APRIL 2016
DOWNTOWN'S DOLLAR DILEMMA | STUDENT OCEAN SCIENTISTS (SOS) PROGRAM | EVOLUTION OF A PORT
A Waterfront for a NEW GENERATION An in-depth look at the plans for the San Pedro Public Market
PLUS: An Exclusive Interview with L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti on the Waterfront, the Homeless and the LAPD
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"We've come all the way from San Pedro, California!" screamed legendary punk rock icon Mike Watt from the stage at The Main II in Austin, Texas, during last month's South by Southwest (SXSW) Interactive, Film and Music Festival. Watt, along with his Secondmen brothers, Pete Mazich and Jerry Trebotic, tore through 30 songs in 40 minutes, blowing the minds of the festival crowd with their signature brand of punk rock while constantly reminding them where they came from. I was in the audience that night during my annual pilgrimage to SXSW, and I never felt more proud to be a San Pedran. Granted, no one inside that packed house, aside from myself and the band, probably knew where San Pedro was, but seeing a rock icon like Watt express how proud he is of his hometown to this Austin crowd was enough for me to forget about our town's problems for a few hours and just bask in the music coming from "three guys from Pedro," as Watt so eloquently put it. I wasn't planning on seeing and hanging out with Mike Watt and the Secondmen that evening. In fact, I had no idea they were performing at the festival until the day before. This was my fifth consecutive year attending SXSW, and if there is one sure thing about that festival, it's that you never know what can happen on any given evening. Of the many film, music and interactive festivals and conferences I attend each year across the country, SXSW is by far my favorite. I think it's because downtown Austin reminds me a lot of downtown San Pedro. Their main downtown drag is 6th Street, just like ours. There's a bit of an attitude with the older locals, just like Pedro. And they pride themselves on being "weird." So much so that "Keep Austin Weird" is an official slogan. While I jokingly call our town weird on occasion (because, let's face it, we are), we could easily start a "Keep San Pedro Surly" slogan (a riff on that now classic L.A. Weekly article) and San Pedrans would wear t-shirts emblazoned with that phrase with pride. Because we're weird like that. One thing Austin has that San Pedro is lacking though, is that entrepreneurial tech community we've been trying to solicit in these pages for what seems like years. Last month, our columnist Jack Baric reemphasized the need for tech investment in San Pedro, and it looks like we may get our wish sooner than we think. A recent article in the Daily Breeze talked about the rise of Silicon Beach, and how tech companies have migrated to the South Bay beach communities of Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo. It's only a matter of time before they see the potential of a Silicon Harbor now that plans for the San Pedro Public Market are officially underway. Property values and office rental space in San Pedro are much more affordable in comparison to the other beach communities, for now. And with modern living spaces like The Vue and the Centre Street Lofts established, Marymount California University's presence in downtown, and an older property owner clientele who may be prone to sell quicker than usual, the ingredients are there for some important and exciting changes to occur in and around our downtown business district. I don't know about you, but I'm excited for what's to come now that the San Pedro Public Market has been unveiled, and I'm even more excited to feature the plans and take you through a virtual tour of the Market in our cover story this month. I spoke at length with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and Alan and Eric Johnson of Jerico Development about how we got to this moment and what's to come. If reading about what we're to expect at the new San Pedro Public Market gets you excited, imagine what it's going to be like when it's finally ready in 2020, which is only four short years from now. Everyone is saying the same thing: San Pedro's time has come. I couldn't agree more. spt Joshua Stecker is publisher/editor-in-chief of San Pedro Today. Letters to the Editor can be emailed to contact@sanpedrotoday.com.
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joshua J. Stecker
ADVERTISING: General Inquiries: ads@sanpedrotoday.com
ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION Joseph A. Castañeda
Patricia Roberts - San Pedro (562) 964-8166 | patricia@sanpedrotoday.com
AT-LARGE CONTRIBUTORS Jack Baric, L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti, Lori Garrett, Roseanney Liu, Ricky Magana, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Anthony Pirozzi, Angela Romero, Monica Simpson, Jamaal K. Street, Herb Zimmer
Shana Ghekiere - San Pedro (and outer regions) (310) 753-5176 | shana@sanpedrotoday.com
PHOTOGRAPHER 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 8 | NUMBER 3
Empire22 Media LLC OWNER/PUBLISHER 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 2009-2016, Empire22 Media LLC.
ON THE COVER: San Pedro Public Market artist rendering (photo: courtesy L.A. Waterfront Alliance)
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APRIL Tour the historic PT. FERMIN LIGHTHOUSE, built in 1874 to light the entrance to the Los An-geles Harbor, located in the Pt. Fermin Park (807 Paseo del Mar). Guided tours offered 1-3p Tues thru Sun. Closed Mon and major holidays. Admission is free; donations accepted. Every Wed – CHILDREN’S WRITING CLASSES at the Corner Store (1118 37th St). Seven Golden Secrets of Writing with Diana Chapman, Wed 4:30-5:45p. For info, call (310) 626-7906. Every Wed – THE MIKE GUERRERO TRIO at Ports O' Call Restaurant (1199 Nagoya Way, Berth 76). 7-10p. Smooth, sophisticated jazz featuring vocalist, Jerry Romano. Every Wed – OPEN MIC NIGHT at Red Men Wigwam (543 Shepard St.) 6:30-9:30p. All are welcome. Chilidogs, snacks and beverages available. Dress warmly. Every Thurs (except holidays) – ADULT WRITING GROUP in Library room of St. Peter's Episcopal Church (1648 W. 9th St.). 1-3p. Everyone welcome! For more info, call (310) 8312186. Every Thurs - WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP (TOPS TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) at Peck Park Community Center, Classroom A (560 No. Western Ave.) 9:45-11a. Adults only. For more info call (310) 547-1098. Every Fri – SAN PEDRO FARMERS MARKET (6th St. between Pacific and Mesa Streets) 9a-2p. Every Sat – LAFD HARBOR MUSEUM (639 Harbor Blvd) 10a-3p. Experience San Pedro and Wilmington's Fire Protection and Rescue service history with vintage fire apparatus and various displays. The museum is located in Old Fire Station 36 in the San Pedro City Hall. Admission is free, donations are accepted. Every Sun – SOUL FEAST at First Presbyterian Church of San Pedro (781 S Averill Ave.) 5:30p. Come out & join us for a family worship service for all ages. Dinner is included.
9 (Sat) – CORNER STORE FARMERS MARKET at The arts gallery, classical and rock music numbers, short film Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.) 10a-12p. Open every second screenings, and an animated film. FREE community event. Saturday of the month. Grab some coffee and homegrown For more info, visit www.bgclaharbor.org. produce and don’t forget to bring your reusable bags! 23 (Sat) - EARTH DAY CELEBRATION at White Point 9 (Sat) - GATHERING FOR THE GRAND GALA: THE Nature Preserve (1600 W Paseo Del Mar) 9a-12p. What RED CARPET at the Warner Grand (478 W. 6th St.) 5p. better what to celebrate Earth day than to help beautify the Grand Vision Foundation presents an unforgettable evening native plant gar-den with activities for the whole family! including dinner, auctions, dancing, and a fantastic band. Sign up at www.pvplc.volunteerhub.com. Gowns, tuxes, or, cocktail attire. For tickets, visit www. GrandVision.org. 23 (Sat) - ELECTRONIC WASTE DRIVE at Port of Los Angeles High School (250 W. 5th St.) 9a-4p. Happy 9 (Sat) - HOLY TRINITY SCHOOL FUNDRAISER in Recyclers will be holding a collection for electronic waste the Madeo Ballroom at the Double-Tree Hotel (2800 Via products such as cell phones, TV’s, computer monitors and Cabrillo-Marina) 6p. Holy Trinity School will be holding a much more. Come out and help properly recycle E-waste! fundraiser honoring Auxiliary Bishop Joseph V. Brennan. All proceeds will be donated to the Port of Los Angeles High Tickets are $150 per person, or $1,500 for a table of ten. School Environmental Studies Scholarship. For more info, For questions or to request an invitation, contact Niledy call (888) 330-8088 Casiano (310) 833-0703, ext. 200. All proceeds will benefit Holy Trinity School. 24 (Sun) - ANIMATED SHORT FILM SCREENINGS at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th St) 5p. Last chance to 13 (Wed) - PENINSULA SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS catch the 2016 Academy Award nominees Best Short Films PRESENTS 'THE SLEEPING BEAUTY' at Palos Verdes - Animation category. This will include the winning short Performing Arts Norris Theatre (27570 Norris Center Dr, Bear Story which screened at SPIFFest in 2015! For tickets, Rolling Hills Estates) 7p. Tickets $28 adults, $20 children 17 visit www.SPIFFest.org and under. For tickets and info, visit www.NorrisCenter.com 24 (Sun) - “WHO DUNNIT?” MYSTERIES AND THE MEN 16 (Sat) - SAN PEDRO HIGH SCHOOL WINTER’66 50 THAT WRITE THEM at Port of Los Angeles High School YEAR CLASS REUNION at San Pedro Fish Market (1190 (250 W. 5th St.) 2p. Friends of San Pedro Library present the Nagoya Way) 6p. For more info contact Ambrose Russo at “Who Dunnit” mysteries featuring the best selling authors, 310-832-6649 or Tina Hansen Harris at 310-547-0044. Michael Genelin, Neal Griffin, and Stephen Jay Schwartz. This is a free event. For more info, visit www.Friendsspl.org 17 (Sun) - HARBOR L.I.T.E.S’ 9TH ANNUAL SPRING LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW at Michael’s Tuscany Room (470 W. 7th St) 11:30a-2:30p. Please join the ladies of 30 (Sat) - MAYDAY! TALES OF LOVE AND OTHER Harbor L.I.T.E.S. for an afternoon of fashion, food, drawings, EMERGENCIES at Angels Gate Cultural Center (3601 S. auctions, and music. Free parking. Tickets $50. Contact Gaffey St) 8p. Celebrate the 1st annual MayDay! with 90 Millicent Borgarding (310) 832-5246 or Sylvia Kostyo (310) minutes of spellbinding storytelling under the stars. Dress 832-5029. warmly and bring your own seating. For more info, call (310) 519-0936. 20 (Wed) - BEACH HOUSE at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th St.) 7p. Goldenvoice and FYF present Beach May 21 (Sat) - FERMIN LASUEN 35TH ANNUAL WALK/ House, an iconic Baltimore duo who light up the stage to RUN/PICNIC at Point Fermin Park (807 W. Paseo Del Mar) bring you a type of psychedelic dream pop. Tickets, visit 8a. For more info and registration forms, contact Dickie www.AXS.com Soto at e8top@aol.com
Every first and second Sunday – Tour the MULLER HOUSE MUSEUM (1542 Beacon St.) 1-4p. Last tour starts at 3:15p. Built in 1899, the Muller House is the headquarters of the San Pedro Bay Historical Society. Admission is free, but a 22 (Fri) - BOYS & GIRLS CLUB ARTS ACADEMY donation of $3 is encouraged. SHOWCASE at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th St.) 5p-8p. The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor 7 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY ARTWALK in Downtown presents an evening debuting the rising talents of some San Pedro. 6-10p very creative young minds. The showcase will include a fine
Email event info to events@sanpedrotoday. com. Deadline for the May issue is Friday April 15 (Tax Day!). All locations in San Pedro unless otherwise noted.
