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As we were going to print with this month’s issue, news broke that Brouwerij West was closing soon.
Seeing any local business close is terrible, but this one hits hard. Brouwerij West was a beloved business and gathering spot. Their outdoor concerts were always popular. The selection of food trucks was top notch. And they provided one of the few great outdoor patios in town.
Judging by the reaction on social media, I’m not alone in my disappointment. Naturally, there’s a lot of finger-pointing and conspiracies about why the brewery is shutting its doors. The reasons why are moot at this point.
The best we can hope for is that whoever comes in to replace Brouwerij West, be it another brewery or something else, learns from past mistakes and creates something just as unique and special.
This month, Lee Williams penned a last-minute piece on the brewery’s upcoming closure that’s worth a read.
I wish Brouwerij West’s owners and staff good fortune in the future.
Also, I want to thank Liz Schindler Johnson, Taran Schindler, and the staff at the Grand Vision Foundation for their help with this month’s cover story as we celebrate 15 years of the Grand Annex Music Hall.
With the Warner Grand Theatre undergoing its much-needed renovation for the next two years, the Grand Vision Foundation’s Grand Annex has taken center stage as Downtown San Pedro’s premier live performance venue. As you’ll read in this month’s cover story, the GVF staff is up for the challenge.
With the launch of Spotlight: A Singer-Songwriter Series, the Warner Grand on the Road series, and the new San Pedro Musicians Directory, the folks at the Grand Vision Foundation already have a busy 2025 planned as they continue to shine the spotlight on Southern California artists.
Finally, next month (February) begins our 17th year of publication. I can’t wait to show you what we have planned for 2025.
Until next month… spt
Joshua Stecker publisher/editor-in-chief contact@sanpedrotoday. com
There’s a reason why we have the most local businesses in our pages. Locals read San Pedro Today. For advertising info, email ads@sanpedrotoday.com.
JANUARY 2025
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF /PUBLISHER
Joshua J. Stecker
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Lori Garrett
ART DIRECTION
Joshua J. Stecker
PHOTOGRAPHER
John Mattera Photography
CONTRIBUTORS
Mike Harper, Peter Hazdovac, Sanam Lamborn, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Eddie McKenna, Amber Sheikh, Lee Williams
ADVERTISING: General Inquiries: ads@sanpedrotoday.com
Patricia Roberts (562) 964-8166 patricia@sanpedrotoday.com
Lisa Nygren (310) 809-7319 lisa@sanpedrotoday.com
VOLUME 16 | NUMBER 12
ON THE COVER: Scenes from the Grand Annex. (photos: Arturo Garcia, Taso Papadakis, John Mattera Photography)
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 LLC. 20,000 copies are delivered to portions of San Pedro and 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 2009-2025, Empire22 Media LLC.
JANUARY 2025
Every Friday – SAN PEDRO FARMERS MARKET (396 W. 6th St., corner of 6th and Mesa), 10a-2p. –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. 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.
9 (Thurs) – OPEN MIC NIGHT at The Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 7-9p. – Musicians and poets! Come on down to the Grand Annex on the second Thursday of each month for Open Mic Night! Sign up at 6:30p. The first 12 signups are guaranteed to perform, with additional artists as time allows. All ages and genres are welcome to perform (please keep your act clean and appropriate for all ages). Cover $10 cash or $12.75 with card. For tickets and more info, visit grandvision.org.
10 (Fri) – SINGER/SONGWRITERS ANNA MAY & ETHAN BUCKNER at Collage: A Place for Art & Culture (731 S. Pacific Ave.), 7:30p. – Anna May’s meditative songs and lilting voice have won her fans and awards. She will be joined by Ethan Buckner, whose shimmering indie folk pop has a hopeful, serene character. These two fine, thoughtful troubadours present an evening of poetic images framed by acoustic textures. Tickets $20 general admission, $15 students. For tickets and more info, visit collageartculture.org.
12 (Sun) – MONTHLY GARDEN MAINTENANCE GATHERING at 25th Street Mosaic Mural (1322 W. 25th St.), 11a-2p. – Volunteers are needed to help maintain the garden space in front of the mural. Monthly volunteer gardening days are held on the second Sunday of each month, any time between 11a and 2p. For more info, contact lynndee.conley@yahoo.com.
12 (Sun) – RICK JAMES & TEENA MARIE FUNK PHENOMENON TRIBUTE at The Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 7-9p. – Join us for a night of non-stop, heart-throbbing, soulful music that will transport you back to the golden era of funk. Produced by On-
eSqueeze Productions. For tickets and more info, visit grandvision.org.
15 & 25 (Wed & Sat) –PECK PARK CANYON HIKES at Peck Park (560 N. Western Ave.), 9a. –Exercise walks are led on the third Wednesday of each month at 9a and last 1 to 1½ hours. Nature walks are family-friendly and led on the fourth Saturday of each month at 9a. All walks leave from the trailhead in the lower parking lot at Peck Park, just behind the Community Center.
