MAY 2019
PLUS: ART TO GROW ON TURNS 30 | PREP SOFTBALL PREVIEW | KIDS SUMMER GUIDE
Pieces of Us JULIE BENDER'S 25TH STREET MOSAIC MURAL, WHICH ILLUSTRATES THE STORIES OF SAN PEDRO, IS READY FOR ITS CLOSE-UP
Dr. Souzan Ardalan & Associates
Comprehensive Dental Care & Implant Center Backed by 25 years of experience
WHEN YOU VISIT OUR DENTAL OFFICE IN WEYMOUTH CORNERS, YOU FEEL RIGHT AT HOME. Whether you require a cleaning, teeth whitening, invisible braces by Invisalign®, crowns, implants or any other General or Specialty dental procedure, our office will ensure that you are comfortable and have a pleasant experience. OLD-FASHIONED STYLE OF PATIENT CARE IS WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT!
Great Smiles Begin Here! Dr. Ardalan, D.D.S. Education: USC school of Dentistry Doctor of Dental Surgery Professional Association: American Dental Association, member California Dental Association, member Western Dental Society, member
ASSOCIATES Ian Woo, D.D.S., MD. Education: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Los Angeles County / University of Southern California Medical Center
Dr. Marvis Sorrel, D.M.D., M.D.S.
SERVICES & SPECIALTIES • General Cosmetic and Children’s Dentistry • Oral Surgery • Dental IMPLANTS • Permanent Implant Supported Dentures • Orthodontics (Traditional Braces & Invisalign) • Periodontics • Sleep Apnea
Located in Weymouth Corners 1411 W. 8th Street San Pedro, CA 90732
(310) 832-5559
Education: University of Pittsburgh, Master of Science in Dentistry, Doctor of Dental Medicine Advanced Education in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Orthognatic Surgery Externship / Invisalign Certification
Dr. Rebekah Coriaty Education: University of Pacific Professional Association: American Dental Association California Dental Association
Dr. Miles Madison Education: UCLA School of Dentistry Professional Association: American Academy of Periodontology California Society of Periodontists American Dental Association California Dental Association American Association for Dental Research
Ready to Learn about Dental Implants? What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. The benefit of using implants is that they don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support and they are permanent and stable. Implants look and feel like natural teeth.
What is an Implant Support Denture?
While a regular denture rests on the gums and are not stable, An implant-supported denture is a type of overdenture that is supported by and attached to implants by special attachments for better fit and retention. There are two types of implant-supported dentures: bar-retained and ballretained. In both cases, the denture will be made of an acrylic base that will look like gums. Porcelain or acrylic teeth that look like natural teeth are attached to the base. Both types of dentures need at least two implants for support.
Your dentist can help you . . .
Can anyone receive dental implants?
Talk with your dentist about whether you are an implant candidate. You must have the proper bone structure for the implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may also be good candidates.
What can I expect during this procedure?
The dentist must perform surgery to anchor the “artificial root� into or on your jaw bone. The procedure is done in the dental office with local anesthesia. The gum is then secured over the implant, which will remain covered until it fuses with the bone. The dentist then uncovers the implant and attaches an extension, or post, to the implant. Finally, the dentist makes an artificial tooth, or crown, or dentures that attach to the implant post.
What is the cost of implants?
Dental implants for replacement of a single tooth are affordable and most dental and medical insurance policies cover portion of the cost. Your dentist can help you with this process.
Dr. Souzan Ardalan & Associates
Please call to make an appointment for a complimentary consultation
Located in WEYMOUTH CORNERS 1409 W. 8th St., San Pedro
We accept all PPO insurances
Dr. Ian Woo, Oral Maxillofacial surgeon, M.D.
310.832.5559
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
lue! a V 0 $98.0 ith able w ombin Not C old. h e s u r ho
The best time to view the 25th Street Mosaic Mural is a little after dusk. That moment when the sun crosses below the horizon and your headlights turn on. Drive west towards Palos Verdes and watch as your headlights set off bursts of flashing light reflecting off the thousands of mirrored tiles along the mural, creating a manic dance of colors as you drive past. It’s massive. It’s beautiful. And it’s ours. It’s an amazing thing to witness an idea become reality. Artist Julie Bender had been chomping at the bit to take on that 25th Street retaining wall, but it took her more than a decade to make it happen. But once she committed to it, the result is better than most of us, including Bender, could’ve imagined. It’s a strange time to live in San Pedro. We’ve lived through years of ideas but rarely saw them become a reality. Today, it’s drastically different. For years, the Warner Grand Theatre has been in dire need of renovation. Today, the City of L.A. is about to spend $4.5 million to renovate it. For years, Ports O’ Call Village and the waterfront needed to be revitalized. Today, the San Pedro Public Market project just received a $30 million investment guaranteeing the completion
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of the design and permitting process, keeping it on track to open early 2021. For years, the community has been asking the LAPD to open the Harbor Division jail. Today, L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti just announced the funding to open the jail ($1.9 million) has finally been added to the City’s budget. For years, the community has been skeptical of any attempt to revitalize our downtown district. Today, it seems like a new restaurant is opening every week (Conrad’s, Café Panzano, La Buvette Bistro, Sebastian's Mediterranean Cuisine), some top tier acts have been playing the Warner Grand Theatre, and multiple new mixed-use buildings (commercial/residential) are currently under construction, with the goal of bringing more residents into the downtown district, and thus creating more investment and opportunity for our community. All of this isn’t to say San Pedro’s problems are fixed. Not by a long shot. We’re still dealing with upticks in crime. There’s still our ever-increasing homeless problem, which oftentimes seems like it will never get solved. The lack of enforcement of ordinances and the toll it has taken on the cleanliness of our streets is unacceptable. We need to start demanding more from our local leaders on this issue. It’s gone on too long. spt Joshua Stecker is publisher/editorin-chief of San Pedro Today. Letters to the Editor can be emailed to contact@sanpedrotoday.com.
MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 5
MAY 2019
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ADVERTISING:
ASSOCIATE EDITOR/ SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Patricia Roberts (562) 964-8166 | patricia@sanpedrotoday.com
ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION
Shana Ghekiere (310) 753-5176 | shana@sanpedrotoday.com
AT-LARGE CONTRIBUTORS
EMPIRE22 MEDIA LLC OWNER/PUBLISHER
Joshua J. Stecker
Caitlyn Piercy
Joseph A. Castañeda
Mike Harper, Peter Hazdovac, Gary Herrera, Pastor Nathan Hoff, Mike Lansing, Ricky Magana, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Angela Romero, Jamaal K. Street
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 11 | NUMBER 4
General Inquiries: ads@sanpedrotoday.com
Joshua J. Stecker
San Pedro Today publishes the last Thursday of every month and is produced monthly by Empire22 Media LLC. No portion of this publication can be reproduced without written permission by Empire22 Media. 25,000 copies are delivered to San Pedro and portions of Rancho Palos Verdes. San Pedro Today is a product of Empire22 Media LLC. Empire22 Media LLC, their subsidiaries and affiliates are released from all liability that may involve the publication of San Pedro Today. Copyright 2009-2019, Empire22 Media LLC.
ON THE COVER: The Point Fermin Lighthouse as featured on the 25th Street Mosaic Mural by Julie Bender (photo: John Mattera Photography)
6 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
Khashayar Khodadadi, D.D.S. (310) 831-0781| 1441 West 7th Street
We provide Dentistry for the whole family
Dr. Khodadadi • • • • • • • • • •
We provide Complimentary Nitrous Oxide for your comfort
General Dentistry Dental Implants Teeth Cleaning & Whitening Tooth Extractions Night/Mouth Guards Sleep Apnea Treatment Root Canals, Crowns, Veneers Gum Treatment Bone Grafting Arestin Treatment
At our dental office, we select only the best of the best to serve our patients and their families. All of our staff members are friendly, knowledgeable, and highly proficient in their office duties.
Please Call for an Appointment www.healthysmile4you.com
MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 7
MAY Every Wednesday – CREATIVE WRITING CLASS FOR KIDS at The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.), 4:30 – 5:45p. Taught by San Pedro Today columnist, Jennifer Marquez. $10 per class. For more info, email jennifermarquez@yahoo.com. Now – May 26 (Sun) – CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S AMALUNA at the L.A. Waterfront. Various show times. (See page 12.) 1 (Wed) & 9 (Thurs) – FREE FAMILY TRUSTS SEMINAR at Coco’s Restaurant (28200 S. Western Ave.), Wed: 6 – 7:30p; Thurs: 11a – 12:30p. Learn all you ever wanted to know about Living Trusts. Bring your questions and leave with a plan. Easy to understand explanation of the topic so you can be in charge and make the best decision for you, including benefits of a trust, health care directives, and more important info. To RSVP, call (424) 279-3719. 2 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY in Downtown San Pedro, 6 - 9p. Live music, food trucks, art gallery displays, and food and drink specials from local bars and restaurants. Experience the most anticipated monthly even in San Pedro! 4 (Sat) - 5TH ANNUAL RAD RUN at Narbonne High School (24300 S. Western Ave.), 8a. (See page 14.) 4 (Sat) – BIRD L.A. DAY at International Bird Rescue (3601 South Gaffey St.), 10a – 2p. Join International Bird Rescue for a special event celebrating the birds that call Los Angeles home! Featuring crafts, special presentations, a gift shop, and educational booths where you can learn more about the waterbirds that are cared for locally, and how you can take action to protect them. For more info, check out their event on Facebook! 4 (Sat) – BACK PAIN WORKSHOP at Excel Physical Therapy (28631 S. Western Ave., Suite 104A), 10a. Learn how to control your back pain and sciatica without medications, injections, and surgery. To register and for more info, call (310) 548-5444 or visit excelptassosciates.com/back-pain-sciatica-workshops.