8 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
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A Rad Remembrance The Dr. Rad Equality and Social Justice Scholarship 5k Run returns to Narbonne High School by Gabriel Islas Dr. Amy Radovcic’s legacy is in safe hands. Radovcic, a born and bred San Pedran, graduated Mary Star of the Sea High School and earned her Ph.D. in Education from Loyola Marymount University. She worked for LAUSD as a counselor for Dodson Middle School and Narbonne High School for a decade, serving as a college career counselor the last two years. Sadly, Radovcic passed away in March 2014 from complications of Lupus at the young age of 36. In her memory, her mother, Antonette Radovcic, and the rest of her family, have organized the annual Dr. Rad Equality and Social Justice Scholarship 5k Run to honor her life and continue her legacy of giving back to students in need. This year, the 5k run will take place on April 30, at Narbonne High School (24300 S. Western Ave., Harbor City). The run was created as a way to raise money to fund college scholarships for students who attend Narbonne. “Each applicant must submit a typed essay about their career goals, as well as be the first generation from a family to attend college,” explains Antonette Radovcic, Amy's mother. “[The students] must also be a B grade student or better; be from a low income family; and have performed a minimum 40 hours of community service working with challenged youth, tutoring, mentoring, or volunteering at an organized youth group organization or shelter facility.” The current college career counselor and school librarian, along with Amy's mother and her committee, decide the selection process. This year, applications are due on April 1, and the scholarships will be presented at Narbonne’s annual awards night. “Last year we had about 71 participants, and we were able to raise about $1,800 for scholarships,” says Antonette. This year, we want to double the amount of participants to help more kids.” Councilman Joe Buscaino dedicated a street sign to Dr. Radovcic, located across from Narbonne High School at the corner of 242nd St. and Postmaster. Named Dr. Amy Radovcic Square, the sign is in honor of her dedicated work to the city. Her mother recalls, “Amy led a life of service that focused solely on kids. Her students were her first priority.” spt
Dr. Radovcic's best friend, Mia Ciketic, and niece, Lucy, hold hands during last year's Rad Run. (photo: courtesy Radovcic family)
The registration fee for the 5k is $40. Runners can register at: www.runsignup.com/race/CA/HarborCity/RadRun5K. Participants will receive a t-shirt and a commemorative medal at the end of the race. Registration for the run ends April 3. Donations are also accepted. Make your check out to Narbonne High School, write “Dr. Rad’s Scholarship Fund” in the memo section, and send it to the school’s address: 24300 S. Western Ave., Harbor City, 90710. For more information, email race director, Antonette Radovcic, at mrsrado@hotmail.com.
APRIL 2016 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 9
VOICES
Sittin’ On the Dock of a Bay… by Steve Marconi
10 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
First, the good news. The concept and design of the proposed waterfront development that will replace Ports O’ Call Village is impressive. Implementing the Red Car into the vision is a stroke of genius. The name change? No so much. The bad news is changing the name won’t address the problems that plague our waterfront now, one of which is not “if you build it, they will come,” but, “if you build it, can they get there?” I wish nothing but the best for the developers, but when I hear people start comparing San Pedro to places like Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, Baltimore, even Long Beach, it worries me. San Pedro isn’t like any of those places. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: What part of “peninsula” don’t they understand? There are only two major points of access to our waterfront for out-of-towners, the 110 South and the Vincent Thomas Bridge, and both bottleneck at the end of very busy intersections, Gaffey Street and Harbor Boulevard. Even the current Ports O’ Call creates a weekend traffic jam on Harbor Boulevard, cars bumper-to-bumper along its entire length. And no one should forget the nightmare Fleet Week created a few years ago, with traffic on the 110 backed up for miles. The Harbor Department seems confident that the new Sampson Way will alleviate all those problems, and Councilman Joe Buscaino concurs, but count me among the cynics.
It’s hard to have faith in such a project when, amid the glow of good feeling, the mayor continues to push bike paths. Really? About That Name After an impressive buildup to reveal the rendering of the new waterfront development, when the curtain fell exposing the name, San Pedro Public Market, you could almost sense a collective “huh?” from the crowd. I certainly hope nobody was paid to come up with that name, and who decided a new name was necessary? What was wrong with Ports O’ Call? At the very least, they should have had some kind of name-the-new-development contest; I have to believe someone could have come up with something better without much effort. The name Ports O’ Call brought up an immediate image of the harbor, good or bad. The new place will forevermore be known as the Market, which tells you nothing. Let’s take a mulligan and get it right. Papadakis vs. Arian It may have been the biggest story of 2015 for San Pedro, but if it wasn’t for the Internet, no one would have ever heard about it. It hasn't gone viral, but the verbal confrontation between community activist John Papadakis and Harbor Commissioner David Arian at the Dec. 17 board meeting (www. youtube.com/watch?v=XF6CPGdu3o0) is must-see TV for all San Pedrans. Papadakis, the most vocal advocate for waterfront development and major stakeholder in downtown San Pedro, lambasts the board for the current state of the city and its choice of developers for the new Ports O’ Call, calling their proposal a “joke.” He uses colorful phrases such as “seaside slum” to describe San Pedro and pointedly calls out “our so-called leaders” as “cannibals feeding on the dying carcass of the Harbor Area.” The real fireworks, however, came after his attack on the Harbor’s one sacred cow, saying the commission was “crucifying the community on the iron cross of the cargo industry.” Arian, former president of ILWU 13, got in touch with his inner longshoreman and fired back at Papadakis in language familiar on the docks but seldom if ever heard before from a Harbor Commissioner. The nicest thing he says is telling Papadakis he’s “full of crap.” Watching these two alpha males butt heads is a reminder that, in spite of all the current glad-handing over the new project, not everyone is happy. Whichever side you’re on, check out the video. Save the Nevada As the developers seek tenants for the Market and attractions for visitors, I hope they can find room for the 38-foot-long replica of the USS Nevada, which is in need of a permanent home. Prior to moving to Pearl Harbor in 1940 with the rest of the Pacific Battle Fleet, the Nevada called San Pedro home. Can there be a more perfect place to display the model than somewhere along our waterfront? The Nevada not only survived the attack on Pearl Harbor and the war, the USS Iowa, which is now moored on the Main Channel, later sank it in target practice. How much could it cost to house such a small reminder of San Pedro’s great naval history? San Pedro’s Kenneth T. Lamons, boatswain’s mate, second class, was one of the 57 sailors killed on the Nevada on Dec. 7, 1941. His heroic actions that day led to a destroyer escort being named in his honor. That ship was built at Western Pipe and Steel Co. in San Pedro and launched in August 1943; it was scrapped 30 years later. With all that in mind, all I can say is, “Don’t give up the ship!” spt Steve Marconi can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.
VOICES
What's In a Name? by Anthony Pirozzi
12 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
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If there is one thing that keeps our San Pedro community close, it’s maintaining our historic past. The very origin of our town’s name takes us back to 1542 when Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a Portuguese explorer for the Viceroy of New Spain, sailed into our waters and named the area “Bahia de los Fumos” (Bay of Smokes) as this is what he saw while off our coasts as it is not known if he actually came ashore. In 1602, Spanish exploration party under Sebastian Vizcaino’s survey data referred to the bay as San Pedro in honor of Saint Peter, Bishop of Alexander, as it was custom of Spanish explorers to name a discovery for the saint’s day on the Catholic calendar on which it occurred. For years, there was confusion between the two names, until 1734 when cosmographer Cabrera Bueno was reviewing the descriptions of Vizcaino’s survey data from 1602 and began to refer to this area as the San Pedro Bay. Today, our Los Angeles and Long Beach port complex waterways are still referred to as the San Pedro Bay. Thus our town’s name of San Pedro was born. As for many in town, the name Ports O’ Call is what we have known for the past 53 years as our waterfront. It is part of our history. Born in 1963, Port’s O’ Call Village was conceived and built by David Tallichet, a World War II pilot-turned restaurateur. He envisioned and built Port’s O’ Call as a New England-style seaside village with a meandering promenade of cobblestone streets connecting specialty shops and restaurants. As we all know, the Ports O’ Call we grew up with is long gone and like many of us, has aged throughout the years. In our midst today is what we have been hoping and waiting for, the redevelopment of Port’s O’ Call into a modern world-class waterfront destination. So when the new name for Ports O’ Call was revealed as the San Pedro Public Market, it definitely felt very different. For some, it felt as if one of our traditions was being taken away and that it was another sign of progress erasing our past. For me personally, I am not completely sold on the name but pleased that San Pedro is part of it. One reason is because often when traveling the country I get asked where I’m from. I respond "San Pedro" and get a perplexed look. I have to follow up my answer with, "It’s near Long Beach." The name San Pedro Public Market will change all of that and finally put San Pedro on the map. Developer Wayne Ratkovich stated at the recent public meeting that he lives near downtown Los Angeles and said, “You cannot avoid finding a sign that says San Pedro, it is everywhere. It doesn’t say the Harbor; it doesn’t say the Harbor Freeway, it says San Pedro and we want to give everybody a good reason to come down here more often.” His comments were very insightful and reminded me of what former Councilman Tom LaBonge has said on multiple occasions that the Harbor Freeway should be renamed the San Pedro Freeway. “Almost every freeway is named after a city," LaBonge said. "There's the Santa Monica Freeway, San Diego Freeway, and San Bernardino Freeway. Only the Harbor Freeway has no city. There is no other place in the world like San Pedro and we should recognize it." I couldn’t agree more and believe we have a great reason in the San Pedro Public Market to rename the Harbor Freeway to the San Pedro Freeway. It’s been almost 500 years since Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo discovered “Bahia de los Fumos” and 300 years since Cabrera Bueno solidified the name San Pedro Bay. Today, we begin a new chapter in our historic waterfront by capitalizing on the history of our town’s name. The San Pedro Public Market captures in four words the love for our community, a place to a gather to celebrate our cultural diversity, the love for the ocean, and the place that has and continues to attract people from all over the world for generations to come. spt Anthony Pirozzi is a L.os Angeles Harbor Commissioner. He can be contacted at apirozzi@yahoo.com.
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APRIL 2016 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 13
VOICES
What About Downtown?
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by Jack Baric Last month marked an important milestone in the long journey to redevelop our waterfront. The waterfront developers, Wayne Ratkovich and Alan and Eric Johnson introduced a plan that was greeted with great acclaim. The path to finally seeing a world-class waterfront development seems to be finally clear. However, this begs the question, what about downtown? It could be argued that a magnificent waterfront development has the potential to make our downtown obsolete. This concern was on the minds of local leaders when waterfront development was entitled by the Harbor Commission in 2009. At that time, I chaired the economic development committee of the San Pedro Chamber and was on the waterfront committee that worked toward creating community unity on how the waterfront would be developed. Seamless Interface – One of the major issues that we discovered was the need for a seamless interface between downtown and the waterfront. Everybody agreed that it would help businesses on both sides of Harbor Blvd. if we created a district where visitors could intuitively transverse between the two. The reason that the waterfront town square will be built in front of the Maritime Museum, at the foot of 6th Street, is precisely because of this push for connecting downtown with the waterfront. A major arch or sign should be placed nearby so that waterfront visitors will know downtown is a short walk away. Trolley Cars – Transportation will also be important. There are currently two rubber tire trolley cars operating in the downtown district. We’ll need more. Imagine future evenings when people visiting San Pedro can quickly hop on and off trolley cars that take them to various fun places along the waterfront and in downtown. A diversity of accessible options will go a long way toward making San Pedro a destination. More Tall Buildings – The first stretch of the promenade, which was built in 2004, was the catalyst for the largest building boom in our downtown in decades. In addition, the Port of Los Angeles High School was opened in 2005. Ask any local downtown restaurant and they will tell you that the increased population has done wonders for business. Councilman Buscaino has earned incredibly high marks with everyone I have spoken to around Los Angeles for his dedication to bringing major real estate investors to tour our area. A denser downtown will allow our local businesses to not only survive, but to thrive. Along with the Councilman, I believe getting Janice Hahn elected as County Supervisor can provide a lethal one-two political punch and the courthouse building on 6th Street, which is county operated, would be a prime spot for a new Vue-style building. Technology Companies – I have often spoken about leveraging the port’s environmental, security and logistics needs to attract technology companies to our downtown. Councilman Buscaino's staff recently was in conversation with a Santa Monica leader to discuss a model for creating co-work office spaces that provide small technology companies inexpensive rent and great networking opportunities. This model was the catalyst for the formation of Silicon Beach. In our downtown, we have a number of retail storefronts that might make for great co-work office locations and I am heartened to see the Councilman's team working toward that solution. Pacific Avenue – Pacific Avenue should be a great street for these types of co-work spaces. Pacific was once the backbone of our business district, but it’s rarely mentioned when we discuss developing San Pedro. For downtown to truly thrive, Pacific needs an upgrade. The property owners on this street have mostly done very little in improving the quality of the buildings to attract the types of businesses that will once again make Pacific the backbone of downtown. Warner Grand Theatre – Councilman Buscaino recently took heat for proposing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to find a for-profit operator to run the Warner Grand Theatre. The fear is that local organizations will lose an important asset to host their community events. I have had a number of my films premiere at the theater, so I understand the concern. However, we need to find ways to maximize usage of the theater because it plays such a great role in attracting visitors to downtown. A partnership between a forprofit company and the Grand Vision Foundation, the nonprofit currently overseeing the theater, is likely the best solution in allowing the community to still have access while also bringing a wider array of concerts and other events. The good news for downtown is that most of the required solutions to make it thrive are being planned, but execution will be key. Any business owner can tell you the importance of keeping an eye on the shop, so we San Pedrans will have to do the same for our downtown as we move forward into an exciting new era. spt Jack Baric can be reached at jackbaric@hotmail.com.
