San Pedro Today - December 2021

DECEMBER 2021

GOLDEN STATE POPS & 'THE NUTCRACKER' RETURN TO THE WGT | RESEARCHING SAN PEDRO'S JEWISH HISTORY

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DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 3

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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First, it was the announcement that the Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade was returning live and in-person (Sun., Dec. 5).

Then San Pedro City Ballet’s The Nutcracker and the Golden State Pops Orchestra announced their return to the Warner Grand (The Nutcracker: Dec. 10-12, GSPO: Dec. 18). Soon after, Weymouth Corners announced that Candy Cane Lane would be back (Fri., Dec. 3). Then, the Port of L.A. announced the first-ever public Town Square Tree Lighting ceremony (Sat., Dec. 4).

And just like that, the holiday season has returned to San Pedro.

With vaccine and mask mandates in place, I wondered if a sense of normalcy could return. It wasn’t until our traditional public events started being announced that the holidays finally started to feel familiar again.

The pandemic has been rough on all of us, but especially on our small business community. For many, it’s going to take a bit longer to heal from the emotional and financial stress that’s taken place during the past year and ten months. That’s just one of the many reasons why shopping local is so important.

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I know the “shop local” mantra is repetitive and not always easy to achieve.

We like the convenience of ordering online with two-day delivery. But maybe this year, things can be different.

Might I suggest having a “keep it local” holiday? Whether it be between families or friends, challenge each other to only buy gifts from our small business community. Like John Lennon once sang, “It’s easy if you try.”

A quick read through our Holiday Gift Guide, and you’re bound to find something for someone. From home décor and San Pedro-branded apparel to vinyl albums and handmade holiday treats, this town’s shopping options have grown quite a bit over the past few years. Keeping your dollars local is one of the easiest ways to give back to the community.

Finally, I want to thank all of you for your continued support of San Pedro Today. We couldn’t do what we do year after year without the support from our small business community and readership.

Also, a special thank you to our local “Santa Claus,” who returned for his third December cover appearance. We had a fun (yet freezing) photo shoot at Cabrillo Beach last month.

I want to wish all of you a very merry Christmas and happy holidays.

Let’s all hope for a peaceful and prosperous 2022. 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 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 5

DECEMBER 2021

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ADVERTISING:

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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

Joshua J. Stecker Lori Garrett

General Inquiries: ads@sanpedrotoday.com

ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION Joseph A. Castañeda

AT-LARGE CONTRIBUTORS

Avery Amaya-Adle, Sanam Lamborn, Mike Lansing, Ricky Magana, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Nadia Nizetich, Angela Romero, Sophie Schoenfeld, Lee Williams

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

EMPIRE22 MEDIA LLC OWNER/PUBLISHER Joshua J. Stecker

San Pedro Today publishes the last Thursday of every month and is produced monthly

by Empire22 Media LLC. No portion of this publication can be reproduced without written permission by Empire22 Media. 25,000 copies are delivered to San Pedro and portions of Rancho Palos Verdes. San Pedro Today is a product of Empire22 Media LLC. Empire22 Media LLC, their subsidiaries and affiliates are released from all liability that may involve the publication of San Pedro Today. Copyright 2009-2021, Empire22 Media LLC.

VOLUME 13 | NUMBER 11 ON THE COVER: Santa Claus checks out the winter waves at Cabrillo Beach. (photo: John Mattera Photography)

6 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

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EVENTS

DECEMBER 2021 Every Friday – SAN PEDRO FARMERS MARKET AT LITTLE ITALY (638 S. Beacon St.), 11a-3p. – Pick up essential fruits and vegetables from certified, small family farms. Get a head start on weekend meals with so many delicious and fresh options. Please note social distancing of six feet between groups and people is required. Masks must be worn at all times, and a hand washing station is provided for your convenience.

For more info, visit sanpedrochamber. com/san-pedro-farmers-market.

2 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY in Downtown San Pedro, 6p. – The popular First Thursday ArtWalk is back in the historic core of Downtown San Pedro. The redesigned First Thursday will feature guided ArtWalk tours, open galleries, outdoor dining, and live music on the corner of 6th and Mesa streets.

3 (Fri) – CANDY CANE LANE at Weymouth Corners (Corner of 8th St. and Weymouth), 5-9p. – Candy Cane Lane is back! Enjoy a festive evening at Weymouth Corners, featuring shopping, music, live entertainment, food, fire trucks, cookie decorating, face painting, carnival games, and of course, Santa! FREE admission.

4 (Sat) – PORT OF LOS ANGELES HOLIDAYS BY THE SEA & TOWN SQUARE TREE LIGHTING at San Pedro Town Square, in front of the Los Angeles Maritime Museum (Berth 84), 4-8p. – Come celebrate the return of Holidays by the Sea! Enjoy the Town Square Tree Lighting at 5p and views of the Holiday Harbor Afloat Boat Parade (5-8p) from the new Town Square and Waterfront Promenade. The festivities will include live entertainment, tall ship light display, crafts, games, and Timmy the Duck, plus a toy drive (bring an unwrapped toy to donate to local chil-

dren) and the first-ever Elf Pet Parade — dress up your pets so they can show off their festive attire! Dress warm and bring your chair and blankets.

4 (Sat) – LA. HARBOR HOLIDAY AFLOAT PARADE at Los Angeles Maritime Institute (Berth 73, Suite 2), 5-8p. – Gather friends and family to share in a great afternoon on the water! Join us for this wonderful tradition, a great way to get in the holiday spirit. Please wear close-toed shoes and bring a coat in case it gets chilly. Our monthly community sails support our educational programs for youth in need. LAMI members receive 10% off all ticketed events. For more info, visit lamitopsail. org/la-harbor-holiday-afloat-parade/.

5 (Sun) – HOLIDAY POP-UP at The Chori-Man (2309 S. Alma St.), 8a-1p.

This hometown Holiday Pop-Up event will feature local artists, jewelry, candles, pots, plants, bath and body products, CBD products, home decor, spices, and a lemonade stand! Parking available near Leland Street Elementary.

5 (Sun) – 41st ANNUAL SPIRIT OF SAN PEDRO HOLIDAY PARADE in Downtown San Pedro, 1-3p. – The San Pedro Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that the annual Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade will be celebrating its 41st year on Sunday, December 5, 1-3p. The parade is going to be a spectacular IN-PERSON event with floats, bands, equestrians, and of course, Santa Claus! Each year, this festive tradition brings families, little leagues, scouts, students, high school bands, equestrian units, and volunteers to Downtown San Pedro to celebrate the holiday season and our community. The parade route is as follows: START at 13th St. and Pacific Ave.,

right on 6th St., END on 6th St. and Palos Verdes St. The annual parade is made possible through the generous support of our community. This event is presented by the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce and is a FREE event to the community. We hope to see you on the parade route! For more info, call the chamber at 310-832-7272.

10-12 (Fri-Sun) – SAN PEDRO CITY BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th St.), Friday: 7p, Saturday: 2p and 7p, Sunday: 2p. – San Pedro City Ballet returns with this timeless holiday classic, featuring professionals and young dancers from the company, as well as special cameos by some of your favorite community members! The Nutcracker is a classic holiday story, a fairy tale ballet in two acts centered on a family’s Christmas Eve gathering. Held at the historic Warner Grand Theater in San Pedro, the show features dance, magic, gorgeous sets and costumes, and is fun for the whole family. Show times are as follows: Friday, December 10 at 7p, Saturday, December 11 at 2p and 7p, and Sunday, December 12 at 2p. For tickets, visit sanpedrocityballet.org.

COVID-19 UPDATE: Due to the rapidly changing nature of public health guidance for in-person events, information may change.

Please plan accordingly.

contact Chuy Ibarra at (310) 347-7508, Dickie & Jerryne Soto at (310) 5474509, or Luci Lussing at (925) 997-3434.

11-12 (Sat-Sun) – HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE POP-UP at The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.), 9a-3p. – Join more than a dozen artists, artisans, makers, and bakers outside San Pedro’s favorite neighborhood store for a fun weekend of holiday shopping! The San Pedro Today-sponsored two-day event will also feature live music. Best parking will be along Paseo de Mar. 18 (Sat) – GOLDEN STATE POPS ORCHESTRA’S HOLIDAY POPS SPECTACULAR at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th St.), 8p. – Celebrate the holiday season with Maestro Steven Allen Fox, Resident Choir Maestra Marya Basaraba, and the Golden State Pops Orchestra and Chorale the only way they know how: through a festive performance of timeless holiday film music, traditional favorites, special guests, and snow! Tickets range from $27 to $75. For more info or for tickets, visit gspo.com or call 310-433-8774.

