SEPTEMBER 2019
PLUS: BUKOWSKI IN BRONZE LAUNCHES | REMEMBERING 'THE MACHINE' | 2019 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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Ready to Learn about Dental Implants? What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. The benefit of using implants is that they don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support and they are permanent and stable. Implants look and feel like natural teeth.
What is an Implant Support Denture?
While a regular denture rests on the gums and are not stable, An implant-supported denture is a type of overdenture that is supported by and attached to implants by special attachments for better fit and retention. There are two types of implant-supported dentures: bar-retained and ballretained. In both cases, the denture will be made of an acrylic base that will look like gums. Porcelain or acrylic teeth that look like natural teeth are attached to the base. Both types of dentures need at least two implants for support.
Your dentist can help you . . .
Can anyone receive dental implants?
Talk with your dentist about whether you are an implant candidate. You must have the proper bone structure for the implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may also be good candidates.
What can I expect during this procedure?
The dentist must perform surgery to anchor the “artificial root� into or on your jaw bone. The procedure is done in the dental office with local anesthesia. The gum is then secured over the implant, which will remain covered until it fuses with the bone. The dentist then uncovers the implant and attaches an extension, or post, to the implant. Finally, the dentist makes an artificial tooth, or crown, or dentures that attach to the implant post.
What is the cost of implants?
Dental implants for replacement of a single tooth are affordable and most dental and medical insurance policies cover portion of the cost. Your dentist can help you with this process.
Dr. Souzan Ardalan & Associates
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You’re going to be hearing a lot about Charles Bukowski in the coming months. The iconic writer, who’s famous all over the world, but for some reason still remains a mystery to most San Pedrans, would’ve celebrated his 100th birthday next year on August 16. As you’ll read in this issue, the San Pedro Heritage Museum has launched its first community project, leading the charge to erect a bronze statue of Bukowski to be placed somewhere in Downtown San Pedro by the time his centennial rolls around. For those unfamiliar, the legendary poet spent his later – some say his most prolific – years in his two-story house with his wife Linda, overlooking the L.A. Harbor here in San Pedro. He died March 9, 1994 and is buried at Green Hills Memorial Park. Aside from his grave marker, there’s nothing in or around San Pedro to note the man’s work, or even existence. Many tourists, mostly from Europe, who have made the pilgrimage to our town searching for remnants of “Hank,” as he liked to be called, always came up empty. The San Pedro Heritage Museum is hoping to change that. Their project, Bukowski in Bronze, is seeking to raise $150,000 for the art and installation, and has recruited another legendary local artist, Eugene Daub, to sculpt the statue. Daub’s famous Rosa Parks statue, which was unveiled in 2013, currently sits in the Statuary Hall in Washington D.C. It’s the perfect blend of local artistry and I’m hoping by this time next year, we’ll be featuring a beautiful, bronze Bukowski statue on our cover. All the information about Bukowski in Bronze can be found in these pages. To support the project, visit gofundme.com/ bukowski. (Full disclosure: I’m on the board of the SPHM and am also on the Bukowski in Bronze committee.) CAFFEINE FIX Adorning our cover this month is Yolanda Regalado, owner of Sirens Java
& Tea, the much beloved coffee shop and community hub in downtown that has finally reopened in their brandnew digs at the corner of 7th and Mesa Streets. It’s hard to articulate in writing just how missed that coffee shop was when it closed its original location at the end of last year. As soon as it shut down, 7th Street in downtown fell silent. The normally bustling block became a ghost town. People I would run into on a daily basis suddenly disappeared. It was like living through a Twilight Zone episode. When it closed, those of us who were regulars felt lost. As someone who’s traveled a lot and is a bit of a coffee shop aficionado, Sirens always ranked as one of the best. Not only for its coffee (and amazing homemade cinnamon rolls), but most importantly, for the sense of community it created in a part of town that was desperately in need of it. Thank goodness, the eight-month drought is finally over. The new Sirens Java & Tea, located just up the street from its original location, is back in business and, dare I say, is even more beautiful and exciting than the original. With new booths, window seating, a small stage and plenty of natural light, Sirens 2.0 took what worked in the original and capitalized on it. Even the entire original staff came back. To say it’s impressive is an understatement. As you’ll read in this month’s cover story, it was a long road to get to where they are today, but Yolanda and her husband Ray fought through the struggles and created something incredibly special in the new Sirens. If you haven’t been to downtown in a while, you now have the perfect excuse to venture below Pacific and experience it all for yourself. Congratulations to the Regalados and the entire Sirens staff on their reopening. It was a long time coming, but the end result was worth the wait. spt Joshua Stecker is publisher/editorin-chief of San Pedro Today. Letters to the Editor can be emailed to contact@sanpedrotoday.com.
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ADVERTISING:
ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION
Patricia Roberts (562) 964-8166 | patricia@sanpedrotoday.com
AT-LARGE CONTRIBUTORS
Shana Ghekiere (310) 753-5176 | shana@sanpedrotoday.com
Joshua J. Stecker
Joseph A. Castañeda
Lori Garrett, Mike Harper, Peter Hazdovac, Mike Lansing, Ricky Magana, Steve Marconi, Jennifer Marquez, Angela Romero, Valerie Electra SmithGriffin, Jamaal K. Street
PHOTOGRAPHER
John Mattera Photography
CONTACT INFO: Phone: (424) 224-9063
Email: contact@sanpedrotoday.com San Pedro Today P.O. Box 1168 San Pedro, CA 90733
VOLUME 11 | NUMBER 8
General Inquiries: ads@sanpedrotoday.com
EMPIRE22 MEDIA LLC OWNER/PUBLISHER Joshua J. Stecker
San Pedro Today publishes the last Thursday of every month and is produced monthly by Empire22 Media LLC. No portion of this publication can be reproduced without written permission by Empire22 Media. 25,000 copies are delivered to San Pedro and portions of Rancho Palos Verdes. San Pedro Today is a product of Empire22 Media LLC. Empire22 Media LLC, their subsidiaries and affiliates are released from all liability that may involve the publication of San Pedro Today. Copyright 2009-2019, Empire22 Media LLC.
