NOVEMBER 2018
PLUS: SAN PEDRO HERITAGE MUSEUM | FREE WOMEN'S SELF-DEFENSE CLASSES | L.A. SPORTSWALK
A SHEAR CAREER ISIDORO COLONNA CELEBRATES A 60-YEAR CAREER AS ONE OF SAN PEDRO’S FAVORITE BARBERS
MARITIME DENTISTRY
Comprehensive Dental Care & Implant Center Backed by 25 years of experience WHEN YOU VISIT OUR DENTAL OFFICE IN WEYMOUTH CORNERS, YOU FEEL RIGHT AT HOME. Whether you require a cleaning, teeth whitening, invisible braces by Invisalign®, crowns, implants or any other General or Specialty dental procedure, our office will ensure that you are comfortable and have a pleasant experience. OLD-FASHIONED STYLE OF PATIENT CARE IS WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT!
Great Smiles Begin Here! Dr. Ardalan, D.D.S. Education: USC school of Dentistry Doctor of Dental Surgery Professional Association: American Dental Association, member California Dental Association, member Western Dental Society, member
ASSOCIATES Ian Woo, D.D.S., MD. Education: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Los Angeles County / University of Southern California Medical Center
Dr. Marvis Sorrel, D.M.D., M.D.S.
SERVICES & SPECIALTIES • General Cosmetic and Children’s Dentistry • Oral Surgery • Dental IMPLANTS • Permanent Implant Supported Dentures • Orthodontics (Traditional Braces & Invisalign) • Periodontics • Sleep Apnea
Located in Weymouth Corners 1411 W. 8th Street San Pedro, CA 90732
(310) 832-5559
Education: University of Pittsburgh, Master of Science in Dentistry, Doctor of Dental Medicine Advanced Education in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Orthognatic Surgery Externship / Invisalign Certification
Dr. Rebekah Coriaty Education: University of Pacific Professional Association: American Dental Association California Dental Association
Dr. Miles Madison Education: UCLA School of Dentistry Professional Association: American Academy of Periodontology California Society of Periodontists American Dental Association California Dental Association American Association for Dental Research
MARITIME DENTISTRY NEWSLETTER Comprehensive Dental Care & Implant Center
Midlife Tooth Loss Associated With Higher Risk Of Cardiovascular Disease, Research Suggests
M
edical News Today (3/23, Paddock) reported that preliminary research found “tooth loss in middle age is tied to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, independent of traditional risk factors such as high blood pressure, poor diet, and diabetes.” Study co-author Lu Qi, who is a professor of epidemiology at Tulane University, said, “Our findings suggest that middle-aged adults who have lost two or more teeth in [the] recent past could be at increased risk for cardiovascular disease.” The study is not yet published but the abstract is available in the journal Circulation. “This pattern is concerning, given that
HPV Causing “Epidemic Of Oral Cancer” In Men
T
he Philadelphia Inquirer (3/6, McCullough) reports
that HPV is “unleashing an epidemic of oral cancer among men.” The article reports that “men are four times more likely than women to be diagnosed with oral cancer,” which has “overtaken cervical cancer as the most common HPV-related malignancy in the United States.” The article states that this trend is due in part to men’s immune response, explaining that “compared with women, men are more likely to get infected with HPV – including ‘high-risk’ cancercausing strains,” and “they also are less able to wipe out infection on their own, and more likely to get reinfected.” The authors of one study examining HPV in men, said, “HPV vaccination is the only reliable method to ensure immune protection against new HPV infections and subsequent disease in males.”
timely dental care is essential for good oral health, especially in individuals with diabetes.” - Dr. Huabin Luo, a researcher at East Carolina University
People With Diabetes Visit Dentist Less Often, Study Finds
I
n a news release on its website, New York University (4/2) states that a new study led by researchers at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing and East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine found “adults with diabetes are less likely to visit the dentist than people with prediabetes or without diabetes.” The study “showed an overall decline in dental visits among adults with and without diabetes, but people with diabetes were consistently the least likely to obtain oral healthcare.” The findings were published in The Journal of the American Dental Association.
MouthHealthy.org offers additional information on above topics.
This patient educational material is provided by Maritime Dentistry. Please call us at (310) 832-5559 if we may be of further assistance.
Regards, Dr. Ardalan and Associates
Located in Weymouth Corners • 1411 W. 8th St., San Pedro
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
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will live on as our legacy. This magazine is a very small microcosm of this fundamental truth. I’m extremely lucky, because this “In the end, we’ll magazine affords me the luxury of all become telling stories like Isidoro the Barber’s stories.” cover story this month. - Margaret One of the nicest men you’ll ever Atwood, Moral meet, Isidoro Colonna has been cutting Disorder & Other hair for nearly 60 years, more than 40 Stories of them here in San Pedro. His story is a familiar one from his generation. If there was ever a sentence that cap- An immigrant from Ischia, Italy, whose tures why I continue to enjoy producing family came to San Pedro during the this publication month after month for heyday of the fishing industry, who nearly a decade, Margaret Atwood’s started a small business and made a life quote above would fit the bill. for himself and his wife and children. When you strip the human existence It’s the quintessential San Pedro story. to its bare essentials, all we do is tell Isidoro, like so many before him, stories. It’s the very essence of how we have trusted us to tell the story of their communicate. Science says the ability lives. It’s an honor I don’t take for to tell stories is what separates humans granted. The only way stories live on is from all other species on the planet. if we keep telling them. Once we stop, Every piece of entertainment, every our stories, and with that our history, conversation, every advertisement, dies. everything we see, say and do revolves On that note, I implore you to around stories. Humans, by our very read Angela Romero’s article, “Little nature, are born storytellers. America,” on page 28. I’m not going to We watch movies and television, spoil her special announcement here, listen to music, read books and magabut Angela is one of the few people in zines, or see live theatre, not just for town who also understands the imporentertainment, but to also understand tance of storytelling and how it relates the human condition; to understand to the history of San Pedro. ourselves. We respond to stories we reRead her article, support her cause, late to and learn from ones we’ve never and help keep our legacy – and our heard before. We express ourselves on stories – alive. spt social media, sharing stories of our day, what we’re doing, how we’re feeling, Joshua Stecker is publisher/editoror what we’re thinking about, all pieces in-chief of San Pedro Today. Letters that inform the narrative of our lives. to the Editor can be emailed to And when we die, we hope our stories contact@sanpedrotoday.com.
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VOLUME 10 | NUMBER 10
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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 2009-2018, Empire22 Media LLC.
ON THE COVER: Barber Isidoro Colonna gives Luka Mardesich a haircut in his barber shop on Grand Ave. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
NOVEMBER 2018 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 7
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of this wonderful community. For more information, and to RSVP, email sanpedroheritagemuseum@gmail.com.
is now topping the charts in his home country. For tickets and more info, visit grandvision.org.
shimmering, multi-faceted instrumental performance. For tickets and more info, visit grandvision.org.
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.
8 (Thurs) – SPHS CLASS OF 1945 REUNION at The Grinder (511 S. Harbor Blvd.), 9:30a. Relieve the good ‘ol days with your former classmates over breakfast RSVP to Alice Jacobson at (310) 832-1807 or Dina Branning at (310) 835-2470.
OCTOBER 27 (Sat) – SCARY STORIES 16 at Angels Gate Cultural Center (3601 S. Gaffey St.), 6:30 – 8p. Snuggle up around the bonfire for an all-new program of scary stories (with sound effects) suitable for all ages. Fresh frights await you! Picnics welcome. Bring your own seating and dress warmly so you don't get the shivers! $5 general admission; children (6 & under) are free. For more info, visit their event on Facebook!
9 (Fri) – YWCA’S 100TH BIRTHDAY: A CENTURY OF SERVICE at YWCA (437 W. 9th St.), 5:30 – 8:30p. The YWCA will be celebrating 100 years of servicing the Harbor Area and surrounding communities. Please join us in your best black and white attire to dance the night away. Enjoy hors d'oeuvres, beer and wine tasting, and a live band. Get a glimpse of the YWCA’s history and learn about the services we provide. For more info, call (310) 5470831, email rayme@ywcaharbor.org, or visit ywcaharbor.org.
14 (Wed) – December 31 (Mon) – ANNUAL HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE at Assistance League San Pedro-South Bay (1441 W. 8th St.), M – F: 10a – 5p; Sat: 11a – 3p. The boutique will offer a selection of unique holiday decorations, holiday food items and gifts, stocking stuffers, one of a kind decorative items, and gifts for everyone on your list. This is one stop shopping for all of your holiday needs. All proceeds benefit our local philanthropic programs. For more info, call (310) 832-8355 ext. 221
30 (Fri) – REVEREND TALL TREE at the Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 8p. A modern-day Otis Redding, Chris Pierce aka Reverend Tall Tree, comes stomping, shuffling, and hollering to the Annex with his newest work, written with Mark Malone, an original and contemporary blues opera. For tickets and more info, visit grandvision.org.
1 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY ARTWALK in Downtown San Pedro, 6 – 9p. Live music, food trucks, art gallery displays, and food and drink specials from local bars and restaurants. Experience the most anticipated monthly event in San Pedro!