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San Pedro 5th Graders Sail to Camp CIMI by Jennifer Marquez Every spring, fifth grade students at numerous schools in San Pedro head to Catalina Island for two nights at a marine science camp called Camp CIMI. My son, Emerson Marquez, an 11-yearold from Point Fermin Marine Science Magnet Elementary School shares his story below in a student column this month.
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I recently returned from Camp CIMI, which stands for Catalina Island Marine Institute. Camp CIMI has three different locations on Catalina Island. One of them is Toyon Bay, two is Fox Landing where I went, and third is Cherry Cove. Mountains surround Fox Landing. When I was there, people said the food was the best part, I agree. When our boat landed at the dock, there were counselors outside waiting. I kept dropping my luggage. Our fifth grade had six cabins: two for girls, two for boys, one for women chaperones and one for men chaperones. After we got settled in our cabins, we had a class called Marine Science. We were split up into three different groups. Each group headed for a counselor. Our counselor was Beva. We learned about things in the ocean. At the end, they fed a crab to an octopus. We had free time until dinner, which was at 5:20 p.m., but group one had to set up for the meal. It is buffet style so you can eat as much as you want. There are four lines so it goes pretty fast. Lights out was at 9 p.m. and we dissected a squid that night and made face masks out of it. When we woke up the next morning, the chaperones told everybody that the morning hike was in 20 min. The hike was optional. Only 12 students went out of 50 at 6:15 a.m. My teacher thought only five people were going. The mountain we were climbing was called Bible Point because it had a cross at the top. It has a great view overlooking CIMI and the water. It is pretty easy to climb, too. You can watch the sunset and the sunrise there. When we were done, we had breakfast. We had peaches, pineapples, orange and apple juice, pastries, sausages and French toast, then we went snorkeling. It was really funny when they were teaching us how to put on a wetsuit. I saw a garibaldi fish when we were in the ocean. Then we went kayaking to Guano Rock. They call it Guano Rock because birds poop on it a lot and guano means poop. After kayaking, we had free time until dinner. The dinner was the best meal because it was spaghetti and I love it. For dessert we had brownies and that is why I think CIMI is fun. After dinner, the cabin fell asleep fast. The next day was the last day. We were going on a hike and climbing on low ropes. On the boat ride back there was a storm. In conclusion, I love CIMI. spt Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com. Camp CIMI (photo: Cristina Morrison)
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VOICES
The Public Market in Context by Herb Zimmer
on t n the L o r .A. Waterf
18 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
Join us along the El Paseo Promenade at the Wilmington Waterfront Park and create family friendly art with an Earth Day theme. First 100 attendees will be provided free chalk. Or, bring your own biodegradable chalk, if you prefer. In addition, there will be a distribution of free trees to L.A. City residents, while supplies last. Come early! Trees are for LA residents only, bring a driver's license or DWP bill to confirm. One tree per household. Trees must be planted in the ground at that address.
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San Pedro, like all communities, is a living organism. It evolves over time along with social, economic, cultural and demographic trends. For us, however, the one constant is that we will always be tied to our waterfront. It has long provided jobs and recreation. It’s formed our character and continues to be the spiritual and emotional center of the community. Therefore, any changes to that waterfront, have, and probably always will, spark a visceral reaction from the community. On March 2, the latest plan to redevelop the faded 1960s vintage Ports O’ Call Village, was unveiled by developers, the L.A. Waterfront Alliance, during a public meeting at the Warner Grand Theatre. I, along with hundreds of other interested citizens, attended and audience reaction was overwhelmingly positive. Newly renamed the San Pedro Public Market, in addition to drawing visitors to San Pedro, it is designed such that it could easily become a new center of community social life. In studying what people today look for in a vibrant, stimulating place to live or visit, researchers have determined that certain elements stand out, and by “curating” the mix of tenants in the San Pedro Public Market, the developers are looking to include virtually all of them: authenticity, robust nightlife, social interaction venues, diversity, “scenes” and a unique identity. People are becoming tired of “cookie-cutter” and “manufactured” entertainment venues. They seek authenticity and distinctive experiences. The Market will feature an eclectic mix of architectural styles that reflect the history of San Pedro and will feature unique shops, a variety of dining options, Los Angeles’ premier fish market and idiosyncratic arts and entertainment venues. And, what’s more unique than being able to walk along a waterside promenade just feet from huge containerships bringing goods from all around the world. In an effort to ensure that the Market is busy seven days a week, there will be a host of both daytime and nightlife options for shopping, dining, meeting, cultural activities, artisanal food/crafts vendors and performance spaces. True to the international heritage of San Pedro, there will be ample opportunity for social interaction where a diverse mix of people of different ages, nationalities and cultures can mingle in an informal setting. The Market will also add to San Pedro’s already established art, music and entertainment scenes with new offerings in new spaces. According to Eric Johnson of the L.A. Waterfront Alliance, the San Pedro Public Market is designed to be a fun, safe, family oriented venue that will be a major draw for both local residents and visitors. Deindustrialization and redevelopment of the west bank of the Harbor’s main channel has seen decades of legal wrangling, discussion, planning and false starts. Many a public meeting has been held, and progress has been glacial in nature, but it appears we are finally seeing an integrated, holistic plan featuring recreation, tourism, dining, arts, shopping and education. Picture the World Cruise Center; the USS Iowa: the downtown dining, shopping, entertainment and arts district; the L.A. Maritime Museum; the new San Pedro Public Market; the university sponsored AltaSea research and education center; the S.S. Lane Victory; the Cabrillo Marina; the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and Cabrillo Beach all connected with its own trolley system. It will be a very enticing draw for locals and visitors alike. Maybe the best part is that, not only will the new San Pedro Public Market be a great venue in and of itself, but its effects will be felt throughout the community. Remember how, when the first leg of the Promenade was completed, millions of dollars in private investment flowed into San Pedro and over 1,000 new housing units were built in downtown? Just imagine what completion of the Market will bring. It’s been a long wait, but the future of San Pedro is about to become much brighter. spt Herb Zimmer owns PriorityOne Printing in downtown San Pedro.
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Some people might look at a map of our city and see San Pedro as the end of Los Angeles’ tail. I think there’s a better analogy: if L.A. is a ship, this community is the anchor. San Pedro and Wilmington are home to one of this city’s crown jewels: a cargo port that creates more economic activity than any other port in the nation. It is the world’s trade gateway to America – and every day, the people of this community keep it moving with hard work and a spirit of innovation. That’s why after years of talk, I am so excited that we are giving the people of San Pedro and Wilmington what they have long deserved – a world-class waterfront that truly reflects their excellence. In March, I stood with Councilmember Joe Buscaino and the leaders of our Port to announce a $100 million revitalization of the Ports O’ Call Village. The San Pedro Public Market, as it’s called, will reimagine the Ports O’ Call as a beautiful seaside village with amenities and open space where families can eat, play, stroll along the water and spend time together. Once approved, it will include things like an open-air amphitheater for live music and public events; a half-mile of waterfront promenade; the return of the Red Car; and 16 acres of restaurants, shopping, fresh markets and office space. It’s the plan this community has been waiting for – a destination that will rival the greatest waterfront villages in the nation. The Port is also playing a crucial role in enhancing the San Pedro Public Market project, by creating infrastructure that will make the area more accessible. We’ll invest more than $52 million in infrastructure to add green space and promenades, and make upgrades to nearby streets. And here’s the best part: the San Pedro Public Market is just one piece of our great waterfront puzzle. Over the last 10 years, the Port of Los Angeles has invested more than $600 million in making the L.A. Waterfront more attractive and accessible to this community. This includes projects like the Harbor Blvd. Parkway Promenade, the Wilmington Waterfront Park, Downtown Harbor, Crafted at the Port of L.A., and bringing in the U.S.S. Iowa. The Port plans to invest another $400 million in improving waterfront access over the next decade. To build on the progress we’ve already made, we’re creating new community spaces like the Wilmington Waterfront Promenade, a spacious pedestrian plaza and waterfront-walking path near Banning’s Landing Community Center. We’ll make access to this promenade simple and easy with a brand new pedestrian bridge running along Avalon Boulevard. And, we’re working closely with nonprofit AltaSea and the Southern California Marine Institute to transform 100-year-old Dock No. 1 into a world-class urban marine research and innovation center. All of these visionary public access projects are slated for completion by 2018. And all have been a long time coming. For years, the people of these neighborhoods have waited patiently for their time to come. People like Pat Carroll, chair of the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District, who finally sees an opportunity for local artists to showcase their vision and talents in beautiful new public spaces. People like Diane Patalano, who works the ticket counter at the U.S.S. Iowa and has been waiting for this kind of change in the neighborhood her whole life. And people like James Dimon – whose family has lived in San Pedro for 100 years, and who for decades has imagined living in a place where he and his neighbors don’t need to leave the community for work, or to spend a day out with their families. “Embrace this,” Dimon said at a recent community meeting on the Ports O’ Call revitalization. “This is our time.” It sure is. It’s our time to revitalize the neighborhoods that have long been the economic foundation of L.A. – the anchor of our great ship. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and can’t wait to witness the transformation in the coming years. spt Eric Garcetti is the Mayor of Los Angeles.
A Waterfront for a NEW GENERATION An in-depth look at the plans for the San Pedro Public Market by Joshua Stecker district to the waterfront, the late inclusion of the Red Car, and, of course, the possible risks and issues that could derail the project altogether (which seems very unlikely).