ON THE COVER: Owner Yolanda Regalado stands inside the new and improved Sirens Java & Tea (photo: John Mattera Photography)
6 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
SEPTEMBER 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 7
SEPTEMBER Every Wednesday – CREATIVE WRITING CLASS FOR KIDS at The Corner Store (1118 W. 37th St.), 4:30 – 5:45p. Taught by San Pedro Today columnist, Jennifer Marquez. $10 per class. For more info, email jennifermarquez@yahoo.com. Every Friday – SAN PEDRO TEEN SUPPORT GROUP. 4p. A safe place to explore issues like making friends, dealing with bullies, peer pressure, managing stress, self-esteem, body image & much more. For more info, visit artemiscenter.net or call (310) 809-2011. Aug. 30 (Fri) – Sept. 2 (Mon) – L.A. FLEET WEEK 2019 at Port of L.A. World Cruise Center (250 S. Harbor Blvd.) 8:30a – 10p. L.A. Fleet Week features family-friendly exhibits, aircraft flyovers, guided ship tours, military equipment demos, live entertainment, food trucks and more. For more info on ship tours, visit lafleetweek.com. Now thru Oct. 18 – HEALTH CAREER SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE at Providence LCM Hospital (1300 W. 7th St.). Providence LCM Hospital Auxiliary is offering Health Career scholarship applications from August 19 to October 18, 2019. Applications are available at the Information Desk, Volunteer Office or online at www.providence.org/sanpedrovolunteers. Applicants must be in their second semester of their health field. For more info, call Marilyn (310) 833-0916 or (310) 241-4079. 5 (Thurs) - DOWNTOWN NOW & THEN WALKING TOUR. 10a. Go behind historic downtown San Pedro’s vintage store fronts and explore the area’s various lives as a rough and tumble waterfront, a bustling business district and a burgeoning arts district. Historian Angela Romero will guide you through the history while introducing you to everything making downtown’s future bright. Tickets are $15. Additional tours September 12, 19 & 26.
Call (310) 808-7800 to reserve. 5 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY ARTWALK in Downtown San Pedro, 6 – 9p. Live music, food trucks, art gallery displays, and food and drink specials from local bars and restaurants. Experience the most anticipated monthly event in San Pedro. 5 (Thurs) – FIRST THURSDAY PHOTOGRAPHERS EXHIBIT at the Arches on 6th Gallery (430 W. 6th St.), 6 – 9p. Join the San Pedro Photographers Association for their monthly Art Walk exhibition. View an evolving, one-ofa-kind collaboration of local, talented photographers. Enjoy spirits and appetizers while you view the gallery and meet the photographers. Catering by Michael Caccavalla Catering, music by Markus Carlton, and vendors Marlene Cat and Gayle Fleury. 6 (Fri) – HOLLYWOOD IN SAN PEDRO WALKING TOUR. 10:30a. San Pedro has been one of the busiest filming locations in Los Angeles since Hollywood began. Trace the steps of your favorite TV and movie stars on this guided location tour of scenes filmed right here in downtown San Pedro. You’ll be surprised just how many blockbusters and hit TV shows have made their mark here! Tickets are $15. Additional tours September 13, 20, 27. Call (310) 808-7800 to reserve. 7 (Sat) – THE OLD CITY WALKING TOUR. 10a. Trace the development of old San Pedro from a sleepy rancho to a bustling metropolis on this tour of all the key historic sites in the old city, including the historic old post office, Vinegar Hill, the Julia Morgan YWCA, the Warner Grand Theatre and more. Tickets are $15. Call (310) 808-7800 to reserve. 8 (Sun) – SECOND SUNDAY’S AT MIRALESTE FEATURING DARDEN at Miraleste Library (29089 Palos Verdes Drive E, RPV), 2 - 4pm. Join us
8 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
for a truly outstanding concert event by Darden, a quartet of talented musicians who play ten instruments collectively. These four harmonizing sisters blend Country and Americana into a soulful pop performance. No reservations required. For info, call (310) 377-9584 x452. 9 (Mon) – ADULT DOCENT TRAINING at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium (3720 Stephen M. White Dr.). The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is looking for adult volunteers to become docents and educate school-age children about Southern California’s marine environment. Prior ocean knowledge not required. Please contact Floyd Anderson at (310) 548-7562 ext. 229 or floyd.anderson@lacity.org. 9 (Mon) – NORTHWEST SAN PEDRO NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL BOARD MEETING at Peck Park Community Building (560 N. Western Ave.), 6p. 10 (Tues) – CENTRAL SAN PEDRO NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL BOARD MEETING at Port of Los Angeles High School (250 W. 5th St.), 6:30p. 16 (Mon) – COASTAL SAN PEDRO NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL BOARD MEETING at Cabrillo Marina Community Building (2965 Via CabrilloMarina), 6:30p.
