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.
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. Hi folks, Your friendly neighborhood publisher will be back with more next month.
In the meantime, check out the new and improved sanpedrotoday.com and let us know what you think. Until next month... spt
Linda Grimes, Sanam Lamborn, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Mary McLachlan, Eddie McKenna, Amber Sheikh, Jamaal K. Street, Dr. Ja’nae Brown, Lee Williams
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VOLUME 17 | NUMBER 9
ON THE COVER: The new Misty Copeland mural on the wall of San Pedro City Ballet by artist EL MAC. (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 OCTOBER 2025 I sanpedrotoday.com
OCTOBER 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. – Feed and Be Fed farm, 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 Sat-
urday – 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.), 10a3p. – 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.
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.
5 (Sun) – MISTY COPELAND MURAL UNVEILING CELEBRATION at San Pedro City Ballet (1231 S. Pacific Ave.), 4p. – San Pedro City Ballet and Arts United San Pedro are excited to announce the unveiling of a brand-new mural and an official building renaming! A ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 4p, immediately followed by the unveiling of a brand-new mural featuring the image of American ballet superstar Misty Copeland. A ticketed event will follow inside the studio as a fundraiser for San Pedro City Ballet. Attendees will enjoy an evening of refreshments, dancing, and a signing by mural artist EL MAC. Tickets $80. For more info, see story on page 20.
11 (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.
11 (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).
11 (Sat) – SUNSET SAIL ON THE LA WATERFRONT at West Harbor Promenade (boarding at W. 6th St. and Harbor Blvd.), 4:30p. – Join the Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI) to enjoy the sunset and views of the harbor from the deck of a tall ship on their monthly sunset sail. You can sit back and relax or become part of the crew—your choice! Tickets $60 for adults, $30 for children (12 and under). For tickets and more info, visit lamitopsail.org/events.
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. For more info, email diananave@gmail.com.
18 (Sat) – DOCENT GUIDED NATURE WALK—‘TIDE POOL CREATURES’ at Pelican Cove Park (31300 PV Dr. South, RPV), 1p. – Hike past the unique native flora and fauna and explore the tide pools teeming with fascinating marine life. Moderate
to strenuous. The trail to and from the tide pools is short but steep, about a 120 ft change in elevation. Sorry, no dogs are allowed on the beach. The hike is FREE, and rain cancels a hike. Park in the parking lot on the southbound lanes of PV Drive just south of the Point Vicente Park and Lighthouse. Parking at Pelican Cove is extremely limited; carpooling is highly recommended. For more info, call (310) 544-5375 (PVIC Museum front desk) or visit losserenosrpv. org or facebook.com/losserenos.
November 1 (Sat) – GIRLS IN FOCUS & PEDRO PET PALS FUNDRAISER GALA at San Pedro Elks Lodge (1748 Cumbre Dr.), 5-9p. – Girls IN Focus, the local all-girl filmmaking nonprofit, joins forces with beloved animal rescue Pedro Pet Pals, for an unforgettable night featuring music, food, fun, and a fashion show! This “Storytellers and Rescuers” Gala will raise funds for filmmaking scholarships where no girl is turned away, as well as life-saving services for local animals in need. For tickets and more info, visit tickettailor.com/ events/girlsinfocus/1724079 or email dunya@girls-in-focus.com. spt
Email events@sanpedrotoday. com to place a listing. Find more events at 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.
SPOOK-TACULAR SAN PEDRO EVENTS
GHOULS & GOBLINS & GOURDS, OH MY! IT’S OFFICIALLY “SPOOKY” SEASON, AND THERE’S NO SHORTAGE OF FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS TO CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN THIS MONTH IN SAN PEDRO! (AND CHECK OUT MORE HALLOWEEN EVENT ADS THROUGHOUT THE ISSUE!)
2nd ANNUAL HAUNTED HARBOR HOP
October 4, 12-8 p.m.
S.S. Lane Victory, Berth 52, 2400 Miner St.
It’s an invasion! Step aboard the S.S. Lane Victory to experience forbidden planets, UFOs, and twilight zones. The event will feature a line-up of out-of-this-world bands, food trucks, vendors, plus a dance floor, a burlesque showcase, a costume contest, and FREE parking. Tickets are $53, and kids 12 and under get FREE admission. For tickets and more information, visit tickettailor.com/ events/losangelesharborhop/1660100.
HARVEST FESTIVAL - October 12, 12-3 p.m. Green Hills Memorial Park, 27501 S. Western Ave., RPV
Join in the fun at the annual Green Hills Harvest Festival, featuring a pumpkin patch, hay rides, arts and crafts, live music, and food trucks. It’s a fun festival for all ages and admission is FREE! For more information, visit greenhillsla.com/about/events.
3720 Stephen M. White Dr. Sea Scare returns with another family-friendly night of thrills, chills, and gills! The festivities will include trick-or-treating, crafts, games, and a costume contest. With construction underway, aquarium staff have unearthed a mysterious relic from the past. Curious minds want to decipher the runes inscribed on the artifact, but others warn of an ancient curse that may be released with too much meddling. Will the siren’s song draw you into unraveling the mystery by finding clues hidden throughout the aquarium? Other challenges include winning prizes in the carnival game area and creating your own goodies at the arts and crafts tables. Be sure to visit the Trunk or Treat zone and don’t forget to dress your best and participate in the costume contest. Guests with a family membership will receive four FREE tickets and get early entry into the event starting at 6 p.m. Pre-sale tickets for non-members are $15 for adults
and $10 for children. Admission on the day of the event is $20 for adults and $15 for children (cash sales at the gift shop). For tickets and more information, visit cma.recreation.parks.lacity.gov/ index.php/events/sea-scare-sirens-curse.
WITCH CRAFT - October 24–26, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles 112 E. 22nd St.
Indulge in all the magic at Witch Craft! The festival of fall arts and crafts returns this year for another fun-filled three-day event. The weekend will include Halloween and fall-themed classes and workshops, including candle-making, DIY fabric pumpkins, glow-in-the-dark slime, DIY potions, colorful foaming soap, trick-or-treat bag decorating, wood-painting crafts, and worms-in-dirt DIY edible treats. These will be drop-in classes—no sign up required, and prices of each project vary. Admission and parking are FREE. For more information, visit craftedportla.com/calendar/witchcraft-3-day-fall-and-halloween-craft-festival.
HALLOWEEN DOG PARADE - October 25, 1 p.m.
White Point Nature Education Center 1600 W. Paseo Del Mar
Bring your costumed pups to strut their stuff just in time for Halloween! Presented by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. For more information, visit pvplc.org/calendar-events.
A SPIRITED EVENING - October 25, 5-8 p.m. Muller House Museum, 1542 S. Beacon St.