28-30 (Tues-Thurs) – SAN PEDRO HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL WINTER CAMP at Eastview Little League, top of Knoll Hill (766 S. Centre St.), 9a-2p.

11 (Sat) – 2021 CHRISTMAS TOY – The 2021 Winter Baseball Camp is DRIVE at Utros Cafe (Berth 73), 11arun by SPHS coaches and players. The 3p. – Bring your new unwrapped toys, gift cards, friends, and family and enjoy camp consists of teaching the proper the 2021 Christmas Toy Drive collection fielding, hitting, throwing, pitching, and catching fundamentals. Camp runs and celebration from 11a to 3p. SponDec. 28-30 from 9a-2p daily. Open to sored by Fermin Lasuen alumni and friends, the toy drive begins November boys and girls, ages 5-12. Camp price is $150 (prorated pricing available).

15 and ends on December 11. Along with new unwrapped toys, gift cards are Optional: pizza lunch can be purchased very much appreciated. Please mail gifts for $5 per day. Please register early. For cards to: Toy Drive, 941 Gatun St., San more info or to register, contact Coach Nick Lusic at (310) 308-6301 or Coach Pedro, CA 90731. Let's do our part to bring a merry Christmas to the families Robert Mendoza at (310) 427-2978. spt who need our support! For more info,

Email events@sanpedrotoday.com to place a listing for a nominal fee.

Deadline for the January 2022 issue is Friday, December 17. Find more events at sanpedrotoday.com.

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orchestra to association is strategic, allowing the group to expand to launch new ensembles, collaborate with other organizations, and create music festivals. “It’s just going to open the doors for us to become a lot more active and involved in the music industry in ways that, as an orchestra by itself, just wouldn’t be possible.”

In anticipation of the upcoming concert, Fox and the Pops have ample safety precautions in place to combat the spread of COVID-19. The chorale will reduce its number of singers, and every volunteer, worker, and performer in the orchestra and chorale will be vaccinated. Unlike previous years’ shows, there will be no cash sales or will-call at the venue — guests will either purchase tickets ahead of time online and print out hard copies of their tickets at home GSPO founder and conductor Steven Allen Fox (center) leads the orchestra during a past holiday concert. (photo courtesy GSPO) or use credit-card-only kiosks at the Warner Grand the night of the show. mieres, songs that have never been “Our first priority is everybody’s safety,” played for a live audience. “I’ve always reassures Fox, “and we want to limit wanted to present Elf as [a musical contact points as much as we can.” suite with narration], and this year In addition, the Warner Grand came the opportunity,” enthuses Fox. Theatre will abide by county guideThe new arrangement from Elf, titled lines, which mandate that patrons wear How Buddy the Elf Saved Christmas, masks unless eating or drinking and will feature Bill Rogers, the “Voice of that all guests over the age of 12 bring Disneyland,” narrating the story of Elf either proof of vaccination or a negative over music from the movie. The concert test taken within 72 hours. Attendees

by Nadia Nizetich will also premiere the suite from Jingle over the age of 18 must also bring a Jangle: A Christmas Journey. Writer photo ID that matches the name on lar is the orchestra’s annual holiday and director David Talbert, who worked the vaccination card or their negative How many days does it take for the tradition. This year’s show, the group’s on the film for nearly 20 years, will dis- test results. world’s best musicians to put together cuss his work with the audience before a holiday concert? That’s not the setup first since COVID-19 began, is a When asked what most excites him the premiere. for a joke, although the answer is prac- healthy mix of novelty and ritual. Like about returning to live performances, years past, the orchestra and chorale There may also be another, less musi- Fox’s answer is simple: He can’t wait tically a punchline: just two. Maestro will perform film and media music with cal, surprise: snow. “When people leave to take those first steps on stage. “The Steven Allen Fox and the Golden State selections from Home Alone, Elf, and the concert hall after our performance Pops Orchestra and Chorale are gearconductor walking out — that’s the Christmas classics on the setlist. The for the holidays, there’s this running ing up for a triumphant return to the moment when it hits everybody. We stage with their annual “Holiday POPS concert will still take place at the War- joke that there may be snow in San are here doing this. We made it through Spectacular,” and they are waiting until ner Grand in San Pedro, the orchestra’s Pedro,” Fox teases, speaking about past something.” And to do it on the Warner home stage since 2004. holiday performances at the Warner the last minute to finalize the songs on Grand stage? “The Warner Grand has Yet audiences can expect plenty of Grand. “Let’s just say this year there their setlist, keeping the show full of been our home since 2004. It’s really really might be snow!” surprises. “When you have an orchestra new additions. Fox and arranger Vicgoing to feel like a homecoming.” spt Like the show, the orchestra itself that is comprised of very high-level mu- tor Pesavento, who collaborated on has changed since it last performed sicians,” Fox explains, “in one rehearsal the setlist and are long-time friends, The Holiday POPS Spectacular will enjoy adding unique elements to each live. The Golden State Pops Orchestra and a dress rehearsal, you’re ready take place on December 18 at the performance. Framed by the pandemic, now operates under the umbrella of to go.”

Warner Grand Theatre. For tickets the tone of this year’s concert will be the nonprofit Entertainment in Music Fox, who founded the Golden State and information, visit gspo.com or introspective and meaningful, with follow the Golden State Pops on Association, an organization Fox and Pops Orchestra and Chorale in 2002, beauty as an unofficial theme. the orchestra’s board of directors helped Facebook and Instagram at has been its conductor for nearly 20 @goldenstatepops.

On the setlist are two world precreate. Fox says that the change from years, and the Holiday POPS Spectacu-

EVENTS

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VOICES

ODYSSEY OF POLISH WWII REFUGEES ENDS IN SAN PEDRO

by Steve Marconi Almost every year at this time, I recommend San Pedro-centric books for Christmas stocking stuffers.

This year’s offering is a bit different in that San Pedro is never mentioned; it’s a gut-wrenching memoir detailing a family’s suffering through one of World War II’s most horrific episodes. Read on for the San Pedro connection.

The Whistler: A Harrowing True Story (available at Amazon) was written by the late Marilyn Gwizdak Greenwood, a Briton, based on the memoirs of her father, Jozef Jan Gwizdak (“whistle” is the surname’s linguistic roots). As the title implies, this is not an easy read, centering as it does on the well-documented Katyn Massacre and the lesser-known Soviet ethnic cleansing of eastern Poland. It’s riveting, equal parts horrifying and inspiring.

When war breaks out in 1939, the Gwizdak family — parents Andrzej and Stasha and their seven children — are living in the tiny village of Puzieniewicze near the Russian border, at peace with their White Russian neighbors.

Early on, after Hitler and Stalin agree to partition Poland, the Soviets march in, and Andrzej, who had fought the Russians in WWI and again in 1920, is arrested and never heard from again.

Only after the war does the family find out the patriarch was murdered in

1940 along with tens of thousands of other Polish officials, veterans, police, teachers, and priests and buried in mass graves. The graves are discovered by the Nazis in 1943 after invading Russia, but they are blamed for the slaughter; the Soviets denied culpability right up until 1990.

In January 1940, the rest of the Gwizdaks and hundreds of thousands of other Poles are forced from their homes, loaded onto cattle cars, and shipped off to labor camps in Siberia and Kazakhstan. The Gwizdaks end up in Siberia, where in the frozen tundra they are worked and nearly starved to death; middle child Mietek gets sick and dies in 1941 at age 12. The rest, bulwarked by their mother’s indomitable spirit and faith, survive until 1942, when Stalin, under pressure from his British and American allies, relents and allows the Poles to leave.

The exodus from Russia takes the family to the Caspian Sea, where they are separated before embarking on ships to British-controlled Iran. On that voyage, a frail and sick Stasha, knowing her six children are finally safe, succumbs, and her body is committed to the sea; the children only learn of her fate from an eyewitness after the war, when they are reunited in England with thousands of other Polish refugees.

Three of the Gwizdaks eventually immigrate to the United States, and while it’s not mentioned in The Whistler, two end up in San Pedro. Their stories are a

20 Beers

book in their own right.

Janina, the oldest Gwizdak daughter, met and married Ludwik Maciej in postwar England. She was a member of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force; Maciej had been in the Polish air force, escaped to Romania, and eventually became a bomber pilot in the RAF. His plane was shot down in June 1941 in the English Channel; he was captured by the Germans and spent the rest of the war in a POW camp (check Google for his amazing story).