28 (Sat) – GET TO KNOW THE L.A. COUNTY ASSESSOR’S OFFICE at the San Pedro Library (931 S. Gaffey St.), 2 – 4p. What does the L.A. County Assessor’s Office do? The League of Women Voters of Palos Verdes Peninsula/San Pedro invites all to attend an unbiased presentation designed to educate and inform voters on the duties of the L.A. County Assessor’s Office. For more information, contact Mary Ellen Barnes at (310) 833-8083, mebarnes@aol.com. Oct. 5 (Sat) – SAN PEDRO HIGH SCHOOL 20 YEAR REUNION at Brouwerij West (110 E. 22nd St.) 6 – 10p, Let’s party like it’s 1999! Purchase tickets at: eventbrite.com/e/san-pedrohigh-school-class-of-1999-20-yearreunion-tickets-62695782774. Oct. 5 (Sat) – SPHS CLASS OF 1969 50th REUNION at the DalmatianAmerican Club (1639 S. Palos Verdes St.), 5 – 11p. Join the S’69 Athenians and “Friends” for a night of reminiscing and celebration! Tickets are $75 per person (payment due by Sept. 20). For more information, contact Jerryne (Gregg) Soto spnanaj@aol.com (310) 422-9414 or Patti Folson-Medina patti.folsom.medina@gmail.com (310) 521-0431.
Oct. 26 (Sat) – 17th ANNUAL SCARY STORIES at Angels Gate Cultural Center (3601 S. Gaffey St.), 6:30p. 27 & 28 (Fri/Sat) – VENDOR SHOWSnuggle up for an all-new program of CASE 2019 at the Assistance League spellbinding stories suitable for young San Pedro-South Bay Gift Shop (1441 and old, living and…shhh! Radio theatre W. 8th St.) 11a-5p. The Assistance under the stars! Bring your own seating League will be holding its annual Venand dress warmly. Picnics welcome. dor Showcase event, featuring women’s Free folding chairs on site. $5 general wear, handcrafted jewelry, oils and vin- admission. Children 6 and under – free. egars, exotic orchids, scarves, and many For information call (310) 519-0936 or more gift items. Wine tasting offered on info@angelsgateart.org. spt Saturday 9/28 from 2-4p featuring six wines for $15. For more info, call (310) 832-8355 ext. 221. Want to see your event here? Email events@sanpedrotoday.com to place a listing. Deadline for the October 2019 issue is Friday, September 13. Find more events at facebook.com/sanpedrotoday.
FEEDBACK
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Uh oh… I see that you published my letter in the print version. At first [I was] surprised, I am now horrified by my typo. I typed "Moster," y'all changed it to "Monster," should have been "Mobster"! My apologies to you all, and especially to Big Nick's. And now that I know someone actually reads these, might I suggest your publication do a story on Mike Caccavalla. (I better let you know I'm not sure of the spelling!) He runs San Pedro Meals on Wheels, coordinates the Music by the Sea events, and used to own Downtown Subs & More. Great guy who gives so much of himself for our town.
Dear Editor, I live on 25th St. and Meyler and frequently walk to Vons with my rolling cart. There are four lighted intersections: Alma, Leland, Walker, and Patton. Not one of the corners has a slant for wheelchairs, strollers, rolling carts, etc. I wanted to take my grandma in her wheelchair to see the new [25th Street Mosaic] mural and we had to drive. When I come home with my groceries, I have to physically pick up the cart eight times. I have called 311 several times and nothing has been done. I hope this letter will make the city aware. 25th Street is a busy street and this issue needs to be addressed.
Haywood Nighttrain
Many Thanks, Rebecca Bettencourt
Joshua, I just wanted to pause long enough to say thank you for San Pedro Today. I look forward to reading it and often find very interesting information and things to do. For example, I learned that I could participate in the ringing of the Korean Bell, which I personally found to be a very spiritual experience, not to mention the pure joy it brought to me. I have been a resident since 1972. Thank you for your dedication and service to our incredible community.
Hi Joshua, I’m so impressed with your San Pedro Today magazine, especially the article on Angela [Romero’s] walking every block article. To me, San Pedro is a healing paradise – a best kept secret. Been to Hawaii and Paris, but San Pedro’s three-eyed uniqueness beats them all! I’ve been watching this beautiful diverse blossom of a city for more than 25 years, and it feels sooo great to be a part of this precious, energized community. Suzi Van Uchelen
Dear Editor, I am deeply troubled that no one – or hardly anyone – seems to question our national love affair with high technology. It is apparent to me that technology has not enriched our lives, and that in fact we are considerably worse off because of our addiction to it. Technology has impaired our lives in the following ways: 1. It gives humans too much power, without the concomitant wisdom to use that power rightly. Specifically, it gives governments and corporations the ability to spy on people who disagree with them. 2. It depersonalizes our lives, substituting mechanical devices for human interaction. 3. It imposes an artificial or “simulated” view of reality upon the world, replacing the evidence of our senses with artificially devised impressions. 4. It deprives our hands, feet, minds, and bodies of natural exercise. 5. It speeds up the pace of life unnecessarily, inducing anxiety and depriving us of the natural time to process stimuli. 6. It makes us dependent on a sophisticated mechanical system, which is beyond the scope of most people to repair or control when it breaks down. 7. It makes toxic waste. 8. It is expensive. 9. It is ugly and sterile to look at. 10. It can be used in warfare,
making wars even more deadly and horrible that they are now. I can see no benefit in having all information available at our fingertips; indeed, the removal of limits of time and space may flood us with too much information, causing confusion and chaos. It also intrudes on the privacy of individuals. Computers may be beneficial in banks and very large bureaucracies. They may also be helpful in testing drugs and chemicals, thus obviating the excuse for the horrendous torture of animals in “scientific” laboratories. Computer simulations may be a boon to animal rights, but that is no reason to impose a computerized way of life upon an entire society. Very sincerely yours, Naomi Anna Greenleaf
Letters to the Editor can be emailed to contact@sanpedrotoday.com. Letters may be edited for length, grammar and clarity. Letters must include your full name in order to be considered for publication.
