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.
To paraphrase the prolific words of Bob Dylan, the times certainly are a-changin’ in San Pedro, and nothing illustrates that more than the Green Onion closing its doors on November 21.
It’s been a while since our town has collectively mourned the loss of a legacy restaurant, especially one as beloved as the Green Onion. In my twenty years of publishing this magazine, iconic eateries like Canetti’s Seafood Grotto, Papadakis Taverna, and Ante’s Restaurant all eventually succumbed to the hands of time. More recently, places like Utro’s Café, Ports O’ Call Restaurant, and Sacred Grounds closed to make way for redevelopment. The Green Onion now joins that list, with its building slated to become an eight-story apartment complex with ground-floor commercial space.
If there’s one word that captures San Pedro in 2025, it’s “uncertainty.” We used to complain when things weren’t happening fast enough. (How many times did we think the waterfront would never get redeveloped?) Now, change seems to be happening everywhere—and fast. And this is only the beginning.
With the Green Onion now closed, I want to thank owner Bob Sanjabi and the restaurant’s wonderful staff for 40 years of great food and memories. It was there I learned margaritas can be your friend… until they’re not. A lesson worth remembering.
MISTY’S MOMENT
I also want to congratulate Misty Copeland on her final performance with American Ballet Theatre, marking an extraordinary 25-year
career. Misty has appeared on our cover a few times and has always kept close ties to her hometown through Cindy Bradley, artistic director of San Pedro City Ballet, who discovered her and became her first ballet teacher.
Longtime San Pedro Today writer Megan Barnes—who has covered Misty’s journey practically from the beginning—was lucky enough to witness her farewell performance at Lincoln Center in October and interview her for this month’s story. My sincere thanks to Misty’s team for helping make this feature possible.
GIVING THANKS
As we close out the year, I want to take a moment to thank everyone who helped keep the stories flowing.
Thanks to our writers, columnists, and contributors, whose insight and talent keep our community engaged. A special thanks to our small but mighty staff, the people behind the scenes who help make each issue happen.
Thanks to our readers, whether you’ve been with us since day one or you’re picking up the magazine for the first time. We’re grateful to cover such a special community.
And to San Pedro’s small business community—the backbone of this publication—thank you for your unwavering support. You are the soul of this magazine, and I cannot thank you enough.
As we head into the holiday season, remember the golden rule: Shop Local!
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
Email: ads@sanpedrotoday.com for our current media kit.
VOLUME 17 | NUMBER 11
ON THE COVER: Santa Claus enjoys the Gateway Plaza Fanfare Fountain, which re-opened in August. (photo: 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.
6 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I DECEMBER 2025 I sanpedrotoday.com
DECEMBER 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.
Every Monday - ACTING-WRITING CLASSES at Collage Theater (731 S. Pacific Ave.), 6p. –All levels—beginners to working actors and writers—come bring your work to life! On-camera, live stage performance, TV, and film. Collaborate on scripts in development. This is the place to learn and improve, network, and follow your dreams. For more info, call (310) 864-4000, email actorsjungle@gmail.com, or visit actorsjungle.com.
Every Tuesday, Friday, & First Thursday Evening –OPEN GARDEN at Feed and Be Fed (429 W. 6th St.), Tuesdays 10a-12p, Fridays 10a-1p, & First Thursday evenings. – San Pedro’s own urban farm, opens its downtown garden space every Tuesday and Friday and on First Thursday evenings. Organic produce is for sale at the San Pedro Farmers Market (corner of 6th and Mesa) on Fridays 10a-2p. Come share nature’s bounty and beauty as we grow vegetables, flowers, and community. Get your hands in the dirt as a volunteer, get expert advice, or just relax. For more info, visit feedandbefed.org.
Every Tuesday & Every Saturday – BELMONT SHORE MODEL 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 Model 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.
Every Friday – LAFD HARBOR MUSEUM at Old Fire Station 36 (639 S. Harbor Blvd.), 10a-3p. –The LA Fire Department Historical Society invites you to tour and experience San Pedro and Wilmington’s fire protection and rescue history with vintage fire apparatus and displays. Come to visit or to volunteer. FREE admission. For more info, visit lafdmuseum.org/harbor.
Various dates – BRIDGE GAMES & CLASSES at South Bay Bridge Club (24100 Narbonne Ave., #105, Lomita), various times. –Have fun exercising your brain and playing bridge at South Bay Bridge Club. Adults and teenagers can take lessons and play cards almost every day. For more info, call (310) 325-7222 or visit southbaybridgeclub.com.
4 (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. This month’s First Thursday will also feature a holiday market with 70+ vendors, Santa, food, music, and a full holiday takeover of 7th Street— complete with horsedrawn carriage rides!
5 (Fri) – CANDY CANE LANE at Weymouth Corners (corner of 8th St. and Weymouth), 5-9p. – Candy Cane returns with another festive evening! The annual event will feature shopping, music, entertainment, food, fire trucks, cookie decorating, face painting, carnival games, and a visit from Santa! FREE admission. See ads on pages 12 and 13.
6 (Sat) – GUIDED NATURE WALK at George F. Canyon Nature Preserve (27305 Palos Verdes Dr. East, RPV), 10:30a. – Naturalists will guide you along a trail through the preserve to discover a unique variety of wildlife in their canyon habitat with amazing views of the LA Basin. Meet on the back patio of the Nature Center. Parking in Preserve lot located at 27305 PV Dr., East. Rain cancels the walk. Presented by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. Sign up at pvplc.org/calendar.
6 (Sat) – PORT OF LOS ANGELES HOLIDAYS BY THE SEA & TOWN SQUARE TREE LIGHTING at West Harbor Promenade
(W. 6th St. and Harbor Blvd.), 4-8p. – An evening of festivities on the LA waterfront! The yearly event will feature the San Pedro City Ballet, views of the annual Holiday Boat Parade, and the annual Christmas tree lighting at 5p, plus snow play, carolers, a marionette show, and a Winter Wonderland in Town Square Park from 4-7p presented by Councilmember Tim McOsker. For more info, visit lawaterfront.org.
6 (Sat) – DECEMBER SAIL DURING THE HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE at West Harbor Promenade (boarding at W. 6th St. and Harbor Blvd.), 5p. – Be part of the LA Harbor Holiday Boat Parade when you join us on one of our tall ships. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit! Tickets $75 for adults, $30 for children (12 and under). For tickets and more info, visit lamitopsail.org/events.
6 (Sat) – THE INAUGURAL CABRILLO BEACH BOOSTERS GALA: AWARDS & ARTS at The Majestic (921 S. Beacon St.), 6p. – Be a part of the very first Cabrillo Beach Boosters Gala for a night celebrating and supporting the Boosters’ mission of preserving community landmarks and traditions. Dress up for an elegant evening bringing our arts community together with an art auction curated by the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District and performances by the San Pedro City Ballet. The Boosters will also be honoring local organizations that support their mission.
Tickets $250. For ages 21+ only. Black-tie attire. For tickets and more info, visit cabrillobeachboosters.com.
7 (Sun) – 45th ANNUAL SAN PEDRO SPIRIT OF THE HOLIDAYS PARADE in Downtown San Pedro, 1-3p. – Each year, this festive tradition brings families, little leagues, scouts, students, high school bands, equestrian units, and volunteers to Downtown San Pedro to celebrate the holiday season and our community. More than 12,000 individuals will line the streets to view the parade, which will be held rain or shine! The parade route is as follows: START at 13th St. and Pacific Ave., right on 6th St., END on 6th St. and Palos Verdes St. Presented by the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, the annual parade is made possible through the generous support of our community and is FREE to attend. For more info, visit spholidayparade. com or call (310) 832-7272. See parade map on page 9.
