San Pedro Today - December 2017

DECEMBER 2017

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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So, I'm trying to be a minimalist.

No, that’s not some new self-help religion, though it’s possible it can turn into one. I was sick of seeing the clutter of things that I’ve accumulated over the years taking up space in my home and office, most of it with no real use in my life, and I wanted to do something about it.

A few months ago, I watched this great documentary on Netflix, Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things, and it immediately struck a chord with me. I’ve always been a collector of things. From baseball cards, to theatre Playbills, to memorabilia, I’ve accumulated some pretty interesting items over the years. Stuff that meant something to me at one time, but through the years, has lost either its usefulness or significance in my life. But instead of getting rid of it – by either selling or donating – I would keep it.

I’m a voracious magazine reader. I have subscriptions to more than a dozen titles, but instead of recycling them after I’m done, I would put them in neat stacks all around my office. I still have ten years’ worth of magazines in boxes in my garage. Ridiculous, right?

After watching that documentary, I realized the things I owned were starting to own me.

Did I need all these DVDs I’ve compiled over the years, now that most of what I have can be found on streaming services like Netflix or Hulu? Or the CDs that take up a full bookshelf, even though I already ripped the music into my iTunes account? And did I honestly need to keep those boxes of unopened Star Wars action figures, even though they haven’t risen in value in years and take up a ton of space in my garage? I realized all of these items (and more) were just taking up space, sitting on shelves collecting dust, giving me no real joy and taking up too much mental real estate every time I thought about

doing something with them.

Something had to change.

The documentary inspired me to read a few books on minimalism. I read Marie Kondo’s best-seller, Spark Joy, about the art of organizing and decluttering, and Minimalism: Living a Meaningful Life by Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus (the guys from the documentary). Minimalism’s overarching theme is defined as such: if something doesn’t provide a purpose or use, or doesn’t bring you joy, then it’s taking up unwanted space and you should get rid of it. It’s pretty simple, but when applied, can be a powerful tool for refocusing your life on what’s really important.

The other main tenet of minimalism is: experiences are much more valuable than things. It didn’t take studying minimalism to make me realize this.

I’ve written numerous times in this column about the value of travel, of getting out of San Pedro to experience life outside of our port town bubble. Travel, to me, is one of best things you can do to expand your world view and open your mind to new ideas. Travel adds much more value to life than anything currently sitting inside your home.

As we enter this holiday season, think about what your gifting to friends and loved ones. Is your gift something they’ll find joy in? Or will it just take up their physical and mental space? Is it something they can put to good use?

Instead of a thing, maybe purchase an experience like theatre, concert or movie tickets. Or maybe a gift certificate towards plane tickets. Or make a donation in their name to a nonprofit they support. There are plenty of nonprofit organizations in San Pedro that can use our help.

No matter what you do, I hope you and yours have a wonderful holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, San Pedro. spt Joshua Stecker is publisher/editorin-chief of San Pedro Today. Letters to the Editor can be emailed to contact@sanpedrotoday.com.

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DECEMBER 2017 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 5

DECEMBER 2017

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ADVERTISING:

ASSOCIATE EDITOR/ SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Patricia Roberts (562) 964-8166 | patricia@sanpedrotoday.com

ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION

Shana Ghekiere (310) 753-5176 | shana@sanpedrotoday.com

AT-LARGE CONTRIBUTORS

EMPIRE22 MEDIA LLC OWNER/PUBLISHER

Joshua J. Stecker

Caitlyn Trudnich

Joseph A. Castañeda

Jack Baric, Nathan Hoff, Brooke Karli, Ricky Magana, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Anthony Pirozzi, 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 9 | NUMBER 11

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 2009-2017, Empire22 Media LLC.

ON THE COVER: Crafted staff and artists (l to r): Lindsay Sochar, artist and visual director, Crafted; artist Eva Landis of Leather E; Sylvia Strem of Stay Adorned; Michelle Supertino of SirensCalling; and Rachel Sindelar, executive director, Crafted (photo: John Mattera Photography)

6 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

DECEMBER 2017 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 7

DECEMBER Now Through December 10 (Sun) – FERMIN LASUEN & FRIENDS TOY DRIVE. The Christmas Toy Drive will support families throughout our community, via Mary Star of the Sea, Holy Trinity, and St. Peter’s parishes. Unwrapped toys or gift cards can be delivered through Friday, December 8th to Chuy Ibarra (941 Gatun St.); Or Sunday, December 9th to Utro’s Café (Berth 73), with a celebration between Noon – 3p.

For more info, call Chuy Ibarra at (310) 833-3060, Sal Sorrentino at (310) 753-9781, or Dickie & Jerryne Soto (310) 547-4509.

Through December 30 (Sat) – ANNUAL HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE at the Assistance League of San Pedro -South Bay (1441 W. 8th St.), Weekdays: 10a – 5p, Saturdays: 11a – 3p. This boutique will offer a selection of holiday food items, stocking stuffers, decorations, as well as unique gift items. All proceeds benefit local philanthropic programs.

For more info, call (310) 832-8355, ext. 221.

2 (Sat) – LOS ANGELES HARBOR BOAT PARADE at the Port of LA, 6p. Officials and community leaders will take part in the parade as judges or passengers on approximately 60 boats parading along the LA Waterfront, with the theme of "Peace Around the World." For more info, visit laharborholidayafloat.org.

2 – 3 (Sat – Sun) – SEASIDE COLLECTIBLES at The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.), Handmade shells in an array of home décor gifts – perfect for holiday shopping!

3 (Sun) – 37th ANNUAL SPIRIT OF SAN PEDRO HOLIDAY PARADE in Downtown San Pedro, 1 – 3p. See story pg. 10.

3 (Sun) – PALOS VERDES SYMPHONIC BAND HOLIDAY CONCERT at the South Coast Botanic Garden (26300 Crenshaw Blvd.), 5p. Selections include The Night Before Christmas, a sing-a-long, and music by Leroy Anderson, Alfred

Reed, and Percy Grainger. Opening for the band (at 4:30) will be the Redondo Union HS Jazz Band. Tickets are $10 for adults; children 12 and under are free.

7 (Thurs) – EASTVIEW DOG PARK GRAND OPENING at Eastview Park (1700 Westmont Dr.), 10 – 11a. The latest local dog park celebrates its grand opening with the community. For additional info, please contact the Recreation & Parks Department at (310) 544-5260 or parks@rpvca.gov.

7 (Thurs) – SAN PEDRO TREE LIGHTING at Pepper Tree Plaza (638. S. Beacon St.), 4 – 8p. San Pedro Historic Downtown Waterfront, Councilman Joe Buscaino, and the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce presents this family-friendly event, featuring the annual tree lighting, hot chocolate, sweet treats, real snow, train rides, carolers, and a special appearance by Santa Claus! For more info, call (310) 732-4545.

7 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY ARTWALK in Downtown San Pedro, 6 – 9p.

This holiday-edition will feature carolers, food trucks, art gallery displays, and food and drink specials from local bars and restaurants. Experience the most anticipated monthly event in San Pedro!

9 (Sat) – DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD & HISTORY WALKING TOUR, 10a. Hollywood has been filming on location in San Pedro from day one. Walk in the footsteps of the famous and fabulous with historian and San Pedro Today columnist, Angela "Romee" Romero, as you discover where history and Hollywood have left their mark on downtown San Pedro. Tickets are $15 and space is limited. A second tour will be offered Sunday, December 17th. Call (310) 808-7800 to reserve.

9 (Sat) - KIDS STREETWEAR POP-UP at Street Sole (317 W. 6th St.), 11a - 5p. Come get your kids fitted for the holidays! Shop

8 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

brands including, Le Future Kids, Kill the Hype, and Hey Babe. Four pairs of custom kids Vans will be raffled off. First fifty kids to RSVP will receive a goody bag! To RSVP and for more info, visit streetsole.com.