CITY PARK
The northernmost part of the project is also its most important, because it finally attempts to solve one of San Pedro’s most perplexing problems: how to connect the downtown district to the waterfront. Harbor Boulevard has acted like a Berlin Wall separating any waterfront activities from downtown. Currently on weekends, it’s not uncommon to see a line of cars stretching down Harbor Boulevard towards the freeway exit trying to enter Ports O’ Call, while 6th and 7th Street in downtown are quiet. Sure, the downtown restaurants will have their regular crowds, but nearly none of the thousands of people that crowd Ports O’ Call on the weekends venture into the downtown district, and that’s been a thorn in the side of downtown business owners for years. “It’s been a genuine concern of mine, as much as everybody’s, to connect downtown San Pedro to the waterfront,” says Alan Johnson. The Johnson brothers have a vested interest in making this connection happen, not only as part of the development team, but also as stakeholders in downtown. Jerico Development owns numerous properties in the district and their main office is located on 6th Street in the historic Brown Brothers Building, which they also own. So solving this problem and bridging that gap in order for downtown businesses to finally reap some of the rewards the San Pedro Public Market is anticipating was the number one problem on their list to solve. “You have an informed developer for whom the connection is a paramount issue,” says Eric Johnson. “We need this to be a place for locals too, and in order for that we need to
APRIL 2016 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 21
“We think of San Pedro as a city unto itself,” said Wayne Ratkovich, in his opening remarks at last month’s public meeting on the Ports O’ Call redevelopment project at the Warner Grand Theatre. “If we, the residents and businesses of San Pedro and our development team, are united in our aspirations, this will be a turning point that begins a transformation of San Pedro into a vibrant seaside community.” And with those words, Ratkovich, president and CEO of The Ratkovich Company, and his two L.A. Waterfront Alliance partners, Alan and Eric Johnson, the brothers behind Jerico Development, launched into a presentation mapping out what to expect from the long overdue revitalization of Ports O’ Call Village, which is now officially known as the San Pedro Public Market. This $100 million makeover will include 16-acres of restaurants, shopping, fresh markets, makerspaces, office space and more than half a mile of waterfront promenade. There will also be an open-air, 500-seat amphitheater for live entertainment, familyfriendly attractions, including a Ferris wheel and carousel, and plenty of open park space. Construction of Phase I of the project, which will encompass the entire footprint of the current Ports O’ Call Village and include the three districts: City Park, The Marketplace and Discovery Sea Park, is scheduled to begin in 2017 and is expected to be completed and open to the public in 2020. San Pedro Public Market is one of the last three major projects for the Port of Los Angeles in their current waterfront redevelopment plan (the others being AltaSea and the new Town Square), which has seen the Port invest more than $600 million since 2004, with plans for an additional $400 million investment by 2026. San Pedro Today asked Alan and Eric Johnson of Jerico Development to take us on a virtual tour for an in-depth look at the San Pedro Public Market and discuss what we should expect in all three districts, how this Public Market will connect the downtown
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have a thriving downtown. We would not want to do anything to depress that. It’s about creating critical mass for the people.” As one of the guiding principles of the project, creating this connection in a creative, yet seamless, way was a riddle that seems to have been cracked. With the realignment of Sampson Way and other infrastructure work in place (which is what the Port’s $52 million investment will focus on), there will be walking entrances leading from both 6th and 7th Streets into the San Pedro Public Market, which will be right next to the new Town Square that is also currently in development (by a different developer). These walkways will lead directly to a new building that will eventually house various eateries and a café with “fast-casual” faire, as Alan Johnson describes it. There will be plenty of open space to eat, socialize and relax, all within full view of the waterfront. “We’re going to have eateries and café’s that are open early and stay open late,” says Alan Johnson. Along the waterfront in this district, and throughout the length of the Promenade, there will be boat slips available for the nautical types who would rather sail over than drive. And in news that garnered big applause from the Warner Grand audience at the public meeting, City Park will also be home to one end of the Red Car line (but more on that later).
THE MARKETPLACE
Ratkovich describes this section as “the heart” of the San Pedro Public Market, and rightly so since this district will be its economic hub, and the success of the Marketplace will ultimately determine its future growth. According to the Johnsons, The Marketplace will be filled with a variety of shops, restaurants, office space, and the inclusion of makerspaces, which are spaces where experts in their field can create as well as sell their goods. Think of places like Beecher’s Handmade Cheese at Pike Place Market in Seattle, where customers can not only watch the cheese get made, but also purchase fresh cheese straight out of wherever it is cheese comes out of. “It would be great to have a surfboard maker next to a Ron Jon Surf Shop,” says Eric Johnson. “I’d love to bring in a craft distillery. So say you’re in a whiskey bar and then next door you have a distillery. One of the things that make these makerspaces work
is that people are working there all week long. There’s activity, but it’s natural activity. They’re not putting on a show. It’s real work.” The plans are to have these makerspaces interspersed throughout the Marketplace, mixed in with more traditional shops and restaurants, which the Johnsons believe will be a careful mix of independent and corporate establishments. A worry that’s been brought up at various times throughout the Ports O’ Call redevelopment process is the fear that the developers will seek the same cookie-cutter, mall-type businesses you see at every major destination retail establishment. According to the Johnsons, that’s simply not going to be the case with the San Pedro Public Market. “Putting that mix of tenants together is incredibly critical,” says Alan Johnson. “We’re really conscious about curating the tenant mix,” says Eric Johnson. “It’s like a museum gallery, where you carefully juxtapose things to create an energy and tell a story. So different areas have different things and it doesn’t happen by accident. It’s going to be curated to an extent where all the things work together.” The industrial design of the overall project garnered an overwhelmingly positive response from the Warner Grand crowd. In three years of production, various designs came and went. The final concept, as displayed in the artist renderings featured in this story, stayed true to San Pedro’s historical and cultural roots, with subtle shades of the old port warehouses and Terminal Island canneries. “We looked at images of San Pedro to make sure that whatever we do fits comfortably into the history, the culture and the environment of San Pedro,” said Ratkovich at the public meeting. “A bad design with the right mix of tenants will probably still be successful,” adds Alan Johnson. “A great design with a bad mix of tenants will probably be a failure. We’ve already got the great design, and we will have a great tenant mix because that’s Wayne’s specialty.” Then there’s the question of the future of existing tenants at Ports O’ Call, namely the village’s current anchors, the San Pedro Fish Market and Ports O’ Call Restaurant. “We are counting on the existing tenants that are going to remain to be the backbone of our preleasing,” says Eric Johnson. There are, of course, big changes afoot for preexisting businesses if they choose to stay, and that’s the fact that their rents will surely increase, but the tradeoff is they will belong The Marketplace (photo: courtesy L.A. Waterfront Alliance)
APRIL 2016 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 23
Discovery Sea Park
(photo: courtesy L.A. Waterfront Alliance)
to a new development that will hopefully bring in much more business than they’ve been used to, especially during weekdays. “We’re looking forward to the change,” says Michael Ungaro, principal, San Pedro Fish Market. “The area is overdue for renovation. It’s going to be good for everybody.” In an email a week after the Public Market reveal, Ports O’ Call Restaurant announced, “We are here to stay,” saying they look forward to the Market’s grand opening.
DISCOVERY SEA PARK
24 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
Located at the southernmost point and touted as the entertainment hub of the San Pedro Public Market, Discovery Sea Park is being designed to include a carousel; children’s play structures; more cafés, eateries, and open park space; a 500-seat amphitheater, and a large Ferris wheel that could possibly end up being the iconic structure that brands the entire project, similar to what the Skytower was for Ports O’ Call in the mid-1970s. “Discovery Sea Park is about fun,” says Eric Johnson. From a business perspective, the inclusion of a multigenerational, family-friendly district lends itself for quick turnovers in The Marketplace restaurants and shops, something that is currently lacking at today’s Ports O’ Call. “Right now, people come down [to the Fish Market] and spend all day in there, which leads to these incredibly long lines out their door on weekends and slow turnover times,” explains Eric Johnson. “What we want to do is have people spend only a couple of hours in the tenant stores so there can be more turnover, so we needed to give patrons something to do. And this will help businesses like the Fish Market do even more business, because kids are going to insist on visiting the Sea Park. You’re only going to be able to hold them at the table for so long. So you’ll go to the park, maybe spend a few bucks on the carousel, but you’ll have a great time doing it.” The addition of a permanent amphitheater at the southern point lends itself to regularly scheduled entertainment, like concerts or outdoor plays on weekends. (It wouldn’t be surprising to see Shakespeare by the Sea mount a production there in the future.) Plus, a new entertainment space lends itself to more community use during the weekdays and off-peak seasons, creating an opportunity for year-round events. “And if you just want to come down to the Market and not bother with shopping or eating out, Discovery Sea Park can also be a great place to just hang out right on the point and relax,” says Alan Johnson.
RETURN OF THE RED CAR
The one feature that had everyone in the Warner Grand clapping was the return of San Pedro’s iconic Red Car line, which will now become the main artery through the San Pedro Public Market, bringing patrons up and down the Market from City Park, through The Marketplace, to Discovery Sea Park and back. According to the Johnsons, they will be recycling the original rails from the old Red Car line, which used to run along the Harbor from the World Cruise Center to 22nd Street, and have them installed in the Market. The original Red Car line project opened in 2003 and ceased operation at the end of September 2015, due to costs and lack of use, even though it was beloved by the community. “We had a transportation issue, so we needed a way to solve that,” explains Eric Johnson. “When the Red Car shut down, it seemed like a natural fit.” The Market will be utilizing the two 1902 replica Red Car bodies and placing them on hydrogen-fuel celled chassis, making them cost-efficient and environmentally friendly. “Our [one-time] cost to build [the new] Red Cars alone is the annual operating cost of the original line, around $2 million,” says Eric Johnson. The one original Red Car that still exists will not be placed back in service, but could find use as a photo location or museum piece. Nothing has been decided at this time. In addition to the Red Car line that will run through the interior of the Public Market, a rubber tire trolley system will be installed, which will be able to take visitors from the World Cruise Center to Cabrillo Beach, stopping at various other San Pedro attractions, like the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, the S.S. Lane Victory, CRAFTED, the U.S.S. Iowa, and Cabrillo Way Marina, among other spots.
WHAT CAN GO WRONG?
San Pedro has had promises of a redeveloped Ports O’ Call broken so many times throughout the years, that it’s no surprise that even with plans drawn, infrastructure investment committed, and the support from the Port and the mayor’s office, that some San Pedrans are still skeptical this will actually happen. As one business owner recently told me, “I’ll only believe it when I see those guys lined up with hardhats and shovels for that groundbreaking photo op.” “It’s been a long, sometimes frustrating, but an overall exciting journey from three and half years ago to where we are today,” says Alan Johnson. The 50-year lease for the Ports O’ Call property has yet to be drawn up, but officials believe it will reach the Harbor Commission for approval no later than May. According to all parties involved, including Mayor Garcetti, the single biggest potential threat to the San Pedro Public Market project is a major downturn in the economy, but no one believes another recession will occur in the near future, especially since the economy has been on an upswing in recent years. “But that’s the risk that a developer takes,” says Eric Johnson. Another issue is raising the $100 million in financing the project will need for completion. When asked if this will be a concern, Eric Johnson quickly quips, “We’ve partnered with an amazing guy in Wayne Ratkovich, whose company works with financing in the billions. If you look at The Ratkovich Company and Jerico, we don’t lose projects.” As far as new tenants go, plans to start looking at and curating potential new leases won’t start until at least 2018, when construction is well underway. “Ports O’ Call, in its original incarnation, was the most successful when it had the most locals,” explains Eric Johnson. “And Wayne was right when he said this [at the public meeting], when you do things like this type of destination retail, you first make it cool for the locals. Because when it’s cool for the locals, it’ll be cool for everyone else.” spt
In Memorium to
Our Dear Mom Una “B” Martin A true San Pedro Icon passed away peacefully at home in her childrens arms on March 5th 2016. A fabulous poet in love with life and in love with love who had a great appreciation for a “good martini”at the Green Onion and who loved a beautiful garden.