12-14 (Fri-Sun) – SAN PEDRO CITY BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER at James R. Armstrong Theatre (3330 Civic Center Dr., Torrance), Friday: 7:30p; Saturday: 2p and 7:30p; Sunday: 2p. – Experience the magic of the holiday season as San Pedro City Ballet presents its enchanting annual production of The Nutcracker! Under the artistic direction of Cynthia and David Patrick Bradley, this beloved classic brings Tchaikovsky’s timeless score to life with dazzling choreography, breathtaking
costumes, and stunning sets. Join Clara on a dreamlike journey filled with a dancing nutcracker, mischievous mice, sparkling snowflakes, and a magical Christmas tree that grows before your eyes. A treasured tradition for the whole family, this spectacular performance will transport you to a world of wonder and holiday cheer! Show times are as follows: Friday, December 12 at 7:30p; Saturday, December 13 at 2p and 7:30p; Sunday, December 14 at 2p. Tickets $45. For tickets and more info, visit sanpedrocityballet.org/ upcoming-events/nutcracker.
13 (Sat) – MONTHLY GARDEN MAINTENANCE
GATHERING at 25th Street Mosaic Mural (1322 W. 25th St.), 8-11a. – Volunteers are needed to help maintain the garden space in front of the mural. Monthly volunteer gardening days are now held on the second Saturday of each month, any time between 8a and 11a. For more info, contact lynndee. conley@yahoo.com.
13 (Sat) - SECOND SATURDAY CRAFTERS at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church (1648 W. 9th St., church social hall), 10a-12p. – Calling all knitters, crocheters, embroiderers, needle pointers, cross-stitchers, weavers, quilters, scrapbookers, paper crafters, jewelry makers, and any other crafty folks! Bring your current project and come enjoy crafting with other like-minded people in a FREE, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere. We meet every second Saturday of the month and provide time for crafters to give and get help from others, as well as share resources to enhance
our crafting experience. For more info, text (424) 350-1543 (text only, please).
13 (Sat) – MARY STAR ELEMENTARY WINTER WONDERLAND at Mary Star of the Sea Elementary School (870 W. 8th St.), 10a-1:30p. – Mary Star Elementary presents their annual Winter Wonderland event including pop-up vendors, kids activities, raffle prizes, and pictures with Santa! Follow @starssp_elementary on Instagram for more information.
13 (Sat) – CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE—FINAL DROP OFF & CELEBRATION at Mary Star High School (2500 N. Taper Ave.), 10a-2p. – Bring your new unwrapped toys, gift cards, friends, and family! Lunch will be available for purchase. Hosted by Fermin Lasuen alumni and friends, the toy drive runs November 3 thru December 13; gift cards and unwrapped toys may be dropped off during these dates (contact any of the people below for more info). Gift cards may also be dropped off or mailed to: 941 Gatun St., San Pedro, CA 90731. For more info, contact Chuy Ibarra at (310) 347-7508, Rick Gonzalez at (424) 3083379, or Dickie & Jerryne Soto at (310) 547-4509.
13 (Sat) – HOLIDAY
FAMILY OVERNIGHT at Battleship USS IOWA (250 S. Harbor Blvd.), 4:30p. –Experience a unique and memorable adventure by spending a night aboard the historic Battleship IOWA! This family-friendly event allows guests to explore and live like sailors on one of the most iconic warships
in America. The event will include a holiday-themed dinner and dessert in the historic officer’s wardroom, veterans reminiscing about being deployed during the holidays, after-dinner souvenir ornament decorating, a two-hour behind-thescenes guided tour, sleep in real sailor bunks (“racks”), breakfast on board, morning STEM activities, and a personalized dog tag. $120 per person. Limited space available. For more info, visit pacificbattleship.com.
13-14 (Sat-Sun) – WINTER POTTERY SALE at Blue Water Clay (801 S. Pacific Ave.), Saturday 11a-6p and Sunday 10a-3p. – Join us for our annual two-day pottery sale as we showcase our local artists and their talents! Big-box shopping for gifts for the holidays is so 2024, so stop by our studio and choose from a selection of crafted items that will fit any budget and make a wonderful gift for even the hardest person on your list to shop for. We hope to see you there! For more info, visit bluewaterclay.com.
14 (Sun) – STAGED READING OF SIR PATRICK STEWART’S ADAPTATION OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL at Grand Annex Music Hall (434 W. 6th St.), 2p. – Presented by the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District, this staged reading of the holiday classic will feature local luminaries, such as Councilman Tim McOsker of the One-Five and Harbor Commissioner Lee Williams, with actors from Little Fish/Shakespeare by the Sea, Encore South Bay Group, and House of Bards Theatre Company.
Directed by Renee O’Connor-Sura and Jacob Nye. We are helping the Toberman Neighborhood Center stock their food pantry—please bring canned and shelf-stable foods to receive a raffle ticket for our silent auction. Doors open at 1p for a special dessert reception, donated by John and Lucrecia Jacobson for all ticket holders. For more info, visit sanpedrowaterfrontartsdistrict. com. See more on page 18.
17 & 27 (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. For more info, email diananave@gmail.com.
19 (Fri) – MIRACLE ON 37th STREET at The Corner Store (1118 37th St.), 4-7p. – Come take pictures with Santa and his elves! Celebrate the magic, sip something warm, and make holiday memories at The Corner Store. Santa’s bringing snow and gifts to spread the cheer! Bonus: Bring your pets on Saturday morning for Santa Paws. For more info, call (310) 832-2424.
19 (Fri) – HANUKKAH—A CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS at Temple Beth El (1435 W. 7th St.), 5:30p. – Join us for homemade latkes, salads, and sweet treats at 5:30p, followed by our musical Shabbat service and candle lighting at 7p
featuring our youth and teen choirs! Adults $20; children $11; $65 max for two adults with children. RSVP to finance@bethelsp.org.
20 (Sat) – GOLDEN STATE POPS ORCHESTRA— HOLIDAY POPS SPECTACULAR at Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center (1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach), 8p. – The Golden State Pops Orchestra’s Holiday POPS Spectacular returns with Maestro Steven Allen Fox, the GSPO, and GSPO Chorale performing festive favorites—from The Polar Express and Home Alone to The Nutcracker and Beethoven’s 9th—for an unforgettable evening of Hollywood magic and holiday spirit. For tickets and more info, visit gspo.com.
24 & 25 (Wed & Thurs) –CHRISTMAS WEEK at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church (1648 W. 9th St.), December 24 at 5p and December 25 at 10a. – Celebrate Christmas week with us! Christmas Eve service will be at 5p (family service: choir, bells, and harp). Christmas Day service will be at 10a. For more info, visit stpeterssanpedro.org. spt
Visit sanpedrotoday. com/events to place an event listing for a nominal fee. For more info, email events@sanpedrotoday. com.
To be included in the print edition of San Pedro Today, event submissions must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.
THE YIN AND YANG OF LIVING IN SAN PEDRO
A ROAD TRIP THROUGH TOWN REVEALS MUCH ABOUT OUR PAST AND PRESENT
BY STEVE MARCONI
Driving around San Pedro recently, it suddenly dawned on me: For someone born and raised here, going down Pacific Avenue and Sixth Street downtown, passing one empty storefront after another, was depressing (see below).
Exiting the freeway at Gaffey and passing the closed Rite Aid and soon-to-be-closed Big 5, the overall sense of decay was distressing.
Trying to get anywhere on Western Avenue during lane closures and looking at all the “Space for Rent” signs is discouraging (Urbane Café may be the only bit of good news on that benighted street in years). You get home after that, and the thought occurs that you may never leave the house again.
Then I load faithful companion Jack in the back seat, and we’re off for a walk at one of San Pedro’s special places: the primordial quiet of Peck Park Canyon; lush Averill Park, an open-air aviary with its quaint waterfall and turtle-filled ponds; and Bogdanovich/Deane Dana parks, where you can find solitude on its maze of trails over the same ground trod by the Gabrielenos hundreds of years ago, while gazing down at the L.A. Basin and the glistening Pacific.
Next, you head for Point Fermin and the dog park on Paseo Del Mar. We walk over the Fort MacArthur Museum grounds, where giant concrete casements take you back in time, cross over to Angels Gate Park and the picturesque Korean Bell with breathtaking views of the harbor, rocky coastline, and Catalina. There’s a stop at Point Fermin Park and its majestic trees, historic lighthouse, fearless and plump squirrels that Jack likes to stalk, and barking seals basking on the wave-battered rocks far below.
