San Pedro Today - April 2022

APRIL 2022

SPRING CRAFT COCKTAILS | PREP SPORTS: WINTER WRAP-UP | WEDDING: JOSHUA & JOCELYN ROUPOLI

THE NEW SAN PEDRANS

AFFORDABILITY? LOCATION? OUR (PECULIAR) CULTURE? WHAT IS IT ABOUT SAN PEDRO THAT IS ATTRACTING PEOPLE FROM NEAR AND FAR TO MOVE TO OUR PORT TOWN?

Smile A While.

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Our office is a multi-specialty private practice located in Weymouth Corners in San Pedro. With 28 years of experience, we provide high-quality modern dentistry at an affordable cost in an inviting setting. Our office is equipped to provide most specialty dental services efficiently under one rooftop. We use cutting-edge technology and are versed in all aspects of Cosmetic, Restorative, Dental Implants, Orthodontic, and Oral Surgery services.

Dr. Souzan Ardalan, D.D.S. Education: USC school of Dentistry Doctor of Dental Surgery Professional Association: American Dental Association, member California Dental Association, member Western Dental Society, member

SERVICES & SPECIALTIES • General Cosmetic and Children’s Dentistry • Oral Surgery • Dental Implants • Permanent Implant Supported Dentures • Orthodontics (Traditional Braces & Invisalign) • Periodontics • Sleep Apnea

ASSOCIATES Ian Woo, D.D.S., MD. Education: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Los Angeles County / University of Southern California Medical Center

Dr. Marvis Sorrel, D.M.D., M.D.S. Education: University of Pittsburgh, Master of Science in Dentistry, Doctor of Dental Medicine Advanced Education in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Orthognatic Surgery Externship / Invisalign Certification

Color Palette:

Dr. Rebekah Coriaty

Dr. Ardalan & Associates Smile A While.

1411 W. 8th Street San Pedro, CA 90732

(310) 832-5559

www.drsouzanardalan.com

Education: University of Pacific Professional Association: American Dental Association California Dental Association

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Dr. Miles Madison Education: UCLA School of Dentistry Professional Association: American Academy of Periodontology California Society of Periodontists American Dental Association California Dental Association American Association for Dental Research

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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Joshua Stecker's Letter from the Editor will return next month.

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Difficulty Hearing ???

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APRIL 2022 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 5

APRIL 2022

SERVING THE SOUTH BAY SINCE 1979.

YOUR LOCAL KITCHEN & BATHROOM REMODELING SPECIALISTS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ADVERTISING:

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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

Sanam Lamborn, Mike Lansing, Ricky Magana, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Nadia Nizetich, Sophie Schoenfeld, Jamaal K. Street, 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 20092022, Empire22 Media LLC.

VOLUME 14 | NUMBER 3

ON THE COVER: SIGN O' THE TIMES: A sold sign sits in South Shores. (photo: John Mattera Photography)

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EVENTS

APRIL 2022 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.

Every Tuesday & Every Saturday – BELMONT SHORE RAILROAD CLUB at Angels Gate Park (3600 S. Gaffey St., Building 824), Tuesdays 7-10p & Saturdays 12-4p. – The best kept secret in San Pedro! The Belmont Shore Railroad Club is the oldest and largest N scale club and offers clinics on modeling and an opportunity to explore a new hobby. Admission is FREE and open to the public. For more info, call (310) 831-6262 or visit belmontshorerr.com.

1 (Fri) – PURE BARRE GRAND OPENING & RIBBON CUTTING AT PURE BARRE (28134 S. Western Ave.), 4p. – You're invited! Grand opening and ribbon cutting celebration! There will also be raffle prizes, refreshments, studio tours, free workout classes, and a meet & greet.

1-2 (Fri-Sat) – EASTER FLORAL BASKET WORKSHOP at Rustic Charm & Petals (410 W. 7th St.), April 1: 6:30p, April 2: 3p. – Come join us in making memories and having fun creating an Easter flower basket suitable for gifting to a loved one or to add the joy of spring florals to your home! Learn floral design with our owner Sandy at our storefront set within the beauti-

ful surroundings of Downtown San Pedro. We will also be providing all the flowers, supplies, and a delicious tea box from Steep & Sip Tea! April 1 workshop starts at 6:30p and April 2 workshop starts at 3p. We hope that you can join us! Price $125. For more info, call (310) 755-4576 or sign up at rusticcharmandpetals.com.

3 (Sun) – BITES AND BEERS UKRAINE FUNDRAISER at St. Peter's Episcopal Church (1648 W. 9th St.), 5-7p. – We're fundraising for the people of the Ukraine!

Sponsored by St. Peter's Episcopal Church, San Pedro Brew Co., and the San Pedro Faith Consortium. Donations will go to the Ukraine Crisis Response Fund of Episcopal Relief & Development. $25 donation and RSVP requested. RSVP at facebook. com/SaintPetersEpiscopalChurch/ (under "Upcoming events").

7 (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.

7 (Thurs) – GUIDED ARTWALK TOUR at Sirens Java and Tea (402 W. 7th St.), 5:30p. – Join us on First Thursday April 7 for the Guided ArtWalk Tour. We will be gathering in Sirens Java and Tea (402 W. 7th St.) at 5:30pm and will end up at The Artistry (491 W. 7th St., Suite #103).

We plan to visit Winthrop Gallery of Art and Curiosities, Gallery 478, the Back Door Studios, a bit of the House of Bards’ Romeo and Juliet rehearsal,

and the latest from the San Pedro Photographers Association. If you make a $10 donation, print your ticket, and present it at Sirens or The Artistry for a treat. We’ve also provided a limited number of FREE tickets. To reserve your spot, visit tinyurl.com/2p99a96c.

Loyola High School students present an immersive installation celebrating Black music innovators and will be on view through June 4. A public opening reception will be held on Saturday, April 9 from 2-5p in the AGCC galleries. For more info, visit soundpedro.org.

7 (Thurs) – RIBBON CUTTING: HEARTS RESPOND at Hearts Respond Studio (333 W. 7th St.), 5:30p. – The San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, Hearts Respond, and Freedom4U present a First Thursday ArtWalk ribbon cutting for Hearts Respond, including live jazz music from The Johnny Martinez Quartet and other talented performers, food, refreshments, and portrait sketches. Admission is FREE! Parking available at 460 7th St. and 222 W. 7th St. For more info, text (310) 897-5043.

23 (Sat) – CELEBRATE EARTH DAY SAIL at Los Angeles Maritime Institute (Berth 73, Suite 2), 5:30-8p.

– Celebrate Earth Day sailing the San Pedro Bay and watching the sunset from the deck of a tall ship. You can sit back and relax or become part of the crew — your choice! 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. Tickets $60 for adults, $30 for children (12 and under). LAMI members receive 10% OFF all community sails. For more info, call 310-833-6055, email info@ lamitopsail.org, or visit lamitopsail.org.