The Maciejs had a son and immigrated to Argentina, where their second son, Luis, was born, and in 1961, the family uprooted again and came to the States. After a short stay in Buffalo, N.Y., Ludwik, a welder, heard there was work in California. He got a job at San Pedro’s Todd Shipyards, and both sons graduated from San Pedro High.

Janina died in 1999 and is buried at Green Hills; Ludwik died in 2007 at 91, and his ashes were buried in the family cemetery in Poland.

The youngest Gwizdaks, Pola and Regina, finished the war in orphanages in Africa before being reunited with their siblings in England. There, Regina met and married Wincenty Kurzawa, yet another Polish refugee. Kurzawa had joined the Polish resistance at age 16, was arrested and sent to Buchenwald concentration camp. He escaped, was nearly killed in an Allied bombing while hiding out in Germany, and after the war, worked his way to England.

The Kurzawas had three children before immigrating to the States, and Regina reunited with her sister Janina in San Pedro in 1968 when Wincenty joined his brother-in-law at Todd. Wincenty retired after 20 years there and died in 2001.

San Pedrans who were regulars at IHOP on Western through the `70s and `80s will remember Regina, the diminutive, friendly waitress with the thick Polish accent. Only six when her family’s ordeal began in Poland, she retired after 25 years at IHOP; now 88, she lives in the same Point Fermin house they bought from Libby DiBernardo in 1968. Daughters Zofia and Kristina also worked at that IHOP, where Zofia met her future husband, John Wallmark.

Zofia (‘71), Kristina (‘75), and their late brother, Edward (‘73), all graduated from San Pedro High. Luis Maciej and I were classmates at San Pedro High, and I’ve been going to the same church as the Wallmarks for more than 30 years.

It was reconnecting with Luis at my W’69 50th reunion that led to discovering he and Zofia, who told me about The Whistler, were cousins.

A typical San Pedro angle to an extraordinarily untypical San Pedro immigration story. spt Steve Marconi can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.

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VOICES

I TRIED TO HELP A HOMELESS MAN; THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED

by Jennifer Marquez

“While parking my car behind the hospital on 7th Street, I noticed an older man sitting on the curb with his belongings spilling onto the street. The man said hello and we began to talk; he had been living there for two weeks. I asked how he ended up here, and he started to cry.

He told me about his wife dying in his arms. He was 72 years old and had low vision, maybe blind. His stories were clear but repetitive and, at times, completely inappropriate. He kept saying he wanted to get back to Los Angeles. I asked if he wanted shelter; he said yes. I told him I knew there were beds available in the shelters on Beacon Street.

While I have worked in social services for over 25 years, I am not a frontline outreach worker. I know

'He was 72 years old and had low vision, maybe blind. His stories were clear but repetitive.'

The man (whose identity is concealed for privacy reasons) disappeared soon after being offered help. (photo: Jennifer Marquez)

people in Los Angeles are told to call 211 for services if they are experiencing homelessness. This man did not have a phone, so I called for him. I could not get through after multiple attempts. I then called a local shelter and asked for help. I was told they could not do anything because I had to fill out a form somewhere online first. How was a man who is homeless and disabled supposed to navigate this system?

Another local woman, Linda DrakeCotrufo, had a similar experience with this gentleman. She was taking her children to the doctor and parked by him. She heard the same stories as I did and was worried because of his age and sores on his leg. He shared with her that he was going to the bathroom in the bushes by her children’s doctor’s

office. She realized that the windows in the exam rooms faced these bushes. If a child looked out, they would see this man using the bathroom. This was not a good situation for anybody.

“I called 211, and they were useless.

They told me the man needed to get himself to a public bus to get to a shelter, they had no transportation,” she recalls. “How can a senior, who is hard of vision, with no phone, get himself and his belongings to a bus?”

Frustrated, she contacted the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) and was told that they could not help because they did not have any transportation for him. “I asked LAHSA what they were doing with all the tax dollars they collected.

There must be so much money with all the items people bought during the

pandemic, like toilet paper. Where is all the money?” she asked.

I got in touch with an outreach worker from the local shelter. She visited the man the next day, and he agreed to go to a shelter. The shelter had no way to transport him, so they arranged to use a van from another agency a few hours later. When they got there, he said he did not want to go to the shelter, and he was done talking.

This is not uncommon — some people who are experiencing homelessness do not want to abide by the rules of shelters, or they may resist treatment if they are mentally ill. Others have heard stories of shelters being unsafe, and many are shelter resistant. In the meantime, the man was surrounded by rotting food and things brought by people who believed they were helping him. People were also giving him money that he was waving around. I was afraid he was going to be robbed and suggested he keep his money in his pocket. The trash that piled up around him affected the businesses nearby.

Nobody knew what to do. A few days later, the man disappeared.

To advocate for change, consider these situations when you vote, and pressure elected officials for improvements to a broken system.

Support local nonprofits that serve the homeless by donating or volunteering.

Most shelters are not governmentfunded and rely on the community to support them. Not everybody wants help, but if they do, let’s make it easier for them to get the services they need. spt Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com and @jenntmqz on Twitter and Instagram.

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DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 15

VOICES

'TIS THE SEASON OF GIVING

by Mike Lansing

Growing up in San Pedro, the Christmas holiday was one of anticipation and wonderment for my siblings and me. We repeatedly pored over the Sears catalog and its extensive toy and sports equipment sections, hoping that at least a couple of the items on the list we left for Santa Claus would miraculously arrive on Christmas morning. While never without, some years were more robust, and for some, well, underwear was the main attraction. But one thing for sure is that we were never in want — even during those thin years.

As we grow up, “giving” becomes

the priority for the holiday season over receiving. This giving priority may be for loved ones, work-related relationships, and/or for those who need us most — children whose “thin years” are the norm. In my 27 years at the helm of the Boys & Girls Club, I have been truly amazed at the overwhelming generosity of so many individuals and businesses during the holiday season. It started in my first year with a phone call from my friends Tommy and Bobby, picking me up in a station wagon and filling it with sports equipment for our San Pedro Club members. Since then, the giving by so many different donors has benefitted both the numerous holiday events we sponsor and some gifts to support our expanded sites and efforts

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throughout the year. Regardless of the size or designation, these gifts of love and sharing are truly appreciated and make such a huge difference for thousands of youth and families. The following are just some examples of people stepping up and giving during the upcoming holiday season.

Daily Breeze Ball Drive. Now in its 22nd year, the Daily Breeze has been sponsoring an annual Ball Drive to support our growing membership and footprint. When initiated, we had only two club sites. Today, we have 19 and will open our 20th next spring. While these donated balls originally supported only our in-house holiday events for our members, the focus has changed to have an even bigger impact. Today, these balls are distributed at three community events we began sponsoring last year in response to the pandemic and the growing need of families during this ongoing crisis. Partners besides the Daily Breeze are Big 5, First Bank, Cal Pro Sports, LAUSD, and UNIFY Financial Credit Union. Please go to our website at bgclaharbor.org to learn how you can participate.

Holiday Community Events. As noted previously, last year, our Boys & Girls Club organization decided to sponsor three community events to support Los Angeles Harbor area youth besides our own membership of approximately 10,000. This year, we are sponsoring our San Pedro event at our Port Club on December 18, our Wilmington Club event on December 20, and our Harbor City event on December 22.

Besides ball drive donations, we will be distributing over 1,500 pairs of shoes provided by fellow San Pedro Today columnist Jennifer Marquez and over 3,000 new books from our Bookstore on Wheels program. Open to any youth, ages 5–18.

Holiday Food Distribution. Last year, we started our Friday Weekend Wellness program (1.2 million meals distributed) to support food-insecure families living in our Los Angeles Harbor communities (San Pedro,

Wilmington, Harbor City, and Lomita).

We are continuing Weekend Wellness this year, but on Tuesday, December 21, we will also be distributing expanded holiday food packages to over 1,100 families throughout the Harbor area.

Besides our own budgetary investment, this event will bring some much-needed holiday cheer to thousands of youth and their families with support from the Palos Verdes Chapter of the National Charity League, LA Food Bank, Phillips 66, Food Finders, Freedom4U, 99 Cents Only Stores, No Kid Hungry, and through monetary donations from individuals and businesses. The cost and availability of turkeys and hams are much more limiting this year than ever.