Finally, with “‘60s Gold” bumping on my Sirius radio, I take a round-about cruise down Paseo to everyone’s favorite old-school haunt, Royal Palms, and I say to myself, “This is why I live in San Pedro.”
If only you could get home without driving down Pacific, Gaffey, or Western, life here would be wonderful.
ADIOS, GREEN ONION
The restaurant business is brutal, and they come and go, but losing a beloved eating spot is always upsetting.
The closure of the Green Onion is particularly sad because for many San Pedrans like me, it marks the end of an era.
It’s happened before. If you’re of a certain age, you remember when it was breakfast at Hobby Nobby, lunch at the Hamburger Hut or Tony’s, and dinner at Peppy’s, La Conga, Cigo’s, Luigi’s, La Paloma, Chin’s Garden, The Majestic, or Ante’s.
Then there was the Rum Runner, Canetti’s, Walker’s Café, the Princess Louise, Papadakis Taverna, Olsen’s, Tasman Sea, Shin Shin, Reuben’s Plankhouse, La Chispa, and Crest Café. We had the Little Fisherman, Acapulco, Sizzler, Nizetich’s, the venerable Ports O’ Call Restaurant, Yankee Whaler, and Utro’s. Not
to mention Neil’s and the old standbys, The Grinder, Coco’s, Carrows, and IHOP.
Gone, all gone.
The Green Onion really was a generational institution, a hangout for multitudes of San Pedrans. My parents were regulars at the original Bart Earle’s Red Onion on the Hill and got to know Bob Sanjabi. So when Bob opened the Green Onion more than 40 years ago, my parents followed him, and like hundreds of others, they had their photo hanging on his wall of patrons. I can’t tell you how many meals I’ve had there, how many milestones were celebrated with margarita pitchers, or how many bowls of chips and salsa I’ve consumed over the years. No one made a margarita like Fernando, a mainstay behind the bar for decades.
My wife’s last meal out was there.
There are still a lot of good places to eat in San Pedro, but the family restaurant is becoming a thing of the past. Most of the restaurants mentioned above were all popular and didn’t close for lack of business; it’s just that the bottom line made continuing untenable.
The Green Onion replaced The Majestic. A great restaurant location is being replaced by a high-rise. What we mourn when a place like the Green Onion shuts its doors is not just the loss of a good meal; it’s the closing of a chapter of our lives, saying goodbye to a place where memories were made.
We’re not just losing a great salsa, we’re losing our history, and that’s never a good thing. spt
Steve Marconi is a San Pedro native and a former columnist for the Daily Breeze for 20 years. He is also a retired longshoreman. He can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.
For decades, the walls of the Green Onion were covered with photos of families and friends who made the cantina a community staple. The beloved restaurant closed on November 21, 2025. (photo: Megan Barnes)
Green Onion, photographed November 11, 2025. (photo: Joshua Stecker)
La Vogue Coiffure 1444 W. 8th Street
Weymouth Corners in San Pedro (310) 519-9350 @lavoguecoiffure
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!
$5 a Bunch!
Have some Sparkly Hair Tinsel tied into your hair!
Annual Candy Cane Lane
Open House & Festival
Friday, Dec. 5th, 5-9pm
SAN PEDRO’S PETS NEED US NOW
WITH SHELTERS OVERWHELMED AND FAMILIES FORCED TO SURRENDER BELOVED ANIMALS, OUR TOWN’S COMPASSION MAY BE THEIR LAST LIFELINE
BY LEE WILLIAMS
If you’ve lived in San Pedro long enough, you know this town has a soft spot the size of San Pedro Bay when it comes to helping our own. We rally for our schools, our small businesses, our nonprofits, our waterfront dream projects, and yes, our pets. And right now, two of our most important local lifelines need us more than ever: San Pedro Pet Pals and the Harbor Animal Shelter.
Every week, I hear the stories. A sweet senior dog that suddenly needs rehoming because its owner passed away. A family forced to move into an apartment that doesn’t allow pets despite perfectly loving, well-behaved animals who’ve done nothing wrong. Cats who’ve lived their whole lives indoors until illness, aging parents, or economic hardship made it impossible for their humans to keep them. These pets aren’t “strays.” They’re family members who lost their families.
Walk into San Pedro Pet Pals on 7th Street or the Harbor Shelter on Gaffey and you’ll immediately feel it. That warm, hopeful energy of volunteers who genuinely love what they do. They know every dog and cat by name, personality, backstory, and favorite treat. One might wiggle up to greet you like you’re their long-lost best friend. Another might peer shyly from behind a blanket fort. One (or possibly all of them) will steal your heart.
I’ve seen tough longshoremen melt like butter when a rescue pup climbs into their lap. I’ve watched kids beg their parents to bring home the cat that “picked them.” I’ve talked with seniors who say adopting a shelter pet made them feel young again. These shelters aren’t just places where animals wait,
they’re places where new families begin.
When you adopt from our local shelters, you’re doing more than giving a pet a second chance, you’re supporting San Pedro’s own support system. Our shelters run on limited resources and limitless hearts. Every adoption frees up space for the next animal in crisis. Every donation buys food, medicine, blankets, and time.
And let’s talk about temperament for a moment. Many of these animals come from loving homes. They’re already house-trained, people-friendly, and eager to bond again. They know routines. They know affection. They know what it means to belong. All they need now is someone willing to open their home and say, “Let’s start again.”
THE APARTMENT CRISIS
Here’s the part many people don’t see. Perfectly good pets are losing their homes because life events affect families and they can’t find a pet-friendly place to live. That’s it. Nothing more dramatic than a lease agreement. They are surrendered at the Harbor Animal Shelter and many end up euthanized. Absolutely heartbreaking.
Imagine having to choose between your home and your animal. Imagine having to box up your life and leave your furry companion behind, knowing you did nothing wrong and neither did they. It’s a tragedy we hear about far too often, but it’s one we can help solve.
We can’t change every landlord’s mind (trust me, I’ve tried), but we can make sure displaced pets get a fresh start right here in the town they grew up in.
There may be hope for you if you have a pet and are going through it. There are resources available that can help families avoid
surrendering their pet, including food pantries, temporary rehousing, and other options can be found at laanimalservices.com/harbor.
Ask anyone who’s adopted—it’s never “just a pet.” It’s the morning tail wag that makes you smile before coffee. It’s the cat curled on your chest reminding you to slow down. It’s laughter, the companionship, the pure, uncomplicated joy that fills a home.
If you can adopt, have a suitable home, and the time to love an animal as it transitions back to normal life, visit @PedroPetPals on Instagram for their next adoption event. If you can’t adopt, then foster for two weeks. Happy pets are easier to adopt. If you can’t foster, donate. Your dollars help keep the program alive, and deliver spay, neutering, and vaccine access to low-income communities. Also, share this article with others to encourage landlords to consider pet-friendly policies.
Somewhere in San Pedro right now, a dog is watching the door for someone who isn’t coming back. A cat is curled in a donated blanket wondering what tomorrow holds. Their lives are measured in hope. Let’s give them what they’re hoping for. If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe someday I’ll adopt,” let this be someday. Our shelters are 45 percent over capacity, and animals are being euthanized daily.
Just remember, the life you save may be your own. spt
Lee Williams is a local real estate expert, community advocate, and harbor commissioner at the Port of LA. He believes in smart growth and investing in community, culture, art, and history. He can be reached at lee@lamove.com.
One of the many dogs available at Harbor Animal Shelter. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
MORE THAN A GYM: THE NEW SPIRIT OF THE SAN PEDRO Y
FROM PICKLEBALL MORNINGS TO SOCIAL NIGHTS AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS, THE YMCA IS GROWING ITS IMPACT UNDER DYNAMIC NEW LEADERSHIP
BY JENNIFER MARQUEZ
Ona rainy Monday morning at the Ann and Steve Hinchliffe San Pedro & Peninsula YMCA, two groups are playing pickleball on the basketball court, as the local outdoor courts are too wet.
Seniors and others are coming and going from the swimming pool and sauna, while the main gym is busy with most treadmills occupied. Executive Director Josh Chan walks out of an exercise class and engages with members. Known for being hands-on and open to new ideas, Chan fosters a community-centered approach alongside the YMCA’s core offerings.