1919-2016
She will be deeply missed by her family and by the many who knew her as their dear friend “The Queen B”. The family would like to send a sincere “Thank You” to all of you for your support, kind words and love. A wake in “Una fashion” will be held at the Martin residence on April 2nd at 3pm. A very special “Thank You” to Josh and Shana for your continued support, love and kind generosity - XO
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Evolution of a Port
Angels Gate Lighthouse Restoration (2012) (Cost: $2.2 million)
When we talk about the L.A. Waterfront redevelopment, all attention has been focused on Ports O’ Call, but in reality, our waterfront has been continuously evolving as far back as 2003, with the renovation and expansion of the World Cruise Center. The San Pedro Public Market is one of three major waterfront redevelopment projects planned that have yet to be completed (the other two being AltaSea and the new Town Square). With that in mind, here is a timeline of how our waterfront has transformed in 13 years. (source: Port of Los Angeles) Note: All costs listed are paid for by the Port of L.A. unless otherwise noted. World Cruise Center Renovation and Expansion (2003) (Cost: $21 million) Los Angeles Cruise Ship Promenade (2004) (Cost: $14 million) Vincent Thomas Bridge Lighting (2005) (Cost: $1 million, $546,000 paid by the Port of L.A.) Harbor Boulevard Parkway Promenade (2006) (Cost: $23.4 million)
Gateway Plaza and Fanfare Fountains (2008) (Cost: $16.3 million) Warehouse One Outlook (2009) (Cost: $400,000) 22nd Street Park (2010) (Cost: $10.5 million) Cabrillo Way Marina (2011) (Cost: $147.6 million)
Southern Pacific Slip Waterfront Plaza (2012) (Cost: $6.5 million) CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles (2012) (Cost: $5 million, paid by CRAFTED) Catalina Sea and Air Terminal (2012) ($4.3 million, paid by Catalina Express) Battleship IOWA (2012) ($8.5 million, paid by Pacific Battleship Center) Outer Harbor (2014) (Cost: $198,000) Downtown Harbor (2014) (Cost: $47.4 million) Brouwerij West (2016) (part of CRAFTED, with tenant improvement work paid by Brouwerij West)
26 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
(photos: courtesy Port of Los Angeles)
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Catching Up with the Mayor An in-depth discussion with L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti on the new San Pedro Public Market, San Pedro’s homeless crisis and how he’s increasing LAPD resources. interview by Joshua Stecker
When San Pedro Today interviewed Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti in June 2014, there were still a lot of unanswered questions regarding the redevelopment of Ports O’ Call. In that first interview, the mayor expressed skepticism about the project, citing financial issues as the main problem, and avoiding any firm commitment to the project on the record, even though he continually expressed support and vowed to work with Port of Los Angeles officials and the developers, the L.A. Waterfront Alliance, to make the redevelopment of Ports O’ Call happen. Cut to March of this year, and Mayor Garcetti was standing on a stage at Ports O’ Call Village with Councilman Joe Buscaino, Port of L.A. Executive Director Gene Seroka, and developer Wayne Ratkovich, announcing plans for the brand new San Pedro Public Market, with a tentative completion date of 2020. San Pedro Today caught up with Mayor Garcetti last month where the leader of the second largest city in the country spoke at length about the changes that happened to make the Ports O’ Call redevelopment a reality, San Pedro’s current homeless crisis and how he’s actively trying to increase LAPD resources. Note: Interview has been edited for length and clarity.
28 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
San Pedro Today: You announced some big news last month with the revealing of the San Pedro Public Market. When we last spoke in June 2014, there was still some skepticism as to whether this waterfront redevelopment would actually happen. The Port of L.A. has gone through two executive directors (Geraldine Knatz and current director Gene Seroka) with an interim in between (Gary Lee Moore) and has had its share of financial issues (TraPac budget). But cut to last month, and you’re standing on a stage with Seroka, Councilman Buscaino and Wayne Ratkovich announcing that a redeveloped Ports O’ Call is on its way. So what happened in those two years that changed everything? Mayor Eric Garcetti: Well, a couple things happened. One is I told the Port, ‘I want you to work to make this happen as a partner.’ I needed them to think of themselves as a codeveloper. And then two, we found the right person. I can’t overstate that. The developer, Wayne Ratkovich, was the difference. I’ve done a lot of revitalization. I was trained on neighborhood revitalization with the work that we did in Hollywood. Joe Buscaino said I want to do that [in San Pedro]. When we last talked, we had to still identify the funds and identify the developer. A lot of people focus on the plans more than the people. I think now that we have Gene Seroka in place, that we have a Board of Harbor Commissioners supportive of this and Wayne Ratkovich as the developer, that was the difference maker that gave me the confidence that not only can we get this done, but it will get done. So it was basically Ratkovich’s reputation, his resumé, and joining with Alan and Eric Johnson of Jerico Development? Yes, absolutely. I also told my team, I said, when we were sorting through all the priorities,
L.A. Mayor Garcetti (podium) with (l to r) Councilman Joe Buscaino, developer Wayne Ratkovich and Port of L.A. Executive Director Gene Seroka, at the unveiling of the San Pedro Public Market name. (photo: John Mattera)
I said, this is one of the most important land use priorities in the city for me. I think some people have always seen this as something just for San Pedro, or just for the 15th Council District. This is of regional and citywide significance, and I think that helped elevate the importance of this and gave it that kick in the pants they needed to move things forward. People within the Port and on the developer’s side cite the promotion of your former Deputy Mayor Doane Liu to be the current Deputy Executive Director and Chief of Staff at the Port of L.A. as a real game changer for moving this project forward so quickly. It was a loss and a gain simultaneously. (laughs) One of the reasons I was willing to let him go, I said, was as long as something good came out of it. I think you needed a mayor, a port and a councilmember who understood the intersection between land, port operations and financing. And we kind of had that perfect storm. Are you confident that the San Pedro Public Market will be open for business during your next term as mayor, should you, of course, win the your reelection in 2017? Yes, I am. I mean, with the caveat being you never know what happens with the economy and with financing. But should that hold – and I have every reason to believe that even with some mild ups and downs in the economy that our building boom should be able to continue – if we can get this lease signed in the next couple months, I think that they’ll get the financing in place and we will absolutely see that happening in my second term in office. And what’s exciting about that is that our piece we can guarantee. So even as the private developer has to line up financing, which I think they feel confident having done, [the City of L.A.’s] putting $52 million dollars in (for infrastructure improvements and widening of Sampson Way) no matter what. That will really help any private developer keep their bank or their investors happy. I think that will keep it on track. I have a couple of other San Pedro topics I’d like to discuss, the top of the list is our town’s current homeless crisis. I realize it’s a challenging situation and it’s a city and nationwide problem, but how is the City of Los Angeles going to deal with this crisis? Is it simply money? Is it land space for housing? Is it trying to figure out a consensus between local politicians on how to solve the crisis? It’s all the above, except the last one. I’ve been working hard on this issue since my first day in office. There are forces pushing people into homelessness more quickly than we can house them, but we finally have coordination and a strategic plan. A year ago, the City Council didn’t have a standing committee on homelessness. A year ago, the city and county weren’t talking to each other about homelessness. A year ago, there wasn’t a joint commitment of $200 million a year between the city and county to attack homelessness. A year ago, homelessness was treated as an isolated issue instead of seeing its interconnectivity with things like poverty, housing, mental health, and the criminal justice system. It is, by far, the most complicated public policy issue that we will ever deal with, because it is all of the above. Homelessness is the elephant in the room, and that elephant seems to be getting bigger. There’s that old cliché of how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. We’ve taken more than a bite out of it with our strategy to end homelessness
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among veterans, and we did that for two reasons. One, it’s a high priority for me as a vet, and just a believer that men and women who wore the nation’s uniform shouldn’t live on the street. And two, because the federal government stepped up with resources to say we’ll be a partner. For San Pedro specifically, I think you have to do two things. One is you have to find the source of what’s pushing people into homelessness. I’m very worried that we see a higher level of drug use combined with well-intentioned criminal justice reforms like Prop 47 that push people out of jails early without a safety net to catch them. So [the homeless] are becoming addicts. We need help for San Pedro from the state government and I just met with Governor Brown last week saying, look, crime is up, homelessness is up… we think this is connected to some of the new policies that are getting people out of prison but without any plan. Second, our strategy relies on regional approaches that are catered to individual neighborhoods. We are going to have to work closely – and this is going to be a tough pill for every neighborhood to swallow, but I think people get its importance – we have to build navigation centers, places where people can store their goods, take a shower, get new clothes, get a cup of coffee and meal and start talking to people about how to get off the street in every neighborhood. In San Pedro, we’re going to need to look at a fitting location, or someplace in the Harbor Area, for one of these navigation centers. I talked to Councilman Buscaino about this and I look forward to working with the San Pedro community in finding the place that is best. Everybody likes the navigation centers, but nobody wants it [in their community]. But in our experience, once they get up and running, they’re actually pretty marvelous places that work very well. They’re very safe. They’re well policed. So I look forward in this coming year to be able to get those navigation centers, including one down in the Harbor. Then the law permits us to be able to clean up some of the encampments because we have a place for them to go. The [current] court orders make it very difficult for us to be able just to move people from one encampment. They pop up someplace else and it’s whack-a-mole all day long. That’s not a long-term solution. To summarize, I think we understand what the problem is. The coordination has never been better. The commitment has never been stronger. And this November, we’re looking at going to the ballot to see if we can have a dedicated source of funding that wouldn’t be a general tax on people, but maybe on real estate transactions or something, that would help us deal with what’s on the street while we do the work to prevent more people from hitting the street in the coming years. As you know, San Pedro recently hosted the L.A. Crime Forum at the Warner Grand Theatre. LAPD Chief Charlie Beck cited a couple of issues that he thought were plaguing San Pedro right now. He cited Prop 47 as one of them. He also cited the fact that the LAPD just simply does not have enough cops to patrol L.A. We have a brand new, $40 million Harbor Division jail facility that has never seen a prisoner. Chief Beck said at the forum that he was promising to get the Harbor Division jail open within the next 36 months. Is that a viable plan? And what do you think needs to be done more to get more cops on the street? Every resource makes a difference. That’s why I had my Deputy Mayor Jeff Gorell there representing me with Chief Beck and Councilman Buscaino. It was Beck who announced it, but we all worked on it. He spoke for all of us. That was my direction to him. I’m pleased that in the meantime, LAPD quickly answered my call to dedicate a vehicle that has the same effect [as the jail]. It can transport arrestees out of Harbor Division. We are focused on a plan to get jails open throughout the city, because Harbor Division isn’t
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alone. There are a number of jails that have been built. I also want to make sure we can civilianize [the jails], but jails do require some cops to be there. So I don’t want to take further ones off the street, because then that person you were hoping was going to patrol [your neighborhood] is now working in the jail. I also am going to be looking at this because of the uptick in crime. I do agree with Chief Beck. I think [because of Prop. 47] we’ve probably added 10 percent more ex-criminals to the street. I believe in rehabilitation and I want them to be productive members of society, but we’re not serving them, and we’re not serving our communities, when we’re just leaving them out there. According to one study, the recidivism rate is 40 percent in the first eight months. So we remain committed to working with the council office and LAPD to put more officers on the street in San Pedro. All that matters in the end is how many hours of patrol do we have, and I am committed to getting that up. Ok, last question. Gaffey Street is the nerve center of San Pedro. It is the thoroughfare that leads to the 110 Freeway, but it’s also gotten a bit crazy with the types of people that roam that street at all hours of the day and night. As Mayor, you’ve chosen Gaffey as one of the streets that are part of your Great Streets Initiative. With this waterfront redevelopment moving forward, and now this initiative, is this just all part of the process in helping solve a number of the issues we’ve already talked about? Well, we’re fighting against some powerful forces. It’s ironic because we’re not in the recession. So people are wondering why do we have more homelessness? Why do we have more crime? I think it comes back to some well-intentioned policies that have been poorly implemented. I think back to Hollywood 20 years ago, when it was a crazy place to be. There was criminal activity and homelessness everywhere. It was a place where nobody wanted to invest. What helped turn that around were economic activity, vibrant mixed-use development, and an investment in improving the look of Hollywood Boulevard and its cleanliness. To me, that’s what the Great Streets Initiative is really about. I think those plans are wonderful ways to invite investment. We can throw enough cops at a bad neighborhood, but if you put hundreds of people going out at night and hanging out with their families and even driving to great programming, shopping and dining on a street, that is worth 10,000 cops by itself. And I think Gaffey needs to be that backbone. I am pushing quite hard on a Measure R successor this November on the ballot. A halfcent sales tax in addition to Measure R that would go to public transportation, including bringing the Green Line south from where it terminates right now in Manhattan Beach and continuing south around the peninsula and, hopefully, all the way to the Harbor. The dream is to have a line that goes from the Harbor all the way up to the north part of the San Fernando Valley. And a big portion of that measure will be in what’s called local return dollars. Monies, I think it’ll be 15 or 16 percent, that’ll go to cities to be able to spend locally. I’m going to dedicate a big portion of that as ongoing funding for our great streets, because you can make these one time investments, but what we really need is an ongoing source of funds that can continue to beautify, maintain, improve and program those streets. And Gaffey is ripe. I love it in San Pedro. My wife and my family love going down to San Pedro. And we want that main street to really function as it should. spt
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The U.S.S. Iowa is coming off a record sales year in 2015 (photo: John Mattera)
Downtown's Dollar Dilemma With help from the U.S.S. Iowa, some downtown businesses are coming off a record sales year while others are lagging far behind. 32 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
by Roseanney Liu A record sales year. That’s what president and CEO of the battleship U.S.S. Iowa, Jonathan Williams, said recently about the tourist attraction’s revenue for 2015. Gaining a 9% increase in revenue and 19% uptick in visitor attendance, Williams cites two factors contributing to Iowa’s successful year. “We are seeing a lot of traction and momentum for the L.A. Waterfront,” suggested Williams. “We also see an uptick on tour operators promoting the U.S.S. Iowa and folks are seeing the port as a viable [tourist] destination.” He attributes the latter to the general public’s minimizing their preconceived notions about the L.A. Waterfront. Indeed, the proposed plans for the newly announced San Pedro Public Market – which includes 16 acres of restaurants, shopping, fresh markets, office space and a waterfront promenade – have been adding some excitement to the port. The U.S.S. Iowa is one of the businesses prospering from this excitement due to the impending revitalization of Ports O’ Call.
