to bring students struggling with childhood obesity, often intimidated by exercise, into a fitness program that will allow them to overcome the health and developmental issues that arise from inactivity. That was six years ago. As a result of the effort to make a healthier school, this year, Harry Bridges received a Silver status recognizing them as one of America’s healthiest schools by Alliance for Healthier Generations, a national organization that helps bring wellness initiatives to schools. He recently sent me a letter from a student named Heizel asking to be admitted in the CrossFit class. I read it and realized that often kids see things more clearly than adults do. They get it. So, as you approach the New Year, read
this letter and replace CrossFit with any challenge you feel compelled to take on. The thing that nags at you but you’re afraid to try. Heisel's letter read: Ever since I started school I heard about CrossFit and how it helps you lose weight and all these good things about it. When they lift weights, they are gaining muscle and that makes me feel stronger knowing that I will be able to work out without an excuse to be lazy. I always tell myself I'm going to work out, but I never do because I'm too lazy. But CrossFit won’t allow me to be lazy. Many of my friends tell me, “Heisel, don't join. It's so hard. You're gonna die.” But from my point of view, I think, “Isn't that the point?” CrossFit is not going to be easy and I know that, but that's why I want to join, to see how far my limits are and extend [them]. I want to push myself to be a better, healthier version of me, and no matter how many things I hear about me “dying,” I’m still willing [to try], because how would I know if I don't like it if I’ve never tried it? I want to prove, not just to myself, but to everyone that I'm not lazy. I always look at my favorite quote, “Do not let your body define your soul, let your soul define your body.” You can be so insecure about your looks, but you have to show people you're strong mentally and physically. So, I want to keep going. I want to lose weight, and I want to become a healthier person. Not for anyone, but for myself. I want to feel proud of the body I am in, and I want to feel accomplished, to feel better about myself. I couldn’t have said it better. In 2019, become a healthier person, find and extend your limits, try something new, and show others you’re strong physically and mentally. And when others doubt, don’t listen to the noise. You’ll never know what you’re capable of unless you have the courage to find out. spt Heyday Elite Fitness offers a 2-minute scan that provides a full 1-page body fat analysis to help you tailor your fitness goals. For more info, email ricky@heydaytraining.com. JANUARY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 31
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VOICES
LEADERSHIP: START WITH SUBTRACTION by Pastor Nathan Hoff
This is the fourth and final article in a series on leadership based on a set of commandments we return to and refer to at Trinity, the parish I serve. You may catch up on past articles in the archive at sanpedrotoday.com. You may notice that all nine commandments were not covered. Four of them are more specific to church leadership and may not be as interesting to the readership of this magazine. If you are interested in the whole set, please don’t hesitate to contact me at pastor@trinitysanpedro.org. The call to lead is tough. Making decisions will draw detractors. Bringing reform will not be popular with those who helped create, or have an investment in, the status quo. Leaning into a difficult discussion instead of living in denial takes chutzpah. So why lead? Your family (kids’ sports team, business, neighborhood council, city, quilting group, confirmation class, the list goes on and on) needs someone to lead. Proverbs 29.18 says, “Where there is no vision [leadership], the people cast off restraint.” Good leadership can foment unity to win wars, go to the moon and back, and convince people to make unlikely sacrifices for the greater good. From the basic unit of the family to a nation, without a leader to communicate vision, everyone goes their own way. Everybody just goes into their own room to watch their own show, because we can’t agree on who we are (identity) or what we are doing (mission). The leader is responsible to detect and correct identity theft and mission creep. Identity theft is the inability to answer the questions, “Who are we?” Mission creep is the inability to answer, “What are we called to do?” Identity theft is exacerbated by the pressure to be everything, and mission creep is made worse by the pressure to do everything. When identity theft or mission creep is detected, the