10 (Sat) – HISTORIC SAN PEDRO WALKING TOUR, 10a. Join local historian and San Pedro Today columnist, Angela "Romee" Romero, on a trek through Old San Pedro. Learn how the town grew from a marsh 3 (Sat) – COMMUNITY KITE FLYING to a mini metropolis as you tour all at Angels Gate Park (3601 S. Gaffey the important sites like Vinegar Hill, Street), 2 – 6p. The Angels Gate Park the Julia Morgan YWCA, and the Advisory Board is sponsoring kite Downtown District. Tickets are $15 and flying and kite making crafts for the space is limited. Call (310) 808-7800 to whole family. Free kites available (while reserve. supplies last). For more info, call (310) 548-7705. 10 (Sat) – SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Sirens Java & Tea (356 W. 7th St.), 3 (Sat) – MIRAGE: TRIBUTE 5:30 – 8p. Check out an intimate early FLEETWOOD MAC at the Grand evening of acoustic original music in Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 8p. A the heart of the San Pedro Arts & Music celebration of the classic sound and a District. Four local songwriters, Jerry journey through the greatest hits of the Dickey, Chris Huff, Michael Teague, legendary superstar band. For tickets and Owen Tirre will sing songs and and more info, visit grandvision.org. maybe tell a few stories about those songs. No cover, all ages. For more info, 4 (Sun) – SAN PEDRO HISTORY visit chrishuffmusic.com. BASICS at Sirens Java & Tea House (356 W. 7th St.), 1p. How much local 10 (Sat) – GRAEME JAMES at the history do you know? The San Pedro Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 8p. Heritage Museum invites you to a Multi-instrumentalist, New Zealand presentation on key events in San Pedro Music Awards 2017 Folk Album finalist history. No matter your expertise on the and 21st century one-man band! subject, all are sure to walk away with Starting as a street busker, with folka greater appreciation for the heritage style arrangements of pop songs, James
ACTING CLASSES for YOUNG ADULTS with Renee O’Connor
“Gabrielle” of Sci-Fi Channel’s Xena: Warrior Princess
Learn:
Sanford Meisner Technique Acting for Film & Television Shakespeare Scene Study Audition Technique October classes begin at The Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.) More info: www.ROCpictures.com
8 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2018
15 (Thurs) – MARIA MULDAUR at the Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 8p. Best known for her 1974 Grammy nominated mega-hit Midnight at the Oasis, Muldaur has since earned worldwide recognition as a powerhouse vocalist of American roots and blues. For tickets and more info, visit grandvision.org. 17 (Sat) – HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE at The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.), 10a – 4p. Stop by The Corner Store for some holiday cheer! Featuring several artists, handmade goods from local vendors, and more. For more info, call (310) 832-2424. 17 (Sat) – HOME ALONE at Bogdanovich Park (1920 Cumbre Dr.), 4 – 7p. Enjoy a free movie for the whole family, the holiday classic "Home Alone.” Arrive at 4p to visit the creepy critters from the Deane Dana Nature Center. Bring a picnic or enjoy food trucks. Movie starts at sunset. Rain or shine (under the stars or in the gym). Sponsored by the Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council. For more info, visit nwsanpedro.org. 17 (Sat) – LAURENCE JUBER at the Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 8p. Two-time Grammy winning guitarist and former bandmate with Paul McCartney’s Wings, Juber fuses folk, blues, pop, and classical styles, for
18 (Sun) – THANKSGIVING BASKET ASSEMBLY at First Presbyterian Church of San Pedro (731 S. Averill Ave.), 11a – 4p. Volunteers of all ages are needed to help assemble and over 500 Thanksgiving food baskets for needy families in the greater San Pedro and Harbor Area. The baskets provide all the staples necessary for a family to prepare and serve their own special holiday meal at their home. This is a great event if you are looking for a way to serve others for the upcoming holidays. Event is free and open to all. For more info, visit firstpressanpedro. org/missions/thanksgiving-baskets or call the church office at (310) 832-7597. 25 (Sun) – 135TH ANNIVERSARY WORSHIP SERVICE & CELEBRATION at First Presbyterian Church of San Pedro (731 S. Averill Ave.), 9:30 – 11:30a. The community is invited as First Presbyterian Church celebrates 135 years of serving the San Pedro community in Christ’s name. A worship service followed by a dessert truck reception will take place. For more information, visit firstpressanpedro.org or call the church office at (310) 832-7597. 28 (Wed) – HOLIDAY BAZAAR, BAKE SALE, AND DOLLHOUSE RAFFLE at Providence LCMMC San Pedro Cafeteria (1300 W. 7th St.), 7a – 2p. Proceeds to benefit the PLCMMC San Pedro Auxiliary Scholarship Fund. For more info, contact Volunteer Services at (310) 241-4079.
Want to see your event here? Email events@sanpedrotoday.com to place a listing. Deadline for the December issue is Friday, November 15. Find more events at facebook.com/sanpedrotoday.
Nagare Boutique
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Hand-crafted jewelry with an oceanic and worldly flair. Offering classes & supplies for bead weaving enthusiasts. www.divabeads.biz
EILEEN’S BEADED JEWELRY & GEMSTONE BOUTIQUE Offering wire wrap &chainmail jewelry, crystals, gemstones, beads & metaphysical healing supplies! See them at @eileensjewelryandgemstones on Instagram & visit me at CRAFTED!
Jams, Jellies & Marmalades! PLUS: Pickles, Tapenades & “Famous” Pretzels! No gift has ever been returned! At CRAFTED and paradisepreserves.com
Have us shoot your Ho-Ho-Holiday photos! Kids, pets and adults welcome! Email to book today: jackie.teeple@gmail.com NOVEMBER 2018 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 11
THANKSGIVING
HERE ARE A FEW LOCAL WAYS YOU CAN GIVE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! THE BEACON HOUSE EXCHANGE 812 S. Pacific Ave. The thrift store gathers and sells a wide array of donations, including household goods, books, and clothing. All proceeds generated from the Exchange directly benefit the primary program. For additional information and donation hours, call (310) 514-4940. CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH & SCHOOL 28850 S. Western Ave. Fill up a shoebox with holiday cheer for a young child in need. On November 12 – 16, Christ Lutheran will be collecting Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes on campus. A $9 donation for shipping is encouraged. For more information, visit samaritanspurse.org or call (310) 831-0848. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 731 S. Averill Ave. Help assemble over 500 Thanksgiving food baskets that provide all the staples for preparing and serving a special holiday meal for local families in need. Event is free and open to all. For more information, visit firstpressanpedro.org/missions/thanksgiving-baskets or call the church office at (310) 832-7597. HARBOR INTERFAITH 670 W. 9th St. Packaged food donations and
toiletries are always welcomed for distribution at the Food Pantry. For additional information, call (310) 831-9123. HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH 1292 W. Santa Cruz St. Christian Service Ministry together with the Outreach Food Program will be delivering holiday food baskets at Thanksgiving and Christmas to local families in need. Donate non-perishable food and toiletry items, with bins located at the back of the Church and near the Parish Center office. For a full list of items needed, and more info on how you can volunteer, contact the Parish Center at (310) 548-6535. LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR 2100 S. Western Ave. Help fulfill Jeanne Jugan Residence’s wish list, or make a monetary donation. For a list of needed items and ways you can give, visit littlesistersofthepoorsanpedro.org or call (310) 548-0625. MARY STAR OF THE SEA CHURCH 853 W. 7th St. Food, clothing, monetary donations, and volunteers are always welcomed. For additional information and drop-off hours, call the Christian Care Office at (310) 548-1645. On Sunday, November 4, the Christian Care International
Brunch will be held in the Parish Auditorium. Featuring food from around the world, with proceeds benefiting Thanksgiving and Christmas meals for local families in need. Admission: $10 (adults) and $5 (children under 12). For more information, call Toni Martinovich at (310) 365-8873.
call (310) 832-7335 or email sanpedromealsonwheels@gmail.com. You can also make a donation at gofundme.com/ph4re-feedingour-homebound-community.