The San Pedro Bay Historical Society presents a Halloween-themed evening for adults in a historic setting overlooking the harbor. For tickets and more information, visit sanpedrobayhistoricalsociety.org in early October.
SCARY STORIES 2025 - October 25, 6:30 p.m.
Angels Gate Cultural Center, 3601 S. Gaffey St.
Radio theater around the bonfire! The annual Scary Stories is back with two unique programs— one live/in-person and one online. Produced and directed by Melanie Jones, Scary Stories is spellbinding storytelling with fabulous sound effects suitable for young and old, living and … shhh! The live performance will take place outside
in the amphitheater and around the bonfire on Saturday, October 25. Bring your own seating, and picnics are welcome. General admission is $5, and children 6 and under are FREE. For more information, visit melaniejonesstoryteller.com/witch. An online program will also take place beginning October 1, where guests can gather around the virtual fire any time to enjoy the eerie storytelling from home. Visit melaniejonesstoryteller.com/witch starting October 1 to discover the FREE online program. Donations are encouraged.
14th ANNUAL DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL - October 26, 3–9:30 p.m.
398 W. 6th St., Downtown San Pedro Celebrate LA’s Latin and Mexican heritage! Guests will experience a vibrant, historic downtown filled with a festive live entertainment lineup, including the sounds of contemporary and traditionally inspired Mexican folklore music. This FREE, family-oriented event will also feature a beer garden, delicious foods, crafts for kids, an altar contest exhibition, and more. Visitors are encouraged to come dressed in Dia de los Muertos-themed costumes and participate in the festivities. FREE trolley rides will be hosted by Downtown San Pedro as well. For more information, visit discoversanpedro. org/events/dia-de-los-muertos-festival.
HALLOWEEN PARTY - October 31, 4-8 p.m. Cabrillo Beach Bathhouse
3800 Stephen M. White Dr.
Join the City of LA Department of Recreation and Parks for a spooktacular Halloween party—a fun and safe space for you and your family! The event will include arts and crafts, face painting, music, snacks and beverages, candy, a dance show, and a costume contest. Admission is FREE. Be sure to register in advance online at laparks.org/activity-details?activity_id=379261301 as there is a maximum capacity of 150 guests. For more information, call (310) 548-7554 or email cabrillobeach.bathhouse@lacity.org. spt
FEAR AND LOATHING ON WESTERN AVENUE
IT’S BEEN AN ENDLESS SUMMER OF MISERY FOR DRIVERS; JUST WAIT FOR HARBOR BOULEVARD IN 2026
BY STEVE MARCONI
It hasn’t been a long, hot summer in San Pedro; in fact, this may have been the coolest summer on record.
Caltrans, however, more than made up for it by making life hell for the thousands of commuters who use Western Avenue. For months on end, almost daily it seemed, at least one lane was closed going either north or south, mostly in the Rancho Palos Verdes corridor. For a major thoroughfare that is always backed up even when both lanes each way are open, it’s been a nightmarish period.
Apparently, the work being done is part of the oxymoronic Western Avenue Traffic Flow Improvement Project, which not only has yet to improve traffic flow but has made it worse. Some enterprising entrepreneur might make some cash selling t-shirts featuring the Western Avenue street sign and the caption “I Survived the Summer of ‘25.” Just sayin’.
SPEAKING OF TRAFFIC
Unlike the voices in these pages and throughout much of San Pedro, I’m not a fan of West Harbor. For all of its failings as it aged, at least Ports O’ Call had character. West Harbor, like its name, is just plain ugly. Am I the only one who sees those giant metal tents and thinks back to the ‘50s and ‘60s when Quonset huts used to occupy an area just a little south of West Harbor known as Lower Fort MacArthur? (And if you don’t know what a Quonset hut is, you’re not a Real San Pedran.)
And you have to pay to park? Don’t you want people to visit and maybe hang around
for a while, like we used to do in Ports O’ Call’s heyday when parking was free? As it was once said, “If you want me to wait, you must validate”—or something like that.
But even if you can convince people it’s worth whatever they’re charged to park, in what universe can you build a 6,200-seat venue with only a two-lane street for access?
The port has been constructing a new off-ramp at Harbor Boulevard because the current setup had become untenable with all of the 18-wheelers bringing containers to and from the China and Yang Ming terminals. When finished, traffic should be much improved for “normal” use. Add 3,000 cars or more for a concert at the amphitheater and guess what you’ll have? It’s called a SigAlert.
The ultimate irony is that the amphitheater will be completed just as the Vincent Thomas Bridge is closed down for, what, two years?
We really are heading for ‘Harborgeddon.’
ANOTHER BOOK
Scott Parker has lived in San Pedro for 30 years, which makes him a newbie to the “born-and-raised” crowd, but two of his main interests give him a lot of street cred: photography and baseball.
He’s combined those two loves to become a member of that burgeoning group of San Pedrans who have become published book authors.
Baseball’s Unlikely: A Constant is a nearly three-pound, 467-page coffee-table book containing 400 stories and 250 color pictures (explaining its $50.94 price tag on Amazon) covering every team in Major League Baseball. Put together just last year (thanks to editor Rusty Austin), most of the book’s contents had been accumulated over the previous 36 years.
Parker, 62, a Torrance High graduate, was a musician before beginning a successful career as a video editor and colorist in television (most recently for Naked and Afraid on Discovery) in 1988.
He’s been a baseball fan since age 9, when he saw his first Angels game, but it was in the early ‘90s that he began collecting clippings and stories and saving screenshots. Vacations took him to stops at every MLB stadium (except the new Yankees venue), where his photography hobby resulted in thousands of pictures. Parker has tied the photos to his own stories about some of baseball’s most well-known moments, from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig to Jackie Robinson and Hank Aaron, and more modern incidents such as the home run off Jose Conseco’s head and Fernando Tatis’ two grand-slam-homer inning.
If you’re a baseball fan with a big coffee table, you’ll want this book.
GALLERY OPEN
The Christian-oriented art gallery/studio Kipos (Greek for “garden”), which I wrote about a few months ago, held its grand opening and is now open to the public Thursdays from 2-6 p.m.
The entrance is at the corner of Broadway and 7th, right across from the synagogue. There are still studios available; contact director Gregory Bruick at geoffrey@trinitysanpedro.org with any questions. 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.
PLAY BALL!: The cover to Baseball’s Unlikely: A Constant by Scott Parker (inset). (photos: courtesy Scott Parker)
ALL ABOARD THE HAUNTED HARBOR HOP
THE S.S. LANE VICTORY SAILS INTO SPOOKY SEASON WITH SCI-FI THRILLS, LIVE MUSIC, AND GHOSTLY FUN ON OCTOBER 4
BY LEE WILLIAMS
If you haven’t yet set foot aboard the S.S. Lane Victory, you’re missing out on one of San Pedro’s richest slices of maritime history, entertainment, and San Pedro pride.