9 – 10 (Sat – Sun) – IT’S A LU-LU JEWELRY SHOW at The Corner Store (1113 W. 37th St.), 9a – 4p. Shop bangles, earrings, and necklaces in every shape and size.

9 – 10 (Sat – Sun) – SAN PEDRO CITY BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER at the Warner Grand Theatre (478. W. 6th St.), Saturday: 2p & 7p; Sunday: 2p.

The performance features dance, magic, gorgeous sets and costumes, and is fun for the whole family. Don't miss this magical holiday tradition! For tickets, visit sanpedrocityballet.org. See story pg. 10.

10 (Sun) – FUSED GLASS WORKSHOPS at Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles (112 E. 22nd St., Warehouse No. 10), 3 – 5p.

Learn how to make your own 5x5 fused glass catch-all dish. Class is $35. Additional workshop avaible on December 17th, 2 – 5p.

Learn how to make your own 8x8 fused class dessert plate. Class is $50. Special early registration discount of 20% off when you signup and pay for your spot by November 30th. For more info, email thesirenscalling@gmail.com, or call (503) 572-0331.

15 – 17 (Fri – Sun) – CHRISTMAS MARKET at Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles (112 E. 22nd St., Warehouse No. 10), 11a – 9p. Crafted’s first European-style Christmas Market, featuring live holiday music & dancing, a selection of specialty holiday artists, seasonal items from open-air stalls, and festive foods served by local vendors.

Pick your perfect tree in their Christmas tree lot, take your photo in holiday-themed photo booths, get festive with DIY holiday crafts throughout the marketplace, and welcome an appearance from Santa Claus!

For more info, visit craftedportla.com.

15 (Fri) – MIRACLE ON 37th STREET at The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.), 5:30 – 7:30p. Santa is coming to The Corner Store for an old fashioned Christmas. Enjoy complimentary eggnog, photo opportunities with Santa (Arriving at 5:30p), and snow! The evening concludes with caroling through the neighborhood (7:30 – 8p). BYO jingle bells, flashlights, and of course, Christmas cheer!

16 – 17 (Sat – Sun) – MASAKO JEWELRY SHOW at The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.), 9a – 4p. Unique gems with a spin.

Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings.

23 (Sat) – IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th St.), 7 – 10p. Watch Frank Capra’s beloved holiday classic on the big screen, presented by the San Pedro International Film Festival.

For tickets and more info, visit spiffest.org.

30 (Sat) – SAN PEDRO CONSERVANCY 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 mudflats to a mini metropolis as you explore local landmarks like the Julia Morgan designed YWCA, the Warner Grand Theatre and the Historic Vinegar Hill District. Tickets are $15 and space is limited. Call (310) 808-7800 to reserve.

30 (Sat) HARBOR COLLEGE BASEBALL CLINIC at campus baseball field in Wilmington, 10a. Speakers will be Tony Bloomfield, Andy Lopez, Keith Ramsey and Jim O'Brien. Light lunch will be served. To sign up, contact Marco Alvillar or the athletic office, (310) 233-4122.

Want to see your event here?

Email events@sanpedrotoday.com to place a listing. Deadline for the January issue is Friday, December 15. Find more events at facebook.com/sanpedrotoday.

SAN PEDRO CONTINUES ITS ANNUAL HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

SAN PEDRO CITY BALLET'S 'THE NUTCRACKER' AND THE SPIRIT OF SAN PEDRO HOLIDAY PARADE RETURN TO DOWNTOWN

by Caitlyn Trudnich It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

With the holidays just around the corner, Downtown San Pedro kicks off Christmastime with the 37th Annual Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade on Sunday, December 3.

This festive holiday tradition welcomes more than 9,000 members of our local community, as we watch entertaining performances by high school bands, equestrian units, and pep squads, as well as appearances by notable members of the local community, including Santa Claus himself!

In addition to Jolly Ol’ Saint Nick, the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome the 2017 Grand Marshal, Southern California radio host, KOST 103.5 FM’s Mark Wallengren.

Wallengren’s voice is known for helping listeners, holiday music fans, and commuters, celebrate with their favorite seasonal songs.

This year’s parade will also feature Community Grand Marshal and Honorary Mayor of San Pedro, Domenic Costa. Through his campaign, Costa raised over $50,000 for the charities of his choice, including Port of Los Angeles High School, San Pedro High School Football, and the San Pedro Boys & Girls Club.

THE NUTCRACKER RETURNS This holiday season, talented performers and future stars of dance from our very own, local community, take the stage for San Pedro City Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker.

Now in its 24th year, this special display of dance and performance of the beloved tale, December 9th and 10th at the historic Warner Grand Theatre, features over 100 performers from ages four to adult. In addition to aspiring dancers, San Pedro City Ballet’s special production also includes entire families taking part in the fun, and seeking to entertain all who attend.

This family-friendly event will have

children of all ages feeling the spirit of Christmas, as the classic story follows young Clara on her whimsical adventure, accompanied by the masterful score, composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

For the third consecutive year, audiences will also be joined by 1,300 thirdgrade students from Wilmington and San Pedro, as part of San Pedro City Ballet’s community outreach program, which collaborates with local school districts to introduce students to the art of ballet.

Established in 1994, San Pedro City Ballet was created as a not-for-profit dance company serving greater Los Angeles, led by nationally recognized dancers and teachers, Cynthia and Patrick Bradley. Over the years, countless dancers have been trained and performed with the school, including the incomparable Misty Copeland, who made history by becoming the first African American female Principal dancer at the prestigious American Ballet Theatre in New York. Who will be the next rising star hailing from San Pedro?

Grab your tickets to this year’s presentation of The Nutcracker, and you’re sure to see the very talented future of the performing arts. spt The 37th Annual Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade is on Sunday, Dec. 3rd in Downtown San Pedro (Parade starts at 13th Street and Pacific Ave., and ends on 6th and Palos Verdes Sts.), from 1 – 3p. For more info, visit spholidayparade.com.

San Pedro City Ballet presents The Nutcracker at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 West 6th St.) on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 2p and 7p, and Sunday, Dec. 10 at 2p. Tickets are $19 for children under 12 and seniors over 62; $29 for adults; and $39 for premiere seating. For tickets and more info, visit sanpedrocityballet.org.

10 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

Top: Scenes from past productions of San Pedro City Ballet's The Nutcracker. Bottom: Grand Marshals Mark Wallengren (left) and Dominic Costa (right).

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VOICES

WIFE OF FAMOUS EVANGELIST PROVES WORTHY OF HER OWN BOOK

by Steve Marconi

Nearly every year at this time, I bring to your attention some literary works by current or former San Pedrans, or books about the area that would make good Christmas stocking stuffers. Here is a just-published book by a native San Pedran that perfectly fits the bill.

Mrs. Oswald Chambers: The Woman Behind the World’s Bestselling Devotional, by Michelle Ule. Oswald Chambers may be mostly unknown to the general public, but as the title of Ule’s new book says, he is a household name among evangelical Christians.

His own book, My Utmost for His Highest, has sold more than 13 million copies since it was published in 1927 (it’s never been out of print). The fact that it came out 10 years after Oswald’s untimely death 100 years ago this year is the impetus behind this inspiring biography of the silent partner in one of Christianity’s great couples.

Oswald was a well-known Bible teacher throughout Edwardian England and even in the United States, but owes most of his continuing fame to his wife, “Biddy,” the result of what, as this book clearly shows, was literally a match made in heaven. Oswald, the speaker, married a master stenographer, who took down his every word. After he

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died, Biddy made it her life’s work to get Chambers’ words published.

The story of how Ule ended up writing Mrs. Oswald Chambers is almost as interesting as the book itself, but it didn’t hurt that she was already a big fan, having read through My Utmost every year since 1999 and having read David McCasland’s biography, Oswald Chambers: Abandoned to God. That led her to visit the Chambers’ sites on an earlier visit to England, and coupled with extensive research, puts the reader right into early 20th century Britain and WWI Egypt, where the Chambers served as missionaries. It was while reading McCasland’s book, and noticing the prominent role played by Biddy, that the seed for Ule’s book was first planted.