Just a few blocks away, some other downtown businesses such as Philie B’s and San Pedro Brewing Company are reaping the benefits of the battleship’s visitors that frequent dining and pub establishments to replenish their energy after a day on the "Battleship of the Presidents." “[Our restaurant] definitely feels the [positive] trickle-down effect from Iowa’s tourists,” said Phil Buscemi, owner of Philie B’s pizzeria. The battleship's hosting of the Iowa Hawkeyes the eve before this year's Rose Bowl game against Stanford in January packed the house at surrounding dining and pub establishments. In the third year running his restaurant, Buscemi attributes not only the battleship visitors to the success of his business, but also to his own marketing, including coupons distributed at downtown’s Crown Plaza hotel, partnerships with local charitable organizations, local advertising, and word of mouth for popular menu selections. These moves have created a winning recipe that’s allowed Philie B’s to experience 30% revenue growth in 2015 over the previous year. In his 16th year of running San Pedro Brewing Company, James Brown agreed that the U.S.S. Iowa’s customer base has certainly helped his pub continue to thrive. He adds that having more lights and security measures installed in downtown, as well as a general improvement in the economy, have aided in seeing his pub revenue grow 5% for 2015. “People feel safe coming to downtown with the safety patrol [and lights addition], and both the Iowa and the downtown San Pedro Property Owners' Alliance (PBID) have definitely helped,” said Brown when asked what has made the pub flourish. Coming off a record year for the Iowa doesn't make Williams rest on his laurels, however, as he touts that there needs to be a more “unified communication system among all the walking destinations, cruise terminals and downtown businesses” to, in effect, funnel customers among one another. “It’s been in talks that we should instill a long-term certified tourism ambassador program that provides a unified communication response to the visitors,” said Williams about the goal to keep visitors in San Pedro to patronize additional local businesses before and after they enjoy their day on the Iowa. “We have the trolley system that moves the tourists along the Harbor, but we need a more unified approach among the businesses in the area to, essentially, share the customer base." An example would be the Iowa or cruise lines providing passengers with pamphlets detailing local establishments they could visit when they leave the cruise ships. Most downtown businesses would agree, this type of centralized mutual-marketing tool is a great idea.
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The San Pedro Brewing Company (left) had a 5 percent revenue increase in 2015, while just up the block on 6th Street, People's Place & Palace (right) continually struggles to bring in new customers.
34 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
(photos: John Mattera, Joshua Stecker)
Perhaps this would greatly benefit other establishments in downtown that are not seeing nearly the growth that restaurants and pubs are experiencing. Jan Kain, owner at People’s Place & Palace, the largest fitness establishment in downtown, also located on 6th Street, certainly believes so. “We don’t have a huge platform for advertising [in San Pedro] and there’s no real way to promote us to get more people to come to downtown,” says Kain, who is in her sixth year of running the studio of yoga, Pilates and dance classes. “We mostly rely on Facebook and other social media to get the word out about our studio and special events.” Events such as the quarterly "Swing Peedro" (the next one taking place in May), a huge undertaking complete with a big band, draws people in the door, but Kain admits that her studio has not seen nearly the kind of growth for its daily classes that restaurants and bars in the area have experienced. “We really need more support in getting people to downtown to visit the small shops and boutiques,” said Kain, who wishes there was a way to create and promote more awareness for all types of businesses that are available in downtown. Other niche businesspeople like Kari Burgos at Inner Harmony Yoga agree, but she feels it should stretch beyond the borders of downtown. “2015 was not great for our studio by any means and we primarily rely on social media and word of mouth,” said Burgos, "but it would be great for the city to promote all the businesses in San Pedro, not just those in downtown.” Inner Harmony Yoga is just outside the downtown district west of Pacific on 9th Street. Burgos admits it’s not all on the city, though, believing that the more energy she puts in promoting the studio’s events and classes, the more she reaps in terms of new and repeat customers. “While the beginning of 2016 [lagged], February and March have definitely seen an uptick in more business and it’s due to the word of mouth from our wonderful students and the amount of promotional work I put forth,” explained Burgos, now prepping for the highly anticipated calming sound bath session at the studio on April 17. Not to be outdone by its 6th Street neighbors, downtown's 7th Street has also seen a resurgence of sorts with the opening of Jackson's Place beer and wine lounge, Sirens Java & Tea, and Studio Grooming, a pet-grooming salon that's become a popular spot for local dog and cat owners. These businesses join 7th Street staples The Whale & Ale British Pub and Godmothers bar in helping to reshape and revitalize the downtown district. To aid the district's business community, Lorena Parker, executive director of the San Pedro Property Owners’ Alliance (PBID), explained that property owners within the district pay a special assessment for services and benefits rendered by the PBID. To meet the challenge as mentioned by Kain, Parker said, “We are currently restructuring our 2016 marketing program and will continue to put effort into attracting visitors and customers to the district. We will be announcing our upcoming events within the next month.” Other new and older niche-market businesses, while not seeing a substantial growth
rate like the restaurants, are surviving and see little successes here and there. Co-owner Jonathan Mongrut of NUDA Juice & Wellness Shop on 6th Street explained that branching out of the storefront to reach the public with their healthy meals and beverages entails creativity, such as by providing a meal delivery service, catering, and holding a booth at the weekly Farmers Market. Mongrut, who owns NUDA with his wife Stacey Jackson, admits that while downtown does not have the best foot traffic by any means – except for perhaps First Thursdays when they put out a sample table of healthy snacks for passersby – they “are not so much in it to make a huge amount of money,” but rather, to share the health-conscious organic and sustainable alternatives that enable people to feel great inside and out. The two-year-old juice shop location holds seating for only a handful, but regularly enjoys a pickup during lunchtime with repeat customers. Two other downtown businesses that know how to retain loyal customers in order to survive are Drop-In Gifts and Ticktocker Thrift Shop, both on 6th Street. While agreeing with People’s Place and NUDA that foot traffic in downtown is lackluster, Drop-In Gifts owner Darka Klaric, who has been at her location for 25 years, says that she’s maintained her business by having a loyal customer base who loves the shop’s novelty gift items, such as sassy greeting cards, California and San Pedro-specific souvenirs, one-of-kind clothing lines with the Old Guys t-shirts, natural hand soaps, pashminas and Swarovski crystalladen ladies’ jackets. Klaric said social media does not quite work for a store like hers, but her intimate knowledge for quality and the eclectic items she handpicks to carry in the store, along with her ability to connect with shoppers searching for that special item, have kept her in business for more than two decades. On a late Wednesday morning, a small throng of customers are milling about inside Ticktocker Thrift Shop, which carries a huge inventory of gently used clothing and accessories for people of all ages. Staffed by volunteer members from the local chapter of the National Charity League, the location, which has been around more than 30 years, provides shoppers with a wide assortment of clothing items donated by NCL members. The selection is so large that the cashier on this Wednesday morning says visitors from well outside the South Bay area have come to the store based on word of mouth referrals. It's obvious that restaurants and pubs reap the healthy profits in downtown San Pedro, which makes this district no different from other downtown areas across the country. And while some niche-market storefronts cannot boast 25% revenue growth each year, many – young and old businesses, as it seems – do survive and thrive despite the lack of foot traffic that's plagued downtown for years. The smaller clothing and food boutiques seem to find their success in different ways, including by providing one-of-a-kind products, garnering a loyal fan base thru social media and other creative marketing efforts, providing diversified services, or that good ol’ great personalized customer service that keeps San Pedrans coming back for more. spt
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Student Ocean Scientists program (photo: courtesy Reef Check)
Discovering the Ocean's Value AltaSea, L.A. Maritime Institute and Reef Check collaborate on the Student Ocean Scientists program.