More than just a ship, she’s a time machine, a film set, and an event venue, and this October, she becomes your favorite ghost story.
Built in San Pedro on Terminal Island, where SA Recycling now stands, and launched on May 31, 1945, the Lane Victory is one of the few remaining Victory-class cargo ships. She carried supplies in WWII, served during the Korean and Vietnam wars, evacuated thousands in wartime emergencies, and now rests back here in San Pedro as a National Historic Landmark.
After years in the U.S. Merchant Marine Reserve Fleet, she was towed to the Port of Los Angeles in 1989 and transformed into a restored museum ship. Some of you may recall reenactments with annual sails to Catalina, featuring WWII planes and historic costumes.
Although her sailing days are over, she remains an amazing place to visit and step into history. The Spirit of ’45, held on August 10, marked her 80th anniversary and celebrated the end of WWII with swing bands, WWII reenactors, classic cars, vintage vibes, food, and vendors. Part commemoration, part party, these reenactments aren’t just a photo op; they’re immersive. Costumed interpreters, period dress, and displays of equipment provide living history that lets you walk back
into 1945. If you love snapping photos and stepping into past eras, this is gold.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 4, when the Lane Victory demurs from the usual war stories and sails into the spooky. It’s the 2nd Annual Haunted Harbor Hop… in Space!, from 12 to 8 p.m. aboard the ship. Think classic sci-fi/horror mash-ups: forbidden planets, UFOs, twilight zones, live bands, DJ sets, a “Queen of the Haunt” costume contest, spooky vendors, and a burlesque showcase in the museum downstairs.
Kids under 12 attend free. Costumes are encouraged. Weather permitting, some of the fun takes place on deck. Dress for atmosphere—and maybe a chill sea breeze.
The Lane Victory isn’t just history; she’s famous, appearing in dozens of films, TV shows, and commercials. Some highlights:
• Pearl Harbor, Flags of Our Fathers, The Thin Red Line, GI Jane, and U-571
• TV shows like Alias, Baywatch, NCIS, MacGyver, Unsolved Mysteries, and Murder, She Wrote.
• Even its engine has done double duty—it was used in The Sand Pebbles for the fictitious gunboat USS San Pablo
The ship is built for this sort of thing. Filming and photography are regular parts of her mission. Interior, bridge, holds, engine room, gun placements, lifeboats—many parts have been restored or maintained so they’re film-ready. They will even move the ship via tug if needed for bigger productions.
Here’s where things get especially cool: Lane Victory is both a living museum and a unique event space. There are guided and
self-guided tours of the ship, featuring the engine room, command bridge, cargo holds, deck guns, lifeboat, and two onboard museums with artifacts, historical displays, and personal stories of the men and women who served.
For events, Cargo Hold No. 4 has been converted into a flexible space, with a large dance floor and room for guests to dine or mingle. The Officer’s Wardroom remains virtually unchanged since 1945 and is perfect for intimate dinners or business meetings. Tables, chairs, sound and AV equipment, and lighting are available. For major events, public areas can be closed off to keep your gathering private. There’s ample parking available, and proceeds from events are reinvested into preserving the ship and supporting her mission to teach, remember, and inspire.
Why do I love the Lane Victory so much? It’s about telling stories that might otherwise be forgotten and letting us walk through them rather than just read them. Plus, it’s fun. The sensory richness of the ship, the view from the deck, and the sense of history vibrating under your feet; it all adds up.
For San Pedro, she’s a treasured anchor, literally and figuratively, tying us to global history, to film culture, to community gatherings, to creative energy, and this October 4, to spooky vibes. Hope to see you there! 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.
SPOOKY SHIP: The S.S. Lane Victory hosts the 2nd Annual Haunted Harbor Hop…in Space! on Saturday, October 4. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
FINDING OUR PLACE IN THE FIGHT
SAN PEDRO ORGANIZER DIANE MIDDLETON AND THE HARBOR AREA PEACE PATROL REMIND US THAT CHANGE STARTS AT HOME—AND THAT HOPE FUELS ACTION
BY AMBER SHEIKH
Thesedays, I often hear people say, “I’m overwhelmed by everything happening in the world. It’s chaotic, it’s heartbreaking. What can I do? Where is my place in all this?”
It’s a question rooted in exhaustion and longing—for direction, for meaning, for hope. When the news feels relentless and the world seems to be unraveling, it can be hard to process current events without sinking into rage or despair. But moving through those feelings—toward clarity, hope, and action—is essential. The only way forward is to stay engaged, to safeguard the society we want to see.
When I find myself spiraling, unsure how to even start untangling the weight of it all, I call Diane Middleton with the hope she’ll invite me on one of her steady four-mile walks. Diane is a seasoned organizer who has weathered crises before. She is relentlessly optimistic and forward-thinking. Talking with her is part therapy, part reality check, and part ignition—a spark that keeps me moving forward. We could all use a little Diane to help turn our rage and sorrow into hope—and hope into action.
I asked Diane to share her perspective—not just for me, but for all of us—on where we are now and how we can change
the course of a country headed down a path none of us want to follow.
Diane: The world may feel unrecognizable right now, but history reminds us: We’ve seen echoes of this before—and we’ve found our way through.
Even the staunchest supporters of our administration are starting to admit: This isn’t what they signed up for. The country is pushing back. Protests are erupting in every state, in cities and towns that once stayed silent. In one upstate New York town of just 5,500, neighbors poured into the streets when a woman who had worked at the local pizza parlor for 20 years was deported. People are done watching quietly from the sidelines, because when injustice comes for one of us, it comes for all of us.
The first step is to recognize and acknowledge that when we get stuck in pure sorrow or pure rage, that’s where burnout lives. The harder path—the one that demands hope and the courage to stay focused on what must be done—is choosing to pursue justice anyway. Reaching that third step—hope—isn’t easy, and we often grapple with how to get there.
Many of you already know that United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has set up operations on Terminal Island, right here in our own backyard. While it’s easy to get swept up in headlines from across the country and around the world, the most urgent place to start is at home.
In the Harbor area, neighbors have come together to form the Harbor Area Peace Patrol (HAPP) in direct response to recent ICE raids. Their message is
clear: Our community will not stand by while people are quietly picked up or disappear. Not here. Not in our town.
HAPP is made up of local volunteers who refuse to accept an ICE foothold in their neighborhoods, and they have the support of our city councilmember, Tim McOsker. On September 20, they held a community meeting and orientation to mobilize residents. Their goal is to create a rapid-response network, using social media to alert neighbors about possible ICE presence, including vehicle license plate numbers.