17 (Fri) – MARINERS NIGHT AT THE GOOSE & GRIDIRON at the Los Angeles Harbor Masonic Lodge (1640 W. 9th St.), 6:30-10p. – Every first and third Friday! Kick off the weekend at the Goose & Gridiron, a pub room at the LA Harbor Masonic Lodge. Enjoy the deck with a beautiful view of San Pedro and the harbor, relax and socialize, come and leave when you want! Dinner and adult beverages will be served. This is a casual event. Ladies, family, and friends are invited. Admission is FREE, but a suggested donation of $10 is appreciated. For more info, visit sanpedromasons.org or email perio77@yahoo.com.
18 (Sat) – FRAMPTON COMES ALIVE at The Grand Annex (434 W. 6th St.), 8p. – Join us for a 90-minute tribute to Peter Frampton’s iconic live album, performed by award-winning guitarist Jeff Ellis. This high-energy show will take you back to the magic of the Frampton Comes Alive album, which remains the best-selling live album of all time. For tickets and more info, visit grandvision.org.
25 (Sat) – SMOOTH JAZZ WITH NICK GOMEZ & BAND at Collage: A Place for Art & Culture (731 S. Pacific Ave.), 7:30p. – Nick Gomez is coming off of a great year—his “You Better Figure It Out” single stayed in the top 50 for over 12 weeks. The internationally known contemporary jazz master performer and composer is back for his third show with the same high energy band, plus new tunes and a special guest. Tickets $20 general admission, $15 students. For tickets and more info, visit collageartculture.org.
26 (Sun) – EXPLORE THE COAST / EXPLORA LA COSTA at the West Harbor Promenade (boarding at W. 6th St. and Harbor Blvd.), 2p. – Join the Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI) aboard one of our tall ships to
explore the coast on our bilingual, STEM-focused educational and exploration sail, sponsored by Marathon Petroleum. You’ll learn something new and increase your coastal awareness too! Advanced registration required, $10 donation per person. Children must be 10 or older. To learn more and register, visit lamitopsail.org/etc.
26 (Sun) – L.O.L. FOR CHARITY - A NIGHT OF COMEDY WITH GARY CANNON & FRIENDS at Michael’s Tuscany Room (470 W 7th St.), 5-10p. – Join us for a fundraiser with no strings attached—no pressure, no auctions, just a little magic, dinner, drinks, laughs, and fun with friends for Las Candalistas philanthropies. All net proceeds will help fund the grant requests of Cancer Support Community-South Bay, Manes for Movement, Providence TrinityKids Care Hospice Foundation, and others. Tickets $100; reservations required. For tickets and more info, visit lascandalistas.org/events/lol. spt
Events deadline for February 2025 is Friday, Jan. 17.
Email: events@sanpedrotoday.com to place a listing. Find more events at sanpedrotoday.com.
SP OTLIGHT
BY SPT STAFF
BROUWERIJ WEST ANNOUNCES UPCOMING CLOSURE
After weeks of rumors and speculation, the owners of Brouwerij West announced the popular San Pedro craft brewery will be closing its doors in “maybe a month or two,” according to a social media post on December 19.
In a post on Facebook and Instagram by co-owners Brian Mercer and Dave Holop, the owners cited a “very challenging market post-Covid” with “changing social habits, shifting consumer preferences, [and] rising costs” as reasons for shutting their doors.
Adding, “These obstacles have made it difficult for us to execute and fulfill our vision for what we hoped we could do and ultimately become.”
As of press time, Brouwerij West plans on being open through the end of 2024, with their popular La Bota concert scheduled for December 27 and their annual New Year’s Eve party on December 31. According to the statement, more concerts may be announced soon.
“We put so much love, passion and effort into Brouwerij West, and we are sad that our time in this community will be coming to end. While this is extremely hard for us, we want to make the most of what look to be our last days here,” they said.
For up-to-date information, follow Brouwerij West on social media @brouwerijwest. spt
WORK BEGINS ON WARNER GRAND THEATRE RENOVATION
OnDecember 17, a groundbreaking ceremony was held to celebrate the highly anticipated restoration of the iconic Warner Grand Theatre.
Led by SPF:a, an award-winning architecture firm renowned for its approach to historic preservation and modern innovation, work on this transformative project is slated to begin on December 30.
“As someone who has had the privilege of restoring another of Marcus Priteca’s masterpieces— the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood—this project is deeply personal,” said SPF:a’s Founder and Design Principal Zoltan E. Pali. “We are honored to work alongside the City of Los Angeles and the people of San Pedro
in preserving the Warner Grand Theatre, ensuring it remains a place where memories are created, stories are shared, and the spirit of togetherness thrives for generations.”
SPF:a’s restoration will blend the theatre’s historical charm with modern upgrades, honoring its storied past while preparing it for contemporary audiences. The renovation will preserve the theatre’s historic Art Deco details while integrating modern upgrades. Planned improvements include enhanced ADA accessibility, additional restrooms, a guest lounge with roof terrace, and meticulous restoration of the original wall and ceiling designs.
The renovation is expected to take two years. spt
Brouwerij West.