9 (Sat) – YARD SALE (1010 Paseo Del Mar), 9a-1p. – There will be jewelry, household goods, plants, knickknacks, clothing, and more!

All proceeds go to the San Pedro Garden Club Scholarship fund.

24 (Sun) – WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th St.), 4p. – The Palos 9 (Sat) – SOUNDPEDRO2022 Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy ((((BOUNCE BACK)))) SOUND ART presents an exciting selection of adEXHIBIT KICKOFF AND OPENING venturous and inspirational films about RECEPTION at Angels Gate Cultural nature that will transfix and energize Center (3601 S. Gaffey St.), 2-5p. – you to make a difference. Celebrate Angels Gate Cultural Center (AGCC) in Earth Day with this annual showcase of conjunction with artist group FLOOD 13 short films focused on the environare pleased to present new art exhibits ment and a feature film about the to kick off soundpedro2022 ((((Bounce interdependence of humans and the Back)))), opening on April 9. Noise Jam planet. Tickets $20 at the door, $15 adby Kensaku Shinohara, Zaq Kenefick, vanced purchase online. For tickets and et. al, presents dancers, musicians, and more info, visit grandvision.org. spt visual artists in an experimental performance pop-up on April 9. Here Hear by Email events@sanpedrotoday.com Betsy Lohrer Hall is a series of siteto place a listing for a small fee. interactive activities exploring the expe- Deadline for the May 2022 issue rience of sound perception and making. is Friday, April 15. Find more Blues-Birds by Steven Speciale and his events at sanpedrotoday.com.

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APRIL 2022 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 9

VOICES

WHEN WE GOT OUR MONEY’S WORTH OUT OF MINIMUM WAGE

by Steve Marconi Forget birthdays.

What really makes me feel old is reading that the minimum wage in Los Angeles will go up to $16 in July.

When I was hired at the McDonald’s on Western and PCH in Lomita in 1968 — my first official job — the minimum wage was $1.25, and I was thrilled to be making that much money.

I started working there in October while a senior at San Pedro High. Two of my co-workers were classmate John Hiigel, who was student body president and is still teaching as a university professor of biblical studies, and Chuck McMahon, who I’d gone to school

with since the sixth grade. We didn’t get in a lot of hours, and the work was exhausting, but we never felt underpaid — and I got to eat my favorite meal there, the Filet-O-Fish. It also was a big year for McDonald’s, with two new items: They introduced the Big Mac (49 cents), and you could get fired if you forgot to ask every customer, “Would you like a hot apple turnover with that?”

In January, San Pedro got its first Jack in the Box, the one on Western Avenue; I went there while it was still under construction, and the appropriately named owner, Jack Del Vaglio, hired me. I started at a whopping $1.40 an hour. Two of my co-workers were school buddies Ted Petrich, now a retired high

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school teacher, and Chris Traughber, everybody’s favorite family doctor.

That was my last minimum-wage job.

I gave up flipping burgers in May as my career in sports writing was taking off at the News-Pilot. Sports editor Xavier Hermosillo hired me right after I graduated to cover local sports, and I managed a pretty steady income at 30 cents a column inch while attending Harbor College. (The News-Pilot is also where I started my working career as a paperboy in the early ‘60s. Thom Lacie and I split our home turf, the Rolling Hills Highlands area when it ended at Lochman Farms, with Thom doing the half north of Westmont and me getting the south half.)

Of course, everything was different then. Fast food was just coming into its own, and almost all of the workers were teens like me, just looking for a part-time job while going to school to earn enough cash to pay for hobbies, weekend fun with the guys, gasoline in the car, and taking a girl out on a date. Most of us were still living at home, and parents were still feeding us and providing health insurance. No one could have imagined that one day adults trying to make a living would hold most of those jobs.

IN MEMORIAM Something else that makes you feel old is the passing of teachers from your youth. I’ve lost two in the first two months of the year.

I knew Richard Deemar from his industrial arts (drafting) class at San Pedro High as a 10th grader in 1966; I liked the class but had no drawing skills and eked out a C. In 1973, Deemar started the school’s volleyball program, coaching the boys for ten years and the girls for five. He capped his career by leading the 1983 boys team to the City championship.

That team was inducted into the San Pedro High Athletic Hall of Fame in 2018, and Deemar was inducted for Lifetime Achievement.

He died January 18 in Central Point, Oregon, at age 86. He and his late wife, Karen, had lived in San Pedro for 30 years, where they raised their two children.

Deemar’s colleague Mickey Teora was born and raised in San Pedro. He graduated from SPHS in 1949 and returned in 1956 to begin a 35-year career as a physical education teacher, coach, and athletic director. The first former Pirate to be head football coach, Teora compiled a record of 22-28-3 from 1972-77, when Marine League SPEAKING OF GASOLINE rivals Banning and Carson were the top When I was making that $1.40 an hour two schools in the city. at Jack’s, gasoline was going for about He was my homeroom teacher in 33 cents a gallon, which meant a fill1968-69, but it wasn’t until 2009, when up in my ‘66 Ford Falcon Futura (289 he joined me on the Harbor College under the hood, clutch with three on the Athletic Hall of Fame Committee, that tree, glass packs, mag wheels, Muntz I really got to know him. And to know 8-track — bitchin’!) came to $5.28.

Mickey was to love him.

I just paid more than that — $5.84 — Teora was a member of Harbor’s for a gallon of regular at my favorite first football team in 1950, which was Arco. Unlike today, gas prices were inducted into the HOF in 2009. He has pretty stable in the ‘60s, so there’s no the honor of scoring the school’s first telling what the price of gasoline will be touchdown ever, jumping on a blocked as you’re reading this, but that fill-up punt while playing tackle. of 16 gallons came to $93.44. That’s He died February 20 at age 90. He a big bite out of anyone’s budget, but is survived by his five children, Vince, you don’t have to be a mathematician Tom, Christina, Antoinette, and Mickey, to know that — with the same Big Mac and eight grandchildren. spt now going for $3.99 — those hurt the most are minimum-wage earners, even Steve Marconi can be reached at at $16 an hour. spmarconi@yahoo.com.

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APRIL 2022 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 11

VOICES

TWO YEARS LATER

OUR CHILDREN NEED OUR BEST EFFORTS

by Mike Lansing In many cases, our children have been the somewhat silent victims of the slowing but ongoing pandemic — mainly because they are kids and not adults.

They were shut out of their schools and forced to “go to class” on a laptop.