Because here’s the thing: ICE doesn’t want to be seen. And the one thing we, as everyday citizens, can do—lawfully—is observe, report, and help keep one another safe.
My takeaway from my chat with Diane is: There are no shortcuts to resistance. Like those who came before us, we may not know precisely how to fight the attacks on our standard (values) of living, but they pressed on, believing that victory lay ahead, and so must we.
I attended the HAPP community meeting on September 20 and left feeling prouder of my community than ever. What I’ve always known—and what that day reaffirmed—is that we will not stand by or stay silent in the face of this—or any—administration’s abuse of power.
To join HAPP, find them on Instagram @ harborareapeacepatrols. spt
Amber Sheikh is a San Pedro resident, mother of two, community advocate, and owner of Sheikh/Impact, a nonprofit consulting firm.
The author, her daughter, and Diane Middleton at the 2024 San Pedro Chamber of Commerce Women’s History Month Celebration. (photo: Tammy Khan)
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VOTED SOUTH BAY’S FAVORITE 2024
• Accelerates
• Pain
• Safe:
LEARNING BY WRENCHING
HARBOR OCCUPATIONAL CENTER PAIRS HANDSON AUTO TRAINING WITH AFFORDABLE SERVICES
BY JENNIFER MARQUEZ
Harbor Occupational Center, an LAUSD career technical education program, serves adults 18 and older with training in trades, technical skills, and career certification programs taught by industry professionals.
With two sites in San Pedro, the center offers opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience that can lead directly to employment.
At the Fort MacArthur location, a fully licensed teaching auto shop provides a variety of certificate programs—ranging from electrical and brakes to alignment, lubrication, and introductory auto courses—at no cost to participants. In addition, the shop services cars for the public at a fraction of typical repair costs. Customers pay only for parts and a $20 materials fee, since labor is free and supervised by the instructor. Preventive maintenance services, such as tune-ups and tire rotations, are also available to the community on a limited basis.
“I have brought my car here three times for brakes, an oil change, and when my check engine light came on,” shares resident Julie Viloria. “It was so affordable—I brought my own parts, and there was no labor fee. I grew up in San Pedro and didn’t even know this
place existed. It’s amazing that it helps kids learn while also helping people like me save money.”
The Auto Shop facility opened in 2018 as part of a settlement following the construction of the Olguin Campus of San Pedro High School, which closed the original vocational center. Classes for SPHS students began in 2020 but were temporarily halted during COVID before reopening in 2022.
The program is a two-year track for high school students: Juniors start with the basics, while seniors focus on specialized skills and certifications. Lessons emphasize project-based learning, with students building everything from small jeeps to classic cars while also developing communication and management skills. Adult classes are at night and run mainly on a semester timeline with summer off. The program serves individuals of all abilities and ages.
The program has produced many success stories. “We have students who didn’t do well in high school and never thought college was an option,” says instructor Marvin Casasola “They’ve discovered a passion here, turned their lives around, and gone on to work in car dealerships and auto shops.”
In addition to training students, the Auto Shop gives back to the community. It provides car repair services to a local domestic
violence nonprofit, helping clients who otherwise couldn’t afford repairs. Casasola notes that reliable transportation gives survivors greater independence and a chance to rebuild their lives.
In many ways, the program reflects the spirit of San Pedro itself—practical, hard-working, and community-centered. It not only prepares the next generation of mechanics and technicians but also strengthens local ties by giving back to residents in need. Whether it’s a teenager discovering a trade, a 65-year-old pursuing a new skill, or a neighbor getting their car back on the road, the auto shop proves that education, service, and community pride can all run on the same engine.
The Auto Shop also welcomes donations to support students who can’t afford essential supplies, such as goggles, coveralls, hand tools, and gloves. To schedule car service, please email Marvin Casasola at marvin. casasola@lausd.net or call (310) 221-4631 (no voicemail available). Adults interested in enrolling in classes can visit harboroccupational.lausd.org or call (310) 241-4800. spt
Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com and @jenntmqz on X and Instagram.
22ND ST. LANDING SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR
UNDER THE HOOD: Students work on an engine at Harbor Occupational Center. (photo: courtesy Marvin Casasola)
MISTY’S MURAL
EL MAC’S MISTY COPELAND MURAL BRINGS SAN PEDRO CITY BALLET’S LEGACY INTO FOCUS
BY LINDA GRIMES
One of the blessings of age and experience is becoming a mentor, with the chance to pay it forward.
As one of the founding members of the Arts United Coalition, I recently had the honor of lending some guidance to Cindy and Patrick Bradley of San Pedro City Ballet (SPCB). They were preparing to replace the mural on their parking lot wall at 12th and Pacific, a project made possible by a grant from Arts United. The Bradleys needed help finding a muralist, preparing the wall, and planning the unveiling ceremony, and I was happy to assist.
As luck would have it, internationally
renowned muralist and San Pedro resident Miles MacGregor, better known as EL MAC, answered the call. Known for his distinctive contour patterns and large-scale portraits, EL MAC’s work draws inspiration from classical European art, social realism, symbolism, and Chicano culture. His murals have appeared in cities around the world, from Cuba to Cambodia, and his paintings hang in institutions like the San José Museum of Art and Fondazione Prada in Italy.
“After moving to San Pedro roughly nine years ago, I was excited to finally have an opportunity to create a public mural here,” says EL MAC. “One of the things I love most about this humble
seaside corner of Los Angeles is its blend of maritime, immigrant, and working-class culture… I was honored to be able to paint a mural honoring this beloved hometown hero on the side of a classic 1930s art deco building, now housing an awesome ballet school.”
That “awesome ballet school” is San Pedro City Ballet, the place where Misty Copeland, now a principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre, first discovered ballet as a 13-year-old.
MISTY COPELAND: FULL CIRCLE
For Copeland, the mural is more than a
portrait. It’s a homecoming.
“I’m incredibly honored to be featured in this stunning mural by EL MAC at San Pedro City Ballet, my very first ballet studio and a place that will always feel like home,” she says. “What he’s captured through my image is so much bigger than me. It represents every young person from this community and beyond who deserves access to the arts. This is such a beautiful tribute to where it all began for me.”
The mural’s official unveiling on Sunday, October 5, coincides with the official renaming of SPCB’s Pacific Avenue building in honor of Legacy Donor Dr. Joseph A. Adan. The San Pedro Chamber of Commerce will lead a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by speeches from local dignitaries, EL MAC, and—in true celebratory fashion—a champagne sabering. Inside the studio, supporters will enjoy a fundraiser featuring hors d’oeuvres, vinyl DJ King Steady Beat, and a performance by SPCB principal dancers titled Grit and Grace
THE BRADLEYS’ VISION
The event is the latest milestone in a journey that began more than 30 years ago. In 1994, Cindy and Patrick Bradley opened San Pedro City Ballet with just eight dancers and two small studios in the Terraces Shopping Center on Western Avenue. From the beginning, they balanced grit with imagination. That first December, the company presented The Nutcracker at San Pedro High School, with hand-sewn costumes and makeshift sets. The performance may have been modest, but the enthusiasm was undeniable.