(photo: Brouwerij West / Facebook)
Artist rendering of the renovated Warner Grand Theatre. (photo: SPF:a)
AUTO CONSTERNATION & PORT AUTOMATION
Western Avenue takes a turn for the worse; dockworkers find an unexpected ally
BY STEVE MARCONI
IfI come off a little more curmudgeonly than usual, please excuse me, but I’ve been driving up and down Western Avenue a lot the past several months while Caltrans does all it can to make life miserable for commuters.
I thought getting around San Pedro was bad enough with the nightmare caused by the Harbor Boulevard exit ramp situation (thank you, Port of Los Angeles), and then Caltrans decided to disrupt life for thousands of drivers by tearing up Western for every possible reason but making it better for vehicles. Could those in charge of painting the lane markings have made it any more confusing?
All of which is just a tiny preview of the hell drivers can expect in 2025 when work begins in earnest on what’s being called “Harborgeddon,” the redecking of the Vincent Thomas Bridge that, as of this writing, will be closed to all traffic for 16 months. And what’s the betting line on the over-under on those 16 months?
Things will get even more interesting for the San Pedro Bay ports in mid-January
when the International Longshoremen’s Association, representing dockworkers all along the East and Gulf coasts, returns to the negotiating table with shippers and the battle over automation resumes.
Our own ILWU is expecting ships to divert to the West Coast, adding even more truck traffic to the already overburdened area. However, the ILA talks will be taking place right before the beginning of the Chinese New Year, a typically slow period.
Two developments could have a significant bearing on the labor talks. One is the recently publicized 2023 Container Port Performance Index. The CPPI report by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence ranks ports by efficiency, “focusing on the duration of port stay for container vessels.”
It’s an important benchmark because the longer a ship is in port, the more it costs the shipper. And, of course, all costs are eventually passed on to the consumer.
Out of 405 ports ranked worldwide, Long Beach is 373rd and Los Angeles 375th. The top-ranked American port was Charleston (53), while the New York-New Jersey complex came in at
92. Not surprisingly, East and Southeast Asian ports took up 13 of the top 20 spots, with Shanghai’s Yangshan remaining number one in the world and Oman’s Salalah second.
Dennis A. Daggett, executive vice president of the ILA, posted an excellent rebuttal to the report earlier this month that, while not being port-specific, certainly explains why LA and Long Beach rank so low in efficiency.
In one subtopic, Daggett notes, “What no one seems to be talking about is the outdated infrastructure that supports U.S. ports, such as highways, bridges, rail systems, and dredging operations. Many of these critical connections to the ports are decades behind the needs of modern commerce. Trucks transporting goods often face bottlenecks on congested and deteriorating highways.”
Sound familiar? You can read the entire rebuttal at ilaunion.org.
The second and most recent development was a midmonth meeting between Daggett and President-elect Donald Trump. Trump expressed his wholehearted support for dockworkers in their fight against
automation.
Daggett reported to his union that the President-elect “was not just attentive to our concerns; he was receptive and genuinely engaged in a discussion about the existential threat automation poses—not only to the Longshore sector but to our communities and very fabric of this great nation.”
Few unions have been as antagonistic toward Republicans and Trump in particular than the ILWU, so Daggett’s words bear repeating:
“Let’s put politics aside for a moment, as I know it can be challenging for some to grasp. But I witnessed something extraordinary firsthand—this man (Trump) truly wants to fight for Americans and its working class. In over 25 years in Washington, I have never seen a Republican take up the mantle for working-class people. President-elect Trump proved me wrong yesterday.”
‘Nuff said. spt
Steve Marconi is a San Pedro native and a former columnist for the Daily Breeze for 20 years. He is also a recently retired longshoreman. He can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.
Western Ave. road construction in mid-December 2024.
(photo: Steve Marconi)
A VISION FOR COMMUNITY AND WALKABILITY
Building connections through ‘third places’
BY JENNIFER MARQUEZ
My youngest son has always had a keen eye for design. As a child, he noticed details others overlooked.
The best time to travel with our children was when they were in elementary school—past the diaper years but before adolescence. I viewed travel as an opportunity to broaden their horizons. Our road trips often included audiobooks as we explored national parks, visited universities, and toured museums across states and countries. My son would sketch hotel designs inspired by our stays.
These adventures, made possible by travel points and a simple lifestyle, weren’t as extravagant as they may seem.
As he grew older, his observations expanded from hotel designs to cityscapes and infrastructure. He pointed out flaws in intersection layouts, such as the oversized, pedestrian-unfriendly intersection when Harbor Boulevard was reconfigured. His passion for walkable cities became clear early on. In high school, he embraced public transportation, navigating Los Angeles and beyond on buses and the metro. I was more relaxed with him than his older
brother, granting him freedoms I now wish I had given my firstborn.
Today, my youngest is a Regent Scholar at UC Berkeley, studying urban planning. Through him, I discovered the concept of “third places”—spaces beyond home (the first place) and work (the second place), where people gather to socialize and connect with their communities. These spaces are inclusive, where cost isn’t a barrier, and strangers can become friends.
Unfortunately, in our car-centric region, third places are scarce compared to areas with robust public transportation and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
This realization deepened during my recent international travels. Anticipating changes in my employment that might eliminate my accrued vacation time, I took three international trips in one year—a decision I don’t regret despite the changes not happening yet.