first corrective measure is weeding. Have you ever planted mint? Looks harmless. Smells great. Helps digestion. Makes a great garnish. Mint should come with a warning label: Will take over your whole yard! Take my word, give mint boundaries. Like, put it in a pot, away from any other soil. At first, I felt like a real champion gardener when I saw how great my mint was doing. Then I thought, “I wonder if I need to prune that back?” Then, “Holy cow, that’s enough mint for all the mojitos the Green Onion makes in a year!” When my rhubarb was in danger of losing its life to the mint, I took drastic action. Weed the mint. I pulled it all out. Smelled like a gum factory. I gave bushels of mint to my backyard chickens and have sworn off mint ever since. Leadership Commandment 8: We weed today. We stop being who we are not called to be. We stop doing what we are not called to do. We don't let the sun go down on our anger (Ephesians 4.26). We don't allow noxious feelings to spread. We don't give the devil a foothold by planting invasive offense in our garden (2 Corinthians 2.10). We are quick to address and forgive. Bitter unforgiveness is a million times more destructive than mint. When we don’t weed today, tomorrow is worse. The difficult discussion is not less necessary, nor is it less difficult tomorrow. This New Year, take a good look at your metaphorical garden. What is crowding out health and growth? Is there something that is not essential to your core identity or mission that can be weeded out? Many people resolve to add stuff to their lives at the New Year. Gym memberships, fad diets, and other well-intentioned additions. Maybe it would be healthier to start with subtraction this year instead of addition. Weed instead of plant? May the Lord crown your year with abundance (from Psalm 65). spt Nathan Hoff is the Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in San Pedro. Follow his blog at: trinitypastor.blogspot.com.
WEDDING
Russo, Vanessa Spychaj, and Rose Vargas. The bridal party also included junior bridesman Ayden Mendez; flower girls Emma Kooper, Rosalie Ilgunas, and Celine Serna; and ring bearers Andrew Kooper and Logan Mendez. Their wedding day also featured very personal tributes to their loved ones, including Kayleigh’s mother, Linda. “I lost my mom to a rare disease called Scleroderma in 2013, so filling that void on the biggest day of my life was very challenging,” says Kayleigh. During the ceremony, a flower girl walked down the aisle with a photo of Linda and Kayleigh. “When you have the love and story by Caitlyn Trudnich support of family and friends to help you through those tough times, you seem to get by one day at a time,” she “Love is that can't eat, can't sleep, adds. reach for the stars, over the fence, Fun was everywhere at this party. World Series kinda stuff.” The bridal party participated in an – It Takes Two awesome lip-sync battle featuring ‘90s music. “It got pretty competitive,” “There's no one I'd rather go through recalls Ali. Guests were also treated to a life with than Ali,” says Kayleigh. “She chocolate fountain, late night bites, and embraces new things, and I really favors of scented candles, each with a love that we bring out the best in each special Disney-related scent, including other.” Dole Whip, churros, and Soarin’ Over “Kayleigh is one of those people California’s orange grove. that can answer any trivia question With a wonderful day full of special and will likely get it correct,” describes moments, Ali and Kayleigh cherish beAli. “I love her witty attitude and her ing able to celebrate their engagement confidence when doing something that and marriage with their bridesmaid and she loves, particularly when it comes to dear friend Ari, who sadly passed away athletics.” due to ovarian cancer in September. A shared love of softball initially “Having her alongside us during our connected the couple, as both played ceremony was something we'll forever in high school, Ali at Mary Star of the be grateful for,” says Kayleigh. Sea and Kayleigh at San Pedro High. The newlyweds enjoyed a 10-day Though familiar with one another honeymoon in Riviera Maya, Mexico, through sports, they officially met in where they also celebrated Ali’s 30th 2007. Through many MySpace messages ries. “Vacations and adventures are lessons to prepare for the moment.” birthday. Of course, their trip was (yes, MySpace was still a thing back kind of our thing,” says Kayleigh. “It On August 11, 2018, the couple offijam-packed with excursions, including then), the women immediately clicked has absolutely