SAN PEDRO PACKAGES FOR PATRIOTS Local community members Mike and Shirley Vojkovich created this RAINBOW SERVICES volunteer-based organization in 453 W. 7th St. order to support US Troops. For Rainbow relies on support from car- a list of items needed, and for ing community members to provide more information on their upcombasic needs items to vulnerable ing events, including Halloween families who seek our help. Items candy drive, Christmas decoraoften needed include food, school tions, and Operation Happy Feet, supplies, hygiene items, diapers visit sanpedropackagesforpatri(Sizes 4, 5, 6), and baby wipes. In ots.com or call (310) 831-3700. November, help a family celebrate Thanksgiving by donating a turTOBERMAN key or gift cards to purchase their NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER own items. In December, Rainbow 131 N. Grand Ave. Services also offers and adopt Volunteers and donations are a family opportunity. For more always welcomed for a variety information, call Anna Sanchez of programs, including the food at (424) 264-0634 or email donapantry, thrift store, and after tions@rainbowservicesdv.org. school activities. For more information, contact the Volunteer SAN PEDRO MEALS ON WHEELS Coordinator at cvigil@toberman. 731 S. Averill Ave. org or call (310) 832-1145. Named Non-Profit of the Year by the San Pedro Chamber of ComTRINITY LUTHERAN merce, San Pedro Meals on Wheels 1450 W. 7th St. has always maintained their mission For more information on their to provide nutritious, affordable weekly food pick up and distribumeals to those unable to obtain tion, call (310) 832-1189 or email a healthy meal on a regular basis. office@trinitysanpedro.org. spt For more information on donations or volunteering your time,
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VOICES
MORE REASONS EVERY DAY TO BE PROUD OF SAN PEDRO by Steve Marconi San Pedro has had a long love affair with the armed services, but not without cost. This was poignantly illustrated by two recent events honoring a pair of San Pedro Marines who fought more than 60 years apart. The first was the military funeral at Green Hills Memorial Park for PFC Roger Gonzales, a S`48 San Pedro High School graduate, who was killed in 1950 at the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War. His remains were only recently identified and returned to his family. Hundreds of people, mostly relatives, and friends from his old La Rambla neighborhood who knew of the service only through social media or word of mouth, attended, along with a busload of Marines. Kudos to Green Hills for putting together a moving tribute to one of San Pedro’s lost sons. The second event was the induction of Ralph DeQuebec in the Los Angeles Sportswalk of Fame as a recipient of the Pat Tillman Award. The cover story of last month’s San Pedro Today, DeQuebec, a 1991 San Pedro High grad, was a gunnery sergeant when he lost both legs in an IED explosion in Afghanistan in 2012. He walked to the microphone at the Sportswalk ceremony on his prosthetic legs and drew a rousing, standing ovation. His tearful thank yous included a touching salute to his former football coach at San Pedro High School, Mike Walsh. Both events got lots of airplay on local television. On the national front… Hey, isn’t that…? If you’re watching pro football (and that’s most of you), you may have noticed a lot of San Pedro lately. Otis Livingston, the former San Pedro High School (1985) and Kansas basketball star, is an Emmy Award-winning sportscaster in New York, where he’s also been the sideline reporter on New York Giants and Jets games. John Hussey, probably Mary Star High’s most famous gridiron alum besides Tim Wrightman, is back for his fourth season as a referee in the NFL. He started his NFL career in 2002 as a line judge, the position he had in the 2011 Super Bowl.
You don’t have to look very closely to notice the latest Apple Watch commercial, seen regularly during games, was filmed entirely in San Pedro. It starts out in front of the Point Fermin Market on 39th and Pacific, moves to Godmother’s Saloon downtown, and ends up at Cabrillo Beach. Of course, no one unfamiliar with San Pedro would have a clue as to the locale. Those watching the baseball playoffs got to see another native San Pedran, Aaron Hicks, who is rising to stardom as the starting centerfielder for the New York Yankees. Hicks, the son of San Pedro High School Hall of Famer Jojo Hicks, was born here, but raised in Orange County. It’s obvious where he got all his talent – his aunt is Cardte Hicks, who was inducted into the San Pedro Hall of Fame with her brother. In the Land of Social Media... Two thumbs up for the new website, storieslaharborarea.com, featuring interviews with Harbor Area residents, some well-known, some not so wellknown, talking about local history. The short vignettes, co-produced by San Pedro Today columnist and Emmy Awardwinner, Jack Baric, and L.A. Harbor International Film Festival founder, Stephanie Mardesich, are a promising start to what should be a valuable and entertaining addition to our digital historical archive. And for you music fans out there, check out the interview on Minnesota Public Radio with San Pedro composer Mark McKenzie (a Minnesota native) on his latest soundtrack for the animated film, Max and Me. The film, telling the true story of Franciscan friar Maximillian Kolbe, who died in Auschwitz and was canonized in 1982, has yet to be released, but the soundtrack is available as a download. The interview is available at yourclassical.org. More Hall of Famers... San Pedro High School alum John Burich (W`54) was recently honored when Carson High School named its weight room after him. Burich is a legend in San Pedro; he was a lifeguard at Cabrillo Beach for 50 years (1953-2003) and wrestled professionally. He also was a longtime biology teacher at Carson, where he instituted weight training in 1969 and was credited with helping develop the players who made the Colts a city powerhouse throughout the `70s
and `80s. Considering San Pedro High School’s football fortunes during that same period, is it fair to ask how we let this one get away? San Pedro High School’s Tony Dobra, the most successful softball coach in city history, will be inducted into the LAUSD Hall of Fame next year. Dobra, also inducted into the Sportswalk this year, will be the fifth San Pedro High School alum inducted into the biennial LAUSD hall, joining Willie Naulls, Louise Figlewicz Quick, Frank Endo, and Cardte Hicks. Jeff Kiesel, my San Pedro High School classmate (W`69) and best man at my wedding, was recently inducted into the Aquatic Capital of America Hall of Fame in Long Beach in the new category of paddling. Kiesel, who starred for both the Pirate and YMCA swim teams, moved from the pool to boat racing in the `70s. He started out in outriggers and was a member of the
U.S. national over-50 dragon boat team that finished second in the 2007 World Championships in Sydney. He’s not done; he’s hoping to make the over-60 team next year. Members of Facebook’s San Pedro Born and Raised and Very Proud group are familiar with the woodcarvings of San Pedro native, Raymond Kinman (I went to school with his late brother, Larry). Now living in Northern California, Kinman was a Disney Imagineer for many years, and will be featured on PBS’s “The American Woodshop” with Scott and Suzy Phillips, when the new season premieres in January. This guy has some mad skills, but don’t take my word for it. Visit his website at woodcarverguru.com. spt Steve Marconi can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.
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NOVEMBER 2018 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 11
VOICES
THE GIVING ROOM AT DANA MIDDLE SCHOOL by Jennifer Marquez “What people do not realize is there are a lot of homeless families with children in San Pedro. At Richard Henry Dana Middle School, we have had ten new homeless families in the last month,” states Yolanda Aranda, Dana’s Healthy Start Navigator. When Aranda learned one of the students at Dana was living on a bench in front of the local library with her mother, she jumped into action and started connecting them with services. Her job is to work with families at the school who are struggling financially. She provides connections to housing, counseling, food and donations. The student living on the bench was embarrassed by her dirty clothes and did not want to come to school. Aranda was able to give the student clothing, hygiene products, and shelter. After that, the girl was more comfortable attending school. With over 70% of the students classified as low-income, Dana responded to the needs of their students by creating The Giving Room. It is an unmarked room at the school stocked with donations for the whole family. It includes: new socks and underwear, gently used clothing, school supplies, hygiene products, backpacks, and athletic shoes. Aranda ensures that donations are distributed in private, so nobody knows who is homeless or struggling to protect the privacy and dignity of the family. Contributions are provided by community members and non-profit groups. “When students come to school, they do not want people to know that they are homeless or that their dad drinks too much. They want to fit in,” states Steve Gebhart, Principal at Dana Middle School. “We are expected to provide an education, but when a student is worried about not having food or a place to live, these needs have to be addressed as well,” continues Gebhart. Students know where to go if they do not have a jacket, deodorant, or school supplies. “The Attendance Office also lets me know when a family is in crisis,” states Aranda. “The parents are often surprised and grateful to be able to have a few pairs of new socks, school clothes for the kids, and canned goods. Often she hears that families share socks or wear the same pair for days because 12 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2018
they can not do laundry,” she states. Aranda recalls a meaningful experience, saying, “I recently had a mom come in with her daughters, and they had no clothes for school. I gave them a gift card to Target that was donated, and the mom started to cry. She was so relieved that her children could now pick out clothes to wear to school.” Dana shares surplus donations with San Pedro High School, Bandini, and Barton Hill, as often times siblings of Dana students also attend these schools. Other schools in the community send families to Dana in an effort to help get them what they need. Many of the families at the schools have not received any services up until this point and are unaware of where to go for help. Aranda not only provides donations, but she also works with the parents to teach them how to obtain services and housing on their own. Donations are always appreciated and needed. Priority items include new and gently used clothing for the entire family, new or gently used athletic shoes for students, hygiene items, bath towels, canned goods, school supplies, new underwear, and backpacks. Gift cards to restaurants, grocery, and clothing stores are also useful. Aranda arranges an adopt-a-family every year for the holidays. She will be connecting families with donors by the end of November. For Thanksgiving, she hopes to create care packages for moms with financial constraints, offering them hygiene products like brushes, toothpaste, soap, and bath towels. With the focus on the children all the times, she feels like mothers deserve positive attention as well. Donations can be dropped off at the Dana Counseling Office or at the Parent Center. For more information, contact Yolanda Aranda at yaranda@lausd.net or (310) 241-1117. Dana is also looking for volunteers to assist in beautifying the campus. The PTO is grateful for any help with murals, stenciling, painting, gardening, and cleaning. Volunteers are also needed to pick-up and wash PE uniforms once a week for students who do not have access to laundry machines. If interested, please contact danams.pto@gmail. com or call Glori Sestich at the Parent Center at (310) 241-1100. spt Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com or @iroamjen on Instagram.
Thank you San Pedro for over 30 Years of Support!