In Turkey, we stayed in an apartment by the coast, surrounded by a bustling downtown. Evenings were a revelation: Young adults drank coffee late into the night, older men played backgammon, and families enjoyed playgrounds past sunset. These vibrant, interconnected third places created a palpable sense of community.
Returning to San Pedro, I longed for similar spaces and a more walkable city. Walkable cities foster connections, promote physical health, and reduce car dependence. Third places are vital for connections and aging in place—a critical need in car-dependent areas.
Seniors, in particular, face isolation when they can no longer drive. While parts of San Pedro are more walkable, I’ve come to appreciate the small neighborhood markets. However, the area still lacks cohesive infrastructure to make connections accessible to all. The natural beauty of places like Paseo Del Mar, Cabrillo Beach, and Royal Palms— informal third places—is an asset to our town.
Rather than waiting for large-scale changes, I’ve sought out and cultivated my own third places. Working with seniors has reinforced the importance of staying connected locally. I’ve started playing Mahjong at Peck Park, where camaraderie expands to other venues.
Volunteering, working from local coffee shops, and playing pickleball at Anderson Memorial Senior Citizen Center are additional ways I’ve found connection. With West Harbor set to open in a year, the community will have more options for gathering and socializing.
I’m deeply grateful for the residents of San Pedro who have worked tirelessly to improve our local amenities— from enhancing the Anderson Memorial Senior Citizen Center and other clubs to organizing activities like Mahjong and pickleball at Peck Park. Their dedication shows how grassroots efforts can create meaningful third places, even in a car-dependent city.
While we may never achieve the walkability of European cities, we can still build a future where connections are prioritized. This could involve creating more pedestrian-friendly zones, supporting local markets as community hubs, and advocating for better public transportation.
Initiatives like community events, shared gardens, or expanding senior-friendly spaces can also foster these vital connections. Together, we can shape a community that values social interaction and ensures everyone, especially our seniors, has a place to connect and thrive.
To find your home’s walkability score, visit walkscore. com. spt
Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com and @jenntmqz on X and Instagram.
Anderson Memorial Senior Citizen Center.
(photo: LAParks.org)
SAYING GOODBYE TO THE BROUWERIJ
The upcoming closure of Brouwerij West leaves behind a cultural gap in San Pedro
BY LEE WILLIAMS
By now, you should have heard about the impending closure of Brouwerij West, one of the most San Pedro spots in all of San Pedro.
To say this is a blow to San Pedro as a community is an enormous understatement. The brewery has become an event space, a gathering spot, and a uniquely San Pedro destination for almost nine years. It will leave a massive hole in what so many of us enjoy about San Pedro.
Founder Brian Mercer, a fourth-generation San Pedran, traveled around Belgium for almost a decade getting to know the beer industry and eventually started up a company to import a specific type of sugar to help American brewers recreate the sweet taste of old Belgian beers. His passion for beer eventually led him back to San Pedro to create Brouwerij West.
I remember all that went into opening Brouwerij West. It was almost a threeyear undertaking that went through countless challenges. Converting an old Navy warehouse built during World War II into a modern and sustainable beer opera-
tion was not for the faint of heart.
Countless code and construction obstacles jumped in the way, and the original 16-week construction timeline quickly ballooned to 42 weeks. I distinctly remember a last-minute change that required them to install standard fire doors next to the enormous rolling doors to meet the fire code, even though the big doors are always wide open when the brewery is in operation.
The community couldn’t wait for it to finally open, and every day during those three years, there was another social media complaint about how long it was taking to finish the renovations of a historical building.
Brian and his partner, Dave Holop, are passionate about beer and sustainability. One unique aspect of the operation is it uses 30 percent less water than most breweries and runs primarily on solar power. The two even dreamed of creating a desalinization plant to reach the ocean outside the breakwater.
I’m not much of a beer drinker, but I’ve enjoyed countless events at Brouwerij West, including the Taste of San Pedro, numerous music concerts like POPFUJI and the San Pedro Music Festival, many a trivia night,
and sometimes I just went there after shopping at CRAFTED or to grab a Miller Butler pizza.
Brouwerij West is a place to run into old friends and make new ones. Although I’m disappointed it never had a permanent restaurant, I love all of the local food trucks that rotated through there and also that the space is dog-friendly.
COVID-19 may be less of an environmental concern today, but the economic effects remain. Shutting down operations and in-person gatherings and reduced demand for craft beer at that time set the whole industry back financially.
The Ghost Ship warehouse fire in Oakland led to severe restrictions on large public spaces, even though the two structures have no comparison regarding access and fire safety.
Events are only a piece of the overall business. Production and distribution are a considerable part of craft brewing at this scale. With changing tastes and demographics, as well as younger folks becoming more calorie-conscious and consuming cannabis edibles for recreation instead of beer, the craft beer industry has suffered nationwide.
The opening of Port Town Brewing Company—and
soon, West Harbor—could create a better concentration of breweries, which is helpful for all three, as it creates a draw for folks who love beer.
Brouwerij West has also been a satellite site for other events and music fests. With a new cruise ship terminal that can also function as a convention center and proposed hotels at Cabrillo Marina, Phase 2 of West Harbor, and possibly on top of Warehouse One, Brouwerij West could be a place to hold even more weekday events and private functions.