8 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
9 (Thurs) – SPHS CLASS OF 1945 REUNION BREAKFAST at The Grinder (511 S. Harbor Blvd.), 9:30a. RSVP to Alice Jacobson at (310) 832-1807.
18 (Sat) – FERMIN LASUEN REUNION REUNION/WALK & PICNIC at Point Fermin Park (807 W. Paseo Del Mar), 8:30a. (See page 14.)
11 (Sat) – GONE TOO SOON 5K at Bloch Field (1500 S. Harbor Blvd.), 8a. (See page 14.)
18 (Sat) – SAN PEDRO RELAY FOR LIFE at the San Pedro Athletic Complex (3181 N. Gaffey St.), 10a – 10p. A community event to raise funds for the American Cancer Society to support cancer research. For more info, visit relayforlife.org/SanPedroCA. (See page 14.)
11 (Sat) – KIMBERLY FORD, MUSIC OF JONI MITCHELL at the Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 8p. A true homage to Mitchell's quintessential classics. Instead of a note-for-note tribute, Ford has gathered a group of stellar musicians with backgrounds in jazz, classical, and rock to cover all facets of Mitchell’s career. For tickets and more info, visit grandvision.org. 12 (Sun) – MOTHER’S DAY HIGH TEA at the Miraleste Library (29089 Palos Verdes Drive East), 2 – 4p. The Chado Tea Room hosts a special Mother’s Day High Tea, part of the 2nd Sunday at Miraleste program series. Sponsored by Jerry & Laura RE/MAX Estate Properties. $40 per ticket. Reservations are required. For more info, email ewittenmyer@pvld.org or call (310) 377-9584 ext. 452.
18 (Sat) – LASER OPEN HOUSE at Excel Physical Therapy (28631 S. Western Ave., Suite 104A), Noon – 3p. Experience the power of laser therapy with the most advanced therapeutic options available, deep tissue laser therapy from Lightforce. Please call the clinic to reserve your complimentary treatment at (310) 548-5444 or sign up online at excelptassociates.com/laser-open-house. 18 (Sat) – GRAND GRUNION GALA at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium (3720 Stephen M. White Dr.), 5 – 11p. Don’t miss the best beach party in town, featuring craft cocktails, silent auction, live auction, gourmet dinner, and dancing in the “Octopus Garden.” For tickets and more info, visit cabrillomarineaquarium.org.
JUNE 2 (Sun) – HARBOR L.I.T.E.S. 10TH ANNUAL FASHION SHOW & LUNCHEON at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Pedro, Madeo Ballroom (2800 Via Cabrillo Marina), 11a – 2:30p. The women of Harbor L.I.T.E.S. invite you to experience an afternoon of food, fashions, opportunity drawings, and a silent auction. All proceeds benefit the LAPD Harbor Division and their youth programs. For tickets and more info, contact Mary Ann Sizgorich (310) 8312960, Mary Jane Napolillo (310) 5481493, or Nancy Donato (310) 833-2584. 8 (Sat) – BENEFIT ON THE BATTLESHIP at Battleship USS Iowa (250 S. Harbor Blvd.), 5 – 9p. A salute to fathers, veterans, and heroes, including dinner, dancing, entertainment, and silent auction, supporting St. Vincent Meals on Wheels and San Pedro Meals on Wheels. For tickets and more info, visit stvincentmow.org or contact Daryl at (213) 484-7775.
19 (Wed) – RAFFAELLO’S SALUTES TOBERMAN WITH AN EVENING IN TUSCANY at Michael’s Tuscany Room (470 W. 7th St.), 6 – 9p. Raffaello’s 12 (Sun) – SAN PEDRO MUSIC FESsalutes Toberman with an evening in TIVAL at the Warner Grand Theatre Tuscany, all proceeds benefit Toberman (478 W. 6th St.), 4 – 7p. Windy City Neighborhood Center and their core Entertainment presents the inaugural 19 (Sun) – THE SHAPE OF WATER programming. For more info, call (310) San Pedro Music Festival on Mother’s SCREENING at the Cabrillo Marine 832-1145 or email development@toberDay. Featuring a lineup including The Aquarium (3720 Stephen M. White Dr.), man.org. Purchase tickets at tinyurl. Azar Lawrence Experience, Nils, Windy 3:30p. Join arts scholar Gregorio Luke com/Raffaelos-Salutes-TNC. Barnes Farrell, and Jazz in Pink! Tickets as he promotes a deeper appreciation of are priced at $35, $55, $75, and $125. To the arts of Mexico and Oscar-winning 22 (Sat) – GNARLYTOWN FESTIVAL purchase tickets and for more info, visit Mexican directors, featuring 2018 Acad- at the L.A. Waterfront (Berth 46), 1 sanpedromusicfestival.com. emy Award winner for Best Picture, – 11p. This new one-of-a-kind, familyGuillermo del Toro’s The Shape of friendly event brings together thrilling, 16 (Thurs) – FOOD TASTING at Water. For tickets and more info, visit extreme action sports with motorsports Assistance League San Pedro-South sanpedrowaterfrontartsdistrict.com. champion Travis Pastrana’s Nitro Bay (1441 W. 8th St.), 11a – 2p. The Circus and pro skateboarder Chris Assistance League San Pedro-South Bay 25 (Sat) – 'WHO DUNNIT' PART II – Cole’s Rail Jam Invitational, along with Gift Shop will be hosting a free tasting, MEN OF MYSTERY at the San Pedro performances from punk bands Pennyfeaturing great dishes and recipes to get Library, Phil Scott Meeting Room (931 wise, Rancid, Action Bronson, Off! and you started for summer entertaining S. Gaffey St.), 2p. Friends of San Pedro Madball, craft beer tastings, and more. and outdoor events. For more info, call Library will present mystery/crime For tickets, visit gnarlytown.com. (310) 832-8355 ext. 221. writers Neal Griffin and Paddy Hirsh in a discussion of their novels. Retired 28 (Fri) – CARS & STRIPES FOREVER 16 (Thurs) – GETTY VILLA BUS TRIP police officer Griffin is the author of at Port of L.A. (600 N. Harbor Blvd.), leaving from Providence LCM Hospital best sellers Benefit of the Doubt, A Voice 5 – 10p. Hosted by the Port of L.A., join (1300 W. 7th St.), 11a – 6p. Join the from the Field, and By His Own Hand. this free community celebration to kick Auxiliary for a bus trip to the Getty Having worked in news for twenty off Independence Day weekend, featurVilla. Includes lunch at Alejo's Presto years before turning to fiction, Hirsch ing a classic car show, live bands, food Italian Restaurant, the afternoon at the is author of bestseller, The Devil's Half trucks, beer garden, and a fireworks Villa, bus transportation, and driver Mile. finale! Registration is now open. spt gratuity. $75. All proceeds benefit the Health Career Scholarships. For info, Want to see your event here? Email events@sanpedrotoday.com to call Vera (310) 831-6421 or the Volunplace a listing. Deadline for the June 2019 issue is Friday, May 17. teer Office (310) 241-4079. Find more events at facebook.com/sanpedrotoday.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the L.A. Harbor 1200 S. Cabrillo Ave., San Pedro Join the Boys & Girls Clubs of the L.A. Harbor for Summer Camp from June 11-Aug. 9! Our nine-week camp includes breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack, as well as comprehensive programming, healthy outdoor summertime activities, field trips, and so much more! Our morning session will be from 7:30a1p, and afternoon session from 1- 6p! Contact your local Club Site or email development@bgclaharbor.org for more info.
Roll: July 17-19 (9a-Noon, Ages 3-6, Special Price: $180); Broadway Camp: July 22-26; Superhero: Aug. 5-10. Every camp culminates with a Friday performance. Camps meet M-F, 9a-1p. Ages 5-12. Tuition: $240. Sign up for more than one camp and receive 10% off second camp at time of purchase. All cancellations have a $25 non-refundable fee/non-credit fee. For more info, visit FSGsanpedro.com, call (310) 971-4463, or email FSGsanpedro@gmail.com.
Christ Lutheran Summer Camp 28850 S. Western Ave., San Pedro Keep your kiddos busy this summer at Christ Lutheran Summer Camp, June 17-Aug. 16! Make new friends, explore new things, and master new skills. We have weekly themes, field trips, and visits to the pool. Welcoming ages 5-13. Sibling discounts offered. For more details, visit christrpv. com or call at (310) 831-0848.
iDTech Camps Multiple locations Learn AI. Build a laptop. Code video games. At iD Tech Camp, we teach the in-demand skills you just can’t get in school. Held at over 150 campuses, including Marymount California University, UCLA, Stanford, and Long Beach State. Weeklong courses for ages 7-17. Day and overnight options available. Learn more at iDTech.com.
Flipside Gymnastics, Music, and Dance Summer Camps 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro Join Flipside for gymnastics, dance, and art summer camps! Camps include: Aloha: June 10-14; Movin’ & Groovin’ Gym and Dance: July 8-12; Hop &
San Pedro Fight Club 600 S. Pacific Ave., Ste. 101, San Pedro Join San Pedro Fight Club this summer (June 1-Sept. 1)! Includes two months plus free uniform. Kids Programs: Kinder Jitsu (ages 3-5); Little Samurai: (ages 6-10); Young Samurai: (ages 11 and up). Adults classes also available. IBJJF and JJGF Certified School. Open
Celebrating 25 Years
ENROLLING NOW! - Ages 3-5 - Development of the whole child in a Christ-centered environment
Schedule your tour today! CONTACT INFO:
2222 Palos Verdes Drive North Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 preschool@rhcc.net • (310) 521-2596 License #191609328
10 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
daily. Jiu-Jitsu Summer Special $200. No contracts. SPFC offers private and semi-private classes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Combatives (weapons defense), Bully Prevention, Women’s Self-Defense, and Competition Training. Taught by a world champion instructor and marine veteran. For more info, call (424) 215-6304.