They could not hang with their friends, engage in sports, or attend school and community events. Many dealt with one or more parents losing their jobs, with the result too often being a lack of food, excess alcohol use, and sadly, child abuse growing in the home. For some, they saw family members get sick and many times die. And while things seem to be getting much closer to being “normal,” the reality is that a layeringon of these challenges and tragedies has resulted in hampering our children’s development — sometimes physically, through a lack of nourishment; educationally, through a “lost year” that could take years to catch up from, if at all; and most concerning — mentally, due to the stressors noted here and many more.

FOOD INSECURITY. The reality in our country and community is that far too many children do not have enough food to eat on a daily basis. Before the pandemic, 25 percent of all children in this country were said to be “food insecure” — that percentage has only grown since then. Proper nourishment

affects their physical growth, the ability to learn, and their mental wellness.

A lack of food contributes to a lacking in one or more of these very important areas of youth development. At the Boys & Girls Club, we instituted our Weekend Wellness program each Friday, where we provide enough food for an entire family from Friday evening through Sunday night. We will soon be opening “Community Pantries” at our eight traditional Club sites where families can secure basic foodstuffs each day to take home and nourish their children for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Lastly, we provide a snack and supper each evening to members attending our Clubs after school, assuring they have at least some positive nourishment before going to bed.

LEARNING LOSS. Children were not meant to receive instruction and reinforcement from their teachers while sitting on their couches at their respective homes. And while this long-distance learning, or lack thereof, ended with the start of the current school year, in most cases, students were not in a classroom for 15 months, and the learning loss over that period of time cannot and will not in many cases be made up quickly, if at all. It is incumbent on parents, schools, and youth-serving nonprofits like the Boys & Girls Club to commit to expanded investment in the resources needed to support our children in overcoming

this learning loss and catching up. At the Club, we continue to sponsor our basic academic support program daily, which includes homework help, remedial and advanced academic activities, literacy exercises, and group reading activities. And of course, we continue to sponsor our most successful high school College Bound program for over 1,500 teens currently. Lastly, our Bookstore on Wheels program drives to a different school each week to distribute ageappropriate and school district curriculum-aligned books free to all students.

Reading is fundamental to all learning, and I am happily biased towards reading an actual book rather than staring at a computer screen.

SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS. The mental well-being of our children is arguably our greatest challenge given the different issues noted here, among others. Depression in our youth coming out of these two years is rampant, and sadly, the thoughts of suicide in youth and especially teens have quadrupled. It is incumbent on us adults to be ever vigilant in identifying the signs of depression and worse and immediately addressing that reality.

Some children will require licensed mental health professionals. Others just need adults who have the time and capacity to listen and support.

Trauma informed care recognizes and understands the widespread impact of trauma and understands the need to create an environment of healing and

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recovery, rather than a situation where those we serve could inadvertently be re-traumatized. For schools and youth development programs like the Boys & Girls Club, providing this type of supportive environment that helps our children heal and recover rather than exacerbating the problem is most important. This has taken an expanded training of staff and resources to make the environment children attend to be nurturing and healing. We have tried to keep our Clubs as normal programmatically and supportive as always during the past two years, including fine arts, music, dance, recording arts, STEM activities, and more. But more is required, so we are adding more case managers, expanding our transportation program, and adding sports leagues this month for more children to get “back to normal.” We do this with the complete understanding that programs and activities alone are not enough — compassion and positive reinforcement after months of chaos and anguish are just as important, if not more so.

It is often an overused phrase but relevant here — it truly DOES take a village, especially after what our children have endured. I thank you in advance for understanding their challenges and expanding our collective efforts two years later. spt Mike Lansing is the executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.

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VOICES

KEEPING CUSTOMS ALIVE

other presents that Paiz provides are a way of giving back further through her business and a way she can reinvest in the schools in the villages.

“I opened my store thinking I could keep ancient customs alive,” explains Paiz. “I am so proud of my culture. My dad is Maya, and I was born in GuaMIRNA PAIZ BRINGS temala. I love to educate people about MESOAMERICAN the cultures of Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Guatemala that belong to Mesoamerica.

CULTURE TO CRAFTED I share my knowledge of traditional clothing from the Maya, Zapotec, and Toltec cultures in my business.”

by Jennifer Marquez Paiz will contact the artisans in advance and request popular items.

Recently, she asked for products that Mirna Paiz, resemble the movies Encanto or Coco. a local masShe likes to work with the artisans in sage therapist, the villages versus big sellers. Many had dreamed of the items are made from natural for years about ingredients. The white powder from the opening her own cactus can be scratched to create purple business selling coloring that is used to create little handmade items made from artiMirna Paiz, owner of Mesoamerica Textiles at Crafted. worry dolls. (photo courtesy Mirna Paiz) Paiz asked an 89-year-old artisan sans in Oaxaca, Guatemala, and other how she creates such happy, bright areas in the Mesoamerica cultural area. work. The woman told her that she families by selling their handmade buying their goods.

It wasn’t until the pandemic that Paiz Paiz applied to be a vendor at Crafted never embroiders when she is mad, began to take steps to start her business. wares like jewelry, clothing, shoes, and table runners. Paiz brought the goods in San Pedro, and Mesoamerica Textile angry, or in mourning. She shared that As she quarantined at home, unable she and other local artisans only work was born. Her colorful booth attracts to see clients, Paiz began embroidering back to San Pedro and sold them at when they are happy, which shows in pop-ups and at private parties in homes many visitors looking for handmade on her jeans and jackets. She repliwhere she would always sell out. Her items that benefit people who are expe- their work. cates the designs that she was drawn Paiz hopes to grow her business so approach is to pay the artisan a fair riencing poverty. Paiz understands the to from different cultures. Soon she she can open a foundation that will price and then sell the products so her culture and needs of the areas where began to receive compliments on her customers could appreciate such special she purchases her products. She carries support domestic violence shelters and clothing and took that as a sign. She programs one day. Mesoamerica Textile items at a reasonable price. If products suitcases to fill with products to bring decided to invest in 50 embroidered is located in Crafted at the Port of Los back home when she travels. Instead masks that she bought in Tijuana. After sold well, she would bring the extra Angeles, open Friday–Sunday from 12 commission to the artisans when she of bringing empty suitcases, she fills posting them on social media to show p.m.–6 p.m. To learn more about Paiz, returned to buy more. She would enthem with donations of school supher family and friends, she sold out in visit her Instagram @mirnapaiz11. spt courage the artisans to charge more for plies for the schools in the villages of 15 minutes. She then began traveling what they were selling, as she knew the Mexico and Guatemala. The children to Oaxaca and Guatemala, where she money was providing food and more who receive the donations often do not Jennifer Marquez can be reached was born, and bought items that she at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com for struggling families. Paiz wanted to have computers or television and are personally selected. and @jenntmqz on Twitter and share what she learned about business very happy to receive the gifts. New Paiz purchased products in person, Instagram. with the artisans she supported by pencils, books, crayons, markers, and mostly from women supporting their

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The pandemic is waning, and folks are re-emerging and finding a whole new side of San Pedro to love. I get stopped almost daily by folks who read my article about the renaissance happening in town (San Pedro Today, Feb. 2022).