Countless toasts, hugs, and laughs have been given at this brewery. Brian, Dave, and the whole Brouwerij West family have poured their hearts and souls into this space, and it hurts to see them closing.
I hope Brouwerij West can somehow pull off a miracle with investors, partners, or supporters to remain a uniquely San Pedro destination. I was there for the grand opening and plan to be there for the closure. spt
Lee Williams leads The Lee Williams Real Estate Group at REAL Broker and is a LA harbor commissioner. He can be reached at lee@ lamove.com.
San Pedro has several vegan options for those wanting to adopt a plant-based diet
BY SANAM LAMBORN
Haveyou heard of “Veganuary?”
Neither had I until a couple of months ago.
It’s a movement that encourages people to adopt a plant-based diet during the month of January. Don’t panic—I am not going vegan, nor will I preach to you. But there are many vegans amongst us who will benefit from what I’m sharing this month.
What does an omnivore know about vegan food? Well, I go out to eat around town with my vegan friend Megan Barnes, whose name is probably familiar to you from her past life as a reporter for the Daily Breeze and San Pedro Today, or as your barista at Starbucks on Western and Westmont.
The most obvious place for vegan food in San Pedro is Blend and Befriend (407 W. 6th St.). Menu options include open-faced sandwiches, tacos, and daily soup specials. Additionally, there are bowls made with plant-based protein and fruit, as well as baked goods. Occasionally, pop-up collaborations with local caterer
Lit Cuisine feature vegan gourmet dishes.
Around the corner is Sirens Java & Tea (402 W. 7th St.), where they have a vegan breakfast burrito and a vegan sausage, egg, and cheddar sandwich.
Baramee Thai Restaurant (354 W. 6th St.) has a few specifically labeled vegan options on their menu. Other choices, such as the spicy eggplant, can be ordered to be made vegan.
Then there is what I refer to as “the most delicious corner in Pedro.” The Chori-Man (2309 S. Alma St.) has a few vegan-labeled options, such as their soyrizo burrito, chilaquiles, and popular soup specials. Then, go next door to Colossus Bread (2311 S. Alma St.) to grab some coffee, a loaf of sourdough bread, and their seasonal vegan cookie.
The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.) is yet another place with vegan-friendly options. A section of the menu is labeled vegetarian, and there are three options to choose from. Lately, vegan sweet treats have appeared in their offerings as well.
San Pedro is a pizza town, so thank goodness Miller Butler comes to the rescue
with their Margherita without cheese or with vegan cheese. To find out where they pop up around town, check their regularly updated Instagram account @millerbutler_sp.
I also reached out to one of my former students, Fibiana Munoz, who is vegan. She is the friendly face who checks out your books at the San Pedro Public Library. She shared the following places for vegan-friendly dishes:
Ko Ryu Ramen (362 W. 6th St.) offers a vegetable ramen soup on their menu, which can be ordered with a veggie broth and kale noodles. A good appetizer option is also their edamame, which can be jazzed up by requesting it to be made spicy and garlicky.
At Niko’s Pizzeria (399 W. 6th St.), one vegan option is the Pasta Aglio Olio, which is simply made with olive oil, garlic, and Italian parsley. Jasmine Hana Sushi and Thai’s (28150 S. Western Ave.) menu has a section of vegan-friendly sushi rolls that all sound pretty appetizing.
Lastly, the veggie sandwich at A-1 Imported Groceries and Deli (348 W. 8th St.) can be made vegan by omitting the cheese. spt
Sanam Lamborn created the Eat in San Pedro Facebook group and Instagram in April 2020 to entice people to patronize San Pedro’s eateries.
Clockwise from top: The Chori-Man’s vegan soyrizo burrito; Blend and Befriend’s vegan and gluten-free chocolate chip cookies; Ko Ryu Ramen’s edamame. (photos: Instagram)
CENTER STAGE
AS THE WARNER GRAND THEATRE UNDERGOES RENOVATION, THE GRAND ANNEX MUSIC HALL CONTINUES TO SHINE A SPOTLIGHT ON SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA TALENT
BY JOSELYN WILKINSON AND BRANIMIR KVARTUC
Downtown 6th Street is the cultural and commercial heart of San Pedro, where shops, creative spaces, and restaurants converge. At the heart of it all lies the stunning 1931 Warner Grand Theatre, San Pedro’s beloved historic art deco movie palace that has become a cornerstone of the arts in the LA Harbor Area.
This historic movie-palace-turned-performing-arts-center recently closed its doors to make way for a long-awaited modernization project led by the City of Los Angeles.
The renovation will make aesthetic improvements, bring the theater up to code, improve accessibility, and modernize its infrastructure.
The renovation will take approximately two years. What are residents and performing arts lovers to do in the meantime?
For that answer, we walk a few doors down to the Grand Annex Music Hall, the storefront theater venue run by Grand Vision Foundation, a community arts organization that also serves as the official Friends Group
of the Warner Grand. The cabaret-style Grand Annex is known throughout the Harbor area and South Bay as “the” place to see great live music in an intimate setting. The Grand Annex is poised to fill the void left by the theater’s temporary closure and solidify its place as the heartbeat of music and culture in Downtown San Pedro.