The YMCA has long served the San Pedro community, and in recent years, its impact has grown. After the Palisades-Malibu YMCA was destroyed in the January wildfires, local Ys became distribution points for supplies and services for fire victims. Donations of food and goods have continued, and the YMCA partnered with FeedLA to distribute free food weekly in November when SNAP benefits were threatened. This year, the San Pedro YMCA is also providing 75 Thanksgiving baskets to families in need.
ize after workouts. The lobby now features ping pong, a pool table, and a 100-year-old piano, with new social groups like mahjong and board games for members to enjoy. A music room is being developed with donated instruments, and a tech room is also in the works.
es, and donation drives.”
The YMCA has partnered with Harbor Terrace and the Palos Verdes Art Center to offer art classes at the Y and on-site at Harbor Terrace. Chan is also working to provide exercise classes off-site and outdoors. Additionally, certain classes, such as Pilates Reformer, are available to non-members for a fee. Some medical insurance plans cover membership costs, and discounted memberships are available for those who qualify. During the summer, teens are free, providing a safe place for youth to stay active and healthy.
This community-focused approach is part of a broader initiative by the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles to ensure a positive Y experience for all Angelenos. With over 10,000 members and 90 staff at the San Pedro YMCA, Chan’s goal is to create a safe, supportive space for everyone to lead a healthy life.
The YMCA has deep roots in San Pedro, with its original site on a boat called “Shipyard YMCA,” followed by a hut on Harbor Boulevard, and then a five-story historic building on Beacon Street, where it served Army Navy servicemen. It eventually settled on Bandini Street. Though the current building is old and the plumbing pipes can be temperamental, it’s part of its charm. While some may grumble about the sauna being closed or the pool being a degree cooler or the parking lot being closed when the camp bus is loading or being closed on Sundays since COVID, it’s all part of the San Pedro Y experience.
Under Chan’s leadership, the San Pedro YMCA has become a hub for community engagement. In addition to traditional offerings like swimming, basketball, youth camps, and fitness programs, Chan created “Wellness Wednesday” to encourage members to social-
“There’s a real community spirit here, and I love hearing new ideas about what people want,” says Chan. “I plan to partner with other nonprofits monthly to support their missions and collaborate on events. We have the space to host informational booths, class-
To volunteer, suggest a class, or learn more, contact the YMCA at (310) 832-4211 or visit ymcala.org. spt
Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com and @jenntmqz on X and Instagram.
GIVING BACK: YMCA volunteers participate in a variety of social impact activities (top and below).
(photos: courtesy San Pedro & Peninsula YMCA)
DICKENS’ CLASSIC LIGHTS THE WAY
THE ANNUAL READING OF ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ RETURNS, REMINDING US OF GENEROSITY, SECOND CHANCES, AND THE IMPORTANCE
OF HELPING NEIGHBORS FACING FOOD INSECURITY
BY LINDA GRIMES
Forthe third year in a row, we are producing a staged reading of Sir Patrick Stewart’s script adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
As with most great literature, these words still have meaning and impact. As you may already know, Dickens wrote this novella (originally titled A Christmas Carol. In Prose. Being a Ghost Story of Christmas) in 1843. This popular story came to prominence at a time when English people were reevaluating Christmas traditions. In 1849, Dickens began public readings of the story, and it was so successful that he undertook 127 further performances until 1870, the year of his death.
Early in the first act, Scrooge’s nephew Fred lets in two portly gentlemen who are asking for donations—“At this festive season of the year, it is more than usually desirable that we should make some slight provision for the poor and destitute, who greatly suffer at this present time.”
Scrooge asks them if prisons, union workhouses, and other establishments are still in operation. His answer resonates with me often, as a callous view about the current interruption in food assistance programs—“I can’t afford to make idle people merry… If they would die, they had better do it and decrease the surplus population.”
The first spectral visitor, the Ghost of Christmas Past, takes Scrooge on a journey to his past, and they visit a warehouse where he served as an apprentice. They encounter a corpulent old gentleman in a Welsh wig
named Fezziwig. After a joyous, festive celebration, the ghost remarks, “A small matter to make these silly folks so full of gratitude. He has spent but a few pounds of your mortal money.” This is a gentle reminder that we have the wherewithal to help our friends, neighbors, and community in small, meaningful ways.
At the end of the novella/play, Scrooge encounters the portly gentlemen and, in the moment, he demonstrates his first act of redemption by pledging a generous donation to their causes. At its conclusion, his story becomes a tale of redemption, second chances, and forgiveness.
We invite you to join us for A Christmas Carol, in one performance, on Sunday, December 14, at 2 p.m., at the Grand Annex Music Hall. We present this classic tale on behalf of the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District.
This staged reading of this holiday tradition will again feature local luminaries such as Councilman Tim McOsker of the OneFive, Harbor Commissioner Lee Williams, and former Whale & Ale owner Andrew Silber, with actors from Little Fish/Shakespeare by the Sea, Encore South Bay Group, and House of Bards Theatre Company.
The production will be directed by Renee O’Connor-Sura (House of Bards Theatre Company) and Jacob Nye (Encore South Bay Group). Our gracious venue host is the Grand Vision Foundation, and we are grateful to our title sponsor, APM Terminals
In the true spirit of the season, we are asking you to help restock the Toberman Food Pantry. Food is more than a basic
necessity—it’s a powerful act of care, stability, and hope. The Toberman Food Pantry serves as a lifeline for thousands of families facing food insecurity throughout the Harbor Area, including San Pedro, Wilmington, Harbor Gateway, and Harbor City.
Please consider assisting the food pantry by bringing donations of the following items to the event:
• shelf-stable milk, almond milk, soy milk, cup of noodles, cereal and granola bars, tuna, jerky, cooking oil, soup/chili, fruit cups, canned vegetables, rice and beans, peanut butter
• fresh vegetables and fruits
• bread or bread mix, pasta, and pasta sauce
• hygiene products
• baby food, diapers, formula
• paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent
• hygiene kits (lotion/face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, and hand sanitizer)
We will also be raffling stocking stuffers and small gifts to help you get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping, and, as a special treat, Santa Claus will conduct a live auction for a deluxe resort vacation.
For tickets and more information, check out our ad on page 5 or visit sanpedrowaterfrontartsdistrict.com. spt
Linda Grimes is the executive director of the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District and can be reached at 55lindagrimes@gmail.com.
Staged reading of Sir Patrick Stewart’s script adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (photo: courtesy San Pedro Waterfront Arts District)
FAREWELL TO THE GREEN ONION
AFTER FOUR DECADES OF CELEBRATIONS, COMFORT FOOD, AND COMMUNITY, THE ICONIC RESTAURANT CLOSES ITS DOORS AS SAN PEDRO BRACES FOR CHANGE
BY SANAM LAMBORN
GreenOnion Mexican Restaurant holds a special place in the hearts of many native and longtime San Pedro residents. When news of its closure was first publicized, it created a massive reaction in town because, undeniably, it’s a Pedro institution. It’s safe to say that the strong response reflects the inner turmoil we all feel about Downtown San Pedro’s changing landscape.
Admittedly, the scope for new development is a much-needed revitalization where foot traffic has steadily diminished, and there are still many empty storefronts. However, losing the Green Onion to a new residential complex has been met with a lot of sorrow and resentment.
The Green Onion has been a beloved cantina for people to gather for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, reunions, family meals, and of course, lots of margaritas.
The framed photographs with smiley patrons that adorn the walls are a testament to how deeply ingrained this restaurant has been in the community. Some of the frames are autographed pictures of generals from the nearby military base who frequently came in and were seated in the banquet hall, instead of the regular dinning area, to allow for privacy.
The comfortable and homey atmosphere that many enjoy at the Green Onion is not by chance; it has been fostered by its beating heart, owner Bahman “Bob” Sanjabi
How an Iranian ended up owning such a popular and successful Mexican restaurant
is a good story. Sanjabi immigrated to the U.S. in the 1950s. He has never been terribly enamored with Persian food; however, he immediately developed an affinity for Mexican cuisine when he was introduced to it. His newfound culinary discovery sparked a desire to own a Mexican restaurant.