They want to tell me about the murals they’ve discovered, the shops that I should visit, or the progress they are seeing. Beauty is happening in so many places you wouldn’t expect. The flowers that adorn the iconic walking bridge crossing Gaffey seemingly sprung up overnight. You can thank Mona Sutton, Leslie Jones, Joe Buscaino, and muralist Jules “Muck Rock” Muck for continuing to beautify our town.

We went to Raffaello Ristorante recently for the familiar faces, fantastic food, and the numerous celebrations taking place from table to table. Tony made sure my Old Fashioneds kept flowing, and Kelly sang to an appreciative crowd. It’s the closest thing to normal we have seen in months. Restaurants are taking reservations again, and it is interesting to see how many new people are enjoying San Pedro like never before. We have a healthy mix of lifelong residents along with the new folks mentioned in this month’s cover story.

Many places are bringing in live music and nightlife. I’d be curious to see if that is in response to the new people coming into San Pedro or if it is what’s drawing more people in. Either way, the date-night opportunities in San Pedro are a welcome change from the town's past reputation as “tough.” It may have had historic charm but was equally difficult for local businesses looking to thrive.

When you do come downtown, come early. You will want to check out some of the new shops on 6th and 7th.

I especially love The Winthrop Gallery of Art and Curiosities right next door to Compagnon Wine Bistro. It’s like a natural history museum mixed with

spiritual oddities and taxidermy. You can spend hours guessing the use of the many ancient tools and get sucked into the completely random works of art begging to come home with you.

You’ll want to mix it up when you come downtown. Grab a cocktail at Kalaveras and dinner at Think Café. The next time, switch it up. San Pedro Brewing Co., the Green Onion, La Bocca Felice, The Whale and Ale, Compagnon, Baramee Thai, and Raffaello’s are great stops to mix and match on date nights.

Then take in a show at the Grand Annex and come back out for a final drink or dessert. Walk slowly, so you can see what we have available in between your destinations. You’ll be surprised how many small businesses have popped up, and you’ll find unique items you can’t get on Amazon.

Day dates are a thing, too. Have you been to Vicky’s Doghouse on the fantail of the Battleship IOWA? Why not grab a hotdog and take in the expansive view of the harbor? Admission is free, and it’s a great place to show your outof-town visitors how much you know about the hidden San Pedro. One of my favorite day-date options is the “graband-go.” Conrad’s Mexican Grill, Ko Ryu Ramen, and La Siciliana in downtown or Seaside Bistro, Sirinat Thai, and The Shore Grill on 25th are great to-go options if you want to grab food for a picnic or dine-in before or after a walk along one of our waterfronts. I would add The Corner Store to that list as well any time you take a stroll along Paseo Del Mar. It’s near the corner of 37th and Barbara.

Make some time to check out some of the art around town and see what’s new. You will be surprised by the different ways our community is celebrating our unique cultures, natural beauty, and real human perspectives. 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.

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A sold sign sits in South Shores. (photo: John Mattera Photography)

THE NEW SAN PEDRANS

by Joshua Stecker

AFFORDABILITY? LOCATION? OUR (PECULIAR) CULTURE? WHAT IS IT ABOUT SAN PEDRO THAT IS ATTRACTING PEOPLE FROM NEAR AND FAR TO MOVE TO OUR PORT TOWN? Mitch Riggin wanted an ocean view.

The 51-year-old director and his wife, Korina, a camera operator, both in sports television, were moving to Los Angeles from Bend, Oregon, in early 2020 for a job opportunity. They searched six months across Southern California for a home in their price range and were coming up empty.

“He said, ‘If I’m going to live in L.A., I want to see the ocean,’” recalls Korina, 49, laughing. “My experience is if you want to see the ocean, you need to be in the front row of houses [along the water], and I was like, ‘We don’t make enough money for that.’ He said, ‘Well, there’s San Pedro, and it’s affordable.’

And I’m putting affordable in quotations because who would ever think an ‘affordable’ house is a million bucks?”

Sure enough, the couple ended up finding a million-dollar “fixer-upper” in South Shores, complete with Mitch’s ocean view, and moved in mid-March 2020, at the same time COVID-19 was declared a national pandemic.

“We bought a fixer from the original owners,” recalls Mitch. “I wanted somewhere centrally located between Anaheim and Downtown L.A. I will say we got very lucky moving here during the pandemic. It gave us a lot of time to work on our house; we did a lot of stuff ourselves. And it turned out to be a pretty good place to quarantine.”

The Riggins’ story echoes those from 18 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2022

others who have recently moved to San over the last three to five years.”

Pedro. While affordability — relative to A BIG SELLING POINT other South Bay beach cities — seems to be the dominant reason, other factors Instead of a fixer-upper, Dr. Melissa Dowling, 38, and her husband, Kevin like location and the current redeMcHugh, 37, were looking to stake their velopment blitz in downtown and on claim on a newly constructed home, the waterfront seem to be convincing which up until recently was rare to find people that San Pedro is a great place in San Pedro. The port town is known to relocate, our ‘surly’ reputation be more for its damned. century-old “We craftsstill see an man and overwhelmVictorian ing number houses than of buyer's anything agents from modern out-of-town looking, real estate which is offices closwhy those ing escrow pockets of on homes townhomes in our area, that have which in recently turn should been built hypothetion 8th and cally mean 19th streets the buyer below they are Mitch and Korina Riggin. (photo: Mitch Riggin) Pacific Avrepresenting enue look is also from oddly out of place among the town’s out of the area,” says Peter Hazdovac, a real estate agent with Harper Hazdo- vintage architecture.

But for Dowling and McHugh (along vac Real Estate Team and a San Pedro with their two dogs, Wish and Woosh), Today columnist. “To give a ballpark who were moving from Marina Del figure, I would say 60 to 70 percent Rey and looking to buy their first home, have been out-of-town buyer's agents

investing in a newly constructed house in an area amid a redevelopment boom was a big selling point. The couple, who are originally from Pennsylvania, purchased one of the new homes on 8th and Centre in August 2020.

“Looking at houses [in Marina Del Rey], compared to a brand-new construction home in an up-and-coming area, we could just get a lot more for our money down here, and there was a lot more potential for growth as opposed to buying in a place that was already developed and established and wasn’t really going to change that much,” explains Dowling, an anesthesiologist who works in Downtown L.A. She adds, “The whole waterfront was really appealing to us, and the fact that they’re proposing an amphitheater.