The Grand Annex is launching several new programs this year to showcase area artists and capture audiences with exciting and unique performances. These include curated concerts
with world-class talent, a new singer-songwriter series, an online directory of San Pedro musicians, and crowd-pleasing tribute shows hosted at the Annex and throughout San Pedro.
Last year, the Grand Annex celebrated its 15th anniversary by installing a state-of-the-art lighting system to illuminate the acts on stage and create more ambiance in the room.
Against this backdrop, the February and March concert season will feature nationally known artists like blues/folk powerhouse Chris Pierce
Abby Posner & The Big Fall perform at the Grand Annex. (photo: Andrew Aragon)
and rising Americana star Cristina Vane, indie rocker Paul Givant, tributes to Steely Dan and Linda Ronstadt, and St. Paddy’s shows by favorites John Kraus and The Goers and Bad Haggis.
New to the Grand Annex music calendar this year is Spotlight: A Singer-Songwriter Series, supported by a grant from the Live Music Society. This is a series of concerts, each featuring four singers and each co-hosted by a guest music presenter from greater Los Angeles.
The kickoff event on February 1 will be presented by the legendary McCabe’s Guitar Shop. The audience will hear singer-songwriter and studio musician Dan Navarro. Navarro is known for writing the lyrics to Pat Benatar’s hit “We Belong,” and he recently sang on Disney’s mega-hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno.” The evening will also feature Wendy
Waldman, vocalist, producer, and writer of multi-platinum-selling songs, including Vanessa Williams’ “Save the Best for Last.” The Spotlight series will continue each month through the spring.
Artistic Director Taran Schindler expresses excitement about the series. “It’s been a joy collaborating with our guest curators who love the Annex and will bring exceptional talent to our audience,” she says.
Grand Vision is also helping local musicians thrive with the launch of the San Pedro Musicians Directory, an online resource connecting local performers with businesses and individuals looking to hire them.
Conceived with input from local musicians, including Windy Barnes, and supported by Arts United San Pedro, the directory is a testament to Grand Vision’s dedication to nurturing local
GRAND VISION FOUNDATION STAFF & LEADERSHIP
(l to r): Andrew Aragon, Christa Klee, Alexa Clement (seated bottom), Joselyn Wilkinson (top in black), Taran Schindler (artistic director), and Liz Schindler Johnson (executive director). (photo: John Mattera Photography)
Sommelier JP Molinari leads a wine tasting event at the Grand Annex. (photo: Alexa Clement)
Front entrance to the Grand Annex. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
talent and fostering relationships within the community.
The Musicians Directory is now open for submissions by professional San Pedro-based musicians, who can access the user-friendly application on Grand Vision’s website (grandvision.org/ musicians-directory). The public can then browse the listings of musical talent available in San Pedro and hire performers to play at their venue, restaurant, special event, party, or art opening.
While the Warner Grand undergoes its transformation, Grand Vision is presenting larger concerts at alternative venues. The new Warner Grand on the Road series will kick off with a Tom Petty tribute concert at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on February 15. A series of free outdoor pop-up concerts at the West Harbor waterfront will bring live music to new audiences later in the spring.
The Grand Annex also makes its space available for rent. They welcome everything from performances to dance recitals, private parties, and plays, like the upcoming Shadows by local playwright Linda Delmar and a comedy night by Dandelion Productions featuring Fritz Coleman.
Grand Vision Founda-
tion’s impact on San Pedro extends beyond the arts—it’s about building community, boosting the local economy, and enriching lives. Executive Director Liz Schindler Johnson reflects on the organization’s mission.
“Live music has the power to unite us, to bring people out into public spaces to connect with one another,” she says. “As we navigate the Warner Grand’s temporary closure, we’re reminded of how precious these shared experiences are. We are incredibly grateful to our community for keeping the arts alive in San Pedro, and grateful to the Grand Annex audiences because they make the Annex such a joyful place.”
As the Warner Grand prepares to enter a new era, Grand Vision Foundation’s community of staff, volunteers, and board members continues to lead the charge at the Grand Annex and beyond. Their work is a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and transform. spt
The Grand Annex Music Hall is located at 434 W. 6th Street in Downtown San Pedro. For more info and a calendar of events, visit grandvision.org.
Wondering what’s being renovated inside the Warner Grand Theatre? Based on the City of LA’s scope of work description and approved plans by SPF:a, an award-winning architecture firm, here are the key elements of the Warner Grand’s renovation project:
Elevator – A new elevator will be installed near the northwest corner of the building to provide ADA access to the second floor and basement from the main floor lobby. A stage elevator will also be installed.
Auditorium – The slope on the house right in the main auditorium will be fixed to meet the ADA code. The HVAC system will also be replaced.
Restrooms – The basement bathrooms will be upgraded and additional gender-neutral restrooms will be installed to meet current codes. Existing restrooms will be expanded and upgraded.
Lobby Entrance – The terrazzo flooring will be repaired and restored, as well as the foyer ceiling, historic ticketing booth, doors, and outside marketing displays.