become a foundation in cially tied the knot at Tustin Ranch Golf ziplining, exploring the ancient ruins, and formed an instant bond. In 2009, our relationship.” The pair have wine Club in Orange County, surrounded by and swimming with whale sharks. they officially became a couple. tasted in Oregon, adventured in Hawaii, the love of over 180 guests. Recently, the couple has enjoyed setAli and Kayleigh’s relationship is cruised to Mexico, and visited eight Their ceremony was officiated by tling into married life and celebrating filled with many shared interests. Both MLB ballparks in the hopes of one day Kayleigh’s cousin, Jason Martinez. Ali their first Christmas together as wives. ladies are big fans of the Los Angeles visiting all thirty. was escorted down the aisle by her “We see ourselves continuing to go Dodgers, and love to root for the boys A trip both Ali and Kayleigh will mother, Margie DiBernardo, and father, on new adventures and creating more in blue, attending many home and away always remember is Ireland in 2017. Neil DiBernardo. Joining her also was memories,” says Kayleigh. Ali thoughtgames, spring training, and even the Joined by friends, Jess and Ari, the Matrons of Honor and sisters, Alyssa fully adds, “We want to continue to World Series. nine-day vacation included plenty of Kooper and Amanda Mendez; bridesgrow and learn together. When you Being annual pass holders, Ali and picturesque moments. On day five, the maids Ari Castellanos, Cassie Demers, work together as a team and respect Kayleigh also frequent Disneyland group drove the Atlantic Highway to Emily Demers, Taylor DiBernardo, each other, it makes life so much easier.” often, and recently made their first trip visit the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. Jennifer Gonzalez, and Mandy Martiz. Ali and Kayleigh currently reside to Walt Disney World. Both ladies can After finding a scenic grassy patch, they Kayleigh was escorted down the aisle in San Pedro. Ali works as a licensed also accurately recite lyrics from any decided to take some photos. Seizing by her father, Tim Raciak. Joining her physical therapist assistant and an Disney song at the drop of a hat. Serithe moment, Ali got down on one knee also was Maids of Honor and sisters, injury prevention specialist, while Kayously, it’s impressive. and proposed. “Our friends were in on Ashley Raciak and Brittany Raciak; leigh is a dedicated nanny, as well as an Throughout their relationship, travel the surprise from the beginning,” recalls bridesmaids Chelsea Atencio, Jessica ILWU casual. spt has helped create wonderful memoAli. “Ari even took some photography Castellanos, Felicia Galindo, Kimberly
OUT OF THE PARK! ALI & KAYLEIGH RACIAK AUGUST 11, 2018
JANUARY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 33
From my Heart to your Home Wishing Everyone a Happy & Healthy Holiday and a prosperous 2019!
Kris Lusic
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R E T IS
It’s hard to believe but here we are easing into the New Year with 2018 now firmly embedded in our rear-view mirror. In real estate, 2018 will be looked back at and remembered as a transitional year. Leading into 2018, San Pedro and most of the South Bay real estate market was coming off a strong 2017 with solid increases from the previous year in both home prices and sales volume. According to local MLS statistics (2017 v. 2016), there were 364 single-family residences sold in San Pedro (+6%) with an average sales price of $687,000 (+7%) and average days on market of 39 days (-40%). In neighboring Rancho Palos Verdes there were 397 SFRs sold (-4%) with an average sales price of $1.446MM (+2%) and average DOM of 39 days (-37%). Overall, there were 4,561 SFRs sold (+1%) in the South Bay with an average sales price of $1.114MM (+8%) and average DOM of 35 days (-33%). Then came 2018 and much of the discussion in local real estate revolved around the inevitable “shift” which, many experts projected, would lead to a slowdown in our real estate markets. The fundamental logic was that rising mortgages rates, coupled with declining housing affordability, would have a slowing effect on our local markets. We all seemed to understand and believe it was coming, but no one really knew when. It wasn’t until late summer/early fall that we started to see and feel the “shift” happening in our local markets. The indicators were all there: increased days on market, more seller price reductions than in the past, and an uptick in available housing inventory. Concurrent to this “shift” was the gradual increase in mortgage rates from around 4% in 2017 to nearly 4.7% by the end of the third quarter in 2018.