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NOVEMBER GIVING: TRIVIA, CLEAN-UPS & CASINO NIGHT by George Palaziol
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November is here, and with it comes many opportunities in which we can give back to the community we live in and love so much. The MOMS Club of San Pedro is holding a fundraiser that will benefit Harbor Interfaith Services. All proceeds will go towards purchasing Thanksgiving and Christmas meals and also adopting a local family. They will be holding a trivia night at Big Nick's Pizza (1110 N. Gaffey St.) on November 6 at 6 p.m. Teams will compete for 50% of entry fees ($20 per team) and 15% of all proceeds that evening is graciously being donated by Big Nick's Pizza. You can sign your team up early via paypal.me/momsclubofsanpedro or you can pay the night of. If you'd simply like to support the MOMS Club, you can follow the link above and make a donation. Please state what the donation is for in the comments section. The Christensen Science Center (2201 Barrywood Ave.) is hosting its monthly cleanup on November 17 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. The event is one in a number of monthly events to get the community involved with cleaning up the science center so they can have MOMS Club of San Pedro
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school classes start coming again. Vic and Bonnie Christensen kept the center open in 1969/1970; children could go feed the animals, as well as go there with school groups, where they learned about the animals and cultivated their own gardens. Victor and other community members, are aiming to keep it the way it was (or as close as they can get it) so students can return again. This is the last of all the science centers LAUSD has of this type. If you’d like to help with their monthly cleanup, please wear close-toed shoes and sunscreen. Water and snacks will be provided. The Red Men Lodge (543 W. Shepard St.) will be hosting a Casino Night Fundraiser on November 10 from 5–9 p.m. Proceeds will be split among their philanthropy, funding for Alzheimer’s research, and the fund to renovate their own building. Plans include electrical work and upgrades in the kitchen. They will be serving lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and dessert. The cost is $35 for presale, $40 at the door. There will also be a 50-50 raffle drawing, bingo, and other games. spt George Palaziol is the founder of Serving San Pedro. He can be contacted at: servingsanpedro@gmail.com.
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by Mike Lansing I recently finished and highly recommend San Pedro alum and childhood friend Peter Adum’s novel, A New Day Yesterday, which is set in our town back in the early ‘70s. Main character Niko narrates us through the ebb and flow of his senior year at San Pedro High School, the elimination of cruising Pacific Avenue, great restaurants of yesteryear such as Cigo’s, hanging out at Averill Park under the cover of darkness, movies at the Strand Theatre, neighborhood versus neighborhood football games on the weekends, and the inevitable angst of young adult relationships. Adum also reminds us of the questionable demolition of historic Beacon Street rather than thoughtful renovation, and the end of the Vietnam draft, which luckily changed/possibly saved the lives of myself and most of my friends. Like Peter and his character Niko, I am a lucky person to have grown up here in the ‘60s and early ‘70s. We had the San Pedro Boys Club, Cabrillo Beach, Peck Park and Gaffey Street pools, organized sports with just as good competition in the streets and open spaces, great restaurants such as Cigo’s, Peppy’s, Trani’s, Chin’s Garden, Papadakis Taverna, La Conga, La Paloma, Ryps Café, the Hamburger Hut, and many more. We all came from immigrant families – and that was okay! Our parents worked hard, and we had some families who truly prospered. Too many families who were the working poor and/or lived in public housing, and the rest of us that fit somewhere in between. The reason I am “savoring” San Pedro is that I see how our community has so much to offer, while we address a number of issues all communities are facing. I see how generous individuals, companies, and others support nonprofits who serve “those who need us most” including my Boys & Girls Clubs, Harbor Interfaith, Rainbow Services, Beacon House, and many others. I see the success of Clean San Pedro, the planned renovation of Rancho San Pedro, the hopefully soon to be initiated San Pedro Public Market, the
successful early stages of AltaSea, the Downtown San Pedro Arts District, and other business improvements. We now have four high schools and the fabulous John Olguin campus, the great expansion of recreational facilities by the San Pedro Youth Coalition and others, an amazing Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, and many savory restaurants including three Thinks, Pina’s, Taxco, Sushiya, Tashiro, Sorrento’s, Pacific Diner, Omelette & Waffle Shop, and an even better J. Trani’s, to name just a few. Today, the homeless situation continues to monopolize the conversations of many, and Councilman Buscaino is chastised for not solving an unsolvable problem while he diligently tries to overcome our NIMBYs and bring forward a temporary/partial solution to those few who are living on our streets. I say few because the real housing problem is our working poor neighbors facing housing costs that relegate a much larger portion of our community to living in cars, 10 to a small apartment, or in converted garages. These number in the hundreds, if not thousands in our community, and are only a missed paycheck away from joining the relatively few relegated to the streets. So, if we really want to “save” San Pedro, we need to concentrate on improving the housing limitations of the growing number of our working poor neighbors and families. For those relative few, visible homeless, are not the real problem. The real problem is the many more homeless that we don’t see, or who will soon be without true public and private sacrifice. Even with our limitations, I continue to savor San Pedro. I believe we can address our challenges realistically, while at the same time savoring what is great about our community. We are not perfect, but we never were. We need to keep working to make us better – but that takes effort, collaboration and investment. Wishing you and yours and those who need us most, a most happy and savory Thanksgiving holiday! God bless. spt Mike Lansing is the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.
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A SHEAR CAREER
Isidoro stands in his Grand Avenue barber shop.
(photo: John Mattera Photography)
ISIDORO COLONNA CELEBRATES A 60-YEAR CAREER AS ONE OF SAN PEDRO’S FAVORITE BARBERS by Joshua Stecker Walking into Isidoro’s Barber Shop is like walking back in time. As you step inside, a cash register, probably from the 1960s, sits on a shelf to the left. Above it, a red rotary phone (that may or may not work) is attached to the wall. Two barber chairs sit in front of a large mirror that spans most of the wall. Below the mirror on a shelf, all the necessary tools of the barber are strategically placed and lined up neatly in rows. Each one clean and shiny. To the right of the mirror is a vintage toy car collection with a sign that reads, “Please don’t touch the cars. Thank you.” On the opposing wall, within a sea of memories, hangs the price list: Men’s Haircut: $7, Children’s: $7, Flat Top: $8, Long Hair: $10. Yes, those are current prices. For nearly 60 years, Isidoro Colonna has been giving a fresh look to customers spanning five generations, three shops, and two countries. It’s been an amazing run, but soon Isidoro (the single name by which everyone in town knows him, like Cher) will be putting down his shears for good as he plans to retire by the end of the year. “So, what are you going to call this story? The story of Isidoro the Barber?” he asks, laughing in his slightly-broken-English-with-an-Italian-flair accent. He’s immediately disarming, with the sweetest of demeanors, and even at 77, age has done little to his vitality and stamina. He still sees regular customers weekly and could continue working for a few more years if he wanted to, but he still has other things he wants to do and says now is the right time to start his next chapter. “I feel very proud to have done this service to all those people I’ve met in my lifetime,” he says as we sit down to chat and he begins to tell me his life’s story. A story many San Pedrans of his generation will find very familiar. JUST A BOY Isidoro’s journey begins, like many San Pedrans of his generation, on the island of Ischia, Italy. When he was nine-years-old, his grandfather, also named Isidoro, brought him to his local barber where he wanted his grandson to work. “My grandfather, he used to go to a barber named Agostino, and he said to him that he wanted me to become a barber. So, right away, Agostino had me sweeping and I started working,” he remembers. Isidoro’s apprenticeship lasted four years. At 13, he was allowed to start putting lather on men’s faces before a shave. By 14, Agostino believed he was ready to take on his own chair, but first, Isidoro had to prove he was ready. “I started cleaning, but step by step, I was getting more responsibility,” he says. “Then later on, when I was ready, I had to give the owner a shave and cut his 18 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2018
hair to make sure I was good enough to do the job. When I was 14, he said to me, ‘You’re good working with the customers.’ There were three chairs and I proved myself very good. And he was very proud of me. I worked that chair until I was 17, then I left for the United States.” Wanting to join his father and brother who left for the U.S. two years prior to join the fleet of fisherman in San Pedro, Isidoro left Ischia by himself on February 28, 1958, on a ship called the Giulio Casare. Being a minor, he was supposed to be accompanied by a guardian. “The guy who was supposed to watch me was so drunk all the time on wine, I never saw him,” he laughs. After an 11-day voyage, his first stop was Ellis Island in New York City. After a quick check of his luggage, he was picked up by his uncle and stayed a week in New York before taking the train cross-country to Los Angeles. He was picked up by his family at Union Station in Downtown L.A. and arrived for the first time in San Pedro. Unfortunately, the joy of his arrival quickly vanished as he arrived to find his father in the hospital sick with cancer. The doctors only gave him a few months to live, within that time Isidoro and his family were able to fly his father back to his homeland of Ischia, where he would pass away a couple months later. FINDING HIS CALLING Adjusting to life in San Pedro, and America for that matter, was difficult for Isidoro. After losing his father, he started working at an aluminum factory in Long Beach during the day and would take English language lessons at an adult school at night. All this time, he was also making haircut house calls to friends and family to make some extra money. “I finished my adult school, got my diploma, and then I enrolled in the Barber College in Long Beach. I quit the aluminum factory after five years because a friend told me about a barber job at Fort MacArthur,” remembers Isidoro. The job lead proved fruitful and Fort MacArthur hired Isidoro in 1967. He would stay at the military base cutting the hairs of soldiers and other military personnel for the next seven years until the base closed the barbershop. Confident in his abilities and wanting to be his own boss, Isidoro decided to branch out on his own, and in 1973, he opened his first barber shop on 10th Street and Pacific Avenue. “I was so happy to own my own business,” he laughs. The 10th and Pacific shop didn’t last long. The following year, he was approached by another barber selling his business on 9th Street. “He comes to me saying he wants $3,000 for his business. I said no, too much,” recalls Isidoro. Knowing 9th Street was a better location, he thought this guy might take his coun-