Ticketing Offices and Usher Storage – The former fINdings Art Center space, adjacent to the theatre’s foyer, will be converted to a manager’s and ticketing office.
Production Office and Storage – The space where Sacred Grounds coffee shop currently is will be converted into a multi-use space that can accommodate a production office.
Guest Lounge and Overlook – The existing second floor manager’s office will be converted into a small reception lounge.
Main Floor Lobby – There will be general historical rehabilitation of the finishes and fixtures, and replacement of the concession stands.
Second Floor Lobby – General historical rehabilitation of the finishes and fixtures, restoration of the historic drinking fountain, and the installation of new electrical infrastructure to accommodate events. spt
Kyshona performs at the Grand Annex. (photo: Arturo Garcia)
Warner Grand Theatre marquee. (photo: Joshua Stecker)
TACKLING TOUGH QUESTIONS TOGETHER
What do you want to know about the current homeless crisis?
BY AMBER SHEIKH
Did you know that last year, the homeless population declined by 0.27 percent to 75,312 in LA County, and by 2.2 percent to 45,252 in the City of LA?
While these stats may seem small, they are directionally huge—a decrease by any percentage means our solutions are working. The new year begins with immense possibilities—the desire to set (or reset) new goals. But we should also celebrate, recognize, and build on the previous year’s work and progress.
So, on that note, I want to thank the voters of LA County for banding together and ensuring Measure A passed. A significant victory for homeless service providers and housing advocates, Measure A is an investment by all of you in solutions for our region.
Implementing and expanding proven solutions to reduce homelessness while making Los Angeles County more affordable is a win for everyone, and you did this. Research has demonstrated the link between an
increase in public funding for housing and a decrease in the homeless population. Through Measure A, LA County is primed to boost its publicly financed housing supply—36 percent of funds will go to the Los Angeles County Affordable Housing
experiencing homelessness are located—to help identify trends among various populations and other up-to-date information that can inform local policies, strategies, and funding.
Volunteering for this annual effort is a meaningful
“OFTEN, I’M ASKED, ‘WHY IS THIS NOT BEING SOLVED FASTER?’ CURRENTLY, FOR EVERY 100 PEOPLE WE HOUSE IN LA, 125 INDIVIDUALS BECOME HOMELESS. IT’S LIKE WORKING AGAINST THE POWER OF A FIREHOSE.”
Solutions Agency (LACAHSA). LACAHSA is modeled after similar initiatives in New York, San Francisco, and Singapore that scale up housing production and preservation.
Measure A is a prime example of why The Homeless Count, a point-in-time census conducted annually by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), is critical for developing policy initiatives for effective solutions.
This concentrated effort helps us learn where people
way to help leaders make decisions to alleviate homelessness in our region. To register to volunteer, go to count.lahsa.org and learn more about how to get involved.
Often, I’m asked, “Why is this not being solved faster?” Currently, for every 100 people we house in LA, 125 individuals become homeless. It’s like working against the power of a firehose.
If we stopped anyone from becoming newly homeless today, we could solve our region’s home-
less challenges in less than five years. While those are incredible numbers, the systems and forces that keep so many in housing instability are stronger than my math (for now).
The issue of homelessness is one of the most impactful of our time and also one of the most complex. From policy discussions to societal ripples, this issue triggers folks for a multitude of reasons.
I often get asked questions like, “How can I make a difference?” or “Why am I seeing more homeless individuals around my neighborhood?” I can offer answers or help find them for you. Ask me anything, and I promise to get you the information you need to help you navigate this multilayered topic.
Email me at info@sheikhimpact.com. Let’s answer your questions about the homeless crisis and get you the information you seek. spt
Amber Sheikh is a San Pedro resident, mother of two, community advocate, and owner of Sheikh/Impact, a nonprofit consulting firm.
The author (center) participating in the 2023 Homeless Count with Pastor Lisa Williams and Rabbi Cassi Kail. (photo: courtesy Amber Sheikh)
VOTED SOUTH BAY’S FAVORITE 2024
DEALING WITH SETBACKS
Do not disregard the importance of the process
BY EDDIE Mc KENNA
Ihadan interesting and emotional conversation with my uncle the other day. My favorite uncle, Bob, entered the gym looking depressed. I sensed something was amiss, especially since my dad had texted me beforehand, advising me to be understanding with him.
Uncle Bob, a lifelong surfer from the age of six, typically fearless in tackling waves over 10 feet high, seemed subdued. When I inquired about his demeanor, he confided, “I can’t surf anymore; I can’t even get to my feet.”
Even a relatively small wave proved challenging for him during a recent outing with my dad. Approaching his late 60s, I vividly recalled his first visit to my gym three years ago, his limping gait marking the beginning of his fitness journey.
His initial goal was sim-
ply to walk without the hindrance of his drop foot. Alongside this, he battled aggressive arthritis in both knees, severe cartilage loss, recovery from major back surgery, and the daily grind of prolonged desk work.
The pivotal question he asked me sparked the reflection leading to this month’s column: “Why should I continue working out if I can’t surf?”