Music is our life. We love living in L.A. because we’re constantly going to concerts and music festivals, so we’re really excited about the amphitheater. Plus, we ride our bikes. There are so many beaches that we can ride our bicycles to.

White Point is super dog friendly, and [the dogs] love the tide pools. There’s so much hiking to do. It just kind of jived with our lifestyle.”

For McHugh, who works in the pharmaceutical industry, he’s still getting used to San Pedro’s small-town charm within a sprawling metropolis like Los Angeles.

“It’s funny because I work with

APRIL 2022 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 19

Top to bottom: Kevin McHugh and Dr. Melissa Dowling (with Wish and Woosh); Bernard, Bradley, and Phuong Hoang; Silvano Barba and Melissa Clarke Barba; and Michelle Debbaudt (with Ziggy). (photos: John Mattera Photography, the Hoang family)

people all over the globe, so when I try to say that I live in L.A. and it’s a small town where I live, it doesn’t make any sense to anyone.”

LOVING SAN PEDRO To love San Pedro is to accept San Pedro, and accepting San Pedro takes effort. We’re a community known as much for our quirks as we are our problems. A town chockfull of multigenerational families and a sense of civic pride unmatched by most cities in the country. We proudly wear the town’s name on our caps, shirts, and skin. Being “born and raised” in San Pedro means something here.

“I actually appreciate it,” says 38-year-old restaurateur Phuong Hoang.

Hoang and her husband, Bernard, 41, co-own Pho Saigon Pearl, a popular Vietnamese restaurant located near The Grove in Los Angeles. They moved to San Pedro from Venice in October 2019, two weeks before their son, Bradley, was born.

“It’s one of the things that makes San Pedro San Pedro, because the people who are die-hard, born and raised, their grandparents are longshoremen, etc., they were here early on,” says Phuong, who’s originally from Torrance. “They’re the ones who made San Pedro what it is today. They’re so proud of it. The roots are still there.”

She adds, “And it’s good [that still exists] because I meet so many new families at the parks, and I ask them the same questions, like, ‘Oh, are you guys from San Pedro?’ and 90 percent of them will say, ‘No, I’m not.’ These are new families who have young toddler kids around my son’s age. And I’m like, ‘Oh, I’m new here, too.’ And I would ask them, ‘How do you like it?’ And they’re like, ‘Oh, we like it. It’s charming.’… I really like how the locals make sure we know that they’re there, otherwise things would change so much. And we don’t want to change too much, if that makes sense? I feel that it’s important that we keep our roots. I come from a traditional Vietnamese family, and I was born here, but half my family were from Vietnam, and we try to keep a tradition. I feel like that’s important.”

Wanting to plant roots of their own in town, Phuong says they’re thinking about opening another pho restaurant, this time in San Pedro. It’s not on the immediate horizon, but it’s something Phuong feels the community would appreciate.

“We’re always looking at new places to expand our business and open a restaurant, and I feel like San Pedro is definitely a potential place to open a small business,” she says.

HOME WORK Silvano Barba and Melissa Clarke Barba had been coming to San Pedro for nearly a decade to visit friends, so they were slightly familiar with the town before moving from Culver City in November 2020.

The couple, who co-own Clarke and Barba, a leather goods and accessories company, found a two-bedroom house off 25th Street where they’re able to work from home, manufacturing products out of their garage.

“We just fell in love with the place,” says Silvano, 45. “Every time we came to San Pedro, we found new, little things that we discovered or that [our friends] showed us.”

Unable to find anything within their budget in Culver City, Melissa, 47, who also works for Lionsgate 20 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2022

Entertainment, suggested they give San Pedro a try.

“Because of COVID, I was able to work from home,” explains Melissa, “Being able to work from home, it let us branch out, and I was like, ‘Oh, let’s go explore San Pedro.’ And then when we were driving around here one day, we got to check out the different areas, and we saw the houses, and we were like, ‘Oh wow, they have really cute houses here!’ So, it opened the door for us to move somewhere else where I didn’t have to go into the office every day and didn’t have to worry about traffic.”

According to Hazdovac, being at the end of the 110 freeway is no longer an inconvenience for most. “For years, San Pedro was simply ‘too far’ from Downtown L.A., the Westside, Orange County, etc., for commuters to consider,” he explains. “With so many industries transferring to working remotely, living in San Pedro and near the ocean has become a big driving force for buyers. [Also], affordability compared to neighboring beach cities in the South Bay has been a big reason why we have seen many buyers consider our town when compared to neighboring cities.”

ANOTHER SANTA MONICA Michelle Debbaudt admits, she’s nervous about the gentrification in downtown and along the waterfront.

The 68-year-old retiree, who spent most of her career as an executive assistant in the entertainment industry, moved to San Pedro in October 2019 from Newport Beach, renting an apartment near Alma Park.

Unlike the others interviewed for this story, Michelle’s relationship with San Pedro has spanned decades. A musician at heart, she’s played with her good friend, local legend Chuck Alvarez, and has worked with his wife, Stacy, at their children's gym, Flipside Gymnastics. Like many in town, she’s worried that all this new investment from outside interests will compromise San Pedro’s small-town charm, turning it into “another Santa Monica.”

“I love San Pedro. I always thought it was one of those undiscovered gems, up until a couple of years ago,” she says, laughing. “And now it’s going crazy.

I’m thrilled that I got here when I did, because rents are unaffordable now, for the most part.”

According to real estate agent Mike Harper, the other half of Harper Hazdovac Real Estate Team and a San Pedro Today columnist, while home prices and rents continue to rise, he does not believe San Pedro will see price escalation reach the levels of some of the more high-profile beach cities anytime soon.

“It has been common to hear out-of-area buyers mention that they felt San Pedro was one of the last affordable coastal cities in the Greater South Bay,” he explains. “There is no question we are witnessing gentrification in our town, but San Pedro may still not be considered as desirable a location due to proximity to the Port and easier access to other Los Angeles area attractions that some of the other beach cities may offer. We expect San Pedro to remain under the radar to some extent and should experience appreciation at a more reasonable pace.”

For folks like Michelle and many others in town, they’re hoping San Pedro continues to fly under the radar for as long as possible.

“We’re so lucky [to live here],” she says. “[San Pedro is] a beautiful, sleepy, little town. I keep saying, ‘Don’t tell anyone. Don’t tell anybody we’re here.’ It’s still precious and still has that charm. I hope it doesn’t lose it.” spt

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FOOD

EAT IN SAN PEDRO:

SPRING CRAFT COCKTAILS

by Sanam Lamborn Three meaningful chapters in my life have begun in April, two of which connect to our town: It’s my birth month, I moved here for love in 2007, and I started Eat in San Pedro in 2020. I’d like to take you along for some cocktails to commemorate these April milestones.