36 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
by Monica Simpson “All hands to dockline!” bellows Captain Rob Laymon to his crew onboard the twomasted brigantine docked at Berth 78. The crewmembers scramble around deck scurrying to assigned positions as the tall-ship Exy Johnson prepares to set sail in the Harbor. Excited middle school students stand on the lookout near the stern and bow, waving goodbye to Ports O’ Call as they head out past the breakwater into the open blue Pacific. Although the Exy Johnson is no stranger to the high seas, this is the first ocean voyage with the onboard collaboration of Reef Check as part of their interactive Student Ocean Scientists (SOS) program. Announced last month, the SOS is made possible through partnership and educational collaboration with AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, and the Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI). The clever acronym, SOS, emphasizes the urgency to protect our oceans and prevent future threats while raising awareness. Making marine conservation a middle school conversation, SOS is committed to providing youth from underprivileged communities the chance to engage in marine sciences while learning nautical skills and becoming part of a working sailboat crew. AltaSea, who approached LAMI, has provided the critical infrastructure for current programs to link with marine conservation and Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM). “Their focus is on the ocean and we are on the ocean constantly. They’re learning from us and we’re learning from them to better benefit the community to reach our kids,” said Joleen Deathearage, director of development and marketing for LAMI. “This is a perfect partnership with Reef Check and Alta Sea as we are teaching kids about our local harbor, marine life and the habitat.” Unlike some of these students who are visiting the ship and the ocean for the first time, the boat is no stranger to the port. Built and harbored here in San Pedro, the Exy Johnson is one of the official twin tall ships of Los Angeles. Alongside its 110-foot traditionally rigged twin, Irving Johnson, these multi-million dollar vessels are the flagships of LAMI and the main training vessels of the TopSail Youth Program based at the Port of L.A. Named after sail-training pioneers, Irving and Electa “Exy” Johnson who bravely circumnavigated the globe seven times, LAMI strives to honor their legacy of adventure, exploration, and education. “We don’t just teach kids how to sail, we teach them how to be a part of a team. These kids become part of the crew. They’re considered members,” said Deatherage about TopSail Youth and the 60,000 kids they have taken out since 1992. Previously with the TopSail Youth program, students had a curriculum that focused primarily on seamanship; navigation, sail training, and only some marine biology, but now Reef Check will split the curriculum equally with the sailing. Captain Laymon thinks this new program will be good for the kids, “It’s new and different for us. Traditionally the program has been about the experience of sailing and not so much about the science curriculum, so we are still working to integrate them smoothly but this is a good platform.” Based in Marina Del Rey, Reef Check Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and monitoring of coral and rocky reefs. Although based in Southern California, this 100% volunteer organization also works internationally in more
than 90 countries monitoring over 80 reefs and 1,000 miles of protected marine coastlines in California. With the new expansion from the partnership, students will receive handson oceanography instruction from Reef Check volunteers. Helming Exy Johnson’s first voyage with Reef Check is Dr. Gregor Hodgson, founder of Reef Check Foundation. The former UCLA professor of Marine Biology and coral reef ecologist is excited about working closely with underprivileged middle school students. “Over 50% of the kids have never been in the ocean. You can see the delight on their faces, they’re just thrilled for the chance,” said Hodgson. Using what Reef Check refers to as “citizen science,” students are confronted with one simple yet challenging question, “Why is the ocean valuable?” Accommodating up to 35 participants on day sails, these experiential ocean trips are made possible through funding from the Port of L.A. and individual donors. Focusing on Title I schools and youth in lowincome communities, these programs are available to schools on a first come first-serve basis. Matthew Clair, Math and Science teacher at Palms Middle School since 1996, has brought over 900 students on TopSail trips over the course of 10 years. “When you find an outdoor experience and take them out of their normal realm of reality, the long-term effects of this trip can be felt for many years to come,” said Clair, enthusiastic about the Reef Check addition. Proving that theory, Clair explains that he has already had many former students go on to study biology and marine sciences. Clair believes these excursions are an integral part of their education outside the classroom. “Setting the sails, working on marine navigation, and climbing the rigging doesn’t only work on teambuilding and maritime education, but character building as well." Passing around a pair of Nikon binoculars, the 6th grade students stare beyond Angels Gate out into the Harbor, surveying the horizon. Conducting scientific investigations, students-turned-sailors analyze and evaluate data collected in the coastal waters combining adventure with education. Different learning stations are set up around the boat where students rotate in between testing salinity, interacting with marine life such as sea urchins and Copepod plankton (the largest plankton in the Harbor), and learning to haul lines and trim sails. Teachers also benefit from SOS programs by receiving classroom guides and learning materials. “We want to educate them about the water. They are our future and the water is also our future. We have to educate them better and hopefully they become part of our future programs,” said Hodgson about the youth on board. “We teach them why the ocean is valuable and what the problems are: such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change.” With 30 trips scheduled this year and 21 more sails planned through June 2016, Deathearage is thrilled about the future of the TopSail and Reef Check programs and proud to keep them in San Pedro. “We’ve been on the waterfront for 22 years. The ships were built here on the waterfront, so this is a great way to keep them in the community and the waterfront,” she said. After the educational time spent at sea learning oceanography and navigating the water, AltaSea, Reef Check, and LAMI are confident students will be better prepared to chart their own course in life and hopefully go on to pursue a career in marine sciences. spt
2016 Prep Baseball & Softball Preview
Analise De La Roca
story & photos by Jamaal K. Street Spring sports have arrived and there’s lots of talent to behold for both the baseball and softball teams at San Pedro, Port of Los Angeles and Mary Star of the Sea High Schools. Break out your lineup cards; it’s time to batter up and swing for the fences.
SOFTBALL POLA (31-5 overall in 2015) – Last year was truly remarkable for the Polar Bears, as they reached the finals of the El Segundo and Las Vegas Spring Jamboree Tournaments, claiming the Silver Division title of the Torrance National Tournament, and reaching the CIF-LACS Division I semifinals, where it lost an 8-6 slugfest to eventual champion Chatsworth. Longtime coach Jesse Espinoza is now the head man after previous coaching stops at Mary Star, Banning and Los Angeles Harbor College, taking over for his brother Moses and sister-in-law Melissa, who both combined to coach POLA to three City Division III crowns and two straight D-I semifinal berths.
J.J. Duarte
Amanda Vitalich
Arizona State verbal commit, and All-City junior pitcher Analise De La Roca will be poised to shine as the top pitcher after tag-teaming with POLA strikeout queen Nicolle Miranda (now at Eastern Michigan) for two seasons. De La Roca may be the focus of attention for POLA, but the Polar Bears also return senior OF/P Vanessa Munoz, the lone remaining member of the 2013 championship team. Sophomore INF/OF/P Sienna Valencia, sophomore 3B/P Angie Vargas, sophomore infielder Brittany Mercado and junior INF/OF Destiny Sambrano also return for POLA, and catcher Allison Torstensen will look to contribute right away as an impact freshman for the Polar Bears. Junior outfielder Celeste Gutierrez also makes a return to softball after a year absence. SAN PEDRO (21-12 in 2015) - Now in his second season, there is some promise for coach Robert Whitney after a solid first year where the Pirates placed third in the Marine League, where defending league champion & CIF-LACS runner-up Carson is the favorite. Junior INF/C Andrea Cline, a two-time All-Marine League returning player, will be ready for a breakthrough season along with an experienced group of fellow juniors, such as All-Marine League pitcher Cindy Robles, All-Marine League outfielder Andrea Trejo, P/ INF Deanna Gonzalez, and infielders Ricki Justiniano and Mackenzie Winkle. Sophomore P/1B Quincy Greenwood and sophomore INF/C Taiya Reyna both have massive potential, while sophomore C/OF Anessa Quiroz, a transfer from nearby POLA, will be able to contribute in a mighty way once she's eligible to play on April 4. MARY STAR (22-4 in 2015) - Caitlin Colvin is in her first year as head coach for Mary Star, who went 8-1 in winning their fourth Camino Real League championship in five years, but the Stars will have a pitcher-by-committee after the 1,100-plus strikeouts Marina Vitalich (now at George Mason) provided for four years will be greatly missed. Two-time All-Camino Real League selection Amanda Vitalich, a standout junior shortstop, along with incoming freshman Amanda Rojas, will both see action in the circle. Mary Star does return four more All-CRL selections in junior catcher Gianna Fletcher, senior infielder Isabella Samperio, sophomore infielder Miranda Marquez and junior first baseman Gigi Gentile as the Stars will play a full season of having all their home games on their campus field after all those years of having home field advantage at the San Pedro Softball Complex. Also returning for the Stars with valuable experience are senior outfielders Krislyn Vara and Sarah Rodriguez. spt
APRIL 2016 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 37
BASEBALL SAN PEDRO (19-12 overall in 2015) – Last year was the best thus far for coach Steve Tedesco, who enters his third year as the head coach of the Pirates. Even though last year was marred by a publicized brawl at Carson, San Pedro still managed to go 6-4 (probably 7-3 if it weren't for the double forfeit with the Colts) and finish third in a tough Marine League. Senior catcher, All-City and All-Marine League first team returnee J.J. Duarte will be handling a deep and athletic pitching staff, which includes All-Marine League junior Mikey Hernandez Jr., who's also a slick fielding second baseman, junior Isaiah Bumgarner, sophomore Ryan Zamudio, senior Austin Cook and junior David Barraza. Bumgarner, another All-Marine League returning player, is also a solid hitter while playing sharp at third base. MARY STAR (20-7 in 2015) – Even though Andy Fiamengo left to become an assistant coach at the new Marymount California University baseball program, the Stars bring back an old friend to the party. Starting his second term as coach is Rick Ibarra, who guided the Stars to a CIF-SS final in 2002 and will look to guide a gritty team to a potential repeat Camino Real League crown and maybe a longer playoff run, considering Mary Star was bounced in the first round of CIF-SS Division 5 by Lompoc. All-CRL senior OF/P Gianfranco Gentile is a dangerous player, with a knack for hitting triples and making ‘web gem’ catches in center field. Other All-CRL returning players include senior catcher Nicco Castania, senior outfielder Ozzie Aveiro, senior P/INF Joey Domicoli, senior infielder Tyler Velozzi and senior P/INF Troy Tripp. Sophomore P/INF's Gabriel Pech and Matt Marquez look to play larger roles in Mary Star's plans in 2016. Senior P/OF Ryan Sadler also returns for the Stars. POLA (16-11 in 2015) – Just like their run to the CIF-LACS Division 3 title in 2014, cocoaches Brian and Dennis Emerson lifted the Polar Bears up from another rough start in 2015, winning 13 of their final 18 games after starting the season 3-6, going a perfect 10-0 in the Crosstown-Ocean League, and nearly defending their throne which Los Angeles CES took from them in an 8-4 win in the Division 3 final. Two-time All-City senior lefty pitcher Fernando Rivas is back for one final run at the championship, as are the other remaining holdovers from the only male-related sports City title in school history, senior OF/C Kyle Micek, senior OF/P Paul Castaneda, senior 2B/C/P Anthony Raya. Senior infielder Daniel Sanchez is another returning player for POLA with extensive experience.
SAN PEDRO SHOW & TELL
Steps in Time Frank and Mary Mattera remember the days of clubs, cruisin' and commitment.
38 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
by Angela "Romee" Romero Mary and Frank Mattera are the kind of people who make you feel like family the minute you step foot in their house. That’s why I just recently started calling them Aunt Mary and Uncle Frank. Mary is a San Pedro native from the large Magaña clan and Frank’s license plate frame reads “Brooklyn Born, Pedro Built.” He lived in Brooklyn just long enough to retain that famous accent – it really makes everything he says sound like the beginning of a pretty awesome story. “You seen that movie, American Graffiti? We lived that.” Frank and Mary graduated from San Pedro High School in the Winter and Summer of 1953, respectively. While their heyday predates the American Graffiti time period by about a decade, they absolutely lived that life of drive-ins, girls in saddle shoes, boys with ducktail hair, club jackets and cruising in big beautiful cars. Frank still has the jacket to prove it. “Our club was the Romans. The day we got the jackets it was 80 degrees outside but we still wore them,” Frank explained. The Romans would congregate at Chitwood & Study, a service station on the corner of 11th and Pacific, where Ray Deeter’s Tire Town is today. He continued, “That was our corner and nobody bugged us. Two of the guys worked there so we would just park our cars right there… just hang out to see what’s goin’.” The president of the Romans was Frank’s friend and Mary’s older brother, Joe Magaña. Joe managed both the Cabrillo and The Strand Theater where Mary worked as a cashier. The ticket booth at The Strand was directly across the street from Chitwood & Study, with a perfect view of the Romans’ corner. “All the girls used to call up the ticket booth just to see who was out there,” Mary laughed. Although Frank and Mary were at San Pedro High at the same time, they didn’t really get to know each other until after they both graduated. The fact that Mary’s parents already knew Frank as one of Joe’s friends helped the situation along when Frank asked Mary out on their first date at The Fireside, a typical 1950s drive-in that used to be on the corner of 6th and Gaffey. Frank was ready to marry Mary from the moment he met her, but her father’s rule was that she couldn’t get married until she was 21 years old. So, a couple of years later, on a hot September morning in 1956, a young Italian guy from Brooklyn married a young Mexican gal from San Pedro at the old Mary Star Church on the corner of 9th and Centre. Not too long after they were married, the new Mary Star Church on 7th and Meyler was completed and the old one was razed. Mary got a job in an office and Frank joined the Retail Clerks Union. They were soon blessed with three wonderful children: Frank Jr., Patty and Kathy. Married life had put an immediate end to hanging out on corners with their friends, but it didn’t mean that they stopped having fun. “I come from a big family and that means a lot of babysitters,” Mary said, “nieces, cousins, sisters… we all helped each other out.” Mary and Frank are members of the St. Joseph’s group at Mary Star and continue to have regular dates with their friends. And they still get in the car and go cruising around, especially in the old neighborhoods where they grew up, just to see how much everything has changed. On one particular drive, about twenty years ago, they happened to be driving down 9th Street near the lot where the old Mary Star once stood. After the church was knocked down, the lot had remained vacant for decades. The only thing that remained were the front steps. As they passed, they saw that someone had started jack hammering the stairs in order to clear the lot for new construction. Mary urged Frank to turn back to get one last look at the steps where they had emerged for the first time as man and wife. Frank
Mary and Frank Mattera kiss on the steps of the old Mary Star Church on 9th & Centre (photo: Frank Mattera) Mary and Frank kiss (again) while holding pieces of the steps of the old Mary Star Church. Frank's Romans Jacket (photos: Angela Romero)
obliged, then got out of the car and picked a few stones from the rubble as souvenirs. This year, the Mattera’s will be celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. I asked them if they would do it all over again. Mary smiled and said, “With everything we have – a home, our children, grandchildren and great-grandson, our families… Oh yeah, I would do everything all over again. We were so lucky.” “In a heartbeat!” Frank said as he pointed up to his wedding photo above the fireplace, “I wish I could walk into that photo right now.” spt If you have a San Pedro artifact with a special story or a mystery behind it, please email romee@thatssopedro.com.