Regardless, these families will receive enough food for a true celebration to last them through the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

Donate to a Nonprofit. Besides the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor, there are several San Pedro nonprofits that charge no fees to support a large number of “those who need us most” and can truly use your generosity this holiday season.

These include (but are not limited to): Rainbow Services, Harbor Interfaith, Toberman House, Assistance League, Beacon House, and Salvation Army, just to name a few. We all rely heavily on year-end giving by a growing number of generous donors to meet the expanded needs of so many youth and families, not only during the holidays but year round. Thank you in advance for your consideration — you can help bring hope and cheer to so many this holiday season.

Wishing you and all yours a fantastic Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa season and a most happy and healthy 2022! spt Mike Lansing is the executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.

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DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 17

VOICES

HOLIDAY SHOPPING IN SAN PEDRO MADE EASY

by Lee Williams Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles. (photo: Facebook)

Backed-up containers at the Port have really provided an opportunity for folks to shop local this year, and with all the new shops around San Pedro, people are discovering how easy it is to find unique gifts for the people they love most. You may have missed all the ribbon cuttings and grand openings happening around town lately. Much has changed.

If you have a chance to hit the San Pedro Farmers Market on Fridays between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., you are bound to find great gifts for friends and coworkers. Candles, soaps, apparel, and gourmet ingredients are flexible presents. Which is great as you’re trying to figure out who to shop for and super handy when you receive an unexpected gift. Be sure to check out the booth with doggie treats for your favorite pet lovers! The San Pedro Farmers Market at Little Italy is located at 638 S. Beacon Street.

Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles is open from noon to 6 p.m., Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

There are over 45 shops with over 130 artists represented. You’ll want

to take your time and carve out a few hours to see everything — trust me, it will be worth it. I can’t highlight all of the shops, but here are a few of my favorites. Paradise Preserves is the first shop you see as you enter Crafted. Carey McMillan takes local produce and, depending on the season, has up to 40 different flavors of jams, jellies, and marmalades. I always get at least a traditional and a spicy jam and then pester Carey for some of her famous fudge. Stop by 88kitty for soaps, scented candles, and bath bombs.

They are handcrafted, vegan, and smell so good! If you have some sort of memorabilia, collector’s items, military honors, or the like that would look good framed, Get Framed by Steve is a great place to showcase items.

My wife, Sara, loves succulents. Both Inside Outside Unique Designs and Succulents by Sue offer succulents in unique containers. Adewole Arts features handmade pottery that you can buy, or even better, sign up for a class to make your own with a loved one. You can create art, laughs, and memories even more special than the gift itself.

There are so many other shops within Crafted where you’ll find jewelry, art, home décor, and collectibles.

The San Pedro Art Association is back at Crafted for the holidays and

18 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

features the work of over 40 artists.

Remember to take your time and finish things off with a beer at Brouwerij West, across the plaza.

Weymouth Corners features two of my favorite shops. Rok ‘n’ Ell is a baby boutique located at 1438 8th Street. Carolina Brown, the owner, has stocked up on Christmas items in addition to the rare, funny, and unique baby gifts she is known for. Fleur De Lys, Artistry in Flowers is a few doors away on the corner at 720 S. Weymouth Ave. This isn’t your average florist shop. Let Nova or Lee know what you want and they will create the “Wow!” floral art for your home or event. Be sure to check out the 35th Annual Weymouth Corners, Candy Cane Lane on Friday December 3 from 5 to 9 p.m.

Downtown San Pedro has the newest shops, especially for fashion, home décor, and San Pedro gear. I recommend you park in the lot near Siren’s Java & Tea so you can get a “road latte.”

Be sure to check out Rustic Charm & Petals and also H.Den Design.

They are on either side of Siren’s and offer unique items you can’t find anywhere else. If you buy tickets to San Pedro City Ballet’s The Nutcracker performances between December 10 and 12, you can shop before or after.

Otherwise, most of the shops are open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays between noon and 6 p.m. There are a few interesting shops including The Coastline Shop, The Zen Den, and Rootz Uncharted on 6th Street. Spend some time on 6th and 7th walking between Pacific and Centre, paying attention to all the new restaurants.

There may be at least one that you may not know existed, and now is a great time to try it out and make plans to come back to visit the others.

San Pedro Today is sponsoring a Holiday Boutique at The Corner Store on December 11 and 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with live music, artists, makers, bakers, and more. The address is 1118 W. 37th Street. Also, don’t forget to check out all of the new shops along Pacific Ave. People are raving about all the new boutiques. When you spend local, it stays local — support San Pedro businesses! spt Lee Williams leads the Williams Group at Keller Williams Realty and is a member of the Board of Directors for the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce and the Boys and Girls Club for L.A. Harbor.

DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 19

GENERATIONS (l to r): Natalia and Olivia Dover; Erin and Scarlett Zimmermann, and Michelle Papayans and Brooklynn Smith; Irene, Giovanna, and Jacqueline Lauro. (photos: George Simian)

CONTINUING THE TRADITION: ‘THE NUTCRACKER’ RETURNS

SAN PEDRO CITY BALLET INTRODUCES ITS NEXT GENERATION OF PERFORMERS

by Avery Amaya-Adle San Pedro City Ballet’s The Nutcracker is back, and this year, it’s a family affair.

After taking a break last year due to the pandemic, the company returns this December with live performances at the Warner Grand Theatre. The ballet company, founded by Cindy and Patrick David Bradley, has gifted families with annual performances of The Nutcracker since 1994, providing the community a beloved local holiday tradition for almost three decades. Now, the company will introduce the next generation of performers, as some members of the original dance company will get to “pass the torch” and witness their own children take the stage.

Erin Zimmermann last performed The Nutcracker with the dance company 23 years ago, and now, she’s really looking forward to having her daughter perform on the same stage as she did.

“I have always dreamed of having a daughter that would share my passion for ballet,” Zimmermann shares. “When my four-year-old daughter Scarlett expressed interest in auditioning for The Nutcracker, I immediately experienced an overwhelming sense of nostalgia.”

That nostalgia will be strong this year at the Warner Grand. Michelle

Papayans is another mother of one of this year’s performers who also was in The Nutcracker years ago. Her daughter, Brooklynn, 4, is dancing in her first performance of The Nutcracker this holiday season. “If I hear the music, I get a lump in my throat. It’s a part of all of my holiday memories,” Papayans says. “When you have kids, it makes you feel good to have them experience the same things you did as a child. I brought my daughter here in hopes that she can perform with other second generation SPCB dancers, just like their moms did when we started all this over 25 years ago.”

Natalia Dover shares the same sentiment. “Having my daughter study under the same wonderful instructors as I had the privilege to study under is such a joy,” says Dover, another past performer whose 14-year-old daughter Olivia is also in this year’s production.

“It makes my heart happy to know she will be loved by them and cared for as not just a student but as a growing young woman as well.”

The affection for San Pedro City Ballet seems to be unanimous among the former dancers and helps explain why they are so excited to see their daughters participate in the same program. In

20 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

particular, Dover credits the Bradleys for being outstanding ballet teachers and often going above and beyond. “[Cindy] loves these young dancers as her own children and wants the best for them,” says Dover, “not just in dance but in their lives as well.”

Giovanna Lauro was also in the early performances of The Nutcracker, and she will take the stage in this year’s rendition as well. Alongside her will be her two daughters: Irene, 7, and Jackie, 4, this being Jackie’s first time in The Nutcracker. Giovanna spent a lot of time in the ballet, so being able to pass on such a special experience to her two children means a lot to her. “I have so many memories from childhood tied to ballet,” she explains. “I had performed [in] countless [performances of The Nutcracker], spring recitals, Swan Lake, Don Quixote, and many original works in my time with San Pedro City Ballet. Now as a teacher at the studio and a parent of two little dancers, I’m reminded of what a positive impact dance was in my life. Ballet class was always my happy place, all of my closest friends were there. I now see my daughters building friendships with their classmates, and I know these will be lifelong friends.”

Lauro sees ballet as something that will connect her and her daughters for a long time to come. “This is going to be a tradition for us — until of course they are teens, and they tell me it’s embarrassing, but even then, I don’t think that will stop me!”

For the Bradleys, having served San Pedro for more than 25 years, Nutcracker season has become a nostalgic affair.

“Having our former students’ children involved is the most heartwarming and fulfilling thing imaginable,” says Cindy Bradley.