Jackie Peery
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SEPTEMBER 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 9
VOICES
WHAT SHOULD BE TRENDING DOWNTOWN IS THE PAST by Steve Marconi Hollywood’s 1930s makeover of Downtown San Pedro earlier this month for a location shoot for HBO’s new Perry Mason miniseries created quite a stir in the community, and for good reason – downtown hadn’t looked that good since the `30s. It also got people thinking about the schizophrenic nature of downtown, especially in light of the two new hotel projects on the drawing boards. With the approval of the new development on the corner of Sixth and Pacific (next to the Warner Grand Theatre), we were hearing words like “trendy”
and “boutique” attached to a so-called downtown renaissance. Sixth and Pacific hasn’t been trendy since Sam Martin’s menswear inhabited that location in the 1970s. I could think of lots of words to describe that area today, but “trendy” is not one of them. And wasn’t San Pedro’s “renaissance” supposed to begin when Beacon Street was razed in the `70s? Or was it when those high-rises with views of the channel – and Rancho San Pedro – were built decades later? Has anyone driven down Pacific Avenue lately? Or been down Sixth Street? Those aren’t the streets I grew up on. In “chamber-speak,” it’s quaint, but the word that comes more readily to mind when I drive through downtown
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is “decrepit.” Now I have nothing against pawn shops per se, and I love Mexican food as much as the next guy, but today’s Pacific Avenue is not my idea of an urban renewal. I understand a younger demographic might consider tattoo parlors and brew pubs “trendy,” but outside of those establishments and a few popular bars and restaurants, which businesses on Sixth Street are prospering? Certainly not the ones that are vacant and have been for years. Beautiful murals help, but it takes more than nice art to have a renaissance. Now, I readily confess my bias against downtown – I refuse to pay for parking. If/when they ever eliminate the meterless parking lot at the old courthouse, even my rare visits may diminish. Why pay to park when you can dine where the parking is free and you don’t have to deal with panhandlers or step over people sleeping in doorways? Yes, you can’t discuss downtown without talking about the homeless situation, which should shame every politician connected to San Pedro (and if you think A Bridge Home will solve the crisis, I have another bridge to sell you). Using the word “trendy” just blocks from a disease and drug-ridden homeless encampment is like what realtors do when they call a crackerbox house “cozy.” Before hitting “send” on the hate email, however, read on. Pacific Avenue is probably a lost cause, but HBO may have given us the key to the revival of Sixth and Seventh streets. Forget trendsetting. What downtown needs to do is embrace what it is, or at least how Hollywood sees it: a perfect locale for prewar film shoots. If Hollywood wants a 1930s San Pedro, let’s give it to `em. Call me crazy, but how about we restore downtown to a permanent 1930s look? We already have the perfect bookends, the Warner Grand and City Hall, which, thankfully, look just like
they did when they were built. Other businesses can take a cue in restoration from the Arcade Building and what Pappy’s Seafood did to the former Papadakis Taverna. Returning storefront facades to their original 1930s look won’t be hard because most of them haven’t changed that much. Look how Hollywood’s imagineers turned back the clock on downtown almost overnight with just a little paint and period signs. There’s not much that can be done east of Centre Street, but it’s not too late for new projects going west. For instance, instead of thinking “boutique” or “trendy,” let’s go for retro. Instead of a jarring modern hotel next to the historic Warner Grand, wouldn’t a building with a matching art deco façade (and interior) be a much better look? And the same for the project planned on Nelson Street and whatever ends up where the courthouse now stands. Demolishing Beacon Street still stands as one of San Pedro’s worst mistakes. Here’s a chance to redeem our colorful past and bring people back to downtown. And what would do that more than, in addition to bringing back an authentic look, getting rid of the parking meters? It will work because the way I envision it, the streets are blocked off to normal vehicle traffic, with only vintage cars allowed in (an annual parking pass, perhaps). You make up the lost revenue from the meters with the revenue collected from the old-time trolleys that run regularly up and down Sixth and Seventh. One ticket, and you can ride up and down all day/night. Since that would be the main mode of transportation, they should easily collect enough money to pay for themselves and more. (The perfect touch, of course, would be putting rails back in and running the historic Red Car from the waterfront to Pacific and back. I can dream, can’t I?) spt Steve Marconi can be reached at spmarconi@yahoo.com.
SEPTEMBER 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 11
VOICES
WHY I AM RUNNING by Mike Lansing As summer ends and the children and teachers head back to the classroom, I have a humble announcement to make: I am once again running for the Board of Education for the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). So, why am I running? Two main reasons: 1.) We need to change the public focus from United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA) & charter schools and put students and student achievement first; and 2.) The district faces minimally a $500 million annual operating shortfall, and we must get serious about balancing the budget with strategic thinking and a willingness to make tough fiscal decisions. I was a teacher and school administrator for 17 years before becoming executive director of the Boys & Girls Club 25 years ago. During my tenure as director, I have instituted comprehensive programming to supplement what is not being adequately provided in our public schools for “those who need us most.” College Bound, Career Bound, Arts Academy, and STEM programming are just a few of the initiatives we have dedicated ourselves to over these 25 years. Our College Bound program has provided our members with the one-onone support and services necessary to graduate on time (99% again last year) and attend college (95% average over the last five years). We have sent 2,500 of our members to college over the past five years, most of which were the first in their family to attend. My organization has put students first. I will do the same once again as a School Board member. Mistakenly, the rhetoric surrounding the school district over the past year has been monopolized by whether or not we should have charter schools. Our leaders in Sacramento are currently hashing out how we will be moving forward with charters. This must not be the focus moving forward as the fate of our charter schools will soon be decided 12 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
and will more than likely continue to be a choice for students and parents. Therefore, the real focus should be how we work to prioritize and improve student achievement as the district faces a $500 million annual shortfall, and its reserves will be depleted in two years. This shortfall is real – the District and UTLA agreed to this reality when trying to unsuccessfully pass Measure EE recently. Unless there is some windfall of funding from the state to fill that gap, LAUSD will have to make some difficult choices, or will find itself on the brink of insolvency and could lose local control as the County and/or State will take over the district operations. As a School Board member, I will fervently advocate for making those tough choices while prioritizing the needs of students, just as I did as a member of the board in my previous two terms. Then, students faced overcrowded campuses, fewer instructional days and a district paralyzed by bureaucracy. As a member of the board from 1999 to 2007, I built a coalition of leaders in labor, business, and local communities to overcome crowding, balance the district’s budget, and improve academic performance. Prioritizing school site budgets in the coming years will be a key when facing an annual $500 million budget deficit or more. Putting students first and balancing an underfunded budget (New York receives $29,000 per student and LAUSD only $16,000) by making tough and strategic choices must be the discussion moving forward. Child development and student achievement have been the focus of my career for more than 40 years, and I hope to bring that success and experience to the District 7 School Board seat once again. I hope I can have your support, and I ask you to view my website mikelansing.com to learn more about my campaign. Serious times require serious leaders. I thank you in advance for your consideration. spt Mike Lansing is the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.