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teroffer. “So, I came back and said I’d give him $1,000 cash and he said ok.” It was the perfect location in San Pedro to have a small business in the mid1970s. Isidoro’s new barber shop was located next door to the popular bowling alley at the time. (The building is now the new Alliance Alice M. Baxter CollegeReady High School.) That area of Pacific Avenue was bustling and Isidoro was starting to enjoy the fruits of his labor. “It was a really good and interesting area at the time,” he says. “There was the Thrifty Drug Store on the corner. It was a good place to have a business.” Isidoro would move into his third and final barber shop, this one located at 917 S. Grand Avenue (at 9th Street), in 2005. Knowing he moved into this final location just 13 years ago, makes the fact that he’s decorated the shop with the vintage cash register and rotary phone all the more charming. “I had to raise my haircut price two dollars when I moved here,” he says. “From five to seven.” THE MORE THINGS CHANGE… The methods of the modern-day barber haven’t changed much in the six decades since Isidoro began cutting hair. Shears may be sharper and built better, brands and hair products may be different, but the art of the traditional men’s haircut and straight-edge shave remains timeless. James Brown, owner of San Pedro Brewing Company and a regular customer of Isidoro’s, loves the throwback feeling he gets every time he walks into the shop. “I met Isidoro right before I opened the Brew Co. in 1999. Introduced myself as James, he's called me Jimmy ever since. I loved it. It’s a throwback in time, with a single chair, Sinatra on the radio, hot shaving cream and a straight-edge razor. He always asks how my family is doing. I just love the guy.” Isidoro recalls one of his most famous customers, politician and bridge namesake, Vincent Thomas. “His mother-in-law used to live upstairs of my shop,” he remembers. “Whenever he’d come and visit her, he’d come in and get a haircut. He was a really nice guy.” When asked what his favorite part about cutting hair has been, Isidoro is quick to say that getting to know people and becoming a part of the fabric of the community of San Pedro has been most rewarding. “I enjoy the trade, it’s a good trade,” he says. “The most important thing is connecting and hearing ideas from different people. We talk history and geography and where they’re from. Every day, I enjoy meeting all different people. I never refused anyone.” THE NEXT CHAPTER Even though Isidoro says he will miss cutting hair, he’s really excited about retirement. “This year will be fifty years since I married my beautiful wife, Carmela,” says Isidoro proudly. They celebrated their golden anniversary last month on October 19. The couple have three children, Lucy, John and Mary, and four grandchildren, Vincent, Austin, Alexis and Carly. As the time draws near towards retirement, Isidoro is hoping someone will come in and take over the business. “Maybe someone will come along and take the place over,” he says. “I would like to have someone take over the business. This way the name and the old-style traditions of this barber shop will continue.” Retirement won’t slow him down, though. He says he’ll continue to volunteer his time and talent to places like Little Sisters of the Poor, whenever they need someone to give haircuts to residents. He also plans on spending more time in his vegetable garden and going on casino trips with the Italian Catholic Federation. It’s been an amazing journey for a man whose career began when he was just a boy at the behest of his grandfather. “For over 55 years I was a barber. I love my job and I love working with people. I will be retiring this year. I will miss all of my customers, which are really my friends. You will always be in my heart. God bless all of you and thank you for being in my life all these years.” spt (Top to bottom) Isidoro's hands at work; with his wife Carmela in Puerto Vallarta in 2014; the barber's price list. (photos: John Mattera Photography)
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DOJO DEFENSE BUDO PAVILION OFFERS FREE WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE CLASSES by Caitlyn Trudnich
Marcus Bossett (photo: John Mattera Photography)
What is Budo? Traditionally in Japanese, “bu” means war, and “do” means way or path to enlightenment. However, its meaning is much greater in concept. Marcus Bossett, Renshi and owner of the recently opened Budo Pavilion explains, “It’s a life choice.” Bossett’s martial arts knowledge took shape while he was a pre-teen attending military school. In a teacher’s attempt to avoid Bossett’s failing of a class, he was encouraged to participate in a karate lesson. “In that class, I gained pride, honor, respect, and self-worth,” Bossett recalls. “[That teacher] changed the course of my life.” Martial arts quickly became a passion for Bossett, who later participated in UFC fighting as well as a variety of work within film and television. As a certified instructor and fifth degree black belt, he has dedicated his life to teaching those same values and inspiring others through his craft. “I am someone who loves the martial arts and wants to keep tradition, but share it in a new way,” he explains. One particular program that is gaining attention is Budo Pavilion’s women’s self-defense class, which is offered weekly on Friday nights and is free of charge. “As a black man with a black belt, I feel it is my responsibility to offer these free classes and help protect my community,” says Bossett. Bossett’s personal connection to the horrific crimes of assault inspired him to help others learn how to properly 22 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2018
defend themselves. After the tragic passing of his sister, Bossett decided to help empower women and provide them with important, life-saving techniques. “I wish that no woman would ever go through this kind of trauma,” says Bossett. “I provide defenses that are easy, fast, and effective.” The main focus of all programs offered is to enhance the lives of members of the San Pedro community, “We want to help kids and young adults learn more about themselves, and build strong bodies, as well as character,” says Bossett. “As for adults, we also offer fun and exciting training opportunities.” Budo Pavilion is a unique dojo, featuring a knowledgeable and expert sensei staff, and offering a wide variety of programs for all levels, including karate, kobudo, kyudo, aikido, kendo, jiujitsu, and kung-fu. They also offer training in European swords, Western archery, and for you Star Wars fans, even light sabers! “I want to help San Pedro become a stronger destination city. I want to bring the best martial arts teachers here from all over the world, and through the practice of martial arts and self-defense, help people grow from unsure to beyond confident,” says Bossett. spt Budo Pavilion is located at 1117 S. Pacific Ave. Free Woman’s Self Defense Classes (Ages 15+) are held every Friday, 7:30 – 8:30p. For more info, call (424) 287-BUDO (2836) or visit budopavilion.net.
TAKING THE STAGE RENÉE O’CONNOR TEACHES YOUNG ACTORS CONFIDENCE by Caitlyn Trudnich
O'Connor with Lucy Lawless on Xena: Warrior Princess; Inset: O'Connor today (photos: courtesy Renée O'Connor)
“Vulnerability is our greatest strength,” says Renée O’Connor, actor, producer, director, and resident of San Pedro. “In this time in our lives when the risks of being open and accessible are scarier than when I was a kid, being strong enough to speak what is truthful, being compassionate with everyone, and being authentic in every moment is vital to being a great actor.” Keeping these principals in mind, O’Connor (famously known for her role as Gabrielle in Xena: Warrior Princess) is using her expertise to help young and aspiring actors learn more about their craft, as well as themselves. O’Connor, along with husband, Jed Sura, and their children, are all heavily involved in the San Pedro arts and theater community, including work with Encore South Bay, Little Fish Theatre, and her own production company, ROC Productions. “There have been many opportunities where we work with [kids] to develop their scenes, both on and off the stage,” says O’Connor. “Eventually, I had enough parents asking, ‘When are you going to start a class in our area?’ And so, I did it.” Her Fundamentals of Acting classes are geared for ages 13 and up, with O’Connor teaching a variety of skills and methods, most notably, the Sanford Meisner Technique. “The technique teaches how to live truthfully in a moment,” says O’Connor. “Its still in the foundation of everything I do, on stage and in film.” In addition, she also offers classes that assist in audition techniques, as well as an introduction to performing Shakespeare. “I teach a way to deconstruct the text, so there is no fear,” she explains. In today’s evolving entertainment world, young actors face new challeng24 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2018
es. “Young actors today have a delicate balance to play with social media,” O’Connor describes. “On one hand, producers will take an interest in actors who are 'influencers' or who have a large following on social media. It also offers these young actors a platform to develop their own material and have instant feedback. The problem, which in my opinion, is larger than the benefit of having a large social media following, is that these actors very quickly think their greatness is in response to how many 'likes' they have acquired. Therefore, the amount of time spent trying to please an audience who is a click away from bullying you is time wasted. Instead, I am persuasive about guiding students to develop a craft which will be useful as a great actor.” In addition to producing the film Watch the Sky, directed by San Pedroraised, Alex Murillo, as well as recently finishing her second production with Little Fish Theatre, On Clover Road, O’Connor herself is constantly learning from her performances, saying, “I am always looking for new challenges.” Looking to the future, O’Connor hopes to see young actors thrive in their careers, become involved within the local arts community, and continue to teach her a thing or two. “The students I have now have a desire to learn and that is infectious,” she proudly shares. “They are trusting me by being in my class and being open to what I have to say.” She adds, “I am honored, really.” spt Fundamentals of Acting classes are held at the Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.). For more information, visit ROCpictures.com.