Urban Youth Park 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., #206, Redondo Beach 550 Deep Valley Dr., Suite 341, Palos Verdes Experience next level play in our brand new Parkour and Ninja Warrior training facility! We have awesome and experienced coaches ready to make your summer amazing as you – learn new skills and level up old ones! Check out the Urban Jump Building, Super Trampoline, Ninja Warrior Zone, Resi Pit, 9ft. and 14ft. warped walls, climbing ropes, and more! Parkour, ninja warrior, tumbling, martial arts tricking, videography, and free-running skills taught. Beginner through Advanced levels. Camps: 9a-3p. Classes: 3:307:30p. Special opening prices happening now! Call (323) 431-3533 or visit urbanyouthpark.com to register.
Vault PK Summer Camps 1275 Sartori Ave., Torrance Parkour! Ninja Warrior! Free-running! Do something different with your summer and check out Vault PK camps, where athletes will learn how to run up walls, vault over obstacles, swing through the bars, and flip over friends. Daily activities to include a mix of parkour, trampoline skills, and Ninja warrior inspired obstacles including warped walls, rope climb, tumbling skills, and games. Camp dates: July 8-12, July 29-Aug. 2, and Aug. 5-9. Call (310) 977-4478 vaultpk.com to register. YMCA Summer Day Camp YMCA Summer Day Camp provides weekly activities that foster learning, exploration, and most of all, fun! We nurture the potential of children by creating opportunities to try something new, build self-esteem, and form lasting friendships. Our weekly field trips and activities cater to a specific weekly theme, and our activities allow campers to have the best time with activities in enrichment, sports, STEM, arts, and creative play. To register, visit ymcala.org/metro/classes/day-camp and click ‘San Pedro & Peninsula YMCA! spt
S.P. HONORARY MAYOR EVENT May 18, 5 to 8pm Angels Gate Cultural Center Farm to Table Meets Artisan Chorizo Fundraising Dinner with Honorary Mayor Candidate Humberto “The Chori-Man” Raygoza & Chef Mike Caccavalla To Support Green Girl Farms & San Pedro Meals on Wheels Farm to Table Dinner, featuring fresh produce from Green Girl Farms Silent Auction - Win a Private Dinner prepared by The Chori-Man! Purchase tickets: thechoriman.com/honorary-mayor
OPEN: WEd & Thurs 8a-2P aNd Fri, saT, suN 8a-7P 2309 S. Alma Street, San Pedro (424) 287-2414
MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 11
Amara Defilippo, a Torrance native, performs as an Amazon on the uneven bars in Amaluna.
(photo: John Mattera Photography)
UNDER THE BIG TOP
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S AMALUNA ARRIVES ON THE L.A. WATERFRONT by Caitlyn Piercy
THANK YOU, SAN PEDRO! AFTER 31 YEARS, OUR OFFICE IS CLOSING IN MAY! “Thank you San Pedro, for allowing me to work with you on your health for the past 31 years. I opened my doors on May 2, 1988, and will be closing my doors on May 22, 2019.” - Kim Kromas, DC, PhD
Kim Kromas, DC, PhD
CHIROPRACTIC
* All equipment & furnishings will be sold starting May 23. * Direct referrals available upon request. * Business will run as usual until closing.
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
ACUPUNCTURE • Relieves Pain • Relieves Inflamation • Removes Stagnation • Hormone Imbalance
SAN PEDRO HEALTH 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
12 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
The big top returns to San Pedro! Equal parts fantasy and spectacle, Cirque du Soleil’s Amaluna will be entertaining audiences of all ages April 25 through May 26 on the L.A. Waterfront. Centering around the mysterious fictional island of Amaluna, the performance tells the tale of queen Prospera and her daughter, Miranda. As Miranda grows up, she longs to find love. With a little help from her mother, in walks Romeo. But will there love withstand all odds, including a mischievous halflizard named Cali? With acts such as uneven bars, aerial straps, teeterboard, juggling, Chinese pole, banquine and more, Amaluna depicts an immersive journey through thrilling entertainment. Signature to Cirque du Soleil’s shows are visually and creatively impressive set design. Under the big top, Amaluna promises to deliver on those stylistic elements, featuring a 5,500 pound water bowl, and a massive peacockthemed canopy using more than a mile of branches. “Once you walk into the big top, you feel Amaluna island,” says Mami Ohki, show publicist. “We create an atmosphere.” Amaluna also notably features a majority cast of females, including an all-female band – a first for Cirque du Soleil – that will be at times sharing the stage with the cast and accompanying the various performances. “We wanted to unleash the power in the raw state that artists and musicians bring to the stage,” explain Amaluna composers, Bob & Bill. Amongst the female-led cast is Torrance native, Amara Defilippo, who will perform as an Amazon on the uneven bars. Defilippo began performing in gymnastics when she was ten years old. After seeing Cirque du Soleil’s Varekai when she was 13, she knew she wanted to be a part of the Cirque magic and take her talents to the stage. After receiving a full scholarship to the Uni-
versity of Arkansas, Defilippo trained hard and eventually sent in a demo tape to Cirque du Soleil. Shortly after graduating, Defilippo was invited to join the cast of Amaluna, and has been with the show since its creation in 2011. “This is my dream job,” Defilippo says proudly. “I’m living my dream right now.” After visiting 19 countries, Los Angeles will be Amaluna’s forty-third city, and for Defilippo, this tour stop is extra special. When asked about performing close to home, she says, “It means the world to me. All my friends and family are going to be [at the performances], and I can’t explain how excited I am, and excited to be home. I’m already getting butterflies thinking about it.” Her role within the girl power-fueled show is also meaningful as well, “It’s amazing to be a part of,” Defilippo says. “Our cast is about 70 percent women. It’s a huge honor to be a part of that and represent women from all over the world.” Connecting with the audience is also integral to any Cirque du Soleil show. “The message in the end with be different for each audience,” says Ohki. “Amaluna’s story starts with Miranda’s coming of age on the female island, all the challenges throughout her journey, and eventually finding out what is love.” These themes are all intended to translate to a diverse audience. Ohki adds, “Trust, strength, and love are all key elements that are emotionally really easy to attach to.” Although the performance is on a massive scale, Cirque du Soleil entertains with soul and with purpose, making each viewer feel immersed in the unique and vibrant storytelling. “I remember walking into the big top for the first time,” says Defilippo, “I saw it and said, ‘I’m gonna perform in that?’ It looked so big. But when you walk in, it’s so intimate.” spt For tickets and info, visit cirquedusoleil.com/amaluna. (See ad pg. 13.)
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MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 13
GET YOUR STEPS IN!
MAY IS FULL OF CHARITABLE RUN/ WALKS SUPPORTING GOOD CAUSES by Caitlyn Piercy Get your steps in and help a great cause move forward. This month, San Pedro will host several community events that inspire hope and camaraderie, while also fundraising for charitable causes.
San Pedro Relay for Life
To register, donate, and for more information, visit runsignup.com/ Race/CA/HarborCity/RadRun5k. 3rd ANNUAL GONE TOO SOON 5K Sat., May 11 – Bloch Field (1500 S. Harbor Blvd.), 8a.
19th ANNUAL SAN PEDRO RELAY FOR LIFE Sat., May 18 – San Pedro Athletic Complex (3181 N. Gaffey St.), 10a.
Chances are, if you’re reading this, you or someone you know has been 5th ANNUAL RAD RUN Sat., May affected by cancer. The fight against 4 – Narbonne High School (24300 S. this terrible disease continues on with Remembering loved ones that Western Ave.), 8a. the help of Relay for Life. This month, have passed can often feel isolating. San Pedro will organize their nineThe Gone Too Soon 5k seeks to teenth Relay for Life, which will be Dr. Amy Radovcic’s impact on bond together members of the local held at the San Pedro Athletic Comstudents still lives on. Now in its fifth community in celebrating the legacy plex. “San Pedro’s Relay is more of a year, the annual 5k run/walk promises of lives that are no longer with us, grass roots-type of event,” says online a day of celebration in honor of the while also raising funds for deserving chair, Mary McLachlan. “The San Pedro beloved Narbonne High School career young students. Inspired by the loss community raises funds among family counselor, who passed away in 2014. of his brother Ernie, who passed away and friends through smaller fundraisers “Dr. Rad was passionate in her work in 2016, Steve Carrillo created this like afternoon teas, restaurant dinners, with students, and completely devoted annual event that creates a unique homemade jewelry sales, and other fun to them,” says mother and Rad Run space for all to participate. “Our main events.” This year’s Relay begins with Director, Antonette Radovcic. “We, her goal is to unite our community and a survivors breakfast at 9a, followed by family and friends, strive to equal that give them a platform to remember and an opening ceremony and survivor vicpassion and carry on where she left off.” do something for their loved ones that tory lap. Food, live music, raffles, and Proceeds will help support the Dr. Amy have gone too soon,” says Carrillo. games will take place throughout the Radovcic Equality and Social Justice Now in its third year, proceeds from day, and the event will conclude with a Scholarship Fund, which has previously this run/walk event will benefit the touching luminaria ceremony at 9p. All awarded a total of $16,000 in college Ernie Carrillo Scholarship Fund, proceeds benefit the American Cancer scholarships, with a fundraising goal bestowed to one local high school Society, which in addition to researchof $6,000 for this year’s event. Eligible student each year, with the past two ing for a cure, provides necessary supNHS senior students are required events cumulatively given $15,000 port programs, vital information, and to maintain good grades, perform a in scholarship funds. The event also even free rides to treatment appointminimum of 40 hours of community will include family-fun with food, ments. A dedicated volunteer for over service, as well as submit an essay music, and games. Carrillo expresses ten years, McLachlan became diagnosed about their career goals. In the future, how much the event means to him with cancer in 2017, and her passion for in addition to financially assisting personally, saying, “This 5k has given the Relay continues. “I participate in students in their endeavors, the Rad my family so much happiness to know Relay for Life so that no one has to go Run team hopes to officially become a that Ernest’s name lives on, and that we through what I went through, and what foundation, contribute to brain cancer are also helping young students in so many other people are still going research, and grow in scale. “The love a positive way.” through,” she explains. and support poured out continues to encourage us, and strengthens us each To register, donate, and for more To register, donate, and for more year to work harder and raise more information, visit relayforlife.org/ information, visit runsignup.com money for scholarships,” says Radovcic. and search “Gone Too Soon 5k.” sanpedroca.