Ule may have seen a bit of herself in this strong woman who was content to work behind-the-scenes, but when suddenly a widowed mother in her early 30s, used her indomitable faith to carry on her husband’s legacy.

Ule was born and raised in San Pedro, where her late mother, Jeanette Duval, was a girls P.E. instructor at Dana Junior High for 40 years. Ule attended Trinity Lutheran Church, graduated from San Pedro High in 1974, got her English literature degree from UCLA, married a naval officer, and now makes her home in Santa Rosa (barely escaping the recent conflagration). She is a best-selling author (specializing in Christian historical romance), blogger, and avid genealogist. Ule says her love of historical research began when she took independent study AP history from Joe Mardesich at SPHS. She also uses her genealogy skills to great effect in Mrs. Oswald Chambers, as we get intimately involved with the large circle of family and friends surrounding the Chambers. For instance, discovering that Biddy’s parents were actually first cousins.

Oswald Chambers’ life itself reads like a cross between Chariots of Fire and Lawrence of Arabia. Ule gives us

the love interest all good stories need.

The Chambers’ romance may have been short, but it was deep and intense, and their love – for each other and God – affected everyone with whom they came in contact. When you’re done with this book, you’ll truly believe that faith can move mountains. For more information, visit michelleule.com.

In Memoriam There will be no Santa Claus this Christmas.

Oh, there will be no lack of fake Santas at the malls and shopping centers, wearing phony beards and stuffed with padding. But the “real” Santa, Darrell Howe, died Oct. 31.

Playing Santa came naturally for Darrell, a longtime San Pedro resident who graduated from San Pedro High in S`70. While he struggled with weight issues most of his adult life, he used his natural girth to his advantage every Christmas season. When his bushy red beard turned to white, all he needed was to don his red suit and black boots to look like he’d just come down Clement Moore’s chimney. There was nothing fake about his Santa, including his joyful spirit.

He was a regular at local holiday events, from retail gigs to parties by all sorts of groups, religious and secular, arriving sometimes on firetrucks and even motorcycles. He loved doing it because he loved bringing joy to the hundreds of children who came to see him and sit on his lap. The twinkle in his eye wasn’t an act; he was the same lovable person at home or at work or at church.

A devoted husband and father, he died at age 65, surrounded by his wife, Dianne, and three daughters, Melissa, Kirstyn and Kimberly.

Yes, Virginia, there was a Santa Claus. And we knew him. spt Steve Marconi can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.

Sat urday, December 2 Supervisor Janice Hahn, Grand Marshal Boat Parade starts at 6pm in Wilmington, moving along the Port of Los Angeles Main Channel to Cabrillo Marinas in San Pedro For more information or to register your boat: www.laharborholidayafloat.org DECEMBER 2017 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 13

VOICES

RISE OF INNOVATION DISTRICTS

by Jack Baric Our waterfront has always been a job creation leader – from fishing and shipbuilding to being the nation’s largest container port – San Pedro has greatly prospered because of our economic partnership with the harbor. This prosperity took vision and leadership from pioneers such as Harry Bridges, the ILWU founding president, and Star Kist Tuna founder, Martin Bogdanovich. However, the time has arrived for new folks with new ideas to propel us to a prosperous future.

I was fortunate to be in the presence of various leaders, such as Councilman Joe Buscaino; AltaSea executive director, Jenny Krusoe; San Pedro Chamber chairman, Tim McOsker; and Port of Los Angeles director of waterfront and commercial real estate, Mike Galvin, when this group provided a local tour to Scott Andes of the Brookings Institute, a major Washington D.C. think-tank, which has been evaluating emerging innovation districts across the nation.

As a primer on innovation districts, I’ve taken the liberty to grab quotes from a Brookings study, adding my thoughts on how they might apply to San Pedro.

“An Innovation District is a geographic area where anchor institutions and companies cluster and connect with small firms, start-ups, business incubators and accelerators.” – Downtown San Pedro, connected to the waterfront, provides a perfect geographic footprint to develop an innovation district. The Port of L.A. and the AltaSea marine research center will serve as our anchor institutions for ocean-based research and business while downtown provides a great place for tech start-ups, ad agencies, software designers, and other creative companies to locate.

Creativity is in our DNA and innovators of all stripes will love San Pedro.

“The global economy is rapidly changing and increasingly powered by innovation.” – The port’s Clean Air Action Plan turned L.A. into one of the most innovative ports in the world, where other waterfronts now look to emulate emerging environmental technologies, such as AMPing, the electrical plugging in of ships when they are at dock – something we created the standard for because no other port in the world was doing it before us.

AltaSea is home to legendary ocean explorer Bob Ballard, the man who discovered the Titanic; Blue Robotics, the 14 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

company that cracked the code on making affordable underwater exploration drones; and Catalina Sea Ranch, the nation’s only company with permits to aquafarm in U.S. waters. And now, AltaSea is adding the La Kretz Blue Economy Incubator to aid in the acceleration of ocean-based business solutions.

Why is this all important? Because in an increasingly competitive global market, communities that thrive will be those that can innovate. Future assembly lines will mostly be powered by robots and sub-wage workers in developing nations. Places that will prosper will be those that create the ideas for what is being built on those lines.

We need to be one of those places.

“People are demanding great places to live, work, and play.” – When Scott from Brookings visited, he thoroughly enjoyed an early morning jog along our beautiful coastline.

When he returns, we promised him a cool kayak trip along the same coast.

The new San Pedro Public Market, connected by bike paths to AltaSea, Crafted, Cabrillo Beach, and our downtown provide a huge competitive advantage when recruiting young people seeking a great lifestyle.

“Innovation demands collaboration. Companies are moving to be near other firms and talented people.” – There are two things that will allow San Pedro to prosper in the future innovation economy: 1.) We need talent. This can and should be done by attracting young entrepreneurs here. However, we also owe our children the opportunity to participate. This means that our leaders, teachers, and, most importantly, parents must strive to get our kids the proper higher education and/or training to both build and participate in an emerging innovation district. Without talent, we fail.

2.) Everyone must get involved: Harry Bridges was an amazing leader, but nothing would have happened if the rank and file dockworkers didn’t rise-up and join him.

On December 11 at 10 a.m., AltaSea is hosting a groundbreaking ceremony for the La Kretz ocean business incubator. It will be attended by media and major political, philanthropic, and business leaders. This event gives locals a great opportunity to learn more about how AltaSea will contribute education and job opportunities that shape our future and to provide full-blast San Pedro pride that shows these leaders we are eager to become a great innovation district. I urge you to participate. spt Jack Baric can be reached at jackbaric@hotmail.com.

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While Riley Beres was a student at Port of Los Angeles High School, she was not your typical teenager. At age 15, she directed her first full-length documentary about the homeless issue in Los Angeles. While making her film, Riley was struck by the fact that the largest growing homeless population is youth, between the ages of 18-24, with a 64% increase.

“Out of 6,000 homeless young adults, at least 4,000 are unsheltered,” states Beres. “It is important to me to help those the same age as myself, and I thought giving them new socks was like offering an olive branch. The first step to get them off the streets and into shelters is to create trust.”

During the filming, a gentleman at a shelter mentioned that there are not enough socks to give clients, and it is difficult to maintain a constant supply. Socks are the most needed item in shelters and the least donated, she discovered. That is when Riley decided to start her own non-profit agency, Socks for Souls, Inc. The mission is to restore dignity to those experiencing a hard time, one pair of socks at a time.

Socks for Souls distributes new socks, underwear, and hygiene items to shelters and organizations serving people in poverty. She does not go out in the streets and hand out socks, as she feels this would interfere with the important work being done by shelters.

Beres works directly with shelters and outreach programs. To date, Socks for Souls has distributed over 100,000 pairs of new socks since it was founded.