With support from parents, volunteers, and a newly formed nonprofit board, SPCB began to grow. Performances moved to the Warner Grand Theatre, and later to Torrance’s El Camino College and the Armstrong Theatre, where audiences for The Nutcracker now reach more than 5,500 each season. In 1998, the Bradleys purchased the former Norwegian Bakery building at 1231 Pacific Avenue, giving the company and school a permanent home. That same building now bears Copeland’s larger-than-life likeness.
Cindy Bradley, a former dancer with companies in Atlanta, Louisville, San Diego, and
Virginia, has always emphasized that SPCB isn’t just about teaching ballet steps. “We are training our students in the lessons of life,” she often says. Students learn discipline, responsibility, and resilience—how to work hard, how to collaborate, and how to recover from disappointment. Many alumni have gone on to professional dance careers; others have carried those lessons into fields like medicine, education, and law.
Patrick Bradley, who earned degrees in art and performance at Cal State Dominguez Hills, has been equally dedicated to nurturing creativity. His choreography has earned Lester Horton Award nominations, and his influence extends from SPCB’s stage to generations of students at San Pedro High School, where he taught art. Together, the Bradleys have built SPCB into both a respected arts institution and a cornerstone of the community.
From the beginning, SPCB has been committed to accessibility. The Bradleys regularly invite underserved schools to attend company performances at no cost. For
The new Misty Copeland mural on the wall of San Pedro City Ballet by artist EL MAC. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
many children, seeing The Nutcracker was their first introduction to live theater. That exposure not only broadened horizons, it sparked new dreams, some that reached all the way to the professional stage.
Copeland’s story is the most famous example. When Cindy Bradley discovered her at a San Pedro Boys & Girls Club outreach program, Copeland had no formal training. In just four years, she was dancing with American Ballet Theatre. By 2015, she had broken barriers as ABT’s first African American female Principal Dancer.
A MURAL WITH MEANING
For EL MAC, the project was about honoring both Copeland and the community that shaped her. As he worked, neighbors stopped to chat, students peeked around corners, and passersby offered encouragement. “I was fortunate to receive lots of positive feedback and encouragement from the community while I worked on it,” he said. “I’m hopeful this mural, the love put into it, and the subject it highlights, might provide continued inspiration for other creative folks in years to come.”
Cindy Bradley agrees. “EL MAC’s version of
Misty’s beauty will surely become an iconic local art installation,” she says.
The project was supported by Arts United San Pedro and a roster of sponsors, including Supervisor Janice Hahn, Councilmember Tim McOsker, the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council, and local businesses from Port Town Brewing Company to San Pedro Sourdough. Their backing reflects how deeply SPCB’s mission resonates across the community.
Over three decades, thousands of students have passed through SPCB’s doors. Some became professional dancers, others became doctors or lawyers, and many simply carried with them the confidence of having performed on stage. For all of them, SPCB was more than a ballet school, it was a training ground for life.
Now, with Misty Copeland gazing down from the side of the building, SPCB’s legacy is literally written on the walls. The mural is both a tribute to a hometown hero and a reminder that greatness can come from anywhere, even a small ballet studio in San Pedro. spt
Top: Patrick and Cindy Bradley (left); Misty Copeland teaches a master class at the Warner Grand Theatre in 2016 (right); mural artist EL MAC (above). (photos: Instagram, John Mattera Photography, Jeremiah Garcia)
A NEW CHAPTER AT HOLY TRINITY
MEET PRINCIPAL ANTHONY DILEVA
BY JOSHUA STECKER
WhenAnthony DiLeva first considered applying to be principal of Holy Trinity School, he wasn’t entirely convinced he would be the right fit.
“I don’t think they’re going to hire me,” he remembers telling his wife, Kim. “I was a deputy sheriff, and then I’ve been teaching 18 years in college. I don’t have any experience with elementary school.”
But with encouragement from Kim, DiLeva applied anyway. After several interviews with the board, Rev. Kevin Nolan, and representatives from the LA Archdiocese, he was offered the position. “I know this is an unconventional hire,” he told the board. “Everything’s kind of unconventional. You just kind of have to see what works.”
FROM LAW ENFORCEMENT TO EDUCATION
DiLeva’s path to Holy Trinity is anything but typical. A longtime deputy sheriff, he later became a professor of criminal justice at Marymount California University, and after the school closed, he continued teaching at Cal State Dominguez Hills.
“I do know how to teach. I’ve been doing that for a long time,” he says. “I know what makes an environment conducive to learning. I know how to lead because of my experience. And I know how to manage a business because Kim and I have done that… I know how to deal with people. I know how to represent in a good way.”
For DiLeva, who turned 60 in July, those experiences, coupled with his strong faith, gave him the confidence to take on the challenge. “God always kind of took care of me in my career path and my choices, even though some of them were a little bit more risky, because you’re leaving something secure for something that’s not really secure. And I thought this is really a way to actually serve, to do something special for my parish and my community.”
HITTING THE GROUND RUNNING
Holy Trinity isn’t just another school for DiLeva—it’s family. “My kids went here. My wife went here,” he says. Though he attended Mary Star of the Sea from first grade through high school, he says he always admired Holy Trinity. “Even when I was at Mary Star, I always had an admiration for Holy Trinity. I liked their closeness.”
That closeness is something he hopes to restore. “The school needs somebody they want to connect with… It’s the same families. It’s just recycled, and they want that connection. And I think maybe that was lost.”
DiLeva officially began on July 1, but he was already working months before. “When I was coming in, there were about six or seven teachers that weren’t returning,” he explains. “Basically, I had to hire people using my laptop and my other work email outside of the facility. And I did it. I was proud of myself for being able to do that because I didn’t want to wait. I couldn’t wait until July 1, because what happens is you lose on certain candidates.”
He also made one of his first bold moves as principal by creating a marketing and advancement position, something rarely found at elementary schools, and hiring veteran professional Angela Perez. “I said, ‘This is what we need. I can’t do all of this. I just don’t have the capacity to do all [of] this.’” With the help of a longtime community donor, DiLeva secured three years of funding for the role. “It’s something that you find maybe in elite high schools and, definitely, college… and she’s already just making huge strides for me.”