Although we have many places that serve alcoholic drinks, sadly, Pedro doesn’t have a craft cocktail scene.

Specifically, places where a seasoned mixologist skillfully balances spirits with fresh ingredients and attractive garnishes. Nevertheless, as someone who enjoys cocktails, I have found places in town that I enjoy going to.

Ask anyone for recommendations for good drinks in town, and they’ll most likely say J. Trani’s Ristorante (584 W. 9th St.). I completely agree because my experience has been consistently well-made, strong drinks. Although all the pourers behind the bar serve great drinks, I noticed mixologist Louie Pantoja’s passion and creativity through his Instagram posts. A terrible Old Fashioned served at a local bar became the catalyst for a new career, which led to winning a 2018 mixology competition in Manhattan Beach for said drink

Clockwise from top left: A dirty martini at 2800 Kitchen & Lounge; Louie’s Old Fashioned (left) and a Navy Grog at J. Trani's; a fully-loaded Bloody Mary at The Whale & Ale; and the Paloma Negra at Kalaveras. (photos: Sanam Lamborn)

and his mezcal grasshopper. Pantoja’s version of the first is bourbon-based instead of rye whiskey, and it’s very smooth. The latter is a blend of freshsqueezed citrus, agave, and chocolate bitters. On a recent visit, when asked for a rum-based drink, he introduced me to the Navy Grog made with fresh lime and grapefruit juice. Other impressive drinks that he has made for me are coffee, lemon, and dirty martinis.

You can find Pantoja behind the bar on Wednesdays and Sundays.

The visually appealing cocktails featured on Kalaveras’ (383 W. 5th St.) social media lured me in pretty quickly.

On my first visit, I ordered the margar-

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ita flight which includes their mango, cucumber, pineapple, and strawberry flavors. It was a good way for me to find two favorites: cucumber and pineapple. I also like the El Chupacabras margarita which has dried hibiscus flowers floating on top. The most impressive selection under the mezcal cocktails is the Fuego de Dragon which is served under a glass dome filled with smoke. My current obsession is their unique Paloma Negra which combines the traditional drink made with tequila, grapefruit, lime, and soda with charcoal. It’s served in a black salt-rimmed glass and an orchid as a garnish. Don’t be deceived by its looks and smoothness

because the alcohol really does sneak up on you!

The new drink of the week (DOTW) series at The Whale and Ale (327 W. 7th St.) is a great way to discover new cocktails. The Irish Mule, made with Irish whiskey, ginger beer, and lime, is often my drink of choice. It’s difficult to not love the lavender lemon drop cocktail which is served with purple sugar on the glass rim and a floating flower. The showstopper here is the fully loaded Bloody Mary, garnished with olive, pickled pearl onion, shrimp, cheese, jalapeño slice, lemon, lime, and celery; it is a delicious treat!

The drinks at 2800 Kitchen & Lounge in the DoubleTree by Hilton (2800 Via Cabrillo-Marina) don’t have fancy presentations, however, the attractive view more than makes up for it. Having drinks on the patio overlooking the marina has become one of my favorite places to hangout for a drink, in particular, on Wednesday to Saturday evenings when bartender Michelle works the bar. There isn’t an official drinks menu, but the bar is stocked for all the usual cocktails. I am a die-hard gin-based dirty martini fan, and Michelle’s is a standout.

In the past couple of years, when in need of a unique artisanal gift or a small batch of cocktails for special occasions, I have reached out to talented mixologist Nicky Saunders, founder of La Piña Hospitality and Bodega Raval.

Saunders began making and delivering cocktails during restaurant closures at the beginning of the pandemic. Cocktails are delivered pre-mixed in bottles along with eye-catching garnishes.

For menu and orders, please visit @ lapinahospitality on Instagram. Cheers, San Pedro! spt

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SPORTS

PREP SPORTS

WINTER WRAP-UP

by Jamaal K. Street The winter scene of San Pedro prep sports around town at San Pedro, Mary Star of the Sea, and Port of Los Angeles High School provided plenty of notable moments, with the biggest news occurring with the Pirates’ football program.

In mid-March, longtime football coach Corey Miller stepped down after 28 years on the job, the last six of them as San Pedro’s head coach in which he produced a 44-18 record, guiding the Pirates to the 2018 CIF-Los Angeles City Section Division 1 championship, a Marine League title in 2019, and most recently in his final season, the 2021 CIF-LACS Open Division final.

Miller coached the 2021 Pirates to a 10-2 overall record and set school records for passing yards and passing touchdowns for a single season, a wonderful trait for a program that is well-known for its established running game mentality.

Many teams made significant playoff runs, but only one came close to a CIF championship.

Flying under the radar for most of the 2021-2022 season, the POLA girls soccer team made a furious run to the CIF-LACS Division 3 championship game after going undefeated in Coliseum League play under third-year coach Treena Bozart. Although the Polar Bears ultimately fell short of a second title in program history when South Gate won 2-0 on February 26, Time for a Spring Cleanin’...

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Left: Port of L.A. High School 2021-22 varsity girls soccer team; right: San Pedro High School football outgoing coach Corey Miller. (photos courtesy POLA high School, Miguel Elliot)

all but two return for next season, so another potential run at a title will not be a surprise.

Not to be outdone, the POLA boys soccer team also won the Coliseum League title but had an early postseason exit with a narrow 2-1 first-round loss at North Hollywood in Division 3.

The basketball teams at San Pedro High both made tremendous strides.

The boys won 19 games, captured their own Pirate Shootout Tournament for the first time ever in its 13-year history, placed third in the Marine League, and reached the quarterfinals of the CIFLACS Division 1 playoffs, where they fell to eventual champion Grant of Van Nuys. Meanwhile, the girls team finished second in league play and made it to the Division 2 semifinals.

Outstanding junior guard Anthony Hrboka had a scorching hot shooting campaign, averaging 19.3 points while shooting an insane 55 percent from three-point range in being named an All-City Division 1 selection for the boys team, while equally talented sophomore guards Shaila Coleman and Noelani Raigans made All-City Division 2 for the girls.

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San Pedro High girls soccer won their unprecedented 17th straight Marine League title going undefeated in league competition, reaching the quarterfinals of the Division 1 playoffs thanks to a dramatic second-round last minute goal by junior Valerie Torres to eliminate Maya Angelou High of Los Angeles. The Pirates scored two goals in the final ten minutes to triumph, 2-1 over the Phoenix.

First-year coach Manuel Maciel also gained a true gem of a freshman in midfielder Mariyah Bumgarner.

Scoring 10 goals in one season sounds like a good beginning to a prep career, but seven of those goals were either game-tying or game-winning finishes, making Bumgarner a strong candidate for an extremely successful four years of high school.