The majority of socks donated to Socks For Souls are through sock drives hosted through schools, companies, scouts, and other groups. Volunteers deliver socks to the shelters, provide boxes, and speak to groups interested

in hosting a sock drive. Socks for Souls is 100% volunteer operated, and does not pay any staff. Socks are distributed to agencies in Los Angeles County, and locally, has provided socks to Beacon House, Toberman House, Harbor Interfaith Shelter, Packages for Patriots, and the Dana Middle School Healthy Start Program.

Riley has many success stories, including a time when Harbor Interfaith was working to get a homeless veteran into a shelter for two years. It wasn’t until he was offered a bottle of water and a new pair of socks that he then decided this was a sign he should get off the streets. He considered the gesture a peace offering, and appreciated that someone really wanted to help him. Beres also has organized Dude and Diva Days, with shelters and distributes new socks and underwear, while the shelter provides a haircut and shave to clients. These special days offer a transformation to people looking for new beginnings.

Now a junior in college, Riley continues to run Socks For Souls, write and direct films, and has a career as an actress. She has managed to work on her own personal goals and at the same time, make a positive impact on the community. Riley is a rising star that started her journey in San Pedro, and continues to give back to her hometown and beyond. Socks for Souls was awarded a top rated non-profit agency in 2017 by Great Non-Profits.

Many people like to volunteer and donate during the holidays.

The needs are year-round, drives and help during the summer are greatly appreciated as well. spt To volunteer or donate to Socks for Souls, visit socksforsoulsinc.org or call (310) 701-6979.

Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com.

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A TOWN IN TRANSITION

by Anthony Pirozzi Entering into the holiday season always starts with the same comment, “I can’t believe the holidays are here already!” For me, this year was no different. Once summer ends, it seems as if the rest of the year goes by so fast.

Like most holiday seasons, I begin to think back to many things that have transpired in my life, and try to take it all in while enjoying this time of the year with family and friends. At a time when it seems like there is a daily conspiracy within our government, or when we look to social media or the daily emails only to read rants about how bad our town is, some good ol’ down time is welcomed at this time of the year.

When I reflect on San Pedro over the past decade, I see a town in transition. For example, in Downtown San Pedro we have new housing, restaurants, businesses, high schools, and a university that have opened their doors.

Another is waterfront development, which continues to show progress and continued investment. Since being appointed to the Harbor Commission back in 2013, my commission colleagues and I have approved the developer and funding for the infrastructure to redevelop Ports O’ Call. Today, you can see the change with the new entryway into Ports O’ Call, the realignment of Sampson Way, and by 2020, the new San Pedro Public Market will be completing its final development phase.

Most recently, new housing developments at 5th and Palos Verdes, as well as 8th and Centre Sts. are beginning to take shape. This will bring residents to downtown, which are key to supporting and growing our local economy.

I look to the future of AltaSea, which has been covered by columnists in this magazine over the years, and most recently was a cover story of San Pedro Today. AltaSea will bring to our town research and development jobs and the new blue economy, thus diversifying our local job opportunities. The AltaSea groundbreaking for La Kretz Blue Economy Incubator will occur on Dec 11th at 10 a.m. at Warehouse

18 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

58, right here in San Pedro. I have and continue to call this the game changer for San Pedro. Finally, I see the existence of SpaceX on our waterfront retrieving space capsules that support our international space station, launch vehicles that put satellites into space, and our quest as a nation to go to Mars.

San Pedro has become a space port.

It is apparent to me that San Pedro is heading in the right direction, but I am not blind to the issues of homelessness, crime, and drugs that still plague us either. For example, my neighborhood has been hit several times by crime, so I get it. Our neighborhood has responded by setting up neighborhood watch efforts, which have also prevented many crimes. I encourage you to be diligent, work together, setup neighborhood watch teams, and work with local police to improve our collective efforts to kill crime.

So, as we head into 2018, I encourage all of you to rise up and be the leaders that this town needs to get us over the hump and continue the push toward a better future. San Pedro is not a “Seaside Slum,” but rather a “Town in Transition.”

Remember: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” -Theodore Roosevelt.

Will I see you in the arena?

Happy Holidays, San Pedro. spt Anthony Pirozzi is a Los Angeles Harbor Commissioner. He can be contacted at apirozzi@yahoo.com.

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FINDING ITS STRIDE

CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS IN SAN PEDRO, CRAFTED FINALLY COMES INTO ITS OWN

by Joshua Stecker

The artists and staff of Crafted (photo: John Mattera)

It’s 4 p.m. on Small Business Saturday 2017 and the parking lot at Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles is nearly full.

One would expect to see a larger than normal crowd at the market this particular afternoon, but I didn’t anticipate seeing anything like this.

“We got a nice mention on KCRW as one of their five things to do this weekend, so I think that has something to do with the crowd,” says Rachel Sindelar, executive director of Crafted. She wasn’t expecting me to come in today, since we already did our interview for this story a week earlier. But being that the Thanksgiving holiday gave me an extra day before sending this issue to the printer, I wanted to experience Small Business Saturday at Crafted for myself to incorporate any last-minute details. I’m glad I did.

“A vendor came up to me earlier today asking for change,” says Sindelar, in between passing out complimentary Crafted-branded tote bags to customers. “I told her I didn’t have any and reminded her that vendors needed to bring their own change. She said, ‘I did, I’m already out!’ That’s how crazy it’s been today.”

The aisles are full of customers, the atmosphere is festive and the energy throughout the marketplace is tangible. Oversized Christmas ornaments adorn the massive, exposed wood beam ceiling. As you enter the main entrance, a small stage to the right has been featuring entertainment throughout the afternoon, including the cast from this year’s San Pedro City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker, who performed earlier in the day.

“This is definitely one of, if not the busiest Small Business Saturday we’ve ever had,” adds Sindelar.

It wasn’t always this way. When the marketplace opened its doors five and a half years ago, everyone involved knew it was a gamble.

LOFTY EXPECTATIONS The brainchild of Wayne Blank, the man behind Santa Monica’s Bergamot Station, along with real estate developer Howard Robinson, Crafted’s launch in the summer of 2012 was met with much fanfare. Opening its doors around the same 20 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

time as the USS Iowa, both locations were being touted heavily as game-changers for San Pedro and Los Angeles. Words like “turning point” and “lynchpin” were being thrown around by politicos from the City of L.A. and the port.

The idea of opening a handcrafted, artisan marketplace at the southernmost point of Los Angeles that’s only open Friday thru Sunday, in abandoned warehouses built in 1944 that needed refurbishment costing upwards of $6 million, at a time when the L.A. Waterfront redevelopment was going through fits and starts, was bold, to say the least.

The original projections were lofty, too. The expectation was that by this time Crafted would be the home to 500 “micro-businesses,” with hopes of drawing 500,000 visitors a year. And once Warehouse 9 was finished (Warehouse 10 was renovated first and is Crafted’s current home), artisans would be able to fill a total of 140,000-square feet of marketspace. According to Blank, this was all dependent on three revenue streams: the marketplace, parking fees, and food vendors.

Unfortunately, two of the three streams dried up quick.

The public immediately protested the original $5 parking fee, causing Blank and his team to change course and offer free parking. (Admission to Crafted, though, has always been free.) Then, restrictions on food preparation on the premises caused the marketplace to lose a number of food vendors.

“The moment we opened, we lost almost half a dozen [food] vendors. So, we lost that income stream from the food. And [charging for] parking? In San Pedro?

It didn’t go over very well, so we had to drop parking as a source of revenue,” Blank told the Harbor Commission in 2015, according to the Daily Breeze.

After three years of less-than-stellar return on his investment, Blank and his team renegotiated their lease with the Port of Los Angeles in 2015, reducing their annual payment to the port from $50,000 to $17,500, and allowing for more commercial use of the property, which helped clear the way for Brouwerij West to open its doors as a subleased tenant to Crafted the following year. They also installed a 1.2-megawatt solar panel project on the roof, which helps alleviate energy costs.