38th ANNUAL FERMIN LASUEN REUNION RUN/WALK & PICNIC Sat., May 18 – Point Fermin Park (807 W. Paseo Del Mar), 8:30a. Once a Padre, always a Padre! Even after the former high school’s closing in 1971, Fermin Lasuen alumni and friends continue to remain connected. The public is welcome to join them in their yearly reunion, run/walk, and picnic. Now in its 38th year, this anticipated event was initially created with the help of Father Patrick T. Thomspon, who was assigned to Mexicali, Mexico, shortly after the school’s closing. He then reached out to his former students for assistance in supporting the impoverished community, and the idea of the reunion run/walk was born. “The event has grown due to more people learning of its goals, which is still to help the community in Mexicali, but also here in the Harbor Area,” says Jerryne Soto, publicity chair of the event. “Now at the reunion, there are former students, wives, children, and even grandchildren.” Proceeds for the event will support Father Thompson’s non-profit EDUSEC, which helps provide youth education and programs for Mexicali communities, the Robert Kelly Scholarship for San Pedro students, as well as other charitable projects. “We hope to keep this event running every year and [the public] brings more friends and family,” says Soto. “It’s always nice to see new faces.” To register, donate, and for more information, contact Chuy Ibarra (310) 347-7508, Dickie Soto (310) 547-4509, and Joe Bird (310) 8312593. spt
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SP FAMILIES PUT FACES ON MEMORIAL DAY by Steve Marconi In writing about San Pedro’s Korean War deceased last year, I mentioned Pivo Fallorina, who remains MIA after 68 years, and Edmond “Micky” McDowell, whose background was unknown to me at the time. It turns out there is much more to their story, and it involves a third San Pedran, with their lives intertwined by friendship, fate, and tragedy. Fallorina and McDowell were childhood friends. They attended Barton Hill Elementary, Dana Junior High School, and San Pedro High School together. They are there in the 1950 Black and Gold yearbook in the 10th grade, and within days of school ending, the Korean War broke out.
Neither returned for their sophomore year – they joined the Army. Fallorina, one of eight children, was already 19, but McDowell, two years younger, needed his mother’s signature, which must have been hard for her; McDowell’s father was killed in WWII when his troopship was bombed and sank in 1943. On February 13, 1951, Fallorina was a corporal with Battery A (105mm howitzers) of the 15th Field Artillery Battalion. They were in a valley north of Hoengsong in today’s North Korea, supporting Republic of Korea forces, when a massive Communist Chinese counteroffensive overran their positions. In what some call “The Hoengsong Massacre,” the 15th suffered 208 deaths; 106 were killed in action and another 102 who were taken prisoner, died in captivity. Fallorina
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died on July 31, 1951, in a prisoner of war camp, and his remains were never recovered. He was 20. There is no way of knowing if McDowell ever learned of the fate of his childhood friend. McDowell was a corporal with the 8th Cavalry Regiment of the 1st Cavalry when he was killed in action in North Korea on November 8, 1951, eight years to the day his father died. McDowell’s niece, Julie Witthuhn, emailed me after seeing the earlier column, saying: “I never had the honor to meet either my grandfather or uncle, as I was born in 1956 to Rita McDowell Bojorquez, his sister. My grandmother spoke frequently about both my grandpa and Micky. She never fully recovered from her grief, even up until her passing in 1994. I heard Micky ‘begged’ my grandma to let him join the Army. She had to sign papers as he was only 17 when he joined. He was due to come home when he was killed. I have every letter he wrote from Korea, and the one from the government that came on Thanksgiving telling her [that] her son had died. The letter stated, ‘saving his comrades as he went back to get more needed ammunition.’ He was only 18 when he lost his life. Growing up, I felt like I knew my uncle as my grandma kept him alive with her memories, but I never understood until I became a mom why she still cried every time she spoke of him. I keep him alive for her by keeping his uniform dress jacket with his toothbrush and wallet in the pocket hanging in my closet to this day, as she kept it in hers. My grandma died the day after my daughter was born…[she] was a great lady, and gave two people she loved dearly for this country.” McDowell’s body was recovered, and he is buried in Calvary Cemetery in Los Angeles. The story doesn’t end there. Also captured on February 13, 1951, at Hoengsong, along with Fallorina, was 1st Lt. Bert W. Justus Jr., a WWII veteran who was acting as forward observer for Battery B of the 15th artillery. He died as a POW on May 31, 1951, age 31, leaving behind a wife and three small children. Like Fallorina, his remains were never recovered.
Justus’ widow ended up in San Pedro, where she was part owner of Cook’s Kitchen Center. Her daughter Mary, now Mary Castaldi, graduated from Mary Star of the Sea High School in 1962. Haunted by her father’s death, she wrote a poem, titled “The Last Resort,” and posted it on the Korean War Project website (koreanwar.org/html/ Korean_war_databases.html) in 2004. Here’s how it ends: ‘Twas Christmas Day, and he was gone. Korea was the name. Two months later MIA. No words can share the pain. Fifty years have come and gone since we received the letter. He never came back home to us, it never does get better. I need to tell the story because old men forget. It’s not just soldiers that we lose, their families are bereft. They hold a family update to pacify our hurt, And then they send more babies out to die on foreign dirt. It’s not that I’m a pacifist; I’m not against all war, But I’m for talk and talk and talk, and then you talk some more. The wars may be inevitable, and we will be prepared, But war should be the last resort so little girls are spared. Reading that, I not only thought of the Fallorina, McDowell, and Justus families, but of Linda Zazueta, Linda (Barnes) Krammes, Rachel Kahn, Colleen Bauer, and Dick Molpus – five San Pedrans who lost their fathers in WWII. (Zazueta and Barnes were friends in elementary school, and Zazueta went to Mary Star with Mary Justus.) Memorial Day should be meaningful to all Americans, but let’s never forget that for many, it’s personal. spt Steve Marconi can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.
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THE CASE AGAINST AUTOMATION by Gary Herrera Vice President, ILWU Local 13, special to San Pedro Today I write this column as the vice president of the ILWU Local 13, but more importantly, as a 46-year resident of San Pedro (born and raised). My story is not unique, which is why I am writing on behalf of myself and community. I wanted to inform you on what is happening in the longshore industry and the effects it will have on our community. APM Terminal, a subsidiary of Maersk, the world’s largest container shipping company that operates in 130 countries with core profits estimated last year to be between $3.6 to $4 billion, is looking to fully automate its terminal and eliminate thousands of jobs. The only reason why they want to automate is to get rid of labor, not to be in compliance with the Clean Air Act, because we can achieve those same goals with human-operated machines. Unlimited automation at the port will eventually destroy thousands of good jobs and that will cause real harm to the greater community and region surrounding the port. Transitioning the largest terminal on the country’s largest port to full automation will have major and significant impacts on the port and surrounding environment. Concerned business owners, service providers, and nonprofit agencies all depend on good jobs at the port.
When machines replace human workers, it inflicts great damage on the community and weakens the country. Robots do not shop in the community. Robots do not pay rent, buy homes, or deposit money in banks. Robots do not pay taxes. And robots do not vote! People do! Facilities such as the port are public resources that must be held in trust for the public good. The residents of the port cities and the citizens of countries that traffic international trade should derive some benefit from their public infrastructure. The residents must ensure the conservators of these assets allocate a portion of the prosperity generated at the port for the people of the community and state. Behind the thousands of jobs per day that will be eliminated by this human-less automated equipment, are thousands of workers that contribute to our local and state economy. If we don’t take a stand against automation that eliminates jobs, then essentially, we will be eliminating the human race. Technology is supposed to enhance our lives, not eliminate jobs that make our lives better. APM can do well by the community and the environment without getting rid of labor. The Union supports clean air for our port and home environment while maintaining a strong workforce with the same clean air equipped machines, with us operating them. This is a direct attack on the middle
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class and surrounding communities. The machine that is replacing the workforce has to run off the highly debated 5G network. There are numerous concerns about 5G and the effects it has on humans and wildlife. APM will not have to do any Environmental Impact Report (EIR), which is troublesome because the 5G network is known to cause cancer and many other health-related issues to humans and wildlife. The 5G network is also in debate as there have been concerns about the vulnerability it puts on the ports. Not knowing who is directly in charge opens our ports to security breaches and possible terrorist threats. The corporations that are pushing for human-less automation are all foreign-owned and don’t have a stake in our community. They are displacing American jobs while their country and corporations benefit at our expense. The community rallied together on March 21 and showed that we are not going to let Big Business destroy our communities. There were signed petitions and letters of support to do an Environmental and Economic Impact Report to protect our community. Here are some of the numbers: a.) More than 11,000 signatures were signed; b.) More than 200 local businesses signed letters in support; c.) More than 50 legislators have written letters in support; d.) Neighborhood councils from the surrounding communities
have written resolutions in support; e.) Local and county democrat parties have written resolutions in support; f.) About 2,500 community members showed their support on March 21. On April 16, the community rallied again to appeal and reject the permit that would allow for automation. L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti asked that there be a 30-day pause to keep the dialogue open between the Union and Maersk. The community has spoken. This fight is bigger than the ILWU. I will continue to keep the community engaged and informed as we strive to protect our communities and future. There are facts that prove that humans have produced record-breaking years in the longshore industry, which creates a healthy and prosperous community because workers are giving back and patronizing local businesses. People are buying homes, paying rent and paying for little leagues, softball leagues, dance classes, drama classes, and art classes, because they have good jobs. Human-less automation will have a domino effect on the workforce, the community, the country, and the future of our children. We must take the time to evaluate the effects of human-less automation and protect the human race now and for the future. Our communities deserve a fighting chance. spt Gary Herrera is the Vice President of ILWU Local 13 and is a lifelong resident of San Pedro.