Overall, 2018 will still go down as a solid year for our local real estate markets. Through mid December of 2018 there were 313 SFR homes sold in San Pedro. This was down 16% from the 374 homes sold during the same period in 2017. However, the average sales price of $701,000 was up nearly 3% and the average DOM for homes sold went from 40 days to 30 days (-25%). In the Rancho Palos Verdes, 354 SFR homes sold (-7%) with an average sales price of $1.534MM (+7%) and average DOM of 40 days (+5%). In the South Bay as a whole, there were 3,851 SFR homes sold (-12%) with an average sales price of $1.160MM (+4%) and average DOM of 31 days (-11%). Slowing in our local markets, in all likelihood, could be considered healthy for our overall economy. Conventional wisdom suggests we could only go so high, so fast before the real estate markets would take on a more realistic pace that could be sustainable over the long term. So, what’s to be expected in 2019? The 2019 Housing Market Forecast, released by the California Association of Realtors in October, projects that SFR home sales volume will be down 3.3%, with the median home price in California up 3.1%. Further, the average 30-year, fixed mortgage interest rates are projected to rise to 5.2% in 2019, up from 4.7% in 2018 and 4% in 2017, but will remain low by historical standards. “The surge in home prices the last few years due to the housing supply shortage has finally taken a toll on the market,” said C.A.R Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Leslie-Appleton-Young. “Despite an improvement in supply conditions, there is a high level of uncertainty about the direction of the market that is affecting home buying decisions. The psychological effect is creating a mismatch in price expectations between buyer and sellers and will limit price growth in the upcoming year.” spt
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THIS MONTH IN SAN PEDRO HISTORY compiled by Julia Swanson January 3, 1543 – Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo died. He was the first European to navigate the coast of California. He was a native of Portugal who had gone to New Spain (Mexico) and then sailed up the coast and landed in California. His imposing statue towers over the bay at Cabrillo Beach. Cabrillo originally named the San Pedro area Bahia de los Fumos (Bay of Smokes) after observing smoke emerging from the hills. This came from the largest Native American village in the Los Angeles area. There were 1,500 huts in the village. Once a hut became old and unserviceable, the inhabitants would burn them. It is believed that the smoke from these burning homes was what Cabrillo saw. The village area was near Point Fermin, between Gaffey and Western. January 3, 1901 – Disastrous early morning fire in San Pedro. Started in an Italian fruit store behind J.L. Griffin’s
Seaside market and sweeps along Front and 5th streets, igniting structures like Union Hotel, Murphy’s Hotel, and a number of saloons, restaurants, butcher shops and general stores. City Hall was barely saved. The San Pedro Volunteer Fire Department fought the blaze. Total losses estimated at $50,000.
Lt. Gen. Arthur MacArthur, Jr. (left) and Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo
January 10, 1914 – Property reserved by President Cleveland in 1888 to be used as a military reservation was named Fort MacArthur after Lieutenant General Arthur MacArthur, Jr.
Pedro. He had purchased 2,400 acres of Rancho San Pedro, along with Phineas Banning and Benito Wilson, for the purpose of laying out the new city and harbor. In 1865, he became a Trustee of Phineas Banning’s Pioneer Oil Company, the first oil company in California. He was the Founder of the Historical Society of Southern California, located in Los Angeles.
January 14, 1860 – Gov. John Gately Downey became Governor of California. He was born in Ireland on June 24, 1827, moved to the U.S. in 1842, and to California in 1849. A businessman, he was elected to the L.A. City Council and in 1852 he was appointed the port collector in San
January 15, 1865 – Letter from President Abraham Lincoln to Phineas Banning thanking him for saving California through the Wilmington Drum Barracks during the Civil War. Phineas Banning organized the first oil company in California known as the Pioneer Oil Company. He wanted
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38 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I JANUARY 2019
to find something to replace whale oil, which stank so badly. He was a state senator in Sacramento at the time, and a leading light in business in San Pedro’s harbor and shipping industry. His own ranch in Wilmington became one of the most prolific oil finds in history. January 24, 1809 – Juan Jose Dominguez died. He had the original land grant issued by Spain of 75,000 acres, which was known then as Rancho San Pedro, and included what is now Redondo Beach, Torrance, Gardena, Compton, San Pedro, Wilmington, Lomita, Harbor City, and Carson. This was the first large land grant in California to be issued to an individual by Spain. spt
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