DECEMBER 2017 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 21

Clockwise: Warehouse 10 before construction on Crafted; the current SPAA booth; Banter & Bliss soy candles; SirensCalling trinket dishes; Drunken Cake Pops (photos: Crafted/Joshua Stecker/Facebook/Instagram)

“The administration of the port, Wayne, Howard, and the other partners, were all excited about the initial idea of a craft market, because they do work in other places,” says Sindelar.

“But it takes time to build on an initial concept. So, at the beginning, when we had six-month leases and the plan was for 500 permanent craft stalls, we had to get more flexible with that concept and invite additional uses, like Brouwerij West. Now, with the addition of events, we’re really looking for food vendors. With food, we can really develop Crafted into something like Pike Place Market in Seattle.”

ARTISTIC GROWTH For the artisans at Crafted, especially the veterans who have been there long enough to have weathered its ebbs and flows, nearly all agree that the company has found its stride and is finally running on all cylinders.

“People didn’t know what to expect from us in the beginning,” says Tish Pollack, artisan, author and owner of Diva Beads, who has been selling at Crafted since its opening. “The biggest difference between then and now is that people now know what to expect when they walk in here. They know they’ll be able to find a great piece of handcrafted art. In the beginning, no one knew this.”

The types of art that can be found at Crafted currently run the gamut from handmade jewelry and eco-friendly candles to reupholstered furniture and alcohol-fused gourmet desserts. Many of the vendors also hold monthly and weekly classes, passing on their craft to budding artists. Even though most of the artisans are women, there are plenty of items for both genders, as well as for children and pets. (Crafted is a very dog-friendly establishment.)

According to Lindsay Sochar, artist and creative director of Crafted, of the nearly 50 current tenants (with a dozen there from the beginning), approximately 80% sell their art as their primary source of income. Most were selling their wares on Etsy.com or on their online store prior to leasing a booth.

The lack of costly overhead and the steadily increasing foot traffic make having a booth at Crafted more advantageous for some than opening a traditional storefront. On the flipside, there have been other businesses that started at Crafted that outgrew the marketplace, like House 1002, currently located on Pacific Ave. “One of the reasons House moved on from here was that they wanted a seven-day or five-day a week business, which we weren't able to provide just yet,” says Sindelar. “But we loved

22 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

watching them move on and be successful.”

“The best way to assess the success of some of our vendors who have been here for years is to see how they started out,” says Sochar, who was also one of Crafted’s original vendors. “Some have started in 10 x 10 booths and have expanded into much larger spaces. Right now, we have a lot more large spaces [occupied] than small spaces, which is great for them and us.”

A welcome addition to the marketplace floor is the San Pedro Arts Association. After a lease dispute had them evicted from Ports O’ Call Village in 2014, the 82-year-old organization recently found a new home at Crafted with a 1,600-square foot gallery and shop, located in the middle of the marketplace.

“What’s cool about this space is you can hang things high here,” says Steve Magee, vice president of the SPAA, who also runs a framing business at Crafted.

“This is such a great space and really well run. The student art competition we sponsored this summer was a big hit here, too. It brought in hundreds of people.”

In addition to the marketplace, the facility has also become one of the premiere event spaces in the South Bay. Crafted has been host to the Taste

of San Pedro, the Sustainable Seafood Expo, various live concerts, as well as weddings and civic events.

When asked about the future of Crafted, Sindelar responds with cautious optimism. “We’re doing better than we ever have before,” she says, “but there’s plenty of room to grow."

She hopes to see some much-needed beautification efforts around the property put forth by the port in the coming year, as well as entertaining new and innovative ideas that will keep people coming back.

"We’re adapting to the changes and taking advantage of any opportunity that comes our way," she says.

Sochar adds, “I like to think of it like having a baby. You’re going to have these really difficult times from the first one to four years. There are going to be a lot of late nights and screaming, but we just turned five and things are really feeling good now. It finally feels like we’ve gotten past those tough, screaming years and now we get to decide who we are.” spt Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles is located at 112 E. 22nd St. Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11a – 6p. Free parking and admission. For more information, call (310) 732-1270 or visit craftedportla.com.

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ARTIST ALLEY

MEET A FEW OF THE ARTISTS AT CRAFTED interviews by Caitlyn Trudnich

MICHELLE LIN,

TISH POLLACK, DIVA BEADS

CRAFTY OPERATION craftedportla.com/crafty-operation

craftedportla.com/diva-beads

How long have you been a vendor of Crafted? I have been a vendor at crafted for a little over 6 months.

Why did you choose Crafted? I drove past Crafted when I was taking my then three-month-old to the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. I wandered into the marketplace a few months later, never forgetting it. I saw that it was like a big, in-person Etsy, and couldn't resist getting more info. I love that everyone can show off their creativity within their own, little walls. Getting to see your regular customers and the face-toface interaction is a plus.

Do you have any special memories of your time at Crafted? I had my Describe your art. I play with yarn! son in San Pedro and my heart has Using crochet, I can turn string into never left ever since. There are little donuts and ice cream rattles for your spots like Crafted and beaches that little ones. seem so what hidden and are a treasure to find. But you will keep coming back Why are local art and artisans so after you leave because you will never important to our community? They forget. help develop the culture of our community through unique and personal Any special collections/items/ expressions. Being a fairly new memevents you’d like to discuss/deber at Crafted, I was a little worried scribe? Check out the weekly classes about how I would fit into the group of held by different vendors, keep track of already talented artists who have been them on the Crafted's website or Facehere for years. What excites me most, book page. Support your local artists, besides meeting customers, are seeing and we will do a happy dance! spt the smiles of the neighboring artists.

How long have you been a vendor of Crafted? I've been a Crafted vendor since almost the beginning. I came into a 10x10 space with another vendor, Peggy Forrester of Nagare Boutique, in July 2012 (a month after Crafted's grand opening). Peggy and I outgrew that first small space in three months, and then expanded into a booth three times its size. After three years, we moved into our own respective 300-square-foot spaces across from each other, due to the growth of both our businesses and attendance for our jewelry making classes.

Why did you choose Crafted? Because of the caliber and variety of local artists here. I love the open, inviting feel of the warehouse. San Pedro is the hub of a lot of exciting developments, such as the Port of L.A. and AltaSea, and has always been supportive of the arts.

jewelers but other artisans as well. I just launched a book, The Essential Guide to Epic Jewelry Design: For Beaders & Other Jewelry Enthusiasts, which made it to Amazon's internationally topselling author list in the Jewelry/Crafts category in a matter of one week.

Describe your art. I create one-of-akind, handmade jewelry using different techniques, primarily bead-weaving (also referred to as off-loom weaving or free-hand bead weaving). Since I've always had an affinity for water, many of my pieces are ocean-inspired. You'll see amazing, unique mermaid and sea creature pendants custom created for me to incorporate into my jewelry. I've had extensive color theory training and teach classes in integrating color concepts into designs, not only for

Why are local art and artisans so important to our community? I've been attached to this community as my daughter attended high school at Rolling Hills Prep in San Pedro, which has been very supportive of the community and businesses located here.

creatures in my creations. Anywhere from, bones, to snake skin, to butterflies, to bugs, to porcupine quills. Giving all these adornments of mother natures a second time to shine. Recycling, if you will, into jewelry and home decor (macramé, dream catchers, and domed vignettes).

Bringing back the importance of working with your hands, using your mind in a different way that not only makes the artist themselves happy but invokes thought and conversation amongst the young and old. With technology being at the forefront of everything, and the lack of face-to-face communication due to social media outlets, arts and crafts are one of the only ways to get people to unplug for a second – to get them to look up, look out and look within.

(photos: Joshua Stecker, John Mattera)

SYLVIA STREM, STAY ADORNED craftedportla.com/stay-adorned

How long have you been a vendor of Crafted? About 6 months.

Why did you choose Crafted? I chose Crafted for a couple different reasons. One, it's nice to be around like-minded people. When your environment is so positive and creative, it's easy to be inspired. Two, it was a chance to see if my craft was something that others may be interested in without taking so much of a risk by opening up a brick and mortar. Once I came in and walked around to meet some of the other vendors, it was easy to make a decision to open up here. Everyone was so nice, inviting, and encouraging.