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At a time when so many important issues such as immigration, race, trade, corruption, taxes, etc. are at the forefront of our conversations and local/national news, I share this excerpt from a speech given by a past inhabitant of the White House in the hope we all will consider his words as we try to find common ground and the common good. “I’ve spoken of the Shining City all of my political life, but I don’t know if I ever quite communicated what I saw and when I said it.” Our nation is currently at odds and too often fueled by our politics. Mostly through words, however too often through acts of aggression over what and who should participate in the Shining City. We shut down the government over trivial matters, compared to what is important and needs to be improved in our neighborhoods and country. The Shining City is a much-needed aspiration, but we have a long way to go. “But in my mind, it was a tall, proud city built on rocks stronger than oceans, windswept, God-blessed, and teeming with people of all kinds living in harmony and peace. A city with free ports that hummed with commerce and creativity.” We truly have “people of all kinds” living in this country, which is as it should be given how it was designed and promoted. But the “living in harmony and peace” part is another matter. The hate we give and the hate we teach our children over race, religion, differences of opinion, and
putting “getting mine” far ahead of promoting the collective good – these are all current factors competing against said harmony and peace. “And if there had to be city walls, the walls had doors and the doors were open to anyone with the will and the heart to get here.” We must have a functional immigration system that can meet the challenges we face today, but this will require more than a wall. We need a functional and empathetic system, plan, and deployment that does not change due to which political party is currently in power. Practically all of our predecessors were immigrants looking for this Shining City to provide them and their families with a better life. Sadly today, to be an immigrant is often a punching bag for too many of those who already got theirs. “That’s how I saw it and still see it…and she’s still a beacon, still a magnet for all who must have freedom, for all the pilgrims from all the lost places who are hurtling through the darkness towards home.” So who is this past inhabitant of the White House who dreamed of the Shining City as a beacon for those “who must have freedom"? The author of these words and aspirations was none other than President Ronald Reagan, who initiated an amnesty program for those undocumented souls during his presidency, and even raised taxes to better balance the budget. Here’s to hoping for pragmatic leadership once again. spt Mike Lansing is the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.
MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 21
Bender photographed in front of the 25th Street Mosaic Mural.
Pieces of
Us
JULIE BENDER'S 25TH STREET MOSAIC MURAL, WHICH ILLUSTRATES THE STORIES OF SAN PEDRO, IS READY FOR ITS CLOSE-UP by Joshua Stecker photos by John Mattera Photography 22 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
Julie Bender is exhausted. The former firefighter turned mosaic artist is entering the final stretch towards completion of the 25th Street Mosaic Mural, a dream in the making for Bender going back more than a decade. The mural, one of the largest community art projects ever produced in San Pedro, now sits on a 2,000-square foot retaining wall spanning three homes on the north side of 25th Street. If you’ve driven on that stretch of road any time in the past year, you’ve certainly noticed it. Standing next to the mural on a brisk March morning, I ask Bender what it feels like to finally be standing in front of something that was only an idea just 15 months ago. “I’m relieved that it’s coming to an end and people are so pleased with it,” she says. The final step involves grouting the entire wall, making sure each individual tile that’s been placed by either Bender or one of the more than 600 community volunteers is visible, because, in Bender’s eyes, “each tile is important.” It’s a grueling and tedious process that, while necessary, she’s not looking
Bender announced her plan for the mosaic mural in our January 2018 issue.
forward to. “Putting up the tiles was fun and exciting for me. Grouting is the last part, it’s necessary and it does make a drastic change [to the appearance], so theoretically I should be excited,” she says laughing. She has a right to feel exhausted. It was a long road to get here. DREAM INTO ACTION “This mosaic is going to be a true mosaic in every sense of the word,” Bender told San Pedro Today back in January 2018 when she announced her plans to the public for the mosaic mural. “It has ideas from all over; it will be put
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On Closer Inspection: (top, l to r) The 25th Street Mosaic Mural's intricate detail features tiles celebrating San Pedro's rich history, including residential homes and businesses, both past and present; (bottom, l to r): Thousands of small tiles in various shapes and colors are used to create the larger pieces, like the brown pelicans and mermaid.
together by people with skill levels from all over.” She was right. Bender began the project in early 2017, proposing the idea and navigating the treacherous territory of city permits, ordinances, and getting permission from the three homeowners who shared the retaining wall. She went public with her plans in these pages in January 2018 and was immediately surprised by the community’s reaction. “I was amazed at how many people believed in me,” she says. Plans went into full swing in early 2018, as Bender hosted open studio days in the former Sirens Java & Tea location on 7th Street where she had her studio in the back, inviting the community to create the various mosaic tiles that would end up on the wall. Fundraiser nights were set up on First Thursdays so anyone who wanted to make a special tile (usually a home, business or a boat) for the mural could donate money. According to Bender, the mural cost nearly $10,000. “[We raised all the funds] from donations and volunteers,” says Bender. “We had three major fundraising events. The rest of the money was made from 24 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
selling custom-made [tiles featuring] houses and boats and selling t-shirts. The San Pedro Waterfront Arts District was our bank and a wonderful supporter.” Bender soon discovered there was a real passion in the community to help. “We were inspired by the people and the colors and everything that was coming to us,” she says. “I was underestimating everything. First, I thought we needed 750 houses, but that didn’t make a dent. So, I went to Mary Star High School’s art class and they had 250 kids do 2,000 more. And we needed even more after that.” She even recruited the Mary Star swim team to break tiles into smaller pieces for the project. It took six months in her studio to create the tiles. Once most of the them were completed, Bender mapped the design out on the retaining wall and soon hundreds of volunteers would assist her in mounting them. When all is said and done, Bender estimates it’ll have taken more than 600 volunteers and nearly 25,000 work hours to turn her vision into reality. “I can't tell you how many tiles we used, though," she adds laughing.
ART FOR THE AGES At first glance, it’s massive. Measuring nearly 200-feet long and covering approximately 2,000-square feet, the mural tells the history of San Pedro through mosaic art, featuring various people, places, things, and events that helped shape the port town. Each piece painstakingly put on by hand by Bender or one of the hundreds of community volunteers. “This is going to last 500 years, at least,” says Bender. And she’s serious. The mosaic involves multiple levels of interpretation. From a distance, you can see the main design, which was developed after seeking community input, featuring two large whales (a blue and grey) in the middle, flanked by an angel symbolizing the City of Los Angeles on the right, and a mermaid surrounded by fish representing San Pedro on the left. In the middle is a sign welcoming people to both San Pedro and Los Angeles. “I wanted to make a welcome sign for people coming from Palos Verdes,” says Bender. Multiple brown pelicans, native to our coast, are featured in the process of flight on both sides of the whales.
Below them, spanning nearly the entire length of the wall is a long cliff serving as the focal point for the town, and below that are characters depicting various trades, symbolizing San Pedro’s “working community.” The mural’s eastern end features the Port of Los Angeles filled with various seafaring vessels, the Vincent Thomas Bridge, and Angels Gate Lighthouse (with a working green light). But viewing the mural up-close is when it really comes to life. Tiles representing hundreds of small businesses, both past and present, are grouped in areas representing corresponding neighborhoods. Among the thousands of nondescript houses made by Mary Star art students are hundreds of personalized ones, made by people during the fundraising nights, featuring family surnames with artistic depictions of actual homes. Obvious inclusions like the Point Fermin Lighthouse (also with a working light) and the Korean Bell, are mixed with more obscure ones like tiles depicting The Sepulveda Home or a section showing the Paseo Del Mar landslide (with the lone palm tree). There are also a number of hidden “Easter eggs” along
MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 25
Thank you San Pedro for over 30 Years of Support!
er Ord with ine onl at24 E
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! Bender (left) and her friend, Megan McElroy, work on the final phase: grouting the entire 2,000 square-foot mosaic wall.