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FREE COOKING PRESENTATIONS & TASTINGS IN SAN PEDRO by Jennifer Marquez On a busy Sunday, I was attempting to refurbish an old dresser in the midst of other home improvement projects. I was dusty from sanding and had gotten stains on my arms despite wearing gloves. It wasn’t the best time to rush off to a cooking presentation. I had been to five events at the Pacific Food and Beverage Museum (PacFAB) in San Pedro, and I was hooked. I wasn’t about to miss one now, especially since the topic was guacamole and the epidemic of imposter sauces sans avocados. The horror! I needed to know more. I had always suspected the green sauce at many of the taco trucks seemed suspiciously different than most guacamole. At the lecture, Chef Christina Sleeper discussed how a recent story from Mexico City about fake guacamole went viral. Due to the increasingly high cost of avocados that are in high demand (avocado toast, anybody?), a counterfeit market has been created. The imposter guacamole is made with Mexican squash instead of avocados but is passed off as guacamole. The nerve! Chef Sleeper demonstrated how to make the poser guacamole, and everybody in attendance was able to sample the fake stuff versus the real deal. Both sauces looked and tasted very similar, but the real guacamole had a thicker consistency. My takeaway is that this fake sauce is actually really good and can be used like a salsa. It is considered a mole or sauce, according to Sleeper, and good with chicken breasts. It is less expensive than real guacamole. Tracey Mitchell, director at PacFAB, prepares the food for the events and is a master at creating beautiful food presentations for attendees to sample. Did I mention this was free? 14 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
Mitchell, who grew up watching Julia Child’s cooking class as a child on television, is a talented cook currently living in San Pedro. Melissa’s Produce, the largest distributor of specialty produce in the U.S., donates most of the produce to PacFAB events. One demonstration I attended was led by a representative from Melissa’s, a fruit guru, if there is such a thing. There was so much to learn and taste, from cutting a jackfruit to experiencing produce items that are often overlooked. I haven’t bought a jackfruit yet – it is such a large fruit and tricky to cut – but it’s good to have goals, even if they are fruit related. Pacific Food and Beverage Museum, a nonprofit organization, has been open in San Pedro for more than a year. Events are opened by the charismatic PacFAB director, Phillip M. Dobard, a former opera singer. I only know because I asked if he was a perfomer. San Pedro was chosen for the museum’s location because it was a U.S. point of entry for immigrants from all over the world and home to a deeply textured culinary tapestry. PacFAB is looking forward to expanding and growing in San Pedro and hopes to include cooking education for youth in the future. Inside of a building on Pacific Avenue across from the pawn shop, a group of people are enjoying culinary talks, mixology seminars and, on this particular day, learning about fake guacamole. This is the beauty of San Pedro. This bustling port town has so much to offer, from sea lions barking to ships coming and going, and now a place that teaches the community about food. spt Pacific Food and Beverage Museum is located at 731 S. Pacific Avenue in San Pedro. For more info, visit pacificfood.org. Events are posted on their Facebook page. Donations are appreciated.
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PLANS FOR CHARLES BUKOWSKI STATUE SET FOR DOWNTOWN NEXT YEAR MARKS THE LATE WRITER’S 100TH BIRTHDAY by SPT Staff On Thursday, August 15, plans were announced to create a bronze statue in Downtown San Pedro to memorialize the beloved late writer, poet, and artist who called San Pedro home from 1978 until his death from leukemia on March 9, 1994. The San Pedro Heritage Museum, which is spearheading the project, has launched a GoFundMe campaign called Bukowski in Bronze and aims to raise $150,000 to erect the statue by the late writer’s 100th birthday on August 16, 2020. “Fans of Bukowski travel to San Pedro from all around the world looking for a way to feel close to a man whose words touched them so deeply,” said Angela Romero, president and founder of the San Pedro Heritage Museum. “They’re looking to experience even a small part of the town he chose as his final home. Right now, all we have for them is his gravesite.” The San Pedro Heritage Museum has enlisted world-renowned sculptor and San Pedro resident Eugene Daub to work on monument renderings. Daub is known for works including his 2013 statue of civil rights icon Rosa Parks in the National Statuary Hall in Washington, D.C. The final statue design will be a collaboration between Daub and Bukowski’s widow, Linda Lee Bukowski, who has given the museum her blessing for the project. The idea to create something to honor Bukowski in San Pedro had been considered many times throughout the years, but nothing ever came to fruition. Bukowski is considered one of the most prolific poets, short story writers, and novelists of the 20th century. He wrote his most powerful and reflective works while living in San Pedro, including Ham on Rye, arguably his most personal writing. 16 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
Charles Bukowski (photo: Elisa Leonelli)
Romero felt compelled to put this project in motion befitting the literary great when she noticed Bukowski fans had nowhere to honor his legacy in the place he made his final home other than his gravesite at Green Hills Memorial Park. “A Bukowski monument would become an instant landmark,” said Romero. “Not only would it honor the life he lived in San Pedro, but it would also give fans a central place to gather and connect with him for years to come.” The campaign has the enthusiastic support of Los Angeles Councilman Joe Buscaino, the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, the San Pedro Business Improvement District, the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District, Grand Vision Foundation and Angels Gate Cultural Center, with key representatives serving on the museum’s Bukowski Monument Committee. “Building a Bukowski monument is long overdue,” said L.A. City Councilmember Joe Buscaino. “There is a lot of momentum in Downtown San Pedro, and there has never been a better opportunity to make the Bukowski monument a reality.” To donate to the project, visit gofundme.com/Bukowski. spt
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have three or four burners. It ultimately depends on the size of the grill.