The passing of the baton this year will be an experience that these mothers and daughters will undoubtedly cherish, perhaps for years to come. “To be able to experience The Nutcracker 23 years after the last time I performed [in it] is a gift,” says Zimmermann. “And to be able to share this experience with my daughter makes it ten times more special.” spt The San Pedro City Ballet is set to perform The Nutcracker at the Warner Grand Theatre on December 10 at 7 p.m., December 11 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and December 12 at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit sanpedrocityballet.org.

DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 21

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(

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021

)

Santa Claus checks out the waves at Cabrillo Beach. (photo: John Mattera Photography)

IT’S SAFE TO SAY, THIS YEAR’S HOLIDAY SEASON WILL BE MUCH MORE FESTIVE THAN LAST YEAR’S.

As the pandemic numbers continue to decline here in Los Angeles County, San Pedro’s small business community continues to grow, with several new retail shops and home-based businesses opening in the past year.

With indoor shopping back and people feeling a sense of normalcy again, now is the perfect time to support the many independently owned and operated “mom-and-pops” our town is known for. From the artisans at Crafted to the new apparel shops and boutiques in downtown, San Pedro’s shopping choices have grown quite a bit the past few years.

As 2021 comes to a close, let’s all be mindful of where we spend our gift-giving dollars. San Pedro may not have everything, but you can find something for everyone (including yourself) in town. While this list is far from complete, we hope this gift guide encourages you to keep your dollars local, not only during the holidays, but all-year round.

SPECIALTY GIFTS ASSISTANCE LEAGUE HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE The Assistance League of San Pedro-South Bay’s Holiday Boutique offers a full selection of stunning holiday décor, beautiful ornaments, and eye-catching gift ideas, including jewelry and crystal items. The gift shop also carries cookbooks, apparel, greeting cards, and a full selection of See’s Candies! 1441 W. 8th St., (310) 832-8355, assistanceleague.org/ san-pedro-south-bay.

CABRILLO MARINE AQUARIUM GIFT SHOP The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Gift Shop is a true treasure by the sea. The shop features

ocean-themed ornaments and art, fun family puzzles, and a great selection of books. They also offer a wide selection of products online.

Plus, all proceeds go towards programs at the aquarium. 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., (310) 548-8394, shop.friendsofcabrilloaquarium.org.

CRAFTED AT THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES Come discover handmade, heartfelt gifts for everyone on your list at Crafted, Southern California’s largest permanent modern makers’ market! Over 100 talented artists are represented, offering everything from Astralcreaciones to Zia’s Finds. Hand-thrown platters and bowls from Adewole Arts make a thoughtful gift for the host or any entertainer in your life.

24 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

Check out new looks for the kids at Koala Charm and new looks for your home at Ten Thousand Villages. Make a date at Color Play Studio (colorplaystudio.com) to dye your own fashion creations. Don’t miss the San Pedro Art Association Member Show kicking off on Small Business Saturday, November 27. Take a beer break at Brouwerij West and enjoy the rotating selection of food trucks and entertainment. As always, free parking and admission! Please visit craftedportla.com for extended holiday hours and information. 112 E. 22nd Street, craftedportla.com.

DISTINCTIVE EDGE FRAMING & GALLERY Since 1981, Distinctive Edge Framing & Gallery has been

helping the peninsula “deck the halls” year-round. In addition to framing, they specialize in art sales, restoration, and decorating tips.

28639 S. Western Ave., RPV, (310) 833-3613.

GRAND STREET ARTS Give the gift of artistic inspiration! Awardwinning photographer Annie Appel offers photo restoration services, remote photography workshops, and private photography instruction, while tango instructor Silvia Askenazi offers group and private dance lessons and remote Spanish language classes at the Grand Street Arts center. More info at grandstreetarts.com.

DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 25

DIVINE ELYSIAN WELLNESS Located in The Terraces (second level), the brand new Divine Elysian Wellness offers a wide variety of services to help one relax, rejuvenate, and improve your life. Whether you’re interested in increasing your energy or would like to explore alternative medicine, chances are they can help. For Black Friday, they’re offering a Buy Any Package of Six (Any Service) and get 30% off, among other specials.

28901 S. Western Ave., Ste. 225, RPV, (424) 2676251, divineelysianwellness.com.

JOHN MATTERA PHOTOGRAPHY Display the beauty of San Pedro in your home! John Mattera Photography has captured and archived many impressive images of San Pedro during his decade as lead photographer for San Pedro Today. These images can be purchased as highquality prints, canvases, or coasters. Mattera’s collection also includes a variety of college football action photos on canvas from Notre Dame, UCLA, and USC games.

(310) 308-9766, johnmatteraphotography.com.

RUSTIC CHARM & PETALS A welcome addition to 7th St. in Downtown San Pedro, Rustic Charm & Petals offers a variety of clothing, accessories, home décor, and charming gifts, including Pedro-inspired tees and sweatshirts and their best-selling Zip Code Pillows — a perfect gift or addition to your home this holiday season!

They also offer various workshops for the community, including flower arranging, wreath-making, kids cookie decorating, and more. 251 W. 7th St., (310) 755-4576, rusticcharmandpetals.com.

SUSAN DRAWBAUGH STUDIO Local artist Susan Drawbaugh creates humorous and relatable illustrations in her pet-inspired collection, “Playful Art of Pets & Peeps.”

Her adorable dog and cat artwork can be purchased on various products like stationary, mugs, and art prints through her online store.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE (clockwise): Susan Drawbaugh Studio's Santa Paws Ornaments; Beacon House Thrift Shop; Mandyz Boutique; Zip Code Pillows from Rustic Charm & Petals; and a canvas by John Mattera Photography.

Popular products include her Santa Paws Ornaments and Playful Pups notepads and mugs, which make great stocking stuffers for friends and family with four-legged furballs in their lives. Purchase online at drawbaughdraws.com.

FOR THE HOME SOUTH SHORES ACE HARDWARE Home improvement projects have become more popular than ever. If you have an upcoming project, South Shores Ace Hardware is stocked for all your holiday DIY and home improvement needs.

Power tools (and gift cards) always make great stocking stuffers! 2515 S. Western Ave., Ste. 101, (310) 833-1223.

HOUSE 1002 With 6,000 square feet of showroom, it is hard to imagine not finding some pretty awesome and unique gifts from the selection of collectibles, vintage items, art, and architectural salvage at House 1002. They acquire new

26 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

pieces daily, so check in often! local clothing brands. Chockfull of 1002 S. Pacific Ave, (310) 833-1002, originally designed t-shirts, hoodhouse1002.com. ies, and caps, this popular store in Downtown San Pedro has become BEACON HOUSE THRIFT SHOP a bastion for the skate and surf The Beacon House Thrift Shop crowd. Also, they’re the only local boasts a wide array of household retailer with official “Three-Eyed appliances, books, and clothing Fish” merch! Check out their new, at affordable prices. All proceeds bigger location just down the benefit the Beacon House’s primary block from the original store. New mission to help men recover from location: 363 W. 6th St., (310) 521alcoholism and addiction. 812 S. 9965, badfishclothing.com.

Pacific Ave., (310) 514-4940, beaconhousethrift.org.

LUDIC Just off the corner of 9th and Grand is one of San Pedro’s most stylish boutiques, LUDIC (short for “ludicrous”). The shop carries an array of women’s and kids’ clothing and offers all-inclusive sizes, from small to 3X, plus accessories, gifting, and home goods.

THE COASTLINE SHOP Located 915 S. Grand Ave., (562) 999-1347, in the heart of Downtown San shopludic.co.

Pedro, The Coastline Shop carries a selection of apparel, including MANDYZ BOUTIQUE Mandyz is San Pedro-themed shirts, hoodies, capping 2021 with their annual 24 caps, and more. 437 W. 6th St., Days of Savings, featuring a difthecoastlineshop.com. ferent sale every day from Dec.1 BADFISH CLOTHING COMPANY through Dec. 24 on their stock of hand-picked, trendy, and fashionBadfish Clothing Company has become one of San Pedro’s favorite able clothing and accessories. On

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DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 27

Dec. 9, they’ll be hosting a Sip and Shop event from 5-8 p.m., offering 20% off select merchandise, a HOBO bags trunk show, and a free bottle of wine with purchase! 1442 W. 8th St., (310) 521-8400, mandyzboutique.com.

MCKENNA’S PENDLETON The essential shirt among South Bay surfers and dockworkers alike, McKenna’s Pendleton has been keeping the Harbor Area warm since 1986. Located a short hop away in Lomita, the store carries the largest selection of Pendleton products in Southern California, featuring current men’s and women’s clothing, accessories, and home goods. 2304 Pacific Coast Hwy., Lomita, (310) 539-2725, mckennaspendleton. com.