Describe your art. My art is very unique. I like to use mother nature’s 24 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

Describe your relationship with San Pedro. Why are local art and artisans so important to our community? San Pedro is great in recognizing the arts on so many different levels. I had to be a part of it. With schools taking away so many of the art programs I loved as a kid, its important to me to keep the creativity alive, for my own child. San Pedro definitely helps with that. Encouraging artists on all levels.

Do you have any special memories of your time at Crafted? Yes, I remember how excited I first felt when I signed my contract to be a Crafted vendor – that excitement has never diminished. I can honestly say that I have been an integral part of Crafted's growth, visibility, and respect in the community. spt

Do you teach workshops like some of the other artists? I teach several different workshops on the art of macramé and dream catchers. Next year, I look forward to coming up with more creative workshops. So please stay tuned for more to come! spt

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How long have you been a vendor of Crafted? I have been a vendor at Crafted for five months.

How long have you been a vendor of Crafted? I have been a vendor at Crafted for about 3.5 years

Why choose Crafted? What do you like most about this unique venue and selling within the space? I chose Crafted because it's very close to home, and I thought it would be a unique place to sell my nautical-themed items.

Why choose Crafted? I love the concept of a permanent, handcrafted market, where people can be inspired and purchase handmade items year-round. I also love that we are in a historic warehouse that may have otherwise been torn down. I feel that it really speaks to traditional craftsmanship of San Pedro.

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Describe your art. I make nautical signs, artwork, and other home décor out of recycled pallet wood. I also use recycled wine corks, as well as found seashells.

Describe your relationship with San Pedro. Why are local art and artisans so important to our community? I have lived in San Pedro since 1990. It is a unique town with a wonderful military and marine background.

All types of artists find San Pedro to provide unlimited inspiration. There are unique vistas around every corner, such as the busy harbor, the Korean Bell, the Fort MacArthur area, and spectacular view of the sunset over Catalina Island.

Any special collections/items/ events you’d like to let our readers know about? Come by Whimsea at Crafted to see all my nautical inspired décor as well as hundreds of lovingly handmade ornaments made out of wine corks, driftwood, seashells, and sea glass! spt

Describe your art. I make handcrafted fused glass bowls, plates, platters, mobiles, and art for the home. I also work closely with my customers to create custom pieces.

Describe your relationship with San Pedro. Why are local art and artisans so important to our community? My husband and I relocated to San Pedro about 4.5 years ago, and from the very first time I visited, I knew this was the town I wanted to call home. I love how supportive this town is of its artists. Artists bring so much beauty and life to a city. Artists encourage creativity and inspire people to make the world a better place.

you’d like to share? I see my fellow Crafted artists as more than just individuals sharing a place to sell what we create. We are a family.

What's your specialty? One of my specialties is hand-painted fused glass portraits of not only people, but pets, as well. I teach a fused glass workshop at Crafted twice a month, where students can create their own unique fused glass dish or plate. spt

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On November 3, 2017, community members volunteered to prepare and serve a special feast for the men in the Beacon House program. The 'Reverse Bistro' dinner was given in appreciation for the men's service at monthly Bistro nights and throughout the community. (photo: Angela Romero)

SP SHOW & TELL

MIRACLES ON BEACON STREET

by Angela "Romee" Romero One of the best things about the holiday season are all of the fantastic movies and stories that have been passed on from one generation to another, because they are filled with love, hope, wonder and, above all else, the notion that faith is a powerful magic. I’m getting all warm and fuzzy just thinking about it.

Now, what would you think if I told you that there are stories playing out, right here in San Pedro, that would rival the Christmas Carol and It’s a Wonderful Life, year-round? They’re not novels or old black and white movies, and they’re much realer than Kris Kringle could ever be. I’m talking about the Miracles on Beacon Street.

Once upon a time, a friend of mine invited me to a new monthly dinner that the Beacon House was putting on called Bistro Night. The idea was to let the men who were taking culinary courses practice menu and meal preparation while others learned how to work as servers. The bistro was sporadic at first, but the program quickly found its footing and became a monthly event.

On the last Friday of every month, a different themed menu would be offered in the Bartlett Center on 11th and Beacon Streets.

The monthly bistros have grown by

leaps and bounds since those early days.

What started as several bare tables in the Bartlett Center with guest chefs has exploded into a professional outdoor dinner service with beautifully dressed tables, amazing wait staff and a head chef who graduated from the house, all serving a crowd of 200 at once.

Dinner starts at 6 p.m. with the first course, sometimes an appetizer, soup or salad, followed by the main course and dessert. As the patrons are finishing their meals, all of the men line up for the end of the night “shares.” A share is a testimonial, it’s an important part of the recovery process.

I will admit that, in the beginning, my monthly sojourn to the Bartlett Center was all about the food and my friends. Where else in the world could you get a three-course meal overlooking the harbor for less than $20? Soon, the bistro was much more than just a good deal. It became a spiritual experience, a communion.

Every month, the men would step up

28 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

to that microphone and bare their souls for us. They are all recovering addicts who describe their lives before the Beacon House as broken and hopeless.

Every story is heartbreaking. The first time I knew something more than dinner was happening was when a young man told us that he looked forward to the bistro every month because it felt good to have strangers look happy to see you. He was used to people avoiding his glance when he was on the streets.

Then came Nick, he changed everything. Nick is a veteran with severe PTSD that caused him to stutter. At his first bistro, it was painful to watch him struggle through his share. A couple of bistros later, the stutter was gone. He was a different man who spoke calmly and eloquently about the help he’d received and how he was looking forward to reconnecting with his family soon.

The word miracle is almost not enough to describe what I saw, but it was God’s handiwork for sure.

So, I’m not kidding when I say that I attend the monthly bistros, religiously.

And I’m not the only one who has fallen completely in love with the men and these dinners. I’ve been going with the same group of women, almost from the beginning, and there are hordes of regular faces every month.

In November, there was a special “Reverse Bistro” where the patrons had the chance to serve the men, and the response of willing participants was so overwhelming that there were barely enough jobs to go around. I surveyed the volunteers on why it was so important for them to be there that night.

All of their responses echoed the same sentiment: they wanted to repay the joy that these men gave them every month.

The night ended like every bistro before it, with a share. Not every volunteer braved the mic but I had to tell these guys how much they meant to me. When I stood there on that stage, I didn’t see the broken and hopeless looking back at me. I only saw miracles. spt

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DECEMBER 2017 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 29

SPORTS

2017: THE YEAR IN PREP SPORTS

A LOOK BACK AT THIS YEAR’S HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS story & photo by Jamaal K. Street 2017 was a really good year for high school sports in San Pedro.

There were eight signing day ceremonies. Two CIF champions were crowned. A long, torturous losing streak finally came to a close. And yes, there was plenty of excitement along the way, with the beginning of Alice M. Baxter High School, the newest school on the block, competing on the varsity level.

On January 9, nearby Port of Los Angeles High was the first opponent for Baxter in both boys and girls’ basketball at Peck Park, and it wasn’t a good beginning for the Krakens as the Polar Bear boys won 61-19, and the Polar Bear girls won 43-17. However, Baxter ended up getting the win over the POLA boys a week later due to the Polar Bears’ use of an ineligible player, and the Baxter girls team got their first victory, 33-27 over Simon of Los Angeles on February 7 at Peck Park.

Staying on the basketball realm, the Mary Star boys made a marvelous run to the CIF-Southern Section Division 4A semifinals on the strength of an impeccable will to win. After disposing of Oxford Academy in the first round, the Stars won back-to-back tense road affairs at Burroughs of Ridgecrest, 46-43 in the second round, later toppling highly regarded Pacific of San Bernadino, 103-102 in triple overtime.

Joseph Octave, now a junior, averaged 24.7 points and 7.8 rebounds, a game en route to garnering an All-CIF selection. Having scored 1,250 career points in his first two seasons, Octave has already received two Division I scholarship offers.