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How big of a cooking area do I need? The answer depends on your family size and if you have plans for entertaining large groups of people.
SEPTEMBER IS THE PERFECT MONTH TO UPGRADE YOUR GRILL
What material should someone look for in a quality grill? Stainless steel or porcelain paint. Should someone purchase an extended warranty on a grill? Not necessary. Companies like Weber and high-quality grill manufacturers will send you replacement parts at no charge. An extended warranty is not needed.
by SPT Staff With Labor Day marking the unofficial end of summer, homes across San Pedro will be firing up their barbeque grills one last time before the holidays. If you’re in the market for a new grill, or are looking to upgrade, the off season is the perfect time to make that move. San Pedro Today asked our resident barbeque expert, Terry Katnic, owner of South Shores Ace Hardware, to answer some questions about finding the perfect grill to fit your needs.
Terry Katnic, owner of South Shores Ace Hardware
San Pedro Today: What should someone be paying for a standard barbeque grill? Terry Katnic: A charcoal Weber 22inch is $109, and the 12-inch Smokey Joe is $29.99. A propane Char-Broil grill is $229, and a two-burner Weber proWeber Summit pane is $399. There are barbeque grills Larger units are for people that would available for any budget. like to barbeque and entertain many people at once. What type of grill do you recommend for someone on a budget? For someone who wants to splurge? Gas grills vs. charcoal grills. Which is better? On a budget, the Weber Charcoal Grill Most people love an old-fashioned is great and inexpensive. As far as charcoal grill, and they'll never change. splurging, two of the best barbeques A propane grill is clean burning, we carry in our store are the Weber Genesis, which starts around $799, and convenient, and easy to start. So, the answer to which one is better is one's if you want to splurge big, you can go own personal opinion. There’s also with the Weber Summit. It has lots another option, and that is to purchase of options, including a rotisserie. You a Traeger smoker. can also order it with an infrared unit.
(photo: John Mattera Photography)
What’s the difference between an infrared or convection grill? Which is better? The benefits of an infrared grill are a faster start time, more evenly cooked food, a higher heat that's more direct, and 30% more juice will stay in the meat. Most restaurants have infrared barbeques in their kitchen due to it cooking in half the time. Searing food is quicker, better, and tastier. A convection grill is a more direct flame and is based on BTUs.
What are BTU ratings, and should they be considered in buying a new grill? British Thermal Units (BTUs) measure Weber Spirit the amount of heat that a grill can genWhat features should someone look erate. They make a big difference when for in a grill? it comes to the size of the grill and how Size would be the first thing. Where is hot you want the barbeque to get. It’s it going to fit, a backyard or balcony? recommended to look for 80-100 BTUs Taking it to the beach or to tailgate per square inch of cooking space. They events? Look at how many BTUs (Brit- do make a difference. Also, the more ish Thermal Units) it has and decide BTUs, the faster your fuel will burn. how hot you want your grill to get. You should take that into consideration, Also, look at the quality of the material as well. spt used. South Shores Ace Hardware is Are multiple burners a necessity? located at 2515 S. Western Ave., The more burners, the larger the cook#101, in San Pedro. For more info, ing area. Most large barbeques usually call (310) 833-1223.