ROOTZ UNCHARTED Founded in 2017, Rootz Clothing Company opened their first brick and mortar shop in Downtown San Pedro earlier this year. Promoting their philosophy of “Live.

Love. And Explore.” the shop features Rootz-branded apparel for menz, womenz, and gromz (kids).

They also carry a collection of hats and jackets. 418 W. 6th St., (310) 480-1262, rootzuncharted.com

popular brands like Ugg Australia, Vans, and Rainbow Sandals. 329 W. 6th St., (310) 832-9364, urbanfeetandskate.net.

JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES CAPTAIN’S TREASURE CHEST From 14k white and yellow gold to sterling silver or costume jewelry, even watches and class rings, gift ideas abound at this beloved family-owned business. For December, Captain’s Treasure Chest is offering sterling silver & cubic zirconia stud earrings with a penguin gift box for

only $20. They also have Christmas pins, earrings, and bracelets for only $10 each! 28901 S. Western Ave., Ste. 219, RPV, (310) 519-1856, captainstreasurechestjewelry.com.

GOLDEN TREASURE JEWELERS One of the jewels of Weymouth Corners, Golden Treasure Jewelers ROUNDTRIP COLLECTIVE New specializes in 14k yellow and white threads with a vintage vibe! This gold, diamonds, sterling silver, and Downtown San Pedro boutique watches. In December, they’re offeatures high-quality women’s fering 10-50% off storewide, plus clothing, accessories, and gifts. free sterling silver cubic zirconia Their winter collection includes a studs with any purchase of $50 or wide selection of sweaters, jackets, more. With their jewelry cleaning jeans, and loungewear. 617 S. Mesa service, you can get your jewelry all St., (310) 935-8295, sparkly and shiny for the holidays. roundtripcollective.com.

1453 W. 8th St., Ste. C, (310) 5484008.

URBAN FEET & SKATE San Pedro’s shoe headquarters! Urban DIAMOND FACTORY Serving the Feet carries everything from classy South Bay since 1977, the Diamond to sporty to work shoes, including 28 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

Factory offers a large selection of fine jewelry, including 14k jewelry in prices ranging from $10 and up, precious stones, silver jewelry, watches, and of course, diamonds.

They also specialize in appraisals, ear piercing, jewelry repair, custom designs, and diamond settings. The knowledgeable staff will be happy to help you find that special gift for that special someone. 28370 S. Western Ave., RPV, (310) 833-8605, diamondfactoryinc.com.

VILICICH WATCH & CLOCK Timepieces make beloved gifts and heirlooms. Family owned and operated for more than six decades, Vilicich Watch & Clock has long specialized

HOBBIES THE BIKE PALACE What’s a more classic holiday gift than a brand-new bike with a bright red bow? Since 1973, The Bike Palace has been catering to the community’s two-wheeled needs, and no matter your age, we can all agree that popping a wheelie is still pretty cool. They’re stocked with plenty of sizes and models to choose from for any age. 1600 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 832-1966, thebikepalace.com.

JD HOBBY CENTER If you’re looking for a gift that sparks creativity and relaxation, take a look inside JD Hobby Center.

Their 10,000 square-foot retail space on 6th St. is full of various models, books, collectible toys, movie memorabilia, and pop culture items.

471 W. 6th St., (310) 514-3702, jdhobbies. yolasite.

The Bike Palace, McKenna's Pendleton, and JDC Records. com.

in watch and antique clock repair with a special emphasis on Rolex sales and service. Knowledge, skill, and meticulous attention to detail remain a time-honored hallmark of the watchmakers and clockmakers at this Weymouth Corners establishment. 714 S. Weymouth Ave., (310) 833-6891, vilicichwatch.com.

SAN PEDRO SHOES & HANDBAG REPAIR Another Weymouth Corners institution and home of the San Pedro Slap sandal and the Gabbag handbag, San Pedro Shoes & Handbag Repair is a great choice for someone looking for a unique, local gift, or for those just looking to repair a shoe, bag, or belt that they’ve been putting off all year.

1434 W. 8th Street, (310) 831-1733.

JDC RECORDS Vinyl continues to be as popular as ever these days. If you have an audiophile in your life, JDC Records’ “super cool” retail store in Downtown San Pedro is chockfull of new and used vinyl records that would make a great gift.

In addition to all the popular titles, they also carry the limited-edition colored vinyl LP, Bukowski Reads His Poetry. 447 W. 6th St., (424) 264-5335, jdcrecordstore.com.

FOR THE KIDS THE CORNER STORE Open since 1947, San Pedro’s charming neighborhood café carries a full selection of old-fashioned bottled sodas and candy that make for perfect stocking stuffers. The Corner Store also has a unique assortment of hand-

DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 29

made toys and games. While you’re there, make sure to grab a pastry and coffee to go! 1118 W. 37th St., (310) 832-2424.

ROK ‘N’ ELL BABY BOUTIQUE The perfect spot to find quality gifts for newborns and more, Rok ‘n’ Ell Baby Boutique in Weymouth Corners carries a sweet collection of baby and kids’ clothing, accessories, and goods for anyone kneehigh to a grasshopper. 1438 W. 8th St., (310) 832-4145, roknell.com.

HOLIDAY TREATS POLLY ANN BAKERY Polly Ann Bakery in Weymouth Corners has been sweetening up San Pedro since 1938. They have a full array of delicious holiday cookies, cakes, and pastries that make for great gifts this time of year. Don’t forget to pick up a treat for yourself! 1440 W. 8th St., (310) 519-0966.

around the world, mostly between $30-$90 (be sure to check their Instagram story highlights for a full list of retail options). You’re bound to find a great bottle, even for the most refined palate. Gift certificates are also available. 335 W. 7th St., (424) 342-9840, compagnonbistro.com.

SIRENS JAVA & TEA The coffee shop that’s become the hub of Downtown San Pedro, Sirens Java & Tea offers an assortment of homemade pastries and muffins, as well as a full menu of coffee and espresso drinks. They also offer a selection of products from local artisans, such as candles and cookies, including vegan and gluten-free options. While you’re waiting for your latte, pick up a Sirens mug or tumbler as a gift (or use it yourself on your return visit). 402 W. 7th St., (424) 477-5603.

BROUWERIJ WEST San Pedrans still can’t spell it, but we definitely love to drink it. For the beer connoisseurs on your list, Brouwerij West offers an array of gift options, including a unique selection of craft COLOSSUS BREAD Colossus beer and hard seltzer, Brouwerij Bread opened its café on Alma St. West merchandise, and gift cards, in August 2018, and they’ve been growing ever since, recently adding most of which are available for pickup or shipping. 110 E. 22nd St., a second location in Long Beach.

The bakery/café offers handcrafted Warehouse No. 9, seasonal morning pastries, carefully brouwerijwest.com. brewed coffee, and hot loaves of bread. Order online or in-person.

2311 S. Alma St., (213) 444-0077, colossusbread.com.

THE DOG GROOMER Located on 6th Street in the heart of DownCOMPAGNON WINE BISTRO town San Pedro, The Dog Groomer You can’t go wrong with gifting a bottle of wine. Fortunately, Compa- offers both professional grooming gnon Wine Bistro in Downtown San services and self-wash stations for Pedro has a wonderful selection of your furry family members. They also offer an array of CBD pet prodmore than 60 unique wines from ucts and flea medicine, as well as

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30 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

ANGELS GATE

by Andrew J. Rafkin and Louis Pagano San Pedro authors Andrew Rafkin and Louis Pagano are back with a new thriller set in and around San Pedro called Angels Gate.

Synopsis: In 1983, the rapidly growing city of L.A. and beachfront communities were active in the illicit drug trade, successfully operating through Angels Gate Lighthouse and LAX, the gateway to the City of Angels. This true story is a recounting of the largest monetary heist in history, carried out by four local surfers and August Taracina, a successful marijuana smuggler.

The novel can be ordered online through barnesandnoble.com and amazon. com. For more info, visit andrewjrafkin.com. gift certificates. If you adopt a dog from the shelter during the holidays this year, you can bring that pup in for a free Premium Self-Wash or $20 off a Professional Grooming.

(Paperwork from the shelter required.) 461 W. 6th St., #103, (310) 832-7387, Instagram @thedoggroomer310.

CREATIVE PET SUPPLY Since 1996, Creative Pet has catered to the needs of San Pedro’s critters of all sizes. From dogs, cats, and fish to chickens, reptiles, and rodents, this family-owned shop has everything you need to care for and pamper your pet. 305 N. Harbor Blvd., (800) 227-0001, creativepet.com.