HEALTH & FITNESS
Let’s Talk About Fat, Baby (Part 1) by Lori Garrett
There are many studies and books relating to the topic of dietary fats, and too many to list here. However, if you’re looking for some basic reading to get you started, these are two of my favorites: “The Great Cholesterol Myth” by Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., CNS and Stephen Sinatra, M.D., F.A.C.C. and “Eat the Yolks” by Liz Wolfe, NTP (lists of medial studies are referenced in both sources). This information is not meant to replace the advice of your medical doctor or professional health care practitioner. Please consult a functional medical doctor and/or qualified nutritionist for more information. You can follow Lori Garrett on her healthy lifestyle blog: www.adventuresofasickchick.com.
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Fat. It’s a word that strikes fear in the hearts of many. In the case of dietary fat, it’s also a word that causes great confusion. We’ve been told to consume “healthy fats” and to avoid bad fats, but there has been so much misinformation, politics, and questionable science over the years, that most of us are rather confused as to what actually constitutes a healthy fat in the first place. As we delve into the subject of which fats are considered healthy versus unhealthy, let’s start with what I believe is probably the biggest misconception in world of fat consumption: saturated fat. You know, the fat that has been demonized over the last few decades as a leading cause of clogged arteries, high cholesterol, and heart disease. There is no disputing the fact that trans fats are unhealthy, but the myths about saturated fat have unfairly placed these fatty acids in the “bad” category as well. The result is a society that has shifted towards low fat diets and moved to replace saturated fats with allegedly “healthier” fats (like refined “vegetable” oils), all in support of the multibillion-dollar industries of crop oils, processed foods, and statin drugs. The only problem? Heart disease and obesity rates have only risen since these changes were implemented, and it’s no wonder when we look at the science. Although still not fully embraced by most mainstream media (and some influential organizations who-shall-not-be-named), there is finally more widespread acknowledgement of what many scientists, researchers, doctors, and nutritionists have believed for quite some time (brace yourself): saturated fat does not cause heart disease. Instead, studies show that higher risk of heart disease is more likely a result of the intake of sugar, high glycemic carbohydrates, and improper balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Turns out those initial studies that started the low fat craze in the first place were based on poor science and loosely drawn conclusions that did not solidly link saturated fat intake to accelerated heart disease or mortality at all. It’s important to note that saturated fat has been linked to a moderate increase in total cholesterol; but remember, cholesterol levels are a complicated issue: not all cholesterol is bad (and ratios are a critical factor), and overall high cholesterol is not necessarily an indicator of heart disease risk (in some studies, low cholesterol was linked to higher mortality rates). Healthy fats (which include naturally-sourced, minimally processed saturated fats) and cholesterol are actually necessary for optimal human health. Now, all this being said, there are some experts that argue that many of us consume too much saturated fat, and this is true for some. There is also the concern of how that saturated fat is sourced: a grain-fed, factory-farmed steak, for example, is not going to have the same nutritional value as a grass-fed, pasture-raised steak, so not all saturated fat is created equal. In addition, how food is combined is also important: that steak, for example, also will be best optimized by pairing it with alkaline vegetables (like leafy greens). I’m from the camp that believes that when it comes to saturated fat (like most foods): moderation is key, as is proper food sourcing and proper food combination. Still, I don’t believe that saturated fat is the villain that it’s been made out to be. But many of the myths about saturated fat have persisted, and one of the consequences has been the push to replace saturated fat with products like polyunsaturated fatty acid cooking oils. Next time, we’ll discuss the dangers of these highly refined oils, along with suggestions for what cooking fats and oils we should be using instead. Stay tuned for Part 2! spt
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Serving the South Bay For Over 20 Years!
THANK YOU SAN PEDRO CELEBRATING 29 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS SERVICE!
Jennifer Randolph
Miguel Guedea DC
Kim Kromas, DC, PhD
40 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2016
CHIROPRACTIC
DEEP MUSCLE THERAPY
• Structural Imbalance Low Back & Neck Pain • Chronic Conditions • Immune Weaknesses • Headaches
• • • • •
Tissue Spasm Frozen Shoulder Lymphatic Drainage Restore Joint Motion Stress Relief
HEALTH & FITNESS
ACUPUNCTURE • Relieves Pain • Relieves Inflamation • Removes Stagnation • Hormone Imbalance
CHIROPRACTIC & NUTRITION CENTER OPEN: MON | TUES | WED | FRI | 9AM - 6PM THURSDAY by appointment only
302 W. 5th Street #101 • San Pedro, CA 90731 www.kromaschiropractic.com
310.832.5818
Do you feel like you’ve lost your mojo? Do you have aches and pains? Did you spend the majority of your twenties eating whatever you wanted and suddenly find yourself in your thirties and forties struggling to maintain the svelte waistline you never had to work for? Do you find yourself saying, “Damn, it sucks getting old"? I hear someone complain about their age a least a couple times a week. Rarely is the person actually very old, but it’s become socially acceptable to rue the fact that you’re aging. Seldom is it accompanied by any kind of action to reverse the process. Rather, it’s a resignation to a bygone youth; a defeated acceptance of decrepit grey-haired infirmity. But most of the time when someone says, “I hate getting old,” I hear, “I hate not being able to get away with the bad habits my youth once afforded me.” You used to be able to go on weekend benders without crippling hangovers, and live off ramen, pizza, and Pepsi without gaining a pound. Now there are consequences. If you continue to eat, drink like a college sophomore whilst having the responsibilities and body of a forty-something, you will begin to fall apart and feel old much sooner than you ever need to. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Rarely do you find those spritely 100-year old skydiving senior citizens complain about how old they are. In fact, quite the opposite, they’ll tell you how young they feel. My hope is that if you’re in your forties, fifties or beyond, you’re not content to be a has-been whose best days are behind them. No, you understand that the human body, if well-maintained, can look and feel young far longer than most people realize if you only adopt a few good habits. Here’s a little advice I’ve learned observing the healthiest boomers I know. Listen up and you’ll feel young long into your senior years and you’ll actually enjoy the ageing process. Here goes. Don’t buy into the adoration of youth. Entire industries are built around delaying, reversing and hiding the fact that we are getting older. It paints aging as if it were a bad thing. The best thing you can do is to stop buying into the idea that the highest human ideal should be to look 25. Embrace your age; it will empower you to remain youthful and energetic. Don’t eat like your kids. Children might be able to run on French fries and fruit snacks but you can’t. Many times your “feeling old” just means you fuel your body with crap. The phrase "you are what you eat" starts to make a whole lot more sense the older you get. Don’t cry about it, just learn to wane yourself off of poor food choices. Losing weight is more challenging but not impossible. Learn to handle stress better. When you were a teenager, you thought choosing a prom date was a legitimate life decision. Now you have real problems and study after study shows we don’t handle stress very well. Something like 3 out of 4 doctor visits are stress related. When you’re stressed, you eat too much (or too little), you get sick more often, you don’t sleep well (or at all), and you’re more likely to drink, smoke or medicate in some way. Basically, chronic stress causes more aging in a few years than twenty birthdays ever could. Just look at U.S. presidents before and after their terms. Lift. Every year that passes, unless given a reason, your body will slowly jettison it’s muscle tissue. You’ll get weaker and your bones will diminish in density. If left alone, a sedentary person will become frail, weak and highly prone to injury. Resistance training can largely reduce that process and even reverse it. Your body is an adapting machine and so long as you keep challenging it, it will stay strong long after your hair turns grey. Did I mention it’s a huge stress reliever, too? Remember, being old is relative. You think you’re old now? Wait until 20 years from now. A 30-year-old would kill to be 21 again. A 70-year-old would love to be 45. Stop wishing you were younger. Appreciate the years you have now. Live good habits the greyhaired version of you will thank you for. spt For some sample workouts to help you get better, email ricky@heydaytraining.com.
STELLA MARIS CATHOLIC BOOKS & GIFTS
Beautiful Selection
of Rosaries, Statuary, Crucifixes, Pictures, Greeting Cards & Books. First Holy Communion & Confirmation gifts & cards available.
New Regular Hours:
Wed. 2:45 - 5:30 p.m. | Sun. 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Located at MARY STAR OF THE SEA CHURCH 870 W. 8th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731
310.519.8661
stellamaris@marystar.org
PRIORITYONE PRINTING ★ COPYING ★ GRAPHICS Serving San Pedro’s business and education communities since 1979
Brochures • Stationery • Fliers • Resumés Business Cards • Booklets • Programs
Banners • Posters • Rubber Stamps
310-831-8804
350 W. 5th Street, San Pedro
(Corner of 5th & Mesa, in the heart of downtown)
www.PriorityOnePrinting.com
Serving Our Community for Over 40 Years!
• Commercial & Residential Real Estate • For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Rosemarie “Bitsy” Lauro • Short Sales Owner/Escrow Officer • FHA & Conventional Refinance Independently Owned & Operated • Income/Investment Properties • Hard Money Loans 864 West 9th Street San Pedro, CA 90731 ∙ (310) 548-1263 www.ranchosp-escrow.com
APRIL 2016 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 41
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APRIL 2016 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 43
4/30/16
TOP 5 REASONS TO CHOOSE DR. GIRI PALANI
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Clean, ultra-modern, relaxing office. The latest diagnostic & imaging hardware and software. Patient concierge, numerous patient amenities & friendly professional staff. Computer-guided surgery.
Entire Procedure in One Office
Dr. Palani expertly performs every aspect of your procedure. Unlike some offices, you are not referred to 2 or 3 additional dentists and/or appointments. In most instances the patient can receive a fixed set of teeth the same day.
The Best Equipment & Material
Dr. Palani uses only the finest materials, from start to finish you can be assured that we will use only the best materials both in office and in our Adanced Milling Center
Most Experienced Provider
With more than a decade of experience, Dr. Palani has been credentialed by the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. His experience in both Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry is second-tonone. Thousands of patients agree.
TRUST THE EXPERT, DR. GIRI PALANI
4/30/16
Lowest Fees & Highest Quality
Because Dr. Palani and his staff have perfected the protocols, has a full-service Dental Lab & Milling Center, and performs the entire procedure himself, he can offer a higher quality product at the best price.