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cioli Sauce, made the cut. “It is hard to pick [a favorite] as there are so many great recipes,” says Nissenson, “But Sandy Jacobsen, who was instrumental in the 1996 cookbook, is famous for her spiced pecans. She makes them every year for the opening night of our Holiday Boutique. It is one of my favorite [recipes].” Putting a recipe book together of San Pedro family dishes is no easy task. The Assistance League had a thirteen-member committee that collected, retyped, and edited all the recipes that were submitted by more than 75 members over the course of a year. Proceeds from the cookbook sales will help the Assistance League continue their services to the community, which include dental care for children. Last year, they provided school clothing for 1,624 children and distributed 5,800 teddy bears for children facing trauma in medical centers. At 196 pages, Serving Our Community is a bargain at only $14.95. The book will be available in the Assistance League Gift Shop (1441 W. 8th St. in Weymouth Corners) starting on Tuesday, September 3 (the day after Labor Day). With a first printing of just 1,000 copies, the book is sure to sell through quickly. “This cookbook was definitely a labor of love,” says Nissenson, “We felt that not only would it be a source of revenue for our organization, but also a legacy for all of the wonderful members and their hard work helping our community.” spt
THROWING IT DOWN, PEDRO STYLE ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF SAN PEDRO-SOUTH BAY RELEASES THEIR FIRST HOMETOWN COOKBOOK IN 23 YEARS by Joshua Stecker San Pedro families love homecooked meals. It doesn’t matter what country of origin or what style of cuisine, San Pedrans know how to throw down in the kitchen. Keenly aware of this fact, the Assistance League of San Pedro-South Bay has produced its first hometown cookbook in more than two decades. Serving Our Community features nearly 300 recipes (296 to be exact) from local members of the nonprofit organization, which is made up of mostly retired women, many of whom still fire up homecooked meals every day. “We have appetizers, soups and salads, breads, main dishes, vegetables, desserts, some ‘this and that,’ and some just for fun recipes,” says Joy Nissenson,
the chapter’s gift shop chairperson. “We have many Croatian recipes that have been passed down for generations. We also have some of the favorite recipes from our 1996 cookbook.” The Assistance League of San PedroSouth Bay has been around since 1936. An all-volunteer charitable organization, the nonprofit devotes most of its time and resources to the needs of the San Pedro community. Unfortunately, these resources do not come cheap, and the nonprofit is constantly seeking novel ways to fundraise. “We continue to look for new ways to fundraise in support of our pro-
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grams,” explains Nissenson. “It seemed like it was time [again] to share tried and true recipes that represented our community. These recipes represent many of our family’s traditional favorites. We also wanted to provide some healthy alternatives in this age of fast food.” Main courses, like Roast Pork with Mustard-Tarragon Sauce, Chicken Tequila Fettucine, and Corn and Green Chili Tamale Casserole, are joined by desserts, like Elvis's Favorite Pound Cake and Chocolate Butter Cream Layered Cookies. Even generational family recipes, like Radovich Mostac-
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Yolanda Regalado, owner of Sirens Java & Tea, in their new location at the corner of 7th and Mesa Streets.
(photo: John Mattera Photography)
The line is stretched out the door and spilling onto 7th Street. A melting pot of multi-generational San Pedrans are all eagerly waiting in line for a cup of joe on a Saturday morning in August, excited to be a part of the grand reopening of a beloved downtown establishment, Sirens Java & Tea. “This is crazy,” I overhear one woman say as she walks in with her young daughter. Not only is there a line out the door, but every seat is taken inside. The new booths, the row along the windows, the half dozen tables, all full. And they’ve barely been open an hour. The baristas, all original staff from the old location, are desperately trying to keep up. Although none of them are new, it’s been eight months since they last brewed an espresso here, and their rust is slowly peeling off. This was supposed to be a “soft” opening, they were told. “Hi, Yolanda!” a woman screams from the back of the line. Yolanda Regalado, the owner of Sirens (along with her husband Ray), doesn’t hear her. She’s running back and forth, making sure the baristas are stocked while also trying to play host to the hundred or
so people who came out on a normally quiet Saturday morning in Downtown San Pedro to see the coffee shop’s new digs. Outside, half of Mesa Street is closed off as various tables featuring safety and first responder information (an important part of Sirens’ story) line both sides of the block. Artist Julie Bender, the mastermind behind the 25th Street Mosaic Mural, also has a table selling photo prints of the now famous wall. (Her art studio was located in the back of Sirens’ original location.) Yes, it’s a block party for a coffee shop. Later that morning, San Pedro Chamber of Commerce President Elise Swanson and L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn, along with chamber board members, join the Regalados outside the front entrance for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. After a few kind words and thanking everyone for their support, they cut the ribbon, and once again, Sirens Java & Tea is back in business. That is, until they have to close the next day. COMMUNITY HUB A block party for a coffee shop re-
22 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
opening might seem like a bit much, but Sirens isn’t your typical coffeehouse. The energy on the corner of 7th and Mesa that particular Saturday morning is something Downtown San Pedro has been missing for years. The abrupt closure of their original location at the end of last year, after four years in business, left a gaping void in the heart of downtown. Not only did Sirens serve as a coffeehouse, it became the unofficial community hub for San Pedro. Its proximity to City Hall in the old News-Pilot building on 7th Street made it the perfect spot for city and local politicos to hold court over cappuccinos and homemade cinnamon rolls. Book clubs, local organizations, and school groups all had regular meetings there. It was also the spot where the 25th Street Mosaic Mural and the San Pedro Heritage Museum were both formally announced to the public. In fact, many of the tiles that ended up on the 25th Street Mosaic were made in Bender’s studio at the back of the shop. When Sirens closed at the end of last year, all that activity stopped. Since then, 7th Street has been a ghost town during the day. Even the successful openings of La Buvette Bistro
and Sebastian's Mediterranean Cuisine at the opposite end of the block couldn’t bring back the spirit left in the wake of the coffee shop’s shuttering. Like many who lamented its closing, all anyone was asking was, “What the heck happened?” ‘WE WERE GOING TO CLOSE FOR GOOD’ A week after the soft opening, I met up with Regalado in the new and improved Sirens. Since the opening block party on August 10, the shop had to close again due to the long wait in getting the health department to signoff on the business (she got an exemption for the soft opening). Bringing a building built in the 1920s up to code in 2019 involves a lot of money and a lot of paperwork. “It’s been frustrating,” says Regalado, as we chat in one of the comfortable new booths. “But once we get signedoff, we’re good to go.” The health department was scheduled to sign-off on the business by the end of August, so by the time you read this, Sirens should be open once again. (Ed. note: Sirens officially reopened Saturday, August 24, just as we were going to