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NOVEMBER 2018 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 25
SPORTS
L.A. SPORTSWALK OF FAME HONORS LOCAL ATHLETES by Jamaal K. Street The San Pedro Sportswalk to the Waterfront received a brand new name. The newly-titled Los Angeles Sportswalk of Fame celebrated a new group of honorees at an induction ceremony on Monday, October 8. The nonprofit organization, which also celebrates its 40th anniversary, also held its event at a new location, in front of the Battleship USS Iowa. Record attendance was set for the occasion, and more than $20,000 was raised for the local Boys & Girls Clubs. Rick Pielago, President of the L.A. Sportswalk Foundation, noted, “I think we set a new standard for our organization with our latest induction. We had world-class athletic talent, a hometown flair, coupled with a military salute while raising money for a great cause. But, being competitive types ourselves, we can’t wait to break our own records in 2019.” This year, the L.A. Sportswalk presented a plaque to a record-number eleven inductees. Special guests involved in the induction ceremony included Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, and Los Angeles City Councilmember Joe Buscaino, who
Class of 2018 (l to r): Robby Gordon, Mike Scoiscia, Frank Manumaleuna, Lynn Swann, Tony Dobra, Johnny Campbell, Joe Bird, Chris Forsberg, Don Horn and Ralph DeQuebec. Councilman Joe Buscaino and Supervisor Janice Hahn (center) were also in attendance. (photo: Michael Baker)
awarded each athlete with proclamations from both the County and City. Sportscasters Petros Papadakis and Ed Arnold (Sportswalk honoree), and Vince Ferragamo (Sportswalk honoree), took turns at the podium with introductions, remarks, and questions for the newest inductees. Bringing the illustrious total up to 150 honorees, this year’s L.A. Sportswalk of Fame inductees included: Swimming legend, Joe Bird, has run over 25 marathons and competed in the Hawaiian Iron Man four times, but is best known for a wonderful career teaching and coaching swimming and water polo from 1961–1981 at Fermin Lasuen and Mira Costa High Schools. In three short years at Mira Costa, he turned the Mustangs into a swimming and water polo powerhouse, developing over 30 swimming All-Americans, countless All-CIF water polo players, and led both a 14’s team and a 16’s team to water polo national championships. Motorcycle racing legend, Johnny
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Campbell, a San Clemente native, is an 11-time Baja 1000 Champion, establishing himself as one of the Kings of the Desert. Campbell’s success at the Baja 1000, where riders navigate their way across 1,000 miles of rugged Mexican terrain, is beyond explainable, winning eleven times at insane speeds on a motorcycle, a feat many in the sport consider to be untouchable. Tillman Award winner, Ralph DeQuebec, USA Paralympic Sled Hockey Gold Medalist, United States Marine, San Pedro High School football alumni, who was notably featured on the cover of last month’s issue of San Pedro Today. Baseball legend and business mogul, Ray Deeter, earned All-City honors at San Pedro High School for baseball and went on to Compton College after serving for the US in the Navy. In 1948, Ray played in the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues in 1948, followed by World Softball Championships in 1952-1953. In 1962 with the Mary Star softball team, he won another world championship in Connecticut and was named MVP of the tournament. Deeter was also a successful business leader in San Pedro for over 40 years. Softball coaching legend and Trani Award winner, Tony Dobra, garnered an impeccable coaching record in 35 years coaching both at San Pedro High School and Mary Star. In his 29 years with San Pedro, the Pirates won 21 league crowns and 13 CIF-Los Angeles City Section championships. Dobra won 735 games, fourth all time in California according to Cal-Hi Sports. Christopher Forsberg is the most successful drifting driver, having won three championships and 57 podium finishes. In Japan, Forsberg won a third Formula Drift championship.
Don Horn had an illustrious career in football at Gardena High from 1960–1962, and later quarterbacked Harbor College to an unbeaten 1964 season, played at San Diego State and quarterbacked the Aztecs to a 1966 “Small College” national championship. In 1967, he was drafted 25th overall in the NFL by legendary Green Bay Packers Coach Vince Lomardi, and was a member of the 1967 Packers team that won Super Bowl II. Robby Gordon, son of off-road racer “Baja Bob Gordon,” got his start in off-road racing and won five straight SCORE championships from 1986–1990, a sixth championship in 1996, and then a seventh in 2009. In his career Gordon has won titles in Indy Cars, NASCAR sports cars, and offroad racecars, piling up victories in the Trans-Am Series, Formula Off-Road Series, the Inaugural Stadium Super Truck Championship, the Baja 1000 three times, and the Baja 500 four times. Frank Manumaleuna was a foursport star at Banning High in the early 1970s, but it was football where he most excelled. Manumaleuna went on to play at the likes of UCLA, San Jose State, the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, and the USFL Portland Breakers in his career. NFL Hall of Famer and USC athletic director, Lynn Swann, who as a topnotch wide receiver, was a member of the 1972 undefeated national champion Trojans team, and won four Super Bowls with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mike Scioscia, who recently finished his 19th season as the manager of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, leading the Angels to the World Series title in 2002, and won over 1,500 games. In his playing days, Scioscia played in the Major Leagues for 15 years, winning two World Series with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981 and 1988. spt
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LITTLE AMERICA
ANNOUNCING PLANS FOR THE SAN PEDRO HERITAGE MUSEUM
by Angela "Romee" Romero Historically, there are only two areas in the entirety of San Pedro that were dominated by a single ethnic group, so much so that it warranted a nickname. The earliest was “Little Sweden” on 6th Street between Centre and Mesa Streets before the business district crept west from the waterfront. The last and largest was “Mexican Hollywood,” a poor neighborhood of ramshackle homes in the area where the cruise ship terminal now sits. Any other “little” designation is contrived and could be construed as disrespectful to the intermingled fabric of San Pedro’s storied diverse neighborhoods where on any given block you could count as many different ethnicities as you have fingers on your hands. It makes as much sense claiming a large swath of San Pedro for any one group as it would to claim something similar on Ellis Island. If San Pedro is a “little” anything, it is a Little America. It was the port of opportunity, and every single San Pedran is united by the fact that someone in our family was smart enough to realize it and brave enough to cross countries and oceans to get here. San Pedro is proof positive that the grand experiment that is America can work, that immigrants from all over the world can
come here, live together, work hard and give their families better lives. These Pedro pioneers managed to retain their cultural identities while becoming fierce Americans, instilling in their children the importance of making your voice heard, whether it be on the picket line or at the ballot box. Diversity, work ethic and civic engagement are the core pillars of San Pedro culture and we should use them to build more than just a plaza, San Pedro needs a museum. A museum is the mirror a community needs to see their experiences reflected in, a place where their stories can be told. San Pedro’s unique culture and history, apart from the city of Los Angeles and even the port, make it more than deserving of such a place. And there is no better time than now for one to emerge, because we’re going to need it. San Pedro is on the verge of major change and we need to have the knowledge of our past to guide us through these uncertain waters. A quick look at history shows us that we’ve been in this position before. Charismatic leaders waving the banner of development, promising that what we sacrifice today will bring a better San Pedro tomorrow. In 1909, we gave up our independence to the city of Los
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Undated photo of women in various traditional cultural dress outside Point Fermin Lighthouse. (photo: courtesy San Pedro Bay Historical Society)
Angeles and in the 1970s we gave up Beacon Street. The question we should all be asking ourselves is, what are we willing to give up today? San Pedro is going to change, but it’s up to all of us to make sure that we have a say in how it changes. The world can’t afford to overlook this community anymore. We’ve been told time and time again that we’re the next frontier. So, whatever you love about San Pedro, be prepared to fight for it, however you can. There is so much I love about San Pedro that it would tear me apart trying to save it all. I’m reminded of a slogan that appeared on a banner over Beacon Street at the height of the battle over joining the City of L.A., “Take All But Our Harbor.” Take all but our stories. Buildings and people come and go but their stories can last forever if we give them a venue. And there are thousands of stories begging to be told. That’s why I’ve decided to establish the San Pedro Heritage Museum. Heritage, to me, means a history and a culture that has been passed on through a commonality. San Pedro is
the thing that unites all San Pedrans, the transplants and the legacies. The mission of the San Pedro Heritage Museum will be to identify, preserve, and promote our unique history and culture. This is how I’m choosing to fight for the San Pedro I love. It’s a big deal and I’m super scared but my strength comes from these stories, like the one about a boy from Mexican Hollywood who grew up to be a lifeguard and turned some jars on a card table into the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. I’m going to honor that boy, John Olguin, and just "do it, do it." If you’re willing to fight for the San Pedro you love and want to arm yourself with some history, please join me Sunday, November 4, at Siren’s Java & Tea House (356 W. 7th Street) at 1 p.m. for a free presentation called, “San Pedro History Basics.” This will be a great introduction to key events in local history. I will also be sharing more about my plans for the San Pedro Heritage Museum and how you can get involved. For more information and to RSVP, please email sanpedroheritagemuseum@gmail.com or call (310) 808-7800. spt