His involvement with the Original Red Onion Restaurant in Palos Verdes, and close friendship he shared with its owner Bart Earle, provided the perfect training ground to learn how to run a food establishment.
In 1983, when his partnership dissolved, Sanjabi found a vacant restaurant location on Gaffey and 17th Street. Thus, the Green Onion was established and Sanjabi’s dream of owning his own Mexican restaurant realized. A few years later, he was presented with the opportunity to take over an ideal location on 6th Street in Downtown San Pedro, left vacant by Majestic Café’s closing.
Sanjabi is now a few months shy of turning 91 years old, however, he is still very involved in the restaurant, whether in his office adjacent to the kitchen or just by walking around and socializing with diners. He takes pride in the food that his restaurant serves. He doesn’t have a favorite dish because he confidently says, “Everything on the menu is good and tasty because it is made fresh.”
Sanjabi is soft spoken with a witty sense of humor that makes people feel comfortable and at ease. It is no wonder that he is so beloved by the patrons. When I mentioned my love for the double Cadillac margarita and inquired if I could purchase the iconic glass that it comes in, Sanjabi, without hesitation, gifted me one to cherish and remember the many good times had in his establishment.
Closing the restaurant was not part of the plan, however, the development has forced Sanjabi to call it quits. In the few weeks leading to its closure, the decorative items and the glass cabinets that housed them were emptied and sold. Some of the memorabilia that feature the name of the restaurant are being held on to in case any of the employees choose to carry on the Green Onion legacy at a different location in town, fingers crossed.
In the meantime, many long-time patrons flocked to the restaurant to squeeze in as many visits as they could. In fact, the restaurant was packed most days. In the final days, the walls started looking patchy, as many of the framed photographs were taken. Copies of the menus started disappearing as well.
In a very telling change of time, instead of memorializing their good times in physical photographs, patrons started sharing their pictures taken at the restaurant on the Friends of Green Onion San Pedro Facebook page.
When the Majestic Café closed, a new chapter began for the Green Onion where it solidified itself in the fabric of this community. We can only hope that whichever food establishment moves into the newly built commercial space can establish itself as a comfortable place of gathering for both longstanding and new San Pedro residents. spt
Sanam Lamborn created the Eat in San Pedro Facebook group and Instagram page @eatinsanpedro.
ADIOS: Green Onion’s popular Fajitadilla plate. Inset: The writer with longtime owner Bob Sanjabi in November. (photos: Sanam Lamborn)
Shop Local!
SAN PEDRANS KNOW THE POWER OF SHOPPING LOCAL.
When you buy from a neighborhood shop, you’re supporting the people who make this town what it is—friends, families, and longtime small business owners who pour their hearts into San Pedro every day. Shopping local keeps dollars circulating here at home, strengthens our local economy, and helps preserve the character and charm that make this place unlike anywhere else.
We know online shopping is tempting, but this year, try starting your search right here in town. Many of our “mom-and-pop shops” even offer online ordering, curbside pickup, and special holiday deals.
This guide is by no means exhaustive, but we hope it inspires you to explore San Pedro’s unique shops, makers, and restaurants throughout the season. So channel your inner Santa, take a festive spin around town, and rediscover the gifts waiting right in your own backyard.
SPECIALTY GIFTS
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE HOLIDAY BOU-
TIQUE The Assistance League of San Pedro-South Bay’s Holiday Boutique offers a full selection of stunning holiday décor, beautiful ornaments, and eye-catching gift ideas, including jewelry and crystal items. The gift shop also carries cookbooks, apparel, greeting cards, and a full selection of See’s Candies! 1441 W. 8th St., (310) 832-8355, assistanceleague.org/san-pedro-south-bay.
BEACON HOUSE THRIFT SHOP The Beacon House Thrift Shop boasts a wide array of household appliances, books, and clothing at affordable prices. All proceeds benefit the Beacon House’s primary mission to help men recover from alcoholism and addiction. 812 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 514-4940, beaconhousethrift.org, Insta: @beaconhousethrift.
THE BIKE PALACE Since 1973, The Bike Palace has been catering to the community’s two-wheeled needs. They’re stocked with plenty of sizes and models of bikes to choose from. 1600 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 832-1966, thebikepalace.com, Insta: @thebikepalace.
CABRILLO MARINE AQUARIUM GIFT SHOPS The Aquarium’s Gift Shop (3720 Stephen M. White Dr.) is already decked out for the holidays—with ornaments, Christmas and Hanukkah cards, and a variety of gifts from plush toys to home decor, soaps, and lotions. Don’t miss their Holiday Market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, November 30. The event will feature over 30 vendors offering handmade gifts and treats. The Downtown San Pedro gift shop (311 W. 7th St.) will be open throughout the holiday season, Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m., with special hours for First Thursday, December 4, and on the day of the parade, December 7. Both shops are available for private events. To reserve the space, contact Charmaine at (310) 548-2031. Insta: @shopcabrillo.
CRAFTED AT THE PORT OF LA Come discover handmade, heartfelt gifts for everyone on your list at CRAFTED, Southern California’s largest year-round makers marketplace! Over 100 talented artists are represented, offering everything from candles, home decor, and art, to apparel, jewelry, artisanal snacks, fresh coffee, and so much more. Follow them on Instagram for holiday hours and events. 112 E. 22nd St., craftedportla.com, Insta: @craftedportla.
Santa Claus takes a break at the Gateway Plaza Fanfare Fountain. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
HAPPY MOON SUPPLY A new gift and creative supply shop in the heart of Downtown San Pedro, carrying analog and digital cameras, film, art supplies, greeting cards, stationery, and playful treasures. Find unique, thoughtfully curated gifts for artists, makers, and curious minds, perfect for holiday shopping. 360 W. 6th St., (747) 228-2709, Insta: @happymoonsupply.
JOHN MATTERA PHOTOGRAPHY Bring the beauty of San Pedro home. John Mattera, longtime lead photographer for San Pedro Today, has captured hundreds of striking local images available as high-quality prints, canvases, and metal prints. His collection also features action-packed college football shots from Notre Dame, UCLA, and USC—perfect gifts for local fans. (310) 308-9766, johnmatteraphotography.com, Insta: @johnmatteraphotography.
WUNDERKAMMER Wunderkammer—a real-life “Chamber of Wonder”—is the perfect place to find holiday treasures. Part antique shop, part art gallery, it hosts about 30 different vendors and artists who showcase the strange and the beautiful! Located next to CRAFTED at 112 E. 22nd St., Insta: @wunderkammerstore. (See their full-page ad on page 32.)
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
CAPTAIN’S TREASURE CHEST From 14k white and yellow gold to sterling silver or costume jewelry, even watches and class rings, gift ideas abound at this beloved family-owned business. 28901 S. Western Ave., Ste. 219, RPV, (310) 519-1856, captainstreasurechestjewelry.com.
GOLDEN TREASURE JEWELERS Golden Treasure Jewelers specializes in 14k yellow and white gold, diamonds, sterling silver, and watches. And with their jewelry cleaning service, you can get your jewelry all sparkly and shiny for the holidays. 1453 W. 8th St., Ste. C, (310) 548-4008, Insta: @goldentreasurejewelers.
MANDYZ BOUTIQUE Mandyz is capping off 2025 with their annual 20% off storewide sale now thru December 31 (see coupon on page 12). Check out their hand-picked, trendy, fashionable clothing and accessories, featuring seasonal scarves, beanies, gloves, socks, earrings, and sweaters! 1442 W. 8th St., (310) 521-8400, Insta: @mandyz_boutique.
MCKENNA’S PENDLETON Keeping the Harbor Area warm since 1986, McKenna’s Pendleton in nearby Torrance offers one of Southern California’s largest selections of Pendleton apparel and home goods. From iconic board shirts to cozy blankets and accessories, it’s a go-to spot for timeless, high-quality gifts. They also provide complimentary gift wrapping and friendly, knowledgeable “service with a smile” that makes holiday shopping easy. 2863 Pacific Coast Hwy., Torrance, (310) 539-2725, mckennaspendleton.com, Insta: @mckennaspendleton.