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With more open space, new booth seating, and even a small stage, Sirens Java & Tea looks to bring new energy to a once quiet corner in Downtown San Pedro. (photo: John Mattera Photography)
print.) As the cliché goes, the road to this point was a long and rough one. Moving locations was never part of the Regalados’ plan when Sirens originally opened in late 2015. The coffee shop, whose name is a double entendre referencing the mythological creature and a symbol representing first responders, was coming to the end of their original lease last year and ran into issues renewing with their landlord. “Our new lease was coming up for another six years at that location,” explains Regalado. “All these new fees started coming up, and it started getting way too much. We were going to close for good, because we knew that we had put all our retirement, all our money – everything – into [the shop].” That’s when she met Joe Brucato. “He would come in every so often,” she says. “He's a retired sheriff for Riverside and I'm retired for L.A. County. That's how we got a connection.” The way Regalado explains it, Brucato, knowing the situation the Regalados were in, asked her to walk up the street to the corner of 7th and Mesa and check out a building that could possibly become Sirens’ new home. “So, we started talking and he said, ‘Hey Yolanda, get a cup of coffee and walk up the street with me,’ because he knew that I was upset. I said, ‘No, I don't want to go.’ He's all, ‘Come on, come on. Just get out of here. You need to get out of the building.’” The pair walked up to 402 W. 7th Street, which most recently was Cooks Kitchen & Remodeling, but at that moment was just one of many empty downtown storefronts with most of the
windows sealed shut. “He tells me, ‘That’s for lease,’” recalls Regalado. “So, we walked in and it was really old and needed a lot of work. Joe says, ‘You can do it. You did it once, you can do it again.’ Then he suggests that maybe I should buy the building. And I said, ‘Are you kidding me? I can't buy this building.’ And he said, ‘Yes, you can.’ I said, ‘No, I can't.’ And then he started laughing.” She continues, “A week later, he comes back in and asks if I’ve given buying the building any more thought. So, I asked him, ‘Why do you keep asking me this?’ And he goes, ‘Because I’m the owner.’ I thought he was joking. And he goes, ‘No, I am. And I want you to buy this.’ But I told him, after all we put into the first one, we couldn’t afford it. He says, ‘Yes you can. I’ll make it possible for you to do this.’” The building, owned by Brucato and his family, wasn’t on the market but was sitting vacant. It was an eyesore and a relic in a downtown district slowly trying to redefine and modernize itself. “I wasn’t sure what we were going to do,” admits Regalado. “But my husband said, ‘Yolanda, we need to open again. We need to do this. This is a gift. Maybe it’s a sign that we need to be here.’” “I wanted something vibrant [on that corner], and that’s what she had,” says Brucato. “We weren’t dying to sell it, but then the conversation turned to her making the leap. Yolanda and I get along really well and we were able to put a deal together quickly.” Regalado adds, “We decided we were going to do it. My staff, right after [we closed in] December, moved everything
24 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
into storage and we just got to work.” Buying and renovating a building built in the 1920s on a limited budget is a Herculean task, but the Regalados, along with their family, friends, and staff, were able to get it done. In order to help offset some of the upfront costs, Brucato helped find tenants like Birdcage Beauty Parlor and Her Escape Boutique to lease the smaller storefronts while Sirens continued its build out. After eight long months, waiting through multiple delays, including having to replace nearly all the plumbing and electrical, at a total build-out cost in the hundreds of thousands, the new Sirens Java & Tea was finally ready for its close-up. CALL OF THE SIREN The word that kept floating around the crowd during the soft opening in August was “amazing.” With large bay windows lining both 7th and Mesa Streets and a spacious lounge area that includes a small stage and nearly perfect natural lighting, the interior design of the new Sirens Java & Tea looks like something staged for a glossy travel magazine. Artist Tina Crandall, a friend of Regalado’s, did the interior artwork on the walls, which includes a faux wood design with blue drapery and images of coffee plants and mermaids. The serving counter and display cases sit in the back of the shop with a large menu board on the wall behind it. While the coffee shop is brand new, Sirens is still carrying on the legacy it started in the old location by honoring first responders and the military.
Regalado originally came up with the concept as a way to honor her older brother, Benjamin Pinel, a Los Angeles City Firefighter who died in the line of duty while responding to an arson fire at a restaurant near LAX on December 4, 1984. Sirens was her way of combining her two passions – honoring first responders and coffee. Regalado points to a blank corner of the shop and says, “That area is going to be dedicated to first responders. I'm just upset that we couldn't take our memorial piece, the one with the lighthouse and angel wings. We had to leave that in the old location because it’s just too tough to take off the wall.” She’s hoping whoever ends up renting the old location (it’s sat vacant since Sirens left), will let them try and recover the memorial, which is a large mosaic by Julie Bender. While Bender’s piece sits in the old location, Sirens, in keeping with its support of local artists, collaborated with Machine Studio, Community Art Machine, and the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District on a community mural project on the building’s back wall, adjacent to the 7th Street parking lot, titled “Adventures in Public Art.” The large mural, which features an underwater theme, is another in a series of large mural projects that have been canvasing the downtown district in recent years. “I’m so excited about [Sirens’] return to the community and look forward to the reopening,” says Linda Grimes, managing director of the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District. “I miss the wonderful environment for meetings, and I’m happy that Yolanda is now
a property owner and the corner is activated.” With Sirens back and ready for business, the attention now shifts to the shop’s main focus: coffee. This reporter, being somewhat of a coffee snob himself, can tell you that Sirens continues to pour a great cup of joe, which, even with all the community outreach and support, is the real reason people keep returning. Even the original staff came back, which was a shock, even to Regalado. “The first day everyone returned for training in the new shop, they were so excited and wanted to see their customers again,” says Regalado. “Sirens is a part of who they are. They take a lot of pride in that.” In addition to its coffee, Regalado is will be changing up the food menu this time around. “We're going to be carrying a lot more vegan items,” she says. “We're going