Enrollment and budget were the two biggest challenges identified by the board when DiLeva was hired. “They lost a substantial amount of kids last year… And that can’t happen again,” he says.
To begin addressing those issues, he focused first on reconnecting with families. “I went to the last pep rally that they had and then the awards banquet, and just saw some familiar faces. People would come up to me and talk to
me, and then they would just tell me how happy they were that I was here. And I was just telling them, ‘Hey, we have a plan. We have a vision going forward. Maybe give me a chance. Put your trust in me to do what’s best, and I think you’ll be pleased.’”
From the beginning, DiLeva has leaned on the experience of others. Retired principal Linda Wiley, who served Holy Trinity for 32 years, remains a phone call away. “I take a lot of credence in what she has to say and her advice. You always want to incorporate your own style, but I listen,” he says.
Assistant Principal Kelli Pham has been a cornerstone of Holy Trinity’s stability during the leadership transition. “She is a tireless worker and dedicated to Holy Trinity School,” he says. “Her mom, Kathy Bertrand, taught at HT for 32 years, and Kelli followed in her footsteps. She has been teaching Kindergarten at HT for a decade prior to taking on the VP role. She knows the intricacies of the school like the back of her hand and is excellent with the curriculum. She also has the respect and strong connection with the faculty and staff, which was essential in the transition.”
A SENSE OF PURPOSE
Just a few months into the job, DiLeva says the energy on campus already feels different. “I feel like I have a new sense of purpose. Let’s put it that way,” he says. “For me, I’ve always been somebody who likes to feel like I have a purpose… I think the timing of it has worked out for me, so I’m putting my trust in that. And, like I said, I’m kind of fortunate enough to have this beautiful staff around me.”
And if his first months are any indication, under his leadership, Holy Trinity School is poised for a revival. spt
For more information on Holy Trinity School, visit school.holytrinitysp.org.
FRESH FACE: Holy Trinity’s new principal, Anthony DiLeva. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
YOUTH TIMES: A ONE-STOP
HUB FOR SP FAMILIES
FROM SPORTS TO AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES, THE SAN PEDRO YOUTH COALITION IS MAKING IT EASIER FOR PARENTS TO DISCOVER OPPORTUNITIES FOR THEIR KIDS
BY MARY (BOBICH) MCLACHLAN, SPYC BOARD MEMBER
Some of my best memories are those long Saturdays spent at Bogdanovich Park (then fondly referred to as San Pedro Park).
Each year, my parents registered us for a variety of sports programs—softball, basketball, baseball, and flag football. The smell of burnt hot dogs still reminds me of the Family Fun Nights when the parents played against the kids on McKenzie Field, then bundled us up at the fire pit until the last marshmallow was roasted.
Wanting my son to have some of those same memories, we started signing him up for all those sports programs as soon as he was old enough. At the end of basketball season, we’d get the flyer for baseball season. At the end of baseball season, we’d get the flyer for summer camp. Like my family growing up, my son was into all the sports as well. If Bogdanovich didn’t have
it, we’d find something at Peck Park, Eastview, the YMCA, or at his school. There was always something we could sign up for that kept him active and social.
San Pedro still has great youth programs, but sometimes I get the sense that many families simply don’t know about them. I’m aware that kids are doing other things now—playing on travel and club teams, playing video games, and spending time on their phones. But quality programs and activities still exist, and we are determined to get the word out about what is available and when.
It was over 35 years ago when my dad, Mel Bobich, and a few other volunteers founded the San Pedro Youth Coalition (SPYC). Back then, the goal was to advocate for more places for kids to play— working with the city to get more sports fields, gymnasiums, and parks. They did amazing work, and now there are so many great places to play thanks to them. In fact, it appears that we have ample space for kids to play, but we just need to connect them with the programs.
I recently joined the SPYC board with hopes to continue my dad’s legacy of promoting youth programs in San Pedro. We have excellent facilities that are underutilized, and our programs are too rarely used.
SPYC is committed to connecting San Pedro’s kids with the programs that serve them. We have created a Facebook group to promote all youth programs and activities in San Pedro.
We’ve already reached out to several of the existing parks and youth programs but are looking to connect with more of them. We aim to be a one-stop shop for all parents and guardians in town, providing them with the information they need for kids of all age levels—offerings, sign-up dates, and more— across various programs, including sports, arts, exercise, and after-school activities. If we have all the information in one place, parents can just follow us and get all the information they need for their sons or daughters.
If you run a program and want to promote it, or if you’re a parent looking for something for your child, here’s how to connect with us:
• Facebook group (Youth Times): facebook.com/groups/sanpedroyouthtimes
• Facebook page: facebook.com/ spyouthcoalition
• Instagram: @sanpedroyouthcoalition
• Website: sanpedroyouthcoalition.org
• Email: contact@sanpedroyouthcoalition.org
I’m excited to help youth organizations get the word out and offer parents a simple way to stay informed about what San Pedro has to offer their kids. Please join us! spt
SAN PEDRO’S LITTLE SECRET: CIAO BELLA PIZZERIA
GIOVANNI DI IORIO BLENDS ITALIAN TRADITION WITH LOCAL PRIDE, SERVING WOOD-FIRED PIES THAT SHOWCASE BOTH HERITAGE AND HEART
BY SANAM LAMBORN
Thecontributions of the many Italians who immigrated to San Pedro in the early and mid-1900s are well documented. Many of our residents are proud second, third, or fourth-generation Italian-Americans. A few Italian immigrants are still making their way to Pedro. In recognition of October being Italian-American Heritage Month, I’d like to tell you about an Italian-born chef who fell in love with a Pedro girl and started Ciao Bella Pizzeria Mobile Wood-fired Oven
Giovanni Di Iorio was born in Ischia, a small island off the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy. He grew up in a family where almost everyone is involved in the island’s hospitality industry. During his early teenage years, he started working at his uncles’ restaurant, where he learned every aspect of running a food establishment. Through the years, he continued to sharpen his cooking skills by working the high tourism summer season on the island and in Germany during the winter months.
In 2007, Di Iorio met a San Pedro bornand-raised girl who was visiting family in Ischia. The couple married in 2010, and upon moving to Los Angeles, Di Iorio worked as a corporate chef. Eventually, the couple made their way back to San Pedro in
2019 and purchased their home.
Unexpectedly, the pandemic in early 2020 changed everything for Di Iorio, because his work was halted due to the COVID-19 restrictions. By summertime, he was feeling restless and in need of work. In August of that year, he borrowed the corporate company’s unused mobile wood-fire pizza oven, and Ciao Bella Pizzeria came to be.
Di Iorio’s pizza is a reflection of being born in a region of Italy renowned for its culinary richness and 28 years of experience working in restaurants. His style is informed by the traditional Neapolitan pizza, which is characteristically thin crusted and cooked at a high temperature for 90 seconds, resulting in pillowy edges. However, today’s pizza makers develop their own unique style because of evolving flour types, techniques, and modern machinery.