Mary Star had a marvelous winter with the boys and girls soccer and girls basketball teams all capturing league championships. In the case of the two girls teams, they both won their third straight Santa Fe League titles, respectively.

The girls soccer team, under coach Jordyn Alves, had to gut out a pair of

close games (a 1-1 tie and a 3-0 victory) against St. Paul of Santa Fe Springs to retain their crown, while the girls basketball team, fresh off winning the school’s first CIF-Southern Section sports title one year ago, dominated through league and also won the GlennNorwalk Tournament championship in early December 2021.

Ninth-year coach Victor Tuberosi and company finished 19-5 overall and made it to the second round of the CIF-SS Division 2-A playoffs as the only winter team on Taper Avenue to win a postseason game, and sensational sophomore forward Madison Watts averaged nearly 24 points and over 12 rebounds a game in garnering an All CIF-SS Division 2-A second team selection.

San Pedro also boasted two CIFLACS champions in boys wrestling in senior Elijah Thorp and junior Jerry Witty, as both represented the Pirates well in the CIF State Championship meet in Bakersfield.

That’s a wrap for the winter. It’s time to spring into the next phase of San Pedro prep sports. spt

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APRIL 2022 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 25

FITNESS

MISINFORMATION workouts is incorrect. While they are great calorie-burns, cardio by itself is actually quite ineffective for weight loss “More doctors long term. The truth is that the majorsmoke Camels.” ity of weight loss is going to come from In 1946, under tweaking calorie consumption and increasing pressure will be aided, not carried, by physical and bad press about activity. Weights will help you maintain the link between muscle, and a healthy, revving metabolung cancer and lism and cardio can help burn excess smoking, Camel calories. brand cigarettes launched an advertisCleanse/detox/teas/supplements ing campaign with the aforementioned are the missing ingredient. It seems slogan to offset some of the attention like each week some old acquaintance away from the mounting evidence. is messaging me on Facebook to tell me Mad Men-era ad agencies knew then about a “revolutionary” new business if they could get a couple of whiteopportunity. It’s usually some powder coats puffing on their cancer sticks, the or potion that promises to reboot/reset/ combination of half-truths, celebrity rewire your metabolism to magically endorsement, and statistical gymnastics do what it couldn’t do before. It’s then might confuse the conversation enough discovered that it’s the same turd to distort the writing on the wall. rolled in glitter — short-term, extreme But there are only so many skeletons calorie deprivation coupled with an you can fit in a closet before the pile of overhyped supplement. What you must bodies becomes too difficult to hide. The understand about supplements is that idea of misinformation has become a they supplement. They don’t substitute. hot topic as of late. The Molotov cockIf you don’t have the foundations in tail of social media, partisan politics, place, they won’t do accomplish anyand the pandemic has made the disthing significant. semination of misinformation easy and Here’s the thing about misinformawildly profitable, and so it is part of the tion. We tend to fall for what we wish national conversation. But anyone not to be true. That’s when we get bamborn yesterday knows misinformation boozled. It’s way easier to pay $49.95 is far from some new weapon used on and have all my body fat melt away the masses. Dealing in deliberately false than address the deep-rooted habits or misleading claims for profit is as old I have to unlearn. This is why in the as time itself. quest for health and fitness, often the The example of doctors smoking “HOW MILD CAN A CIGARETTE BE?”: This striking ad by Camel cigarettes was published in harder, more inconvenient route is the Camels is one of many throughout his- the New England Journal of Medicine on April 28, 1949. right choice. tory. And if there’s one industry where I heard this recently, “The truth will misinformation thrives, it’s the health figured I’d highlight some of the most ent (carbs, meat, etc.) is the sole reason set you free, but first, it will piss you and fitness industry. And since the enduring examples I see. entire populations are in poor health off.” This bit of wisdom is sorely missed conversation around misinformation is Carbs are evil. Diet is nuanced. takes the onus of responsibility off the these days. Truth is often a bitter pill on the public consciousness as of late, I People are nuanced. To say one ingredi- individual and puts it on the evil entity. because the truth often requires us to These messages are usually propagated change, and that’s not comfortable. through viral, emotionally charged Instead, we are encouraged to enter documentaries. The truth isn’t as sexy Check out my 000000 virtual echo chambers that encourage or provocative as we might wish it to reviews on: us to stay put. So in the pursuit of your be: Most foods have a place in most own health and fitness, I encourage you people’s diet. The question is more, to take an honest look at the beliefs you what is the “optimum dose” a given hold. Ask yourself: Is it possible you’ve The L.A. market remains competitive, food should play in your diet given your been misinformed? If so, no big deal. and you need to leverage any edge background and goals?

Shake it off and correct course. spt possible in the purchase process.

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26 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2022

MENTAL HEALTH

Living in the United States of America, we must never forget that this is a country built by immigrants — poor and oppressed groups that bravely forged uncharted territories searching for justice, freedom, and opportunity to build a new world. Although in practice, one could argue that many next-generation Americans forget their ancestors’ legacy and promote isolationism. For this reason, I believe it is important that we remind ourselves of the journey of an immigrant and its undeniable psychological impact on their life for years to come.

Currently, the U.S. hosts approximately 46 million immigrants, which amounts to almost 19 percent of international immigration in the world.

Recently, there has been a spike in unattended minor migrants in this country that are displaced and seeking asylum.

With the current war in Ukraine, in less than a month, the world amassed an additional 3.5 million refugees, many of whom are minors. As we enter the modern era of sociopolitical struggles related to immigrant populations in our microcosms, it is helpful to reflect with fresh eyes on the various challenges that these populations face and how to retain awareness and sensitivity to psychological trauma, both acute and long lasting, on the developing minds of young asylum seekers.

Historically, when analyzing issues about immigration, the focus has been on the adults; the children are seen as mere appendages to their parents. Children are perceived to have an advantage due to their psychological malleability and lack of established socialization in their countries of origin. However, this perspective fails to address the developmental trauma associated with

A mother bathes her child in a Syrian refugee camp. (photo: Ahmed Akacha/Pexels)

JOURNEYS OF IMMIGRANT CHILDREN

by Sophie Schoenfeld, MFT early cultural displacement in the formation of self and identity. Immigration consists of three distinct stages.

Assessing each stage can determine the success or challenge of the integration process and mental health outcomes.

The first stage, known as pre-emigration, deals with why people left or were forced to leave their homeland.

Unfortunately, poverty, political or social oppression, war, and persecution are some of the common reasons.

We must remember that minors in these situations are not only processing their own exposure to trauma but also their families’. Children in these families are subject to transgenerational trauma, as they co-exist with family members that may have a whole host of their own post-traumatic stress symptoms. When an adult caregiver’s mental health is compromised due to grief, finances, or other factors, their ability to help navigate their children’s experiences is also compromised.