PEDRO PET PALS & HARBOR ANIMAL CARE CENTER Don’t have a furry friend to shop for and thinking about adopting?

Check in with Pedro Pet Pals or Harbor Animal Care Center to get the process going on expanding your family this holiday season. (Remember: gifting a pet as a surprise is not recommended but visiting shelters and adopting a pet in need as a family can be gratifying for both humans and fur-babies alike).

Pedro Pet Pals: pedropetpals.com, Harbor Animal Care Center: 957 N. Gaffey St., (888) 452-7381, laanimalservices.com/shelters/harbor. spt

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DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 31

FOOD

EAT IN SAN PEDRO:

EDIBLE GIFTS

by Sanam Lamborn

These days, it’s hard to escape news about the frustration experienced by the supply chain shortages and shipping delays. I see this inconvenience as an opportunity to boost our local economy by purchasing readily available gifts from small businesses in San Pedro. We have talented food entrepreneurs in town whose products make for fantastic edible holiday gifts.

I met Daiana Saputo around the time I created Eat in San Pedro on social media. Having lost her job due to the pandemic, she followed her kids’ suggestion to sell her cookies.

It’s been inspiring to see the evolution of D’s Cookiesss, from our initial messages about how to create a Facebook page to seeing Saputo’s cookies at various popups and establishments around town. Her story is a testament of passionate hard work put into perfecting her distinctively decadent thick, yet perfectly baked cookies. Saputo started with a traditional chocolate chip cookie, but her regular offerings have increased to include seasonal flavors and glutenfree and vegan options. The newest flavor is a white chocolate peppermint that will put you right into a holiday mood! D’s Cookiesss are perfect gifts for cookie lovers. Individual cookies can be purchased at Brouwerij West, Burattino Brick Oven Pizza, and Sirens Java & Tea. For customized bundles, contact Saputo directly at (310) 2596407. For an up-to-date menu, visit dscookiesss.com.

A Bite of Good is the result of an accomplished lawyer who transitioned into a career as a professional chef

HOLIDAY TREATS (clockwise): D's Cookiesss, spices from A Bite of Good, Ten Thousand Villages, T’HO Coffee: No Waste Cafe, and Paradise Preserves. (photos: Sanam Lamborn)

but found herself jobless during the pandemic, so she reinvented herself as a creative spice maker. Laurel Martin’s small batch hand-crafted spices feature a unique combination of flavors, which I have been happily using to season beef, poultry, seafood, and even popcorn. The beautifully packaged bottles make for perfect gifts, whether individually or in bundles. Much to my delight, Martin’s holiday repertoire includes tea bags of mulling spices to infuse apple cider or red wine and chocolate cocoa mixes that are far superior to the store-bought options. A limited collection of blends can be found at Crafted, Rustic Charm & Petals, Alma Backyard Farms, and Colossus Bakery. The complete line of products and custom gift boxes can be purchased at the San Pedro Farmers Market at Little Italy (Fridays 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 626 S. Beacon St.) or by visiting abiteofgood.com.

Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles (112 E. 22nd St.) is a great place for purchasing gifts including edible ones.

32 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

Check out these creative food vendors: Paradise Preserves’ owner Carey McMillan’s creations are perfect gifts, whether spread on toast or on cheese boards. Full-size preserves can be purchased individually or in boxes of three. Gift boxes with a combination of four small jars are also available.

Pickled vegetables are the newest addition. Don’t forget to grab the ranch-seasoned pretzels!

T’HO Coffee: No Waste Cafe is the ideal place to buy gifts for coffee lovers.

Beans, whole or ground on sight, inhouse crafted flavored syrups, and mugs can be purchased at their Refill Station.

Since the premise of the business is to reduce waste, sustainability is promoted by selling coffee in reusable glass jars.

Ten Thousand Villages is a fairtrade store predominantly staffed by volunteers which ensures that artisans are paid a fair wage for their creation in underdeveloped countries. Here you will find gifts supporting good causes, from Divine chocolates from Ghana to

a variety of JusTea from Kenya, as well as packaged beans, soups, and candy from Women’s Bean Project.

Our very own Melissa Hay has put together a San Pedro Today-sponsored holiday boutique featuring local craft makers and artisanal bakers. Edible gifts can be purchased from D’s Cookiesss, Good Vibes Italian Desserts, Knead It, Lemon and Lavender Confectionary, Twilight Delights Bakery, and What Cha Bakin’, as well as bread from San Pedro Sourdough. December 11 and 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in front of The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.).

Gift cards for the many eateries and coffee shops in town are also an option.

Nevertheless, there are plenty of choices for personal shopping and gifts! spt Sanam Lamborn created the Eat in San Pedro Facebook group and Instagram account in April 2020 to entice people to patronize San Pedro’s eateries.

DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 33

HISTORY

RESEARCHING SAN PEDRO'S JEWISH COMMUNITY

by Angela Romero I love my job.

Being a San Pedro historian feels like working in a giant library.

I know I will never learn everything it has to teach me, but day after day, I wake up, pick a book off the shelf, and dive in. Some days the books jump off the shelves at me, other times I get research requests. Either way, I am always led to fascinating discoveries that I excitedly share with the community to remind us all of our shared heritage. I’d like to share a little bit of what I’ve learned so far from my current project.

Temple Beth El is celebrating its centennial next year, and I am extremely honored to have been asked to help them put together a history of the synagogue and the Jewish community in San Pedro. My favorite bit of information, so far, is the fact that the Jewish Sisterhood of San Pedro was the driving force behind the creation of the temple and now, 100 years later, we are going to celebrate with its first woman at the helm, Rabbi Cassi Kail.

Strong female leadership is also very “Pedro.” In my research, I’ve noticed that if you get enough San Pedrans together, a group will be organized. But if you get enough San Pedro women together, something will get done.

Which is exactly how the temple’s first building came to be. In the fall of 1922, a group of Jewish San Pedrans gathered at a home to celebrate Yom Kippur, and the San Pedro Jewish Community was organized. Early the next year, the group that would become the Jewish Sisterhood was created with the intention of buying property and erecting a building that could serve as both a Jewish community center and a place of worship. For over a decade, the Jewish Sisterhood raised funds through card parties, picnics, silver teas, and bazaars. In 1934, their dream was realized with the dedication

Rabbi Leonard Helman helps a young boy light the menorah. Rabbi Helman served as Temple Beth El's religious leader from 1959-1965.

(photo courtesy Temple Beth El Sisterhood)

of the Jewish community center on the southwest corner of 19th Street and Cabrillo Avenue. This was one of the first cultural clubhouses in San Pedro and a big sister to the JugoslavAmerican Club (now DalmatianAmerican Club) built the following year by the same architect. When the new synagogue was built on 7th Street, the old building became the home of the Jugoslav Women’s Club and eventually the Italian American Club.

When I was given some of my research parameters for the project, I was also given a list of prominent families that played a part in the founding of Temple Beth El. To my surprise, I was already familiar with a lot of the names because they belonged to businesses that I would describe as San Pedro institutions. The Brown Bros., Fierman’s, Yale Waterman’s, Norman’s, and Union War Surplus.

Names that evoke warm feelings of

34 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

the good old days from longtime San Pedrans. I knew about all of them, but I had no idea that the owners were Jewish. The Jewish men in San Pedro worked in so many different fields, from dockworkers to doctors, but a good number of them were merchants. As I delved deeper and deeper into the list of names, more and more had businesses in downtown. From lesser-known names like Bendat, Korn, and Forster to pioneers like Lazard and B.B. Lippman.

San Pedro has a very long legacy of Jewish merchants who left their mark on San Pedro, whether it be a name in the entryway of a popular shoe store, a walkway, or a block of buildings.

Researching San Pedro history is extremely difficult because most of the photos and artifacts are tucked away in shoeboxes and attics. I’m piecing a lot of history together with the help of the News-Pilot and scrapbooks from the Temple Beth El Sisterhood, but more

resources are needed to create a fuller history. On December 5, Temple Beth El will be having a Hanukkah celebration and the official kick-off of the centennial campaign. If you have any photos, artifacts, or memories that are connected to the temple or the Jewish community, please consider sharing them for the centennial celebration.

Photos and documents can be scanned and returned immediately. If you have anything you’d like to share, please email me at angela@sanpedroheritage. org. To learn more about Temple Beth El, you can visit their website at www.bethelsp.org. spt Angela Romero is the president of the San Pedro Heritage Museum. She can be reached at angela@sanpedroheritage.org.