Di Iorio’s dough has its own identity, one that cooks into a crust that he proudly defines as “fluffy.” His technique is a closely guarded secret, understandably. Nonetheless, he firmly believes the dough should be at its peak of performance by the time it’s shaped and slid into the oven. His crust has a satisfying crunch, good chewability, and is easily digestible.
Ciao Bella’s pizza menu is reflective of the Mediterranean cuisine’s sensibilities, where a few fresh ingredients deliver big flavors. Di Iorio suggests starting with his margherita to fully appreciate his pizza’s character. Other standout selections are the Honey Badger, topped with
soppressata, Calabrian chili, and honey, which delivers a delicious combination of sweet and spicy. There is also the special tartufata, topped with a delicate truffle-infused cream, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh arugula.
Today, Ciao Bella operates successfully with the flexibility to pull into various locations in San Pedro, as well as greater Los Angeles. A mobile business might not have the overhead costs of a brick and mortar, however, it comes with its own challenges, like unpredictable weather—which can affect baking—and the amount of time spent on setup and breakdown. But neither heat, cold, nor wind slows down Di Iorio and his team from making consistently good pizza. He humorously refers to himself as “San Pedro’s Little Secret.” As such, every time he travels for gigs beyond our port town, he proudly personifies a little bit of Ischia and San Pedro through his food.
Ciao Bella is rooted in resilience and years of Di Iorio perfecting his craft. His pizza speaks for itself. Find his schedule and location by following Ciao Bella Mobile Pizzeria on Instagram @ciao_bella_mobile_pizzeria and/or Facebook @ciaobellamobilepizzeria. Give him a try. spt
Sanam Lamborn created the Eat in San Pedro Facebook group and Instagram page @ eatinsanpedro.
PIE GUY: Giovanni Di Iorio, owner of Ciao Bella Pizzeria Mobile Wood-fired Oven.
(photo: John Mattera Photography)
PIRATES OUT FOR REDEMPTION
AFTER BACK-TO-BACK HEARTBREAKS IN THE CITY FINALS, SPHS’S GIRLS FLAG FOOTBALL TEAM SETS ITS SIGHTS ON FINALLY BRINGING HOME A CHAMPIONSHIP BY JAMAAL K. STREET
Thesport of girls flag football has been on the rise since it became a sanctioned high school sport in California two years ago.
In the CIF-Los Angeles City Section itself, only one school can say they’ve made it to the highest divisional championship game in each of its first two seasons, and that school is San Pedro High. The only problem is that they’ve ended up as the runner-up both times, losing each final by a single touchdown.
The 2025 version of the Lady Pirates aim to change the narrative and won’t accept anything less than a return trip—and a championship to go along with it.
Victor Tuberosi has guided San Pedro flag football to a robust record of 49-7-1 in those two seasons, which includes a 20-0 Marine League record and an unbeaten streak at Mike Walsh Pirate Stadium that he hopes continues with a plethora of returning talent, including both his quarterbacks, now seniors in Madison Adrid and Jenna Ortega.
San Pedro’s run and shoot style offensive assault hinges on the pin-point accuracy of Adrid (333-480 passing, 3,732 yards, 51 TDs, 9 INTs) and Ortega (188-333 passing, 2,567 yards, 40 TD, 16 INT) to spread the ball around to various threats who all make
their seemingly annually scheduled house calls, including two returning All-City Open Division selections in senior WR/DB Jayda Sanford and sophomore WR/RB/DB Fatima Ramirez
In just her first season, Ramirez was simply magnificent, catching 94 passes for 1,203 yards and 20 touchdowns, rushing for 103 yards in 14 carries and two more touchdowns, while also returning one of her two interceptions for another visit to the end zone.
Meanwhile, Sanford, whose tall, wiry frame and long arms attract plenty of attention from the opposition, caught 58 passes for 724 yards and seven touchdowns. Defensively in two seasons, Sanford intercepted 25 passes, 18 of them during her sophomore season. Out of those 25 picks, eight of them have been returned for touchdowns.
While Ramirez and Sanford will be the focal point for nearly all of San Pedro’s opponents in 2025, they’re not the only ones who can do massive damage.
Senior WR Naomi Eneliko is a short-yardage mistress, as she caught 74 passes for 718 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Another senior WR in Dahlia Davila (33 receptions, 334 yards, 7 TD) is a threat to catch the ball right after the snap. Junior RB Jazmin Watts will be utilized more often with her explosive speed, and the addition of junior girls soccer midfielder Rylie Ardaiz gives Adrid and Ortega another viable weapon.
And on defense, the sister tandem of sophomore Maya Solorio and junior Hailey Solorio packs more punch to a starting seven that also retains Sanford, Ramirez, Watts, and junior DB Makayla King, who’s the top returning pass rusher. Another talented freshman, Anabelle Galan, will be a viable contributor.
San Pedro must bring it every time they step on the field, especially with a rigorous nonleague slate, two challenging tournaments, and a Marine League that continues to get difficult with both defending Open Division champion Banning of Wilmington (who edged the Pirates 18-12 in OT for the title after losing all three regular season matchups), defending Division 1 champion Narbonne of Harbor City, the addition of D-1 runner-up King-Drew, and rapidly improving Carson.
The sixth school in the Marine League is in-city neighbor Port of Los Angeles, who struggled in their first season to create an identity after going 0-10 in 2024, but second-year coach G. Aaron Givens and the Polar Bears will continue to improve.
Senior Briana Aleman, who helped guide the softball team to the CIF-LACS Division 1 final this past May, paces the Polar Bears. spt
San Pedro High School girls flag football team. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
STRONGER THAN BEFORE
WHY PHYSICAL THERAPY IS ESSENTIAL FOR RECOVERY, INJURY PREVENTION, AND PEAK PERFORMANCE
BY DR. JA’NAE BROWN
October
is National Physical Therapy Month, a time to celebrate the healing power of movement and raise awareness about how physical therapy can help people recover, stay active, and perform at their best.
At Physical Therapy San Pedro (PTSP), we specialize in sports physical therapy, working with athletes, dancers, and active individuals of all ages. Our goal isn’t just to treat injuries—it’s to get you back to the activities you love, safely and stronger than before.
Over the years, I’ve found that people often have the same questions when it comes to physical therapy and sports injuries. In this article, I’ll answer some of the most searched questions online—the ones many athletes, parents, and weekend warriors are asking.
What’s the difference between sports PT and regular PT?