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the mural, like a geocaching box, an unmarked piece of the Berlin Wall, and a few lockets that open and close where visitors can hide messages or treasure. “I was thinking about the cliffs, about how I was going to make them interesting, and this lady walked into the studio one day and started saying how mosaics remind her of the human body, because so many tiny pieces are put together to make this one machine,” recalls Bender. “So, I put a box outside my studio door and invited people to bring in little things that wouldn’t corrode. The cliffs are made out of random things brought in by people in the community. I discovered that the people that brought in items ended up having a more personal interest in the project.” MORE PUBLIC ART Every tile on the mural tells a story, and Bender is hoping these stories turn into lessons for students studying local history. “I want teachers to bring kids on field trips here so they can learn about our community,” she says. The mural is not only a history lesson, though. Its very existence is a testament to the power of public art, something San Pedro has been investing in heavily in recent years (murals on utility boxes, the Warner Grand Theatre, and San Pedro City Ballet are just a few examples of recent public art installations). “Julie Bender’s mural not only adds another beautiful example of public art for San Pedro, it is the culmina-
tion of thousands of hours of community organizing,” says Linda Grimes, managing director of the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District. “The art will live on, thanks to Julie’s tireless efforts to engage volunteers to make, glaze, and install all of the elements of this amazing mural. This successful public art project brings a sense of expanded community and neighborhood pride of place, along with adding a compelling visitor destination.” Councilman Joe Buscaino shares a similar sentiment, saying, “Julie's mural is magnificent, and her use of materials creates a whimsical ambiance that is appreciated and approachable to all. Julie's collective and collaborative model for art endeavors is one that I hope to see replicated across San Pedro and Council District 15. This approach to place-making cements a sense of ownership and pride within the community in both the physical artwork and its place in the larger neighborhood narrative." For Bender, her journey with this project not only proved to be fulfilling, but also therapeutic. “It was all very miraculous,” says Bender. “There were all these special little things that happened. I really feel that God was giving me the right people at the right time.” spt The final community grouting day for the 25th Street Mosaic Mural is scheduled for May 25. For more info and to participate, visit juliebendermosaics.com and join her mailing list.
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MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 27
COVER STORY
Stories from the Mosaic EVERY TILE TELLS A TALE, THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF THOSE STORIES by Jennifer Marquez
Spring is in the air. The mosaic mural on 25th Street displays a history of our port town. Under the guidance of artist Julie Bender, connecting the landmarks and historical moments were the hands of the community that helped to create the mural. Pieces of lives, like china from a grandmother, and family homes are grouted together to tell the story of our town by the sea.
MY GRANDPA’S FISHING BOAT
(photo: John Mattera Photography)
28 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
Caitlyn Piercy, associate editor of San Pedro Today, was very close to her grandfather, Joe Lauro, known to many as “Joe Brown.” When she was a little girl growing up in San Pedro, her doting grandfather picked her up from school every day, from preschool up until her sophomore year in high school, when he passed away in 2003. Lauro, a retired commercial fisherman, made dinner for her family almost every night. He was a great cook and would deliver the food in his beloved pots and pans regularly to their house. The next day, they would return the pots and pans, and he would do it all over again. He always wanted all his family and friends to be well fed, as his motto was, “You gotta eat!” Another tradition for the grandpa and granddaughter was visiting Ports O’ Call on walks, where they would often make stops at the fish market, sometimes throwing an occasional mackerel to the sea lions swimming along the docks. They'd also walk over to the nearby fishing boats and say hello, where everybody knew Joe and liked talking with him about their vessels or their catch. The waterfront and fish market felt like home to Joe, so much, in fact, that he even weighed a baby Caitlyn on the fish scale (he cleaned it first, of course). When Joe passed away, the motorcade from his funeral detoured to the waterfront, where it passed fishing boats that had their flags at half-mast in his honor. One of Joe’s fishing boats was called the Sea Master. Caitlyn and her mother Rosemarie “Bitsy” Lauro, were interested in having a tile included on the mural in honor of Joe’s memory, so Caitlyn submitted a photo of the boat, with a faint view of Joe on the deck, to Julie Bender. When Caitlyn first saw the Sea Master’s tile on the wall, she immediately burst into tears, as she knew this is where he belonged. Joe began working on boats when he was around 11-years-old, and dedicated his life, career, and many days away from his family so he could help provide for them. Thanks to Julie Bender and her vision, his hard work is celebrated and his memory lives on in this new, special place. One small tile has made such a huge difference to her family, as being part of the mural is a way to share their family history with the community. The story of a loving San Pedro fisherman who, in his spare time, liked to drop off buckets of squid to his friends and family as a gesture of kindness, is now part of a collection of art and stories to forever be honored within the mosaic mural.
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SAIL ON, MATTY BOY Matty Matich was born and raised in San Pedro. To some, that qualifies him as a “real” San Pedran. His grandparents on both sides were from San Pedro too, making him the third generation of San Pedrans in his family. Last summer, the son of Mike and Shirley Matich, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 16. Matty was the happiest when he was sailing in the local harbor, leaning back and catching the wind in his sail. He spent six years racing Opti sailboats with Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club. Regattas and boat races took him all over the country, including a lake in Wisconsin. His dad gave him a small motorboat, and he would venture around the harbor with a sense of freedom. Matty is forever immortalized in the mural doing what he loved the most, sailing the ocean in Opti 17096. He is from a family of fishermen, as his uncle’s bait company is near him on the mural. Another uncle has a tile with birds right above his sailboat. Matty Matich is surrounded by family on the wall and forever connected to San Pedro. His heart will always belong to the sea. Sail on, Matty boy.
DRAGON BOAT CLUB LIKE A ‘BIG FAMILY’
(photo: John Mattera Photography)
Bernice Baird-Browning has been part of L.A. Harbor Dragon Boat Club for over four years. Four boats are at Cabrillo Youth Waterfront Sports Center in San Pedro, the official home of the club. Each boat holds 18 people who paddle with a steersman, and a drummer who keeps the beat and pace. It is part of the community, but not well known. Hence, the reason the team made sure a tile was included in the mural. Dragon Boats are best in calm waters with no swells. The club competes in races at various locations. There are adult and youth teams (ages 8 and up), including students who row for high schools and colleges, with the youth team currently looking for new members. BairdBrowning encourages anybody interested (including adults) to try it for free. Baird-Browning enjoys being on the team and spending time with the group off the water as well. Coaches give pointers on strokes, as the team practices in the harbor for their next race. It is a total-body work out and a good way to improve cardio and arm strength. The Dragon Boat team, according to Baird-Browning, is like a big family, and they are happy to have anybody try it out. Families are welcome, too. For more information, visit laharbordragonboat.com. spt (photo: Jennifer Marquez)
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THE HEART OF ART
ART TO GROW ON CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF CREATIVE EXPRESSION IN SCHOOLS by Caitlyn Piercy “The arts contribute to so many areas of a students education,” says Stephanie V., Art to Grow On parent, board member, and school representative. “Art builds towards the whole person, not just reading, writing, math and testing.” For thirty years, Art to Grow On (ATGO) has encouraged young minds to think outside the box and let their creativity shine. Organized by more than 150 parents and community volunteer docents, this local nonprofit brings artistic experiences to more than 8,000 school children, kindergarten through eighth grade, in 17 public and private schools in San Pedro, Lomita, and Rancho Palos Verdes. The ATGO program consists of five different projects yearly, using a variety of materials, techniques, and subject matters. From watercolor realism to abstract sculpture, students are taught in a judgment-free and grade-free space. “The students are free to create, there is no right or wrong, no grade,” says Cindy Donnelly, ATGO docent at Mary Star of the Sea Elementary School. “It is always interesting to see that for some students, this is a time
Art to Grow On
for them to shine, and for others, it is quite difficult to get over the fear of not ‘doing it right.’ Without this program, some students might never have an opportunity for this type of creative expression.” Although arts education is known to be an integral part of a young student’s learning evolution and provides a multitude of benefits, it also unfortunately often falls victim to budget cuts. “The arts are usually the first area to leave the classroom, yet the arts are vital to molding the complete person,” says Stephanie. In hopes to continue involvement within schools, Art to Grow On keeps the costs of projects to just only
under $1.50 per student. “Despite deep cuts to schools, increasing restrictions on fundraising by the district, and the generational changes in views on volunteering, ATGO persists as a beloved program in the community,” says Laura Helm, executive chair. In addition to adapting to evolving school budgets, Art to Grow On has continued to thrive because of the generous time and support of its volunteers and docents. The lifeline of the program, volunteers are not required to be professional artists, however passion for the arts is obviously a plus. Docents meet at the United Methodist Church in San Pedro five times a year
for special training sessions to become familiar and hands-on with the upcoming planned art project. It’s clear that students are not the only ones who benefit from this program, but also the docents themselves. In an example of how ATGO is mutually rewarding, Helm recalls a touching and memorable moment, saying, “While taking care of some business in the office at Park Western Elementary, a young boy, known for being very active and somewhat distracted, ran up to me and declared loudly, ‘You're the art lady!’ He threw his arms around my legs and hugged me hard. I knew that child would face challenges in his life and I like to think I gave him some small tools to face them.” Volunteers of ATGO see firsthand the difference they’re making in the lives on students, and the pride they feel in creating something all their own. “Recently, we did a project based on the work of Jackson Pollock, which is pretty abstract and modern,” says Donnelly. “One first grader was working hard, splattering different colored paint on his paper and he announced to me and the class that this was ‘real art,’ which made me smile.” The next thirty years and beyond are a blank canvas and ATGO hopes to continue its mission, as well as welcome new faces to their team. “Our hopes are that the students who enjoy and benefit from ATGO will in turn, volunteer to teach art to their children in the future,” says Stephanie. “San Pedro is a town full of the richness of local artists and creative thinkers. Let’s continue to provide and enhance art and artists in San Pedro.” spt For more information on Art to Grow On, including volunteer inquiries, email chairperson@arttogrowon.com, and as well as visit their website at arttogrowon.com.