STYLED BY SOLUNA Styled by Soluna prides itself on its hand-curated collection of pretty little things. In addition to fashionable
clothing and accessories, they offer apothecary, macrame, and various unique gifts. 369 W. 7th St., styledbysoluna.square.site, Insta: @styledbysoluna.
SUBTERRANEAN HAIR Get holiday-ready with Subterranean Hair! Refresh your color, revive tired strands, and stock up on your cult-favorite hair essentials. Treat yourself— or surprise someone special—with a gift card for the ultimate hair experience. ‘Tis the season to sleigh your look! 263 W. 7th St., (424) 287-0161, subterraneanhair.com, Insta: @subterraneanhair.
URBAN FEET & SKATE San Pedro’s shoe and apparel headquarters! Urban Feet carries everything from classy to sporty to work shoes, including popular brands like Ugg Australia, Vans, and Rainbow Sandals. They also have an excellent selection of San Pedro shirts, hoodies, and other clothing. 329 W. 6th St., (310) 832-9364, urbanfeetandskate.net, Insta: @urbanfeet.
MUSIC & MOVIES
THE GRAND EMPORIUM The Grand Emporium is a carefully curated shop that sells vintage music on vinyl, CD, 45 rpm, and 78 rpm. They also have movies available in 4K, Blu-Ray, DVD, and Laserdisc formats. Additionally, there are books on various topics, especially music, movies, and the classics. The Emporium offers vintage and new stereo equipment, including turntables, amps, and speakers, and they carry some musical instruments. 323 W. 7th St., (310) 514-8429, Insta: @thegrandemporiumsanpedro.
JDC RECORDS Give the gift of music this year! Located in the heart of Downtown San Pedro, JDC Records’ “hip” retail shop offers the best in new and used vinyl, CDs, and tapes, including some of today’s top artists and yesterday’s classics. 447 W. 6th St., (424) 264-5335, jdcrecords.com, Insta: @jdcrecords.
HAPPY MOON SUPPLY
MCKENNA’S PENDLETON
JDC RECORDS
STEADY BEAT RECORDS Steady Beat Records owner L.P. Correa has been buying and selling records for more than 30 years. His L.A.-based record label, Steady Beat Recordings, focused on ‘60s-inspired Jamaican Ska music created by So Cal youths and now includes Cumbia, Latin Funk, and Chicano Soul music from the L.A. area. Visit their new location in Downtown San Pedro. 336 W. 7th St., (310) 971-3960, Insta: @steady.beat.records.
FOR THE KIDS
ROK ‘N’ ELL BABY BOUTIQUE Rok ‘n’ Ell Baby Boutique in Weymouth Corners carries a sweet collection of baby and kids’ clothing, toys, books, and goods for anyone knee-high to a grasshopper. They also carry gifts for the home and women’s accessories. 1438 W. 8th St., (310) 832-4145, roknell.com, Insta: @roknellbaby.
DELECTABLE TREATS
A-1 ITALIAN DELI & IMPORTED GROCERY A-1 Italian Deli & Imported Grocery brings the flavors of the holidays to your table with premium meats, beautifully arranged deli trays, delicious catering options, classic panettone, delectable desserts, select wines,
323 W. 7th Street
Downtown San Pedro (310) 514-8429
and exceptional imported specialties. Discover quality ingredients and thoughtful treats perfect for gatherings, gifts, or elevating your seasonal celebrations. 348 W. 8th St., (310) 833-3480, Insta: @a1_italian_deli_andgrocery.
THE CORNER STORE Serving San Pedro since 1947, The Corner Store has long been a neighborhood favorite. Now run by realtor-turned-restaurateur David De Anda and his wife, Julieth, this historic mom-and-pop shop is thriving once again. Come see what locals are raving about—delicious breakfast burritos, rich café de olla, and an expanding selection of house-made cheesecake, pastries, and muffins. Enjoy classic subs, sandwiches, soups, salads, matcha lattes, crafted coffees, old-school sodas, beer, and wine. Just one block from the ocean. It’s the perfect spot for a seaside treat. 1118 W. 37th St., (310) 8322424, Insta: @thecornerstoresanpedro.
HARBOR VILLAGE LIQUOR STORE
Discover our newly remodeled store, now designed for a faster, easier shopping experience. We’re fully stocked with spirits, wine, beer, snacks, and more, plus a brand-new Beer Cave. You can also conveniently order your favorites through DoorDash, Grub Hub, and Uber Eats. Stop by and see the new look today! 2414 S. Western Ave., (310) 831-5766.
PARADISE PRESERVES Paradise Preserves crafts small-batch jams, jellies, marmalades, and pickles using fruits and vegetables sourced from Southern California growers. Every jar is handcrafted—a true labor of love—and remains fresh for several months in the fridge after opening. Thoughtful, tasty, and locally made, these preserves make perfect gifts that are sure to bring a smile. Located inside CRAFTED at 112 E. 22nd St., paradisepreserves.com, Insta: @paradise.preserves.
PIROZZI’S ITALIAN DELI & PIZZERIA
Pirozzi’s offers a delectable selection of holiday goodies, including gift baskets, Italian cakes, cookie trays, cannoli, and gift certificates. They also offer customized catering for
your holiday celebrations. Be sure to check out their full menu of authentic Italian and Croatian cuisine, and their pizzeria. 1453 W. 8th St., (310) 548-0000, pirozzisdeli.com, Insta: @pirozzisitaliandeli.
POLLY ANN BAKERY Polly Ann Bakery in Weymouth Corners has been sweetening up San Pedro since 1938. They have a full array of delicious holiday cookies, cakes, and pastries that make for great gifts this time of year. 1440 W. 8th St., (310) 519-0966, Insta: @pollyannbakery.
SIRENS JAVA & TEA Sirens Java & Tea offers an assortment of homemade pastries and muffins, as well as a full menu of coffee and espresso drinks. They also offer a selection of products from local artisans and nonprofits. A Sirens gift card also makes a great stocking stuffer. 402 W. 7th St., (424) 477-5603, Insta: @sirensjavaandtea.
STEFFENMARKKUS SPECIALTY ROASTERS SteffenMarkkus is a local San Pedro company dedicated to roasting high-quality, specialty-grade coffees. They offer a wide range of single-origin and blended coffees, including decaffeinated options, exclusive Kona varieties, and brewing cacao. Committed to freshness, their coffees are roasted to order and promptly shipped or personally delivered to those in San Pedro. Coffee is a perfect gift for the coffee lover, and it makes a perfect stocking stuffer! Check them out and place your order at steffenmarkkus.com. Insta: @steffenmarkkus.
WESTERN RPV LIQUOR Find the perfect holiday gift at Western RPV Liquor! From premium wines and craft spirits to festive gift sets and fine cigars, they’ve got something for every celebration. Stop by to explore their curated selection and friendly service that make holiday shopping easy and enjoyable. 29050 S. Western Ave., (310) 519-1400, Insta: @westernrpv.
STEADY BEAT RECORDS
PARADISE PRESERVES
POLLY ANN BAKERY
CLASSIC TURNTABLES and POSTERS
FOR THE HOME
THE DEN Located next to The Corner Store, The Den is a curated collection of art pieces, ceramics, used architecture, design, art books, and even odd gifts for children and adults. Items rotate, some are one of a kind. Check back frequently for new products. 1124 W. 37th St., (312) 286-6262, thedensanpedro.com, Insta: @thedensanpedro.
HOUSE 1002 It’s hard to imagine not finding some pretty awesome and unique gifts from House 1002’s selection of collectibles, vintage items, art, and architectural salvage. 1002 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 833-1002, house1002.com, Insta: @house1002sanpedro.
THROUGH THE PORTHOLE Through the Porthole is a San Pedro-owned vintage home décor shop filled with a mix of furniture, art, and one-of-a-kind finds. Their showroom changes constantly, making it easy to find a meaningful gift or a cool piece for your home. Come explore one of San Pedro’s hidden gems. 1205 N. Gaffey St., throughtheporthole.shop, Insta: @throughtheporthole.