General physical therapy helps people recover from everyday injuries, surgery, or chronic pain. Sports PT, on the other hand, is performance-driven. It focuses on the unique demands of athletes, such as returning to competition, optimizing strength, speed, and agility, and addressing sport-specific movements. What types of injuries do sports physical therapists treat?
Sports PTs commonly treat sprains and strains, such as ankle or hamstring injuries, as well as ACL, MCL, or meniscus tears. They work with patients experi-
encing rotator cuff injuries and shoulder instability, tendonitis in areas like the patellar, Achilles, or elbow, and stress fractures. Concussions and return-to-play management are also addressed, along with overuse injuries like shin splints or runner’s knee.
Do I need a referral to see a sports physical therapist?
In California, you do not need a doctor’s referral thanks to “direct access” laws. However, some insurance plans may still require a referral for payment coverage.
How long does it take to recover from a sports injury?
Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury and the athlete’s commitment to treatment. Minor sprains and strains may heal in just a few weeks, while moderate injuries, such as partial ligament tears, typically take 6 to 12 weeks. Post-surgical recovery, like ACL reconstruction, can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months.
How often do I need to come to physical therapy?
Frequency depends on your goals and sport. Acute injuries and post-surgical cases may require two to three sessions per week, while maintenance or prevention programs usually involve one to two visits per week.
Can I keep training while doing physical therapy?
Often, the answer is yes—with modifications. Sports PTs aim to keep athletes active while working around the injury. Some reduction in practice or activity may be necessary to allow proper healing, but the goal is always to maintain as much movement as safely possible.
Will physical therapy help me come back stronger?
Absolutely. A key goal in sports PT is not just to heal the injury but also to correct underlying weaknesses, improve mechanics, and build resilience. As a result, many athletes return stronger and more prepared than before.
Does insurance cover sports physical therapy?
Most insurance plans cover physical therapy, though coverage may vary. Services focused on performance or injury prevention, such as strength and conditioning classes, may be considered self-pay.
How should I treat a sports injury immediately after it happens?
The old approach was R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). Today, however, we encourage early mobility and range of motion to reduce swelling and pain.
Can physical therapy replace surgery for certain sports injuries?
In many cases, yes—it depends on the injury type and severity. If no bones are broken, physical therapy is often recommended as the first line of treatment.
When should I use ice versus heat?
Ice is best for acute swelling, inflammation, and pain, while heat works well for chronic soreness or stiffness. Ultimately, you should use whichever method best helps calm your pain and nervous system.
Will physical therapy hurt?
Some discomfort with movement and stretching is normal, but pain should always be tolerable and closely monitored. Most patients actually leave therapy feeling better than when they
arrived.
When can I return to my sport or activity?
Return to play is guided by multiple factors, including tissue healing, symptom improvement, strength restoration, and sport-specific functional testing. Does stretching prevent injuries?
Stretching improves flexibility, but on its own, it’s not enough. Strength training and proper movement mechanics are also essential for effective injury prevention. Are certain injuries more common in women than in men?
Yes. For example, ACL injuries are more common in female athletes, and some other conditions also show sex-specific risks.
If you’re dealing with an injury or if something just doesn’t feel right, don’t delay getting it checked out. The sooner you address it, the faster and safer your return to sport or activity will be.
Here’s to moving well, performing well, and staying strong—this month and every month. spt
For more tips, resources, and booking information, visit physicaltherapysanpedro.com. You can also check out their YouTube channel and the Physical Therapy San Pedro Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon.
Dr. Ja’nae Brown is the owner and founder of Physical Therapy San Pedro, bringing 19 years of expertise as a Doctor of Physical Therapy. For more info, visit physicaltherapysanpedro.com.
(photo: courtesy Physical Therapy San Pedro)
ANSWERING THE WAKE-UP CALL
ONE MAN’S LIFE-CHANGING MOMENT PROVES THAT SMALL, CONSISTENT STEPS CAN TRANSFORM HEALTH BEFORE CRISIS STRIKES
BY EDDIE Mc KENNA
It happened on an ordinary workday.
A man collapsed at his desk from a sudden heart attack. His colleague—my friend of more than a decade—rushed to his side and performed CPR. He did everything he could, but the man didn’t survive.
For most of us, such a moment would be haunting. For my friend, it was also galvanizing. He walked away from that experience with one thought: “I never want to go like that.”
That day became his wake-up call.
THE TRANSFORMATION
I’ve known this friend for 10 years, and recently, I started noticing changes. He looked leaner, stronger, more energized. He even has abs now! His wife was transforming too, dropping weight and radiating the same vitality. Curious, I finally asked him what had sparked the shift. His answer brought me right back to that story. The heart attack. The helplessness. The realization that if he didn’t make a change, his own life could end just as suddenly.
That was the moment that flipped a switch. He stopped postponing and started acting. All of a sudden the obstacles from changing his lifestyle were gone. This was coming from a guy who loathed going to the
gym ever since I’d known him. Now he has his gym routine, running routine, and swimming routine all dialed in. And the best part is that he gets to do it with his wife.
WHY WE WAIT FOR A CRISIS
Unfortunately, many of us wait until tragedy strikes before we take our health seriously. A diagnosis, a loved one’s illness, or the sudden loss of someone close often jolts us into action. We live under the illusion that there will always be more time—time to exercise, time to eat better, time to take control.
But time isn’t guaranteed. And prevention is always easier than crisis management.
THE SCIENCE OF SMALL WINS
The good news? Transformations don’t require dramatic overnight changes. In fact, research consistently shows that sustainable progress is built on small, repeatable habits. Something as simple as a brisk 30-minute walk after work can make a difference. So can going to the gym, even if only for a short session. Cooking at home a few nights a week helps, as does prioritizing sleep and hydration. These shifts compound. Over weeks and months, they reshape health outcomes just as dramatically as high-intensity interventions—with far less risk of burnout. Like Masha from our gym says, “consistency over perfection.”
YOU DON’T NEED A NEARDEATH EXPERIENCE TO FIND YOUR WAKE-UP CALL. THE QUESTION IS: WILL YOU TAKE CONTROL BEFORE A CRISIS FORCES YOU TO?
YOUR WAKE-UP CALL
My friend didn’t wait for the perfect plan, the right coach, or the next Monday. He decided that “someday” wasn’t good enough anymore. He chose today.
You don’t need a near-death experience to find your wake-up call. The question is: Will you take control before a crisis forces you to?
You get one body, one life, and no guarantees. Whether your wakeup call comes from a tragedy, a tough conversation, or simply the reflection in the mirror, the only thing that matters is how you respond. Start now. Start small. But start. Because the best wake-up call is the one you answer today. spt
Eddie McKenna is co-owner of Heyday Elite Fitness. For more info, visit heydaytraining.com.
(photo: Towfiqu Barbhuiya)
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