San Pedro High School's 2017 CIF-LACS softball champions

Mary Star football also ended a 36-year losing streak to Bishop Montgomery on September 22, as a 90-yard touchdown run from junior running back, Luke Sabra, would spearhead the determined Stars to a come-from-behind 28-27 road victory.

And with nine seniors now gone from their last three Santa Fe League championships, the girls’ volleyball team under first-year coach, Lauren Orebo, still managed to capture a fourth straight league crown with a dramatic five-set win at St. Pius X/St. Matthias Academy on October 24. The Mary Star boys’ soccer team also repeated as Camino Real League champions.

POLA softball rode the arm of Analise De La Roca to a seventh straight Coliseum League title and a CIF-Los Angeles City Section Division I semifinals berth, where it fell 3-1 to Banning. In spite of that, De La Roca was named the City Pitcher of the Year after going 28-2 with 357 strikeouts.

San Pedro High had a special 2017 to remember, as they captured 13 Marine League sports titles during the 2016-17 year, with girls’ soccer maintaining their dominance with a 12th consecutive outright league crown, and 16th in the last 17 years.

However, 2017 truly belonged to the two CIF championship teams: San Pedro High softball and Port of Los Angeles High girls’ soccer.

No one expected much out of

30 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

San Pedro and third-year coach Robert Whitney at the start of 2017, considering the Pirates were coming off three straight CIF-LACS Division 1 first round exits. Still, a team with an unshakable measure of confidence and belief in themselves would dig down deep and take care of business when it mattered. An experienced team would guide the Pirates through the Marine League with a 9-1 mark, and close the season winning 18 out of their final 20 games, and final 10 games in a row, culminating with a 2-1 victory over league rival Banning of Wilmington at Cal State Dominguez Hills for the program’s 17th CIF-LACS championship.

Outgoing seniors: pitcher Cindy Robles, now at Long Beach State; CIF-LACS Player of the Year catcher, Andrea Cline; outfielder Andrea Trejo; and infielders Ricki Justiniano, Mackenzie Winkle, and Deanna Gonzalez, all had career senior seasons, while the emergence of junior outfielders Taiya Reyna, Anessa Quiroz, and Kierah Murillo in critical moments down the stretch proved valuable for San Pedro, who finished 25-9-1 overall.

Ever since the POLA girls’ soccer program began in 2011, the Polar Bears flirted with greatness from the word 'go,’ reaching four CIF-LACS finals in Divisions 3 & 4 during the 2012, 2013, 2015, and 2016 seasons – only to come up empty-handed with

narrow, heartbreaking setbacks.

POLA would dominate the Crosstown League again on their way to a seventh straight undefeated league crown. They did it with a devastating attack, as six girls scored 10 or more goals the entire season with Anna Vidovich (Stevens Institute of Technology), Briana Mancilla, Keely Bales, Natalia Iniguez, Gisselle Mora, and Britney Delgado scoring a combined 101 of the Polar Bears' school record 125 goals.

Not to be outdone was the defense paced by goalie Katelyn Viducic, and stellar defensive play from Crosstown League MVP Christy Messner, Kendall Dimson, and Alyssa Medrano. Being moved up from Division 4 to 2 due to competitive equity, it would provide POLA's stiffest playoff challenge yet, but they still found a way to reach the championship final, battle top-seeded Grant for 108 minutes before Mora’s golden goal in sudden death provided the Polar Bears a heart-stopping 2-1 victory for their long overdue first CIF crown.

In all, POLA finished 18-4 after suffering a 3-1 loss in the CIF State Division III regional to eventual champion South Torrance, but they accomplished what they set out to do from the start of the season.

It would be hard to top these moments in 2018, but all the sports teams will definitely give it a try. spt

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I recently went to the midwest for a few days for a conference unrelated to fitness.

I must say, everytime I leave the SoCal fitness bubble, I’m reminded that not everyone cares about diet and exercise. In fact, for many people it’s not even on the todo list. In my social circle, everyone is active in one way or another. Everyone tries to eat well, nobody smokes. But when I venture east of the Rockies, it’s a very different story.

I peruse the continental breakfast where tiered trays of pastries, bagels, donuts, and juice abound. I’m looking around for the avocado and egg whites, but sadly, there is none to be found.

Outside the perpetual sunshine of L.A., many places are like this. It’s normal to have a glazed donut for breakfast and grab some McDonald’s for lunch. Normal to see people taking cigarette breaks or have a cookie drawer at their desk.

This is why most people struggle to get in shape; because what has become “normal” for them is a lifestyle that is totally at odds with their desire for better health.

Sometimes, I’m eating among people who don’t work out and they’ll see what I’m eating and ask, “Oh, are you on a diet?” And I have to tell them, “Well no, not really. This is just how I eat.” Then, they’re either excited to talk health, or I’ll get a nod that has just a hint of disdain in it. For them, eating healthy is what people do for temporary stretches of time to lose weight, not how you actually live.

At this conference, I had quite a few conversations about diet and fitness. I realized that while many people aren’t actively trying to get fit, it’s still on their mind and they’re eager to get advice. I am always willing to give tips on nutrition; however, I know in most cases, that’s not the problem. People (mostly) know what they shouldn’t eat and that they should exercise. Many have tried and failed repeatedly.

The problem is inertia.

When it feels normal to run on five hours sleep, sugary muffins, six cups of coffee, a pack of smokes, and a cocktail or four before you do it all over again, change seems really foreign and scary.

If I were asked what the keys to lasting health, fitness, and weight-loss were, it wouldn’t be some magical diet or exercise program. Those are just means to an end. The key is changing what feels normal. Get yourself out of the “normal” beliefs, habits, and circumstances that hold you back and establish a new normal.

How, you ask? Have a breakthrough.

A breakthrough is the point at which a person has overcome a major obstacle or reached a major milestone that permanently changes how one sees themselves. Most people tend to walk around with a “thing” they just can’t seem to get past. The thing they’ve alway struggled with and have nearly given up on. And they see how far they have to go to achieve whatever it is they want, and it feels out of reach so they don’t even try.

So how do you overcome that and actually achieve a breakthrough? The “three steps ahead” rule. Take any goal and ask yourself, what small change would put you three steps in that direction? Not five. Not ten. Not Beyoncé. Just three steps ahead of where you are now.

It’s kind of strange, but if you ask yourself that question, it will become clear what action to take. Get to bed an hour earlier. Have an apple instead of a muffin. Then do only that. And do it consistently. When it becomes second nature, ask the question again: what will put me three steps ahead? Workout for 20 minutes, three times a week.

Each step will build on the next and before you know it, you’d be amazed at what used to be normal for you.

Imagine if you only moved forward three steps a month, where would you be next year? I’m guessing it won’t be at the pastry table.

So, get out there and start thinking three steps ahead. spt Get a free guide “3 simple tweaks anyone can make for dramatic Fatloss,” visit sanpedrofatloss.com.

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34 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

RELIGION

KEEP CHRISTMAS WEIRD

by Pastor Nathan Hoff

Go Pirates!

I was born in San Pedro, but graduated high school in South Seattle. We were the Highline High School Pirates, Class of 1993. Jimi Hendrix was buried not too far from us, but our soundtrack was Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and other grunge bands.

Back then, there were around 200 Starbucks locations in the world... total. Now, there are over 26,000.

Seattle was weird in the 1990s. I’ve heard Portland and Austin were also, having had bumper stickers and pins declaring, “Keep Portland Weird,” and “Keep Austin Weird.” Then Seattle got Amazon, which is about the farthest thing from weird. Amazon allows you to never enter a boutique, never hear indie music, and never come into contact with creative people.

Seattle has become normal – a much less grungy, and more respectable, business-casual kind of city. I’m going up there in a week, and I wonder if I’ll miss the wonder of its weirdness.

All religions have adherents and historical anomalies of which they are ashamed. But even apart from the weird people and problems, every religion has particular teachings that can only be described as weird.