For more info, visit sanpedroheritage.org.

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DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 35

FITNESS

THE POINT OF FITNESS

by Ricky Magana

Dr Kardovich and Team enjoying a day out at Fort MacArthur Museum.

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36 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2021

A few years back, a guy named Ed joined our gym.

When he first walked in, he didn’t say a whole lot, but one thing he made sure to tell me was that he knew of me from my column in the magazine.

“Ricky, right? I recognize you from the magazine. Ya, I gotta be honest, I didn’t think I’d like you.

You seem kind of arrogant.”

I laughed as if I was going to get a “just kidding!” But he just gave me a head nod and walked off. I was left scratching my head, wondering if he was messing with me (he wasn’t). Well, Ed kept coming in, and for the last three years, I coached him one to two times a week when he came to my classes.

As time went on, we became friends.

He became everyone’s friend. When my son was born, he gave me a bike and a car seat. He always asked how fatherhood was going, eager to find some sort of opportunity to help me out.

Ed had limitations in the gym. He couldn’t do lots of things and frequently had to make modifications, but I never ever heard him complain.

He just focused on what he could do.

A few weeks ago, we worked out together. We did a team workout, and I had asked him to be my partner, along with another member, Scott. Again, Ed couldn’t do some of the things Scott and I could. It was fine, though. We adjusted and had a great workout together.

I did not know it at the time, but that workout would be the last time I’d ever see Ed. Less than two weeks later, he died unexpectedly at age 49.

Hearing the news of his passing was mind-blowing. He’s gone? How can that be? He was just here, and he was fine. Now he’s gone? I’ve been training for 17 years. Ed Lopez Lavalle is the first client I’ve coached that passed away. He leaves behind a young son

and a wonderful family, who I’m sure are hurting very much right now.

His passing got me thinking — the way the death of anyone significant to us tends to do — specifically, regarding a belief I have about fitness: Your fitness should translate into real-world utility; otherwise, all that muscle is just window dressing. These days, the fitness industry has advanced the idea that training in the gym, and the subsequent physique you create, is the end, in and of itself. For many, it’s largely a narcissistic pursuit. Sure, building an impressive body and developing uncommon strength to move heavy loads is impressive and should be applauded. But if all you’re doing with it is posting gym selfies and videos of yourself deadlifting, it’s a tragic waste.

Ed wasn’t the strongest guy you’ve ever met, but he was capable, and his work in the gym made him all the more capable. And if you ever needed some muscle, he was at your service, which to me, is the whole point of being fit — to be useful. Useful when someone strong and capable is needed. Specifically for your family, friends, and coworkers.

Training in the gym makes you resilient and highly adaptable. It imbibes grit. It makes you scrappy. It ensures you’re healthy and alive for as long as possible. It makes stress familiar to you, so when things go sideways or get hard, you can be relied on. To put it plainly, fitness should make you a better human. That is something Ed reminded me of in the short time I knew him.

None of us know how long we have here, but I hope that in your pursuit of fitness, like Ed, you’re determined to put it to good use.

And there’s no better time than the holidays to do just that. spt Ricky Magana is co-owner of Heyday Elite Fitness. For more info, visit heydaytraining.com.

DECEMBER 2021 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 37

MENTAL HEALTH

RESPECTING YOUR CHILD’S BOUNDARIES

by Sophie Schoenfeld, MFT to the child’s formation of self.

These violations can be insidious to the developing mind and are often committed by loving caregivers who are often unaware of the damaging impact of these subtle violations. It can also be hard to separate feelings of concern and care from codependency. How can a parent remain loving without completely engulfing the child and becoming consumed?

Children are inevitable receptacles of their parents’ unconscious debris due to the mere proximity and interdependent nature of parent-child relationships.

Yet having consciousness around this degree of emotional enmeshment can help reduce the level of damage in the long run. That which is birthed into our awareness no longer possesses the power to entirely control our behavior. A parent who is capable of conceiving that his/her unconscious process has the potential of being damaging is already light years ahead of the parent who cannot accept this possibility whatsoever.

Narcissistic parents usually have a harder time self-reflecting and are, therefore, more likely to commit boundary violations, as they perceive their children to be extensions of themselves. These parents seek to be validated through their children.

They often have high expectations, and while, to themselves, they justify them through supposed care and love, in reality, these expectations are mere reflections of their own narcissistic need for self-aggrandizement. We can often lose ourselves in our children, as

We hear a lot about boundaries in the language of popular psychology, but I find that often people have no idea what boundaries really are or what it actually looks like to set them. One of the most important boundary lines that are historically problematic are those between children and parents, so let us explore the issue of boundaries and their significance in healthy relational dynamics.

Relational boundaries are essentially lines we draw between ourselves and others. They are lines that define what are acceptable rules of engagement between us and others. Boundaries are ways in which we define ourselves to others and inform the world of our needs. Hence, the ability to set boundaries is our first step toward self-care and self-awareness.

However, in order to have healthy relationships, our boundaries have to be adaptable. Too rigid of a boundary will cause problems, as well as too open of a boundary will beget chaos and suffering. Obvious violations of boundaries, such as unwanted physical contact, imposition into one’s private personal space, like reading someone’s journal, going through their drawers, or borrowing things without permission, are frequent examples of boundary violations that occur in families. But there are other more subtle violations of boundaries that are harder to detect and yet can be extremely damaging

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we unconsciously seek to repair our own childhood wounds, such as a father who was not allowed to play sports who forces sports on his children or a mother who grew up with a distant mother inserting herself into every aspect of their child’s life. How do we effectively guide our children without violating these boundaries? How do we know what is an appropriate level of engagement versus a boundary violation? If you don’t snoop into your teenager’s journal, how do you know they’re okay? The truth is your child is not simply a product of your good or bad parenting; your child is a separate being, with separate and mysterious needs and interests which you as a parent may never completely understand.

In order to manage healthy boundaries with our children, we need to cultivate the following three principles: respect, agency, and curiosity. We do not protect or guide our children by demanding, shaping, or controlling. We do so most effectively by modeling. Our children don’t always remember what we say to them, but

they do remember how we make them feel. If we treat them with respect, they will expect to be treated so. If we protect their agency, we invite them to think critically and to respect their own agency with others. If we don’t assume to know and take time to listen, we won’t need to snoop because they would have already told us. Your curiosity tells your child that what is inside them is important to you, worth hearing, worth knowing. By respecting your child’s boundaries, you let them know that their needs and feelings are important and that they have the right to make space for themselves with others. Letting your child have a boundary with you is letting your child know how to assert self-care and self-love. Without it, no amount of your control will ensure their safety through this treacherous business of relationships. To be able to say “no” when you need to is to say, “I matter to me, even if you don’t like it.” spt Sophie Schoenfeld, MFT is a local marriage and family therapist. For more info, visit sophiemft.com.

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THE BACK PAGE

Santa and Mrs. Claus ride down Pacific Avenue during the last in-person Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade in 2019. (photo: John Mattera Photography)

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Holiday Boutique Pop-Up at The Corner Store SPONSORED BY

www.sanpedrotoday.com

SATURDAY & SUNDAY *

DECEMBER 11•12 9a-3p

Join more than a dozen artists, artisans, makers, and bakers outside San Pedro’s favorite neighborhood store for a fun weekend of holiday shopping!

FEATURING: Lena Milos Artistry • San Pedro Sourdough • VoloStyle • Knead it • Studio Lithia • Seaside Collectibles • Ceramics with Delores Bertsch • Twlight Delights Bakery • Heart Strings & Other Things • Lunas Pots and Pans • Sea Native • Lemon & Lavender Confectionery • Common Soul Collective • Homemade By the Hays • Jenns Maginificent Essential OIls • One Free Spirit • NayDBugs Candles • Breakwater Style Co. • Pots & Plants By Sarah • Made with Love By Depaz • Unbreakabow Crafts • Clark and Barba • D’s Cookiesss • NayDBugs Candles • Good Vibes Italian Desserts • The Button Shop • What Cha Bakin? • Monique’s Handmades • SP Pom Queen • Holistic Hippo • What the Succulent

THE CORNER STORE 1118 W. 37th St, San Pedro (310) 832-2424

Best parking along Paseo del Mar

PLUS: Live Music by Bella Gomez & Rudy Rios (Saturday) and Dustin Case (Sunday)

*NOTE: Not all vendors will be there both days. Please check vendors’ social media to confirm dates.

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