These types of blows to the developing nervous system can become irreparable,

later manifesting as behavioral and emotional challenges, anger, isolation, poor self-esteem, addiction, etc.

The second stage is the process of transition. In some cases, this can be a painless process if border crossings are well organized, funded, and documented. However, in many cases, these transitions can be chaotic, stressful, and entail grueling conditions, lack of food, water, dangerous transportation conditions, rape, assault, as well as displacement from family members.

The third stage is the post-immigration, which can entail challenges with acculturation, trauma-based difficulties, discrimination, xenophobia, and for undocumented families, chronic stress around work placement, work experience, and constant persecutory anxiety of deportation.

Children entering schools with poor language skills often suffer bullying, isolation, and being ostracized. This plays a very damaging role in developing self-esteem and self-worth.

The feeling of being an outsider can

become a chronic experience of the self and can include anxiety around alien cultural norms, being laughed at, being frequently told they are different than the rest, as well as academic struggles. In addition, they might experience grief due to the loss of friends, family members, and in some cases, parents. Children who have left war-torn homes for a better life often experience a survivor’s guilt and can become self-destructive.

Minors in immigrant families often are the voice and the bridge for their family in their new home. Being an immigrant child, I remember being responsible for doing many things for my mother due to her language barrier or cultural anxiety. We carry the burden of being the translator, the explainer, the messenger. This creates a family system that breeds deeper emotional enmeshment and codependency; it’s the “us against the world” feeling. This influences the growing child’s ability to individuate from the family of origin. Immigrant children are often stuck between two worlds, not able to inhabit either completely.

With thousands of children detained in refugee camps, as well as current conflicts that will undoubtedly create a new surge of immigration around the world, our local communities must be reminded of the immigrant journey of their ancestors.

San Pedro, specifically being a community with a unique patchwork of such culture, will undoubtedly consider these tremendous pressures affecting our new immigrant neighbors. Local communities must work to facilitate healing where opportunity presents, despite economic adjustments that our national budgets will undergo. spt Sophie Schoenfeld, MFT is a local marriage and family therapist. For more info, visit sophiemft.com.

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WEDDING

BALANCE, DEVOTION, AND LOVE

JOSHUA & JOCELYN ROUPOLI AUGUST 21, 2021 story by Nadia Nizetich photo by John Mattera Photography

In 2017, Joshua Roupoli stepped into the gym for what he thought would be the last time. His membership had nearly expired, and at the request of a friend, he begrudgingly attended a final spin class before leaving the place for good. “I got there and saw her,” he states, “and I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, she’s so beautiful.’ I had to meet her.” Unbeknownst to Roupoli, the woman was Jocelyn Foust. Roupoli was instantly enchanted. “After the class, I thought, ‘I need to go back and see this girl.’ I knew from the moment I first laid eyes on her, she was the one. I kept going back, and a couple of months later, we were dating. The rest is history.”

Jocelyn Foust, now Roupoli, confirms her husband’s story. “It was so funny.

The music was so loud, and he just kept trying to talk to me,” she laughs. Unlike Joshua, Jocelyn realized months later that the man she had met was to be her spouse. “I knew he was the one when he sent me a beautiful bouquet of roses for my college graduation. It was so sweet of him.” Joshua admits that the flowers were strategic. “We weren’t dating at that point. I sent her flowers to let her know that I wanted to be more than friends — I wasn’t even invited to her graduation!”

The strategy worked. The pair began dating in 2017, and in 2020, Joshua booked a trip to Ischia, Italy, his ancestral homeland, planning to propose. “I surprised Jocelyn with a trip to Italy. I bought tickets, the whole nine yards.

And then the pandemic happened, and everything changed.” Instead, he elected to take her to the Surfrider Hotel in Malibu, a locale that echoed El 28 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I APRIL 2022

Matador State Beach, Jocelyn’s favorite oceanside spot in California. Jocelyn recalls the dinner fondly. “We had had one glass of wine and a cocktail. Josh was so nervous, and out of nowhere, he reaches into his bag and takes out the ring.”

A year later, the pair married at Joshua’s father’s home in Rancho Palos Verdes. According to Joshua, it was a true Italian wedding, complete with catering from J. Trani’s restaurant and set to a bucolic landscape of vineyards, citrus trees, and a Tuscan-style villa. “It was really special,” smiles Jocelyn. “We made our own limoncello and wine for the wedding with grapes from the family vineyard.”

Excluding the ceremony, Joshua’s favorite moment of the day was the morning before the nuptial. “I got Jocelyn a villa at Terranea to take pictures and get ready before the wedding, and Jocelyn’s mom surprised me with Jocelyn’s dad’s wedding ring,” he explains.

“Her father passed away in 2020, and it was really tough on her, because she wanted her dad at the ceremony. I wore that during the wedding, and I felt like he was with me, walking me down the aisle to marry his daughter. It was really special.” Jocelyn agrees. “I didn’t know my mom gave it to him, so when we got to the altar and saw his hand with my dad’s ring, it was amazing. The ceremony was the best thing in the world.”

Present at the event were 150 of the couple’s closest friends and family. The parents of the bride were Naomi Foust and James Foust, Jocelyn’s late father.

The groom’s parents were Lou Roupoli and Cynthia and George Mitchell. The maid of honor was Jocelyn’s twin sister Vanessa Wilson, who was flanked by bridesmaids Melody Guerriero, Leah Roupoli, Sarah Roupoli, Amber Jenkins, Isabel Teuton, Crystal Gonzalez, Makie Wright, and Megan Kostich. Joshua’s best man was his brother, Louie Roupoli, and the groomsmen included

Johnny Kostich, Ryan Pratt, Sam Urso, Joey Franco, Matt Turik, Jacob Bettis, David Juravic, and Don Jenkins.

The newlyweds honeymooned in Hawaii, visiting Kaanapali on Maui. They spent eight days hitting the beach and touring local attractions, their favorite stop being a coffee farm that offered tastings alongside a farm-to-table breakfast. Now they’re back in their San Pedro home and expecting a baby girl, whom they intend to be the first of many children. When asked what they believe makes their relationship work, the pair cites balance as the cornerstone of their partnership. “I’m always on the move, going out, and she’s more, ‘Let’s stay home and relax,’” muses Joshua.

“We have fun together, and we don’t really fight.” Jocelyn concurs. “We work really well together. Our personalities balance each other, and we’re perfect matches in so many ways. Now we have our little family — it’s so exciting.” spt

APRIL 2022 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 29

THE BACK PAGE

An early look at Cabrillo Beach before the sand was laid on the outer beach in 1928. Many of these squatters had to be forced to leave their beachfront property. (photo: San Pedro Bay Historical Society)

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