I can’t speak for the other religions in town, but mine, Christianity, has tried hard to be non-weird.

In the early 1970s, a seekersensitive movement in Garden Grove, pioneered by Robert Schuller, aspired to make church, and Christianity, as "normal" as possible. It used only a few favorite and positive sounding hymns, accessible language that even the uninitiated could understand, and it minimized most discussion of potentially controversial or upsetting doctrines. The good goal was to take away as much sting as possible to reach the largest number of people possible. To use a seasonal example, when given the choice between the crowds and influence of Black Friday

or the quirkiness of Small Business Saturday, many opted for Black Friday.

Del Amo Mall beats Pacific Avenue.

On the top of our steeple, and many others in our fair city, is a cross.

We have a gold one in front of the sanctuary for processions. The symbol of the Christian faith is a capital punishment device. I’m sorry, but there isn’t enough gold to make that not weird. Imagine a noose on our steeple or a processional electric chair.

Christmas is just as weird. We try to normalize it by talking about it as “the season of giving” or neutralize it by focusing on food, family, and traditions.

But if you actually get to the reason for the season, you will find something that is anything but normal and neutral.

There is an old philosophical phrase in Latin that goes “finitum non capax infiniti,” which translated means, “the finite cannot comprehend or hold the infinite.” That is about as reasonable as you get. How could the infinite, which has neither start nor end, be contained by the finite, which has both? How could the limited hold the limitless? But millions will gather this season and celebrate something that is so weirdly unreasonable, that the finite bears the infinite. Finite Mary, pregnant with an Infinite God, comes in finite flesh offering infinite life to finite people. We call it incarnation, and I will be the first to admit, it's weird. Miracles are by nature weird.

Why do we want miracles, but we don’t want weird? But maybe we are ready for something other than what we call “normal?” Maybe we are tired of our worn out philosophies or our isolated self-redemption attempts?

Maybe our finite pursuits have not led us to lasting satisfaction? Maybe the Infinite One is coming to be held and comprehended by us finite beings? Maybe the miracle is weird, but true. O come, let us adore! spt Nathan Hoff is the Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in San Pedro. Follow his blog at trinitypastor.blogspot.com.

DECEMBER 2017 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 35

WEDDING

A CHOSEN LOVE FILKO & NANCY KOVAC DECEMBER 17, 2016

by Brooke Karli photo by John Mattera Photography

Filko and Nancy (Skoblar) Kovac met more than 10 years ago through mutual friends.

What began as an evening out on the town, ended as a friendly gathering at Filko’s place. One gathering the groom will never forget.

“Filko’s first impression of me included me vomiting in his bathroom,” Nancy embarrassingly admitted. “But, he remained my friend even after that, and kept trying to date me, but I wanted no part in it.”

For many years, the two stayed friends. It wasn’t until April 2015 that things began to progress, when Nancy had realized that Filko had broken his hand six months prior to her own injury. It was during that time of empathizing with one another that the two began to like each other. They started to talk more often and began dating that summer, even going to Croatia together with a group of friends that September.

“That trip was nine days long. We covered hundreds of miles, and all I could ask myself was, ‘Is this really happening?’” recalled Nancy. “We were already dating and everything was going better than I could have

imagined, but I was scared to make it more serious.”

Their relationship became even more serious in November 2015, when Nancy found out the couple was expecting.

“A friend of mine is a medium, and she was the one that told me I was pregnant,” Nancy explained. “My dad [Augustin Skoblar] died when I was 16, and Filko’s mom [Katica Kovac] died when he was 16. The medium told me that this child ‘was a gift from [my] dad.’ She also said our parents had met in Heaven, and that my dad chose Filko for me because he believed ‘it was right.’” Almost instantly, any fear or doubt that Nancy had disappeared.

“Their presence is in our life tenfold,” she said. “We know my dad and his mom are with us, and that there is nothing to be scared of.”

Filko asked Nancy to be his wife on New Year’s Eve 2015, surrounded by her family and Filko’s dad. Of course, she said yes.

The couple became husband and wife in a court ceremony on February 5, 2016, and welcomed the birth of their son, Ivan Augustin Kovac, on July 1, 2016.

Five months later, on December

36 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2017

17, 2016, the couple celebrated their marriage with 280 of their closest friends and family members, with a traditional Catholic ceremony at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church and reception at the Dalmatian American Club.

For the ceremony, her brother Dennis, who also bought her wedding dress as a symbolic gesture in honor of their father, walked Nancy down the aisle.

Standing next to the groom were best men Vinko Kovac and Damir Kovac; groomsmen Dennis Skoblar, Daniel Frawley, Russell Bocox, Josh Clark, Mickey Cobb, Larry Bozulic, Tyler Skoblar, Dana Gregge, and Mario Kovac; junior groomsmen Mate Kovac, Luka Kovac, and Johnny Skoblar, who carried baby Ivan down the aisle; and ring bearers Teo Kovac and Joey Skoblar. Standing next to the bride were maids of honor Nicole Pizzo and Lisa Skoblar; bridesmaids Branka Galvan, Barbara Franov, Connie Grajeda, Danielle Tom Sun, Ana Cadena, Shelby Kovac, Frencis Barbic, and Vedrana Barbic; junior bridesmaids Ryenne Skoblar, Julia Skoblar, and Mila Kovac; and flower girls Raedyn Skoblar, Jaedyn

Bradberry, and Macy Kovac.

At the reception, the newlyweds shared their first dance to Seal and Heidi Klum’s “Wedding Day.” Filko danced with Nancy’s mom, Novena Skoblar, to Matko Jelevic’s “Majko,” which translates to “Mom.” Nancy danced with Filko’s dad, Ivo Kovac, to Severina’s “Dalmatinka.” The live Croatian band at the reception, Zrinski, played these special songs, among many others.

The reception also featured a plethora of Croatian cookies, and a whole pig that was roasted for guests to enjoy. The ceremony and reception, the couple said, could not have been possible without the amazing support they received from Nancy DomocoliOrtiz, their “second mom.”

The couple did not take a honeymoon, due to just having a baby and starting a remodel on their San Pedro home, but did go on a road trip with family following their special day.

Currently, Filko is a crane mechanic at the Port of Long Beach, and Nancy is an operating room registered nurse.

The two look forward to extending their family in the future. spt

DECEMBER 2017 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 37

NEW ARRIVAL

NEW ARRIVAL

Alessia Liana Lauro

Ariella Mia Lauro

She’s oh so sweet, has tiny, little feet, and makes our family complete. We would like to share the birth of our daughter, Alessia Liana Lauro, born November 4, 2017, weighing 7 pounds, 8 ounces, and 19 inches tall. Alessia is loved by big sister Milania, and proud parents, Maurizio and Alesandra Lauro.

A new cheek to kiss. A new child to love.

Our hearts are filled with joy as we welcome our beautiful daughter, Ariella Mia Lauro, into this world. Born on October 31, 2017, weighing 7 pounds, 2 ounces, and 19 inches long. Proud parents Fabio, Analiza, and big brother Lorenzo.

ENGAGEMENT

ENGAGEMENT

Lizette Martinez & Christopher Navarre

Caitlyn Trudnich & Ryan Piercy

Christopher Navarre and Lizette Martinez were engaged on October 22, 2017, with a little help from their two puppy huskies. “We never thought one kiss at 15 could turn into our forever.” The couple is planning for a spring wedding.

Mr. James Trudnich and Mrs. Rosmarie Lauro announce the engagement of their daughter, Caitlyn Trudnich, to Ryan Piercy, son of Robert and Paula Piercy of Long Beach. Ms. Trudnich, a graduate of UCLA, is the Associate Editor of San Pedro Today. Mr. Piercy also graduated from UCLA, as well as Musician’s Institute in Los Angeles, and is a Business Development Manager at Laserfiche in Long Beach.

To place an Announcement ad, email contact@sanpedrotoday.com or call (424) 224-9063.

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