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'I WORKOUT ALL THE TIME, BUT MY BODY DOESN’T CHANGE' by Ricky Magana
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30 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2018
This summer, I turned 32. It marks 16 years since I started working out. Half my life. Weird. I actually remember my first day in a fitness club. It was sensory overload: humming treadmills, bright fluorescent lights, aerobic classes, and lots of sweaty people. I found myself in the weight room with the free weights. I was a deer in headlights trying not to look like an amateur. Gym intimidation is definitely real and I had it. If it wasn’t for tons of reading, copycatting, and asking questions from the trainers and gym veterans, I may never have found my way. As I look back on all the years of sweat and clanging metal, there was a point, about two years after I started, where I had a strange epiphany. In every gym I went to, only a small percentage of people continually got stronger, leaner, and continued to improve. But a much larger majority who populated the health club everyday didn’t seem to change at all, people who worked out hard and often. And yet, despite all their efforts, they hardly looked like they exercised. Why is that? How can someone work so hard, show up so consistently, and yet, achieve almost nothing in terms of progress? Well, in the 16 years of training, I’ve found that this is usually due to something I had when I first started: A flawed perception of what exercise is. For a long time in my initial workout days, I thought the whole point of going the gym was to burn calories. I figured, I’m supposed to “burn off” all the food I eat, right? So, with about 40 pounds to lose, I’d do lots of calorie scorching activities. I would run, bike, elliptical, and hit any machine I could. I’d watch the monitor tell me how many miles and calories I burned with satisfaction. It was effective, at first. But after a few months, I hit a plateau. No more weight loss. And the problem was, how do you bust through a plateau when you’re already giving 110%? Nevertheless, I’d tried to cut more calories and do even more cardio. I’d wear a sweatshirt, sit in the sauna, get
hopped up on pre-workout caffeine cocktails. I tried it all. I soon reached a point where I just couldn’t run any more than I was. And regarding my diet, I was already as “low carb” as you can get. Having done everything I could, I was stuck with nowhere to go. My frustration led me to keep studying the literature on training and one day I came across a novel concept that I almost overlooked: Muscle is expensive. When your body builds muscle, that lean tissue has a cost, it burns calories to maintain. So as a person adds muscle, they increase the calories they burn throughout the day. The more muscle they have, the more calories they burn. If I increase my muscle, over time my metabolism would increase and in turn, burn calories in and out of the gym. This was a game changer. I realized most of the exercise people do does the exact opposite. People, in the pursuit of more calorie burning, often end up overtraining with cardio and high volume, couple that with poor eating and it makes it hard to build lean muscle and causes whatever muscle they do have to get burned for fuel. With my previous routine, the harder I worked, the harder it made it to keep my results because it worked against lean muscle growth. I discovered that if I wanted to transform my body, training in the gym should stimulate strength and preserve/build muscle. That’s it. Cardio should be used sparingly as a supplement to resistance training, not be the foundation. After discovering this, by approaching exercise in a way that aligned with how my physiology was designed to change, I achieved more in three months than the previous two years (and with significantly less effort and time). I know not everyone is in the gym to transform their body, I’m not talking to them. But if you are spending hours training not getting anywhere, this might be why. Change how you see exercise and what you see from exercise will change. 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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VOICES
LEADERSHIP THAT SERVES by Pastor Nathan Hoff passages from the Prophet Isaiah recently, and the four “servant songs” embedded in this book (Isaiah 42, 49, 50, 52-53) have given me pause more than once. The political and religious mood of Isaiah’s time included lots of bragging and bickering from the kings and priests of Judah. Toxic acts of selfpromotion, and attitudes of entitlement arced their national life toward slavery instead of freedom. Leaders need to gain or maintain power, which usually makes them forget what power is for in the first place. God instructs Isaiah to tell those leaders that he will send his people a real leader who won’t come to take, but will come to give. This servant leader won’t come to be served, but to serve (Mark 10.45). The nation doesn’t exist for the king. The school doesn’t exist for the Leadership Commandment 2: principal. The church doesn’t exist Leaders are servants. for the pastor. The customer doesn’t I tell the other leaders at Trinity, “We exist for the business owner. Children don't always vacuum, set up tables, don’t exist for parents. On every level, and take out the trash, but we do sometimes.” When I was in college, the leaders exist for those they serve. The greater distance between the leader school was facing financial challenges. At that time, I had undiagnosed FOMO and those they lead typically creates an erosion of servanthood. A newly (aka Fear of Missing Out). One of the elected representative often feels like symptoms of FOMO is minor insom“one of us,” but the farther they go, nia, brought on by the thought of a the more they turn into just another small group of people who might go to Denny’s without you. This fear kept me politician trying to keep their job. Servant leadership is sustained up, sometimes late. One night, I caught through simple proximity. When you the new college president down in the walk way out in front of people, they wood shop. The president didn’t know lose sight of you and you of them. I was watching him. Before that night, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stayed I didn’t know he smoked a pipe. But, in close proximity; he marched and I also discovered something else. He served time together with those who emptied the trashcans from the whole followed him. Mother Teresa through lower level of the building. He even washing wounds. Jesus through looked both ways to make sure no one was watching before humbly hauling all washing feet. President Bergquist through taking out the trash. And the rubbish out to the dumpster. I was they changed the world. Not in spite sold on President Bergquist that night. of their servanthood, but through it. I would follow him because I saw his This all makes a difference in how heart in his actions. He was a certain kind of leader. He was a servant leader. we identify, elect, or equip our future leaders. But it is also a call to you, dear The gracious way he served in public reader. Leadership is scalable, and at matched the way he served in private. some level, you have been called to lead. Tao Te Ching, a Taoist writing Brené Brown’s new book posits a helppossibly from as far back as the 6th ful and scalable definition of leadership century BC, offers an early hint at the that serves: “I define a leader as anyone significance of servant leadership: who takes responsibility for finding the “The highest type of ruler is potential in people and processes, and one of whose existence the who has the courage to develop that people are barely aware. potential” (Brené Brown, Dare to Lead. Next comes one whom Random House, 2018. Page 4). spt they love and praise. Next comes one whom they fear. Nathan Hoff is the Pastor at Next comes one whom they Trinity Lutheran Church in San despise and defy.” The Prophet Isaiah wrote at about the Pedro. Follow his blog at: same time in Israel’s southern kingdom, trinitypastor.blogspot.com. Judah. I’ve been preaching through “As we witness the erosion of the moral authority of our governmental, religious, and media leadership, it might be worthwhile to reflect on what we really need in leaders. Over the last 13 years, I have pastored (very imperfectly) at Trinity Lutheran. I have compiled nine commandments (I know I need one more) of leadership for our elders, staff, council, and others who serve in leadership. This month, I will continue to comment on a few of these commandments. You can find my previous column in last month’s issue, available at sanpedrotoday.com.
32 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2018
GIVE A DOG A FOREVER HOME
San Pedro Today has partnered with volunteers from Harbor Animal Care Center to feature dogs currently in need of a new forever home. The dogs featured on this page are all available for adoption as of press time. If you’re interested in adopting any of the pups featured, contact Harbor Animal Care Center at (310) 548-2632.
Meet Changa! Changa is a lovely girl who is affectionate, rolls over and gives you her belly and likes to be near you. She's good on leash and trots along nicely at your side. And how about those eyebrows!
Meet Duke! Duke is a decidedly debonair dude who was surrendered to the shelter by his family, it's no wonder he seems so sad and lonely. He’s a senior dog and he LOVES people. He does not like other dogs. He's a sweetheart who needs someone to take him home and spoil him rotten.
Meet PJ! He warms up quickly, especially if you you have a yummy treat. He loves to be held and to feel safe in your arms, but he doesn't like any sudden movement around his head. PJ is good on leash and takes treats softly. He needs someone who is dog savvy and can work through his issues.
Meet Zane! Zane is insanely handsome, a sleekly suave stunner with a friendly disposition. Spirited and strong, Zane could make an ideal running or hiking buddy. Zane would love to welcome you home!
Meet Baron! This devilishly handsome boy is a feast for the eyes! He's as smart as he is gorgeous, and he makes for very good company. Baron is attentive and knows his sit command. He needs a family to call his own.
Meet Peaches! Pretty Peaches is a full-figured gal who is sweet as pie and easy on the eyes. Peaches is gentle and calm, and totally content to sit quietly at your side. She also likes to play fetch and knows her sit and shake commands.