PET PICKS
CREATIVE PET SUPPLY Since 1996, Creative Pet has catered to the needs of San Pedro’s critters of all sizes. From dogs, cats, and fish to chickens, reptiles, and rodents, this family-owned shop has everything you need to care for and pamper your pet. 305 N. Harbor Blvd., (800) 227-0001, Insta: @creativepetsupply.
THE DOG GROOMER The Dog Groomer Self-Wash & Grooming is proud to serve San Pedro—helping your pups look beautiful, feel fresh, and walk out happy every time. They also offer easy-to-use self-wash stations so you can pamper your dog yourself. 461 W. 6th St., #103, (310) 832-7387, Insta: @thedoggroomer310, Mobile Service: @thedoggroomer310onwheels.
MOLLY D’S DOG BAKERY & PET SUPPLIES Owned and operated by San Pedro native Josie Dod, Molly D’s is your neighborhood spot for wholesome treats and quality essentials for dogs and cats. From healthy snacks to everyday supplies, you’ll find something special for your pets. Stop by and say hello—we’d love to meet you and your four-legged friends! 222 W. 6th St. #R3, (310) 935-2727, Insta: @mollydsbakery.
SAN PEDRO MOB DOGZ BOUTIQUE
Introducing San Pedro Mob Dogz, where street style meets pawsh vibes. Discover handmade clothes, bandanas, collars, ponchos, shells, candles, and more from 12 talented local vendors. Support small businesses and find something unique for you and your pup this holiday season at San Pedro’s favorite pet-centered market filled with heart. 461 W. 6th St., #104, (310) 872-3291, Insta: @sanpedromobdogz. spt
DON’T FORGET RESTAURANT GIFT CERTIFICATES!
Give the gift of a great meal right here at home. Gift certificates to San Pedro’s local restaurants are an easy, thoughtful way to support neighborhood favorites while treating friends and family to something delicious. From cozy cafés and classic Downtown San Pedro spots to beloved family-owned eateries, a meal out is always appreciated— and always the right size. A perfect last-minute gift that keeps our port town thriving.
THROUGH THE PORTHOLE
MOLLY D’S DOG BAKERY & PET SUPPLIES
SAN PEDRO MOB DOGZ BOUTIQUE
MISTY'S FINAL BOW
IN A TRIUMPHANT
AND EMOTIONAL FAREWELL, MISTY COPELAND LOOKS BACK ON HER 25-YEAR ABT JOURNEY— AND THE SAN PEDRO ROOTS THAT CONTINUE TO GUIDE HER FORWARD
BY MEGAN BARNES
Misty
Copeland steps out onto a towering balcony on the stage of the David H. Koch Theater at New York City’s Lincoln Center.
As she points her toe, the star-studded audience erupts into applause. Tonight’s entrance is unique for the 43-year-old prima ballerina. After 25 years with American Ballet Theatre, the evening simultaneously marks her return to the stage after a five-year hiatus and her final performance with the company.
Copeland gracefully makes her way down a staircase as Juliet, joining her Romeo, frequent partner and fellow history-making ABT Principal Dancer Calvin Royal III, for the iconic balcony pas de deux. She spins and jumps effortlessly, defying gravity and a severe hip injury. Smiling lovingly at Royal, she leans into a penché, doing a split while standing on one leg.
For a moment, I have a flashback to the Dana Middle School auditorium, where, as a kid attending a performing arts concert to see my brother play in the band, I happened to watch a young Copeland do a similar split against the proscenium of the stage. Little did I know I was witnessing one of the first performances of a future ballerina destined for a career of firsts. Then, just as now, her artistry captivated the crowd.
The scene from Romeo and Juliet was one of several pieces selected by Copeland and ABT Artistic Director Susan Jaffe for the special farewell program during ABT’s Fall Gala on October 22. Between works spanning Copeland’s career with the company, the story of her rise from a late-blooming prodigy to ABT’s first African American female principal dancer was told through on-camera interviews and archival footage, starting with
her first ballet teacher, San Pedro City Ballet Artistic Director Cindy Bradley
By now, you’ve seen clips from Copeland’s celebrity and confetti-filled curtain call all over social media. During a 13-minute standing ovation, she was presented with flowers by a procession that included Oprah Winfrey, Debbie Allen, Twyla Tharp, ABT stars of the past and present, trailblazers Lauren Anderson and Desmond Richardson, Copeland’s husband, Olu Evans, and their 3-yearold son, Jackson. Also on stage that night was Bradley, whose touching appearance drew cheers in both the theater and a concert hall across the street, where fans watched a free live broadcast.
It was a surreal, full-circle moment for Copeland. Studying under Bradley in 1997, she starred in Allen’s production of The Chocolate Nutcracker in Los Angeles.
Misty Copeland at the curtain call for her farewell performance with American Ballet Theatre on October 22, 2025. (photo: Rosalie O’Connor Photography, courtesy of American Ballet Theatre)
“It’s crazy just how much Cindy Bradley was such a part of kind of visualizing, envisioning, and shaping what my future could look like with a real, kind of tangible attainability,” Copeland says in a recent interview with San Pedro Today. “She was really intentional about reaching out to Debbie Allen when I might have been 14 years old with an understanding of what it meant for me to be connected to the Black dance community … so it’s like this contradiction in my mind where Cindy literally dreamed of this happening, but at the same time, I can’t believe this has happened.”
Bradley’s husband, Patrick, and their son, Wolf, were also in attendance for Copeland’s farewell. Having so many faces in the crowd from the start of her journey in San Pedro—including the Bradleys, her Dana Middle School drill team coach, Elizabeth Cantine, and former ballet classmate Becky Campbell—was “extremely meaningful and emotional and overwhelming.”
“This has been a collective effort to get me to this point,” she says. “They have been a part of my journey to this day, which is pretty incredible, and why I focus so much on the importance of mentorship.”
San Pedro was the first place where she felt a sense of belonging and like she was part of something bigger than herself. Looking back,
she can see how the town’s multiculturalism and strong sense of community shaped her. Being by the water, she says, “is still such a big part of what peace is to me.”
“I tell people, I had a surf team at my high school. I could see Catalina Island,” she says of growing up in the seaside town.
A few days before her farewell performance, Copeland’s San Pedro High School classmates gathered at the San Pedro Elks Lodge for their 25th anniversary reunion. She says she didn’t get an invite (CC: 30th Anniversary Planning Committee). She laughs, remembering being featured in the yearbook as “Truly Talented,” posing in an arabesque with classmate Jesse Schoem.
Copeland’s toddler son has been to San Pedro—once. It was when she came out in December 2023 for a performance of the San Pedro City Ballet’s The Nutcracker, where the original cast made a surprise reunion for the production’s 30th anniversary. Coming together with Campbell, Adrienne Jaffe, Jaimie Jones, Michelle Papayans, Alexis Petru, Angeliki Ford, and Sarah Posalski felt like a family reunion.
“To see that the school and the company are still thriving and all the young talent, the fact that Cindy has kept dance and ballet alive in San Pedro, is really incredible,” Copeland says.
Hardly “retired,” she is busy continuing her mission to advance the art form of ballet and create opportunities for inclusivity. She was recently named a trustee with ABT, giving her influence behind the scenes. She also oversees her nonprofit, Misty Copeland Foundation, and runs her production company, Life in Motion Productions, with co-founder and longtime friend Leyla Fayyaz, a former ABT dancer-turned-producer.
Recently, Copeland published her latest children’s book, Bunheads, Act 2: The Dance of Courage, and danced opposite Cynthia Erivo singing “No Good Deed” in a promo for Wicked: For Good.
Copeland loves her new El Mac mural on the side of the San Pedro Ballet School on 13th Street and Pacific Avenue, but she hasn’t had a chance to see it in person yet. She hopes to spend more time back home.
“Though I’m stepping off the American Ballet Theatre stage, I’m not done performing,” she says. “I hope to be back in San Pedro dancing for that community and giving back as much as I can.”
Copeland hopes she’s made San Pedrans proud.