His inquiry transported me back to a previous encounter with a woman who lamented her lack of weight loss after two months of exercise. It struck me how individuals often fixate on outcomes beyond their control, disregarding the importance of the process.
In response to my uncle’s query, I offered, “You have a nine-year-old daughter; you need to be able to walk her down the aisle on her wedding day.”
This revelation struck a chord with him and grounded him in his familial
responsibilities. Emphasizing the positive impact of his workouts on his joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and overall well-being, I highlighted the genuine gratitude his body and mind feel post-exercise.
Following medical advice, many new members aged 50 and older gravitate towards resistance training to enhance lean muscle mass—a journey easily facilitated by joining a gym or hiring a coach.
Our conversation continued, unfurling a thread of personal transformation. Too often, we neglect to look back at our beginnings. I recounted his initial hesitant steps into our gym, marked by an obvious limp. A modest bench press of 155 pounds in his first year blossomed into multiple repetitions at 185 pounds and a pinnacle of 225 pounds three years later.
At 67, my uncle embodies resilience and strength, a testament to his com-
mitment to prioritizing his health.
To all those disheartened by perceived setbacks— failed endeavors, missed opportunities—pause and reflect on your journey. Are you the same person who embarked on this path? Did you wholeheartedly embrace the process? What triumphs emerged from your efforts?
For my uncle, a disciplined routine of five hours of weekly exercise over three years culminated in enhanced strength and vitality, enriching his life for the sake of his family. While surfing may no longer be within reach, the vision of him proudly escorting his daughter down the aisle stands as his reason for continuing to work out. spt
Eddie McKenna is co-owner of Heyday Elite Fitness. For more info, visit heydaytraining.com.
(photo: Kindel Media)
SAN PEDRO REAL ESTATE: YEAR IN REVIEW
A look at last year’s local housing market and what it means for 2025
BY MIKE HARPER & PETER HAZDOVAC
This is one of our favorite San Pedro Today columns, as it allows us to reflect on the prior year in our local real estate market. We enjoy sifting through the data and sharing our insights. So, let’s dig in.
As reported last year, 2023 was remembered primarily for significantly lower sales volume (-19.5% in San Pedro) due in large part to mortgage rates reaching nearly 8%, which was considerably higher than many in the lending industry had projected. While there was some price softening (-3.1% in San Pedro), this decline was modest due to the tight inventory climate that has persisted throughout the South Bay.
Going into 2024, The California Association of Realtors® projected “an increase in existing SFR home sales of +22.9% next year to reach 327,100 units, up from the projected 2023 sales figure of 266,200. The 2023 figure is -22.2% lower compared with
the pace of 342,000 homes sold in 2022.
The median home price in California is forecast to rise +6.2% to $860,300 in 2024, following a projected -1.5% dip to $810,000 in 2023 from $822,300 in 2022. A persistent housing shortage and a competitive housing market will continue to put upward pressure on home prices next year.
With the economy expected to soften in 2025, the Federal Reserve Bank will begin loosening its monetary policy next year. Mortgage rates will trend down throughout 2024, and the average 30-year fixed rate mortgage could reach the mid -5% range by the end of next year,” said C.A.R. Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Jordan Levine.
So, how did our local market perform in 2024?
According to MLS statistics (2024 vs. 2023) at the time of our column submission in mid-December 2024, there were 269 SFRs sold in San Pedro, which was up +11.2% (+27 homes) compared to the same period in 2023.
The median sales price
was $950,000, which increased slightly (+2.7%) from the previous year. Days on market (DOM) increased to 20 days compared to 12 in 2023.
In neighboring Rancho Palos Verdes, there were 283 homes sold, which was up (+1.8%) from 278 homes sold in 2023. Median sales prices increased slightly (+2.8%) from $1,817MM to $1,867MM in 2024. DOM went from 13 to 17 days in 2024.
Overall, there were 3,029 SFRs sold in the Greater South Bay, which was up (+2.7%) from 2,949 homes sold in 2023. The median sales price increased (+7.9%) from $1,115MM to $1,200MM in 2024. DOM increased from 13 days to 14 days in 2024.
2024 played out mostly as predicted but with slightly lower increases in sales volume and home prices as anticipated. This can primarily be attributed to mortgage rates hovering between 6.5% to 7% for most of the year instead of decreasing to the mid-5% range as projected.
What can we expect in 2025? The California Associ-
ation of Realtors® projects an increase in existing SFR home sales to total 304,400 units, up +10.5% from 2024’s revised projection of 275,400.
The median home price in California is forecast to climb +4.6% to $909,400 in 2025, following a projected +6.8% increase to $869,500 in 2024 from 2023’s $814,000. The average 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate is projected to decline from 6.6% in 2024 to 5.9% in 2025.
Although inventory levels are expected to improve, they should remain relatively tight locally due to higher demand with mortgage rates expected to decline. This could put some upward pressure on prices, so we shall see how it all unfolds in 2025.
Wishing you all a happy New Year! spt
Mike Harper and Peter Hazdovac are co-owners of HH Coastal Real Estate, an independent local brokerage. For more info, visit hhcoastal.com.
(photo: courtesy HH Coastal Real Estate)
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