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THE UNTOUCHABLES
DURING THIS TIME OF CHANGE, SOME HISTORIC SP BUILDINGS SHOULDN'T BE TOUCHED by Angela Romero
Still Standing: (clockwise l to r) Baxter High School (formerly Di Carlo's National Bakery), The Odd Fellows Building; Plaza Self-Storage (formerly the Kress Building), and The Cabrillo Hotel
“All buildings are not created equal.” Someone said that recently in a conversation about historic preservation and it really stuck with me. It’s true, but it’s a truth that’s hard to keep in mind when the rumble of redevelopment makes the memory of Beacon Street throb like a ghost limb. The shadow that the loss of Beacon Street casts on redevelopment is not a revisionist idea of what Beacon Street had become. Everyone is in agreement that something had to be done about the blighted district. The problem is that they were only given two options, let it continue to rot or wipe the slate clean and start fresh. Rehabilitation and adaptive reuse would have been the better solution, but the Beacon Street Redevelopment came too early for that movement and we’ve been suffering from redeveloper’s remorse ever since. How do we face this new era of change when we’re still smarting from the pain of redevelopments past? We must learn to be proactive. We can’t wait for the bulldozer’s roar to scare us into action. Every San Pedran needs to think long and honestly about the future of San Pedro. Progress is marching right at us and we need the money that it’s bringing to thrive. If all of San Pedro is in play, wouldn’t it be in our best interest to let it know where we’d prefer it not step? The first step in our new Proactive Pedro Plan would be to take this idea that all buildings aren’t created equal and decide which buildings are untouchable. Mentally scan the town and circle all the buildings you believe are completely untouchable. Imagine that if it went away or was significantly 34 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
changed, there’d be hell to pay. Once you have your list, go over it a second time and ask yourself why you chose those buildings. That last part is important because it’s what helps you make your case. Remember, in everything political - and redevelopment is very political - a movement is much more powerful when you know what you are for, instead of just reacting to what you are against. As I write this article, the Notre Dame Cathedral is burning in Paris. A building on the world’s own Untouchable List. It’s proof that even one of the most famous buildings in the world isn’t immune from tragedy. Of all the buildings you’ve chosen, how many are in need of repairs that will keep it standing? We can’t just say it should be saved because someone else is footing the bill, we have to also advocate for projects that will ensure that the building is saved for future generations to enjoy. Sometimes that happens through redevelopment, like in the case of the Christian Science Church and the Harbor View House. When I did this exercise, I kept in mind the historic use of the buildings and architecture and limited myself to commercial and public buildings. On the right is my list of 30 untouchable San Pedro buildings. I may have missed one or two, but for the most part, the list is complete. I’d love to see your list, especially if you think I’ve missed one. spt Angela Romero is the founder of the San Pedro Heritage Museum. She can be reached at: angela@sanpedroheritage.org.
(photos : San Pedro Bay Historical Society)
THE LIST
• Barton Hill Elementary School (423 N. Pacific Avenue) • Baxter High School (former Di Carlo's National Bakery) (461 W. 9th Street) • Beacon Street Post Office (839 S. Beacon Street) • Cabrillo Beach Bathhouse (3800 Stephen M. White Drive) • Cabrillo Hotel (615 S. Centre Street) • California Museum of Fine Art (former Christian Science Church) (1010 S. Cabrillo Avenue) • Croatian Cultural Center (510 W. 7th Street) • Dalmatian-American Club (1639 S. Palos Verdes Street) • Dana Middle School (1501 S. Cabrillo Street) • Deco Art Deco (former Montgomery Ward Building) (520 W. 8th Street) • European Auto (1525 S. Pacific Avenue) • First Baptist Church (555 W. 7th Street) • Harbor View House (former Army & Navy YMCA) (921 S. Beacon Street) • Holy Trinity Church (1292 W. Santa Cruz Street) • Former Immigration Station (300 E. 22nd Street) • Former I.W.W. Meeting Hall (1200 S. Centre Street) • Julia Morgan YWCA (437 W. 9th Street) • L.A. Maritime Museum (former Municipal Ferry Building (600 Samp- son Way) • Mary Star of the Sea Church (877 W. 7th Street) • Municipal Fish Market (2200 S. Signal Place) • News-Pilot Building (356 W. 7th Street) • Odd Fellows Building (1002 S. Gaffey Street) • Plaza Self-Storage (former Kress Building) (630 S. Pacific Avenue) • Point Fermin Lighthouse (807 W. Paseo del Mar) • San Pedro High School (1001 W. 15th Street) • San Pedro Municipal Building (638 S. Beacon Street) • St. Peter’s Catholic Church (575 W. O’Farrell Street) • United Methodist Church (580 W. 6th Street) • Warehouse One (2500 S. Signal Street) • Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th Street)
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SPORTS
SWINGING FOR THE FENCES
2019 PREP SOFTBALL PREVIEW story & photos by Jamaal K. Street
If there is one sport in San Pedro that has brought about the most success in the high school sports world, it's softball. San Pedro High School has won 17 CIF-Los Angeles City Section championships and 25 league crowns. In only eight years, Port of Los Angeles High School has won three CIF-LACS titles, while Mary Star of the Sea High School has claimed 18 league titles and reached two CIF-Southern Section finals appearances in 2013 and 2018. Last year was one of the best in five years, as San Pedro and Mary Star both had CIF runner-up showings, each knocking off a top-seeded team along the way, while POLA won an eighth straight league title. All three will look to do something that has never been done before, win a league crown together in the same season, with Mary Star providing the best chance to win a league crown. Here's a preview on all three schools.
36 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
Port of Los Angeles softball teammates (l to r) Briana Vigil, Yolanda Racaza, and Allison Torstensen; and Mary Star of the Sea teammates (l to r) Ashley Rico, Sarah Leyba, and Alessandra Samperio
SAN PEDRO (19-14-1 in 2018) – The 45th season of Pirate softball will bring about the illustrious program’s seventh coach, as Samantha Gyerman is now in control. The former Iowa/Long Beach State star comes into 2019 with loads of talent and promise as San Pedro is coming off two straight CIF-LACS championship appearances, winning the 2017 Division 1 title and coming up short in a bid to repeat with the inaugural Open Division championship, as they were dethroned by Chatsworth, the prohibitive favorite. A dangerous hitting lineup awaits, with returning All-City junior P/SS Briana Velazquez eager to build off a phenomenal 2018 where she hit 12 home runs, including a pair of walkoff game winners. All-Marine League returning junior Brianna Talamantes, another great hitter, will likely be the starting catcher but will be pushed by incoming freshman Miah Owens. Don’t forget All-Marine League
sophomore third baseman Sierra Sandoval, who is a lethal threat in the lineup, as are junior outfielder Priscilla Andrade, and sophomores Jo Jo Krause and Kirstin Sanchez. Carson is the defending Marine League champion, but the Pirates and fellow Harbor Area neighbor Banning are legitimate threats, as always. All three are expected to return to the Open Division playoffs. MARY STAR (21-7 in 2018) – No one saw the Stars coming as hard as they did in 2018, as they made a marvelous run to the Camino Real League title and CIF-SS Division 6 finals. They fell to Highland, but ended a perfect run attempt by Carnegie Schools of Riverside in a 5-2 semifinal upset, which was the top story in town. The Stars aim for an even better 2019 season, as Jesse Espinoza returns for his second term as head coach, which definitely should provide more incentive for a dynamite year for returning All-CIF and Cal-Hi Sports All-State selection in junior pitcher Alessandra Samperio. The velocity of Samperio’s fastball has risen to 65 mph, and she also has had a strong summer, hitting three home runs in a travel ball game alone, one more than she had all of the 2018 season for the Stars. Mary Star still boasts the only verbal commit of anyone in town in junior shortstop Ashley Rico (San Jose State), another returning All-CIF selection and the top hitter by average of all. Providing more shine to the Stars are the awesome sister tandem of senior Rose Amalfitano and junior Sofia Amalfitano, along with sophomore
Ariana Bautista and all-league returning junior outfielder Sarah Leyba. With Cantwell and powerhouse St. Anthony now gone from Camino Real League competition, repeating as league champs might be even more realistic due to St. Genevieve and St. Monica being added in, making Bishop Montgomery and Pomona Catholic the top challengers to the Stars’ throne. POLA (13-7 in 2018) – The Polar Bears had the earliest playoff exit of any team in their already rich history, as they were eliminated in the first round of the CIF-LACS Division 1 playoffs by Venice, but still overcame the lack of a quality pitcher and a coaching change to capture a share of their eighth straight Coliseum League title. Now POLA and first-year coach Danielle Martinez enter the new Imperial League as the slight favorite but will get tested by King-Drew and Harbor Teacher Prep. In a year where underclass players will be the focal point at all three schools, POLA has the best trio of seniors in C/INF Allison Torstensen, shortstop Yolanda Racaza and the return of Melanie Arent, who took a year off to focus on travel ball. The Polar Bears will also be paced by the likes of the Mercado sisters: junior shortstop Angelina and sophomore catcher Larissa, along with rapidly improving junior outfielder Briana Vigil and junior infielder Tori Palomino. Sophomore Faith Torstensen appears to have the best outlook of being the top pitcher for POLA, and her twin sister Gracie Torstensen gives the Polar Bears a third option at catcher. spt
MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 37
RELIGION
PRAYER FOR SAN PEDRO by Pastor Nathan Hoff
God is a city planner. He cares about cities. Some people dream of a quieter, rural life, but at least in the Christian view, God is dreaming of a city (Revelation 21.1-4). God’s dream city is teeming with people. The word “multitude” is repeated again and again in the last book of the Bible. The city God dreams about, and some of us have been joining him in his dream, is described as “new” and “prepared” and “adorned.” It is a place where God dwells with his people, and they no longer have tears. Death, mourning, pain, and “the former things have passed away.” There are conceptual drawings of a new San Pedro Public Market in the old Ports O’ Call. There is new focus on a “Little Italy.” The former Ponte Vista, now named Highpark Development, is taking shape. There will always be strong opinions connected to how cities change, density intensifies, and driving slows. A Duffy Nelson proverb is always timely, “Make change a friend, and you will have a friend for life.” There isn’t just one Old San Pedro story. There are numerous stories. One thing is consistent in San Pedro’s history: change. Persistent change can be a lifelong companion that ultimately gets us ready for the biggest change that the “making all things new” city-planning God will bring down from heaven one day. In the meantime, we participate in the city amid all her changes through faithful citizenship, loyal dissent, heartfelt support, and loving our neighbor as ourselves. We can also pray. I’ve been sitting out in my Peanuts-style Lucy booth, and finding myself praying for the city of San Pedro. As I’ve come to know some of my neighbors, I find myself praying “insider” prayers, rooted in real people, names, faces, problems, and allies. Here is a sample “Prayer for San Pedro” that you might want to join me in praying: Gracious God of San Pedro, we pray for our city. We love her, and we know you love her. Thank you for 38 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
her natural beauty and fair climate. Thank you for the various cultures that helped build San Pedro into the city it is today. Thank you for hard working, industrious, and committed folks that created and improved and built and rebuilt this great city to be a place that has attracted many to our shores. Thank you also for new communities that bring new gifts, sounds, tastes, and personality to San Pedro. We also ask for forgiveness for taking our blessings for granted. Forgive us for taking the easy road of blame, cheap criticism, and uncommitted selfishness. We have expected a few to fix our problems. Forgive us for participating in the darkness, or cursing the darkness instead of shining the light. We turn to you for a fresh start. We pray that the children of San Pedro may grow up in a community that cares more about whole homes than property prices. We pray for their schools, teachers, coaches, mentors, and neighbors. May they be people and places of safety and authentic love. We pray for the youth of San Pedro. Many are “under construction” on the inside as they discover who they are, how they have been made, and for what and for whom they are made. Give them a profound sense of their own value in your eyes and in ours. We pray for the adults of San Pedro. Give freedom to those bound by something, a clear sense of calling for those who are aimless, provision for those in any kind of need, healing for every kind of ailment. We ask you to find any who are lost. We pray for the elders of San Pedro. May they feel the honor that befits their age. Take away the ungodly philosophy that makes any of our grandparents say, “I don’t want to be a burden.” Help them know that they are the opposite of burden, but that their very presence is a blessing. Now, we ask for your amazing grace to fill every inhabitant, every home, and every neighborhood in San Pedro. Amen. spt Nathan Hoff is the Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in San Pedro. Follow his blog at: trinitypastor.blogspot.com.
MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 39
HEALTH & FITNESS
FOLLOW YOUR BLISS-TERS by Ricky Magana When I was in college ten years ago, “follow your bliss” was a popular rally call of many professors and commencement speakers as we all prepared to enter the real world. It was one of those pithy bumper sticker phrases that felt profound and insightful, especially to young idealistic college kids wet behind the ears. Penned by renowned author Joseph Campbell, it was essentially a call to follow one’s passion. What you may not know is that later in life, Campbell regretted the popularity of this quote, eventually saying, “I should of said, follow your blisters.” Campbell’s original intent was hijacked. He was implying that you should follow what makes you come alive, but what was heard is, do whatever makes you feel good. People have a tendency to avoid hard things. We’re inclined to want to do what gives us pleasure and keeps us well within the confines of our comfort zones. Such is the case with fitness. We are usually up to do anything for two- to six-weeks: a new diet, a cleanse, some new workout program. This is about how long a spurt of motivation tends to last. This is the “bliss” zone. Because here you’re excited, you and everyone around you is motivated, and the approach you’re trying feels new. The scale moves quickly, pounds are coming off. Here, everything still feels good. Just beyond that, however, is where Campbell might say, the blisters lie. Because the further away you get from the shiny luster of a new diet/workout plan, the closer you come the edge of who you are now, and who you might be. The Discomfort Zone. It’s here where you are faced with the fading sparkle of your new diet that now just feels boring and monotonous. The workouts are hard and the scale hasn’t moved in two weeks. You’re starting to doubt if this is the magic solution you thought it was. It’s here where you’re forced to give up instant gratification and have to make actual sacrifices, where patience, resolve and determination are truly a virtue. This is also where most people turn back, give up, or sabotage themselves. Your self-image is like gravity and it will pull you back, with surprising force, to wherever it is it 40 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I MAY 2019
thinks you belong. This is why many people gain and lose the same twenty pounds over and over again. You’ll notice it whenever you achieve any success with your body, suddenly there’s a little voice telling you, “Go ahead eat the cupcake. You’ve worked so hard. Relax.” It’s also why many eat worse on a diet than when they’re not. It’s like they’ve upset their inner Mr. Hyde and can’t control themselves. It reminds me of a quote Jim Rohn used to say that I use to scratch my head at, “Success is not something you get, it’s something you attract by the person you become.” It sounds like New Age foo foo until you watch yourself or others on the cusp of success, only to completely sabotage and throw it away. This is because an inner transformation is absolutely unavoidable if you want to get in shape; and it is the scariest, most avoided aspect of getting fit. There is a very interesting trajectory I’ve seen many of the most dramatic fitness transformations follow. Person gains weight. Ignores it. Then gains some more. Still, ignores it. Years, perhaps decades go by. It isn’t until one day when an “inciting incident” forces them to act. A sobering doctors appointment with a scary prognosis. Seeing a do-I-really-look-like-that?! picture of oneself. An offhand a-little-too-honest comment from a relative. Then they snap. Suddenly they seethe with determination. They don’t avoid the hard things anymore. In fact, they hunt them down. I can always see when this has happened and I know that for this person, nothing will stop them. Because for them, in the moment of the inciting incident, the why became clear and powerful. When the why becomes strong enough, so will you. We tend to stay in our comfort zones until something lights a fire in us and torches the limiting self-image and habits that keeps us stuck. So, if you’re on a yo-yo dieting hamster wheel, first ask yourself why you want to leave the place you’re in, then follow the blisters. spt Heyday Elite Fitness offers a 2-minute scan that provides a full 1-page body fat analysis to help you tailor your fitness goals. For more info, email ricky@heydaytraining.com.
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Dr. Kardovich and the Team enjoying the day at Wayfarers Chapel
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MAY 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 41
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BENEFITS OF HOLDING YOUR PROPERTY IN A TRUST by Mike Harper & Peter Hazdovac Although we aren’t, and don’t claim to be, Estate Planners or Tax Advisors, we thought it would be helpful to write about trusts due to our past experiences in real estate transactions. This month’s column shares our understanding and some previous experiences with trusts, along with the benefits of holding your property in a trust. There are two common types of trusts that we encounter most often in residential real estate transactions: A Revocable Trust, also known as a Living Trust, and an Irrevocable Trust. A Revocable Trust can be altered or amended at any time and becomes irrevocable upon the death of the Settlor, also known as the Grantor or Trustor. An Irrevocable Trust may not be modified, amended or terminated in most cases. However, our understanding is that there are some exceptions to this. There are distinct differences between these two types of trusts, including asset protection, tax benefits, etc. You should consult with a professional that specializes in estate planning to determine which trust type is right for your situation. Where real estate is concerned, we advocate holding property in a trust for the following reasons: 1. Avoiding Probate – This is probably the biggest reason to hold your property in a trust. Generally speaking, a person’s estate is distributed to heirs and beneficiaries according to their trust or Last Will and Testament. In the absence of a will or trust, a person’s property, and any debt owed to creditors, is handled through probate. Probate is simply the legal process for distributing ones property after they have died. Probate can be a slow process, can get expensive, and is a public proceeding that can be intrusive into a person’s private matters. We have had past experiences where the court appointed administrator of a property or estate had to spend well into the thousands of dollars, and it took over six months before the probate court issued written approval for the sale of a property.
2. Incapacity Protection – Another helpful component of a trust is that it identifies a Successor Trustee that maintains the legal authority to facilitate the instructions in a trust, not only when a person has died, but also when they are still living and no longer able to care for themselves. We recently experienced a situation where the Settlor (our client) of a trust was unable to sign contracts and disclosures due to Parkinson’s-related symptoms. In this particular case, the Settlor granted Power of Attorney to the Successor Trustee so that they were able to complete the transaction. 3. Privacy – As stated earlier, a probate proceeding is a matter of public information. When a trust is in place, it is never filed with a court and therefore it doesn’t become public record for anyone to see. Why would someone choose a Trust over a Last Will and Testament? In our experience, a trust is preferred over a will, in many cases, because it creates a fiduciary relationship that allows a person to give another party (Successor Trustee) authority to handle their assets for the benefit of the beneficiaries named in the trust. A will, on the other hand, is a legally enforceable document that identifies how you want your affairs handled and assets distributed upon your death. Again, consult with a professional that specializes in estate planning to get a better understanding of these important legal instruments and which is best suited for your particular situation. When selling a home that is held in a trust, you should also be aware of the different real estate contract requirements. It is always recommended that you work with a real estate professional that understands the different requirements, can clearly explain these requirements and guide you through the process that can often times be somewhat complicated. spt Mike Harper and Peter Hazdovac are both licensed Realtors® with Keller Williams Realty. For more info, visit www.harperhazdovac.com.
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THE BACK PAGE
The Municipal Ferry Building was a working ferry terminal from 1941 to 1963, connecting San Pedro and Terminal Island. During those years, the double-decked ferries Islander and Ace transported passengers and automobiles to and from the tuna canneries, docks, shipyards, and military bases on Terminal Island. In 1963, the Vincent Thomas Bridge was completed, and the ferry service became obsolete. The building is now the current home of the L.A. Maritime Museum. (photo: San Pedro Bay Historical Society)
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