Hours: Mon – Fri, 8a-5p NOVEMBER 2018 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 33
WEDDING
ŽIVJELI TO LOVE! BILLY & KATARINA BARRON APRIL 7, 2018 story by Caitlyn Trudnich photo by John Mattera Photography
“If you wanna be happy for the rest of your life, better make a Croatian woman your wife…” Okay, so that’s not technically how the 1963 Jimmy Soul song goes, but perhaps it should have. Katarina (Dusevic)’s upbringing was very much a part of the Croatian community of San Pedro. “My dad came to San Pedro in the ‘70s from Croatia,” she explains. “Both he and his brother got married and started their families here.” Growing up, Katarina enjoyed participating in a variety of traditional activities, including performing folklore dancing for many years. Billy, according to Katarina, “had an all-American upbringing on the hill,” including playing baseball at Peninsula High School, where the couple both attended and met in 2005. Though they often ran in the same social circles, their love story didn’t officially start then. “Billy claims he tried to get my attention a couple of times while back in school,” says Katarina. “But to this day, I don’t buy it.” About ten years later, Billy enjoyed a trip to the Balkans. While traveling, he remembered fondly the Croatian girl he once went to high school with. “One Facebook request, and the rest is history!” says Billy. The couple dated for two years, and
while both shared interests such as a love of outdoor activities, including hiking, paddle boarding, and tennis, the duo also have differences that still compliment one another. “I like to think we are the perfect yin and yang couple,” says Katarina. “I am very emotional and he is very logical.” Billy’s logic certainly came in handy on March 5, 2017. Planning to propose, he asked Katarina to go on a walk with him…in the rain. “I was complaining the whole time and being a total brat,” Katarina humorously recalls. After about ten minutes of trying to persuade her to go to a more secluded location, Billy got down on one knee and proposed. As luck would have it, the sun quickly came out just in time for the newly engaged couple to head to Billy’s parents home, where both families were waiting to celebrate. Later that summer, it was Katarina’s turn to help create a memorable experience. This time, in her family’s homeland. The couple stayed at Katarina’s family home in Croatia, where Billy was able to experience the “selo [village] life.” The trip also included a four-day stop in Ireland, where Billy’s ancestors are from. The love of family and heritage continued on their wedding day, April 7, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Croatian Catho-
34 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2018
lic Church in Downtown Los Angeles. The traditional ceremony, officiated by Father Zvonimir Coric, included father of the bride, Mate Dusevic, escorting Katarina down the aisle in front of 375 guests in attendance. The couple was also joined by mother of the bride, Dinka; parents of the groom, Robert and Stephanie Barron; matrons of honor, Ivana Bujas and Zora Kunich; bridesmaids Zrinka Dusevic, Kimberly Hults, Marina Kaymakcalan, and Stacey Williams; best man, Bryan Alt; and groomsmen, Robert Bujas, Brian Hults, Frank Kunich, Drew Whelchel, and Ryan Williams. The youngest members of the wedding party included flower girls, Petra Bujas and Mila Kunich, and “ring security,” Christopher Bujas, Luka Kaymakcalan, Marko Kunich, Eric Williams, and Mark Williams. During cocktail hour in St. Anthony’s main hall, guests were treated to delicious small bites and Croatian liquors, all while enjoying traditional tamburica music. The lively wedding reception included family-style dinner and entertainment provided by DJ Bill Lovelace. A Croatian celebration wouldn’t be complete without dessert. “The desserts were endless,” Katarina exclaims. “My mom has baked thousands of cook-
ies and desserts for other friends and family’s weddings, and the favor was certainly returned in kind.” Though it is difficult to pick a favorite moment of the night, the couple shares a personal memory. “When we sat down to have dinner, I told Katarina to look up and just absorb what was going on,” recalls Billy. “For about a minute, we just sat there, in awe that all the hard work paid off, and all of these people were here for us.” Katarina adds, “It was an incredible feeling.” Three months after the big day, the newlyweds went on a honeymoon to Bali, Indonesia. They, of course, made time to cheer on Croatia in the 2018 World Cup. In addition to Katarina working towards getting her Master’s Degree in Counseling from LMU in May, the couple hopes to continue their love of travel and visit as many destinations as possible. They later hope to start a family, and pass down their inherited pride in their culture, while also creating their own special traditions for the next generation. Billy and Katarina currently reside in Rancho Palos Verdes. Billy is an account executive for Bridgestone Global Mining, and Katarina is a fourth grade teacher at Holy Trinity School in San Pedro. spt
NOVEMBER 2018 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 35
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There are many reasons why people enjoy living in San Pedro: the neighborhoods, the views and, of course, our history and strong sense of community. However, one of our favorites is the uniqueness of our local home architecture. San Pedro is well known for having a wide array of stylistic homes including Spanish, Craftsman, Mid-Century Modern, Victorian, Colonial, etc. Buyers from all over flock to our community when these “period” homes hit the market, in an attempt to purchase a piece of history. These unique architectural gems serve as a reminder to which style homes were popular during different periods throughout the 20th century. For this month’s column, we thought it would be fun and informative to breakdown the unique characteristics of the different home styles. Here is a brief description of the styles of homes we tend to see most often in San Pedro: Victorian – Mostly built towards the end of the 1800s–1910, this style of architecture is known for its decorative trims, usually two to three stories in size, towers, and steep faced roofs. One great example of this style is on 13th Street just across from Daniels Field Stadium. The home was built in the 1880s by the Sepulveda Family as a wedding gift to their daughter and son-in-law, James Dodson. Craftsman – Craftsman-style homes were mostly built during the early 1900s. These homes are known for their large porches, gorgeous built-in cabinetry, and intricate wood detailing. Take a drive on the streets below Pacific Avenue or in the Point Fermin area, where you’re sure to spot one. Spanish – These homes were mostly constructed in the San Pedro area between 1920–1945. They usually consist of a stucco exterior, signature clay-tile roof, and arches near the doors and windows of the home. Many of these homes can be found around Gaffey Street and between 15th and 25th Streets. It’s hard to miss this style, as the clay tile roof is a dead giveaway. Mid-Century Modern – These homes were commonly built between the years of 1945–1975. They are very unique with their long flat roofs, large
windows/glass, long clean lines, and open floor plans. Mostly found in the upper Vista Del Oro, Point Fermin, and South Shores communities of San Pedro. A stunning example is a home found just across the street from Averill Park, which was built in 1959 by master architects, Joncich & Lusby. Colonial – The term “Colonial” originally referred to the style of home that was common amongst European settlers of the 17th century. There are different types of Colonial-style architecture, but the most common elements include windows that are placed symmetrically on both sides of a centered front door. Double-hung windows, steep roofs, large central chimney, and often built with brick or wood siding. In San Pedro, this style of home can be commonly viewed below Pacific Avenue in the historic Vinegar Hill area. Some homes in this neighborhood were built as far back as 1886 and into the early 1900s. In the beginning, building phases in our town began in early 1900s along the waterfront. Some of our oldest homes are great examples of Victorian, Colonial, and Craftsman-style, with many located close to Harbor Boulevard and Beacon Street. As San Pedro expanded towards Palos Verdes, more homes and areas were developed to make room for a growing population. Thus, you will see homes that are not as old as you move further away from the waterfront. These different styles of architecture are also a determining factor in property values. We’re fortunate to have such diverse homes in our community, which help to make our town, and more specifically, each neighborhood, unique. San Pedro does not consist of mainly track or factory homes, which is one of the reasons many people choose to reside here. Next time you are driving through town, look around and enjoy the beautiful architecture of these homes. See if you can determine the architectural style, and imagine how life was around San Pedro when they were built. Just make sure to drive safely while you are checking them out! spt Mike Harper is a Broker Associate at Keller Williams PV Realty and Peter Hazdovac is a Realtor® at Keller Williams L.A. Harbor. For more info, visit www.harperhazdovac.com.
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NOVEMBER 2018 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 41
Vincent Thomas Bridge (top); Spanish explorer, Sebastián Vizcaíno
THE BACK PAGE
THIS MONTH IN SAN PEDRO HISTORY
(photos: John Mattera Photography, Wikipedia)
went on the last 30-minute ride on the Ferry Islander, with nostalgia for an era that had passed.
compiled by Julia Swanson
November 29, 1602 – San Pedro was born. Spanish explorer, Sebastián November 6, 1794 – British explorer George Vancouver sailed into San Pedro Vizcaíno, had been sent by the Spanish viceroy up the California Harbor in his ship, HMS Discovery. coast. He anchored his ship where Fort MacArthur now stands and went November 12, 1906 – Harbor ashore. This was the day after the Gateway was annexed by City lunar eclipse of November 28, which of L.A. as part of the city's grand Vizcaino calculated to be a good scheme to have its own harbor. omen for the “birth” of San Pedro. He named the place after St. Peter, not the November 15, 1963 – The Vincent apostle, but the Bishop of Alexandria, Thomas bridge opens. A touch of martyred in the third century. This was sadness from the 300 people who
the second oldest named community in California, after San Diego. November 16, 1854 – Marriage in San Pedro of Phineas Banning and Rebecca Stanford, the only sister of William Stanford, owner of a ranch near the La Brea Tar Pits. She was 17, he was 24. They moved into their 30-room mansion in Wilmington in 1864, which survives as a historic landmark. They were very caring and devoted their lives to philanthropy, art and in caring for children. Banning built the first railroad in Southern California in 1869 that went from Los Angeles to Wilmington. spt
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