“I always bring them with me. I hope that they think of me as like a reflection of this incredibly diverse, open family.” spt
A STAR IS BORN: (clockwise from top left) Copeland shares a moment with Bradley during the curtain call for her farewell performance with American Ballet Theatre on October 22, 2025; a young Copeland performs with the Dana Middle School drill team at Harbor Cove Plaza in the 1990s (note the old Sizzler in the background); Bradley and Copeland in the mid-'90s; the new mural by El Mac at San Pedro City Ballet. (photos: Megan Barnes, courtesy Misty Copeland, courtesy San Pedro City Ballet, John Mattera Photography)
BEYOND THE SCREEN: BUILDING YOUTH COLLABORATION SKILLS
SAN
PEDRO ORGANIZATIONS WORK
TO BALANCE DIGITAL LIFE WITH REALWORLD TEAMWORK, HELPING KIDS GROW THROUGH CONNECTION, COOPERATION, AND COMMUNITY
BY RAY VAUDO
SENIOR BOARD MEMBER, SAN PEDRO YOUTH COALITION
In an age when childhood often unfolds through glowing screens, San Pedro’s youth are growing up surrounded by more technology than ever before.
Smartphones, tablets, gaming systems, and social media have opened exciting new worlds of learning and communication— but they’ve also changed how young people connect, play, and grow.
Across the nation, parents and educators are noticing that while digital tools expand access to knowledge, they can also narrow opportunities for real-world social interaction. Here in San Pedro, many local organizations offer meaningful activities to restore that balance.
HUMAN CONNECTION MATTERS
Technology has enabled students to video chat with a classroom in Japan or to explore marine biology through virtual field trips. However, no application can substitute for the benefits gained from teamwork, whether through involvement in sports teams, participation in musical or theatrical productions, or collaborating with others on community projects.
“The digital world gives our kids so many opportunities,” says Scott Lane, president of the San Pedro Youth Coalition (SPYC), a nonprofit that connects and supports youth-focused organizations throughout the San
Pedro area. “But at the end of the day, what helps them grow as people are the face-to-face experiences—working together, solving problems, and learning to communicate respectfully.”
BRINGING TEAMWORK BACK TO THE FOREFRONT
SPYC partners with local schools, recreation centers, and community organizations to encourage hands-on activities that build collaboration and confidence. From neighborhood cleanups to sports programs, local resources help young people discover the joy and challenge of teamwork.
Group-based experiences teach more than just skills—they build character. Children learn to share responsibility, communicate effectively, and navigate differences with respect. Those lessons, local educators say, are just as valuable as anything taught in a classroom.
When kids learn to work together, they learn about accountability, patience, and creative problem-solving. Those are lessons that last a lifetime.
BALANCING TECH WITH REAL LIFE
The goal isn’t to eliminate technology but to balance it with experiences that nurture genuine human connection. Parents are encouraged to set aside time each week for in-person family or outside activities; otherwise, that time will undoubtedly be filled with ubiquitous electronic screens.
Parents are also urged to model positive communication, demonstrating active listening
and respect in their own interactions. Kids notice how adults handle disagreements or show kindness. Those are the real-life lessons that shape them.
A COMMUNITY EFFORT
Through association with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor, recreation centers, performing arts organizations, and local schools, the San Pedro Youth Coalition promotes faceto-face opportunities. Their goal is to ensure that every child in San Pedro has access to safe, supportive spaces where they can connect, create, and collaborate. For over three decades, the SPYC has hosted an annual Future Leaders of San Pedro event, which honors students nominated by their elementary, middle, and senior high schools. The nomination criteria for this honor include demonstrating excellence in leadership, academics, community service, athletics, and/or the arts—achievements that are typically beyond the screen.
THE FUTURE IS HUMAN
As the world grows more digital, San Pedro’s community leaders are reminding families that the most essential skills— empathy, communication, cooperation—can’t be learned online.
“The future will always need people who can work together,” says Lane. “Our goal is to make sure San Pedro’s kids are ready for that future—not just with technical knowledge, but with the social and emotional tools that make them strong, caring members of the community.” spt
(photo: Vladimir Srajber/Pexels)
STRONG MOM
HOW ONE MOM’S FITNESS JOURNEY SHOWS THAT DISCIPLINE, NOT TALENT, IS WHAT TRANSFORMS ORDINARY PEOPLE INTO POWERFUL ONES
BY EDDIE Mc KENNA
Thatwoman is so fit, she has to be an ex-professional or collegiate athlete. She is amazing. She is so strong. She never gets tired. She looks so good. I want that. Only to discover she was just a mom who wanted to be truly strong—really strong. She was never an athlete; she just reached a point in her life where she desired something different. She began running because it was simple, then found CrossFit and fell in love with it.
This whole conversation happened the other weekend at a party. The girl who admired the “strong mom” told me the story, and I think it’s worth sharing— because in that moment, she realized she could do it, too. She’s a mom of three. She also wants to feel strong. And after talking to this “strong mom,” she had this whole new energy about her, this attitude of I can do this. She then tells me that her
friends keep asking her what she is doing because she looks so good. I’m like, “Hello! You are the woman you are fawning over.”
We can be brutal on ourselves, convincing ourselves we could never look like or perform like the people we admire. And that’s fine—we’re not meant to be them. Everyone is on their own path. But at some point, you have to decide you want it badly enough to show up for it. To have the discipline. To make the small choices that stack into big results.
Here’s the good news: Strength isn’t a talent. It’s not reserved for athletes, the gifted, or the genetically blessed. It’s earned. Rep by rep. Day by day. By people exactly like you.
And once you see that someone just like you did it, you start to believe you can, too.
There’s always that moment— the click. When you stop seeing someone as “superhuman” and start seeing them as “Oh, she’s just like me.”
That’s what happened to her. And honestly? That’s what hap-
pens to a lot of people who walk into a gym for the first time. They see someone lifting, running, sweating, living in a way they wish they could, and they assume that person has always been that way.
But the truth is, most of the strongest people you’ll ever meet didn’t start that way. They started their journey a long time ago and just never quit.
They weren’t special. They were consistent.
They traded comparison for
commitment. They stopped waiting for motivation and built discipline instead. And over time, that discipline turned into a lifestyle. All you have to do is look into the mirror and tell yourself, “I can do this.” You just have to want it badly enough, and you can have it. spt
Eddie McKenna is co-owner of Heyday Elite Fitness. For more info, visit heydaytraining.com.
(photo: Cottonbro Studio/Pexels)
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
OCTOBER 26, 2025 - DOWNTOWN SAN PEDRO
PHOTOS BY JOHN MATTERA PHOTOGRAPHY
San Pedro’s annual Día de los Muertos celebration once again drew a massive crowd to Downtown San Pedro, as thousands of people filled 6th Street on Sunday, October 26. Presented by the San Pedro Historic Waterfront Business Improvement District, the event transformed the historic corridor into a vibrant, communal space honoring loved ones who have passed. Families and friends created colorful altars, while visitors enjoyed an evening of live entertainment, traditional and contemporary Mexican music, local cuisine, and artisan vendors. The free, family-friendly festival also featured kids’ crafts, an altar contest exhibition, a lively beer garden, and festive Día de los Muertos–themed costumes throughout the streets. Free trolley rides provided by Downtown San Pedro added to the experience. spt
PARADE OF TREES GALA
NOVEMBER
14, 2025 - DALMATIAN-AMERICAN
PHOTOS BY JOHN MATTERA PHOTOGRAPHY
CLUB
On Friday evening, November 14, the Toberman Neighborhood Center welcomed supporters to its annual Parade of Trees Gala at the Dalmatian-American Club in San Pedro. The festive gathering featured dinner, a live auction paddle raise, and an evening of community stories, all supporting Toberman’s mission to keep Harbor Area families housed, fed, and supported. This year’s event honored Mike A. Gipson, California State Assemblymember for the 65th District, for his longstanding leadership on issues including youth mental health, family stability, and economic opportunity. Guests enjoyed a spirited evening emceed by host John Bagakis. All funds raised at the event directly support Toberman’s year-round programs: food pantry operations, emergency assistance for families facing crisis, youth prevention and intervention services, and supportive housing initiatives for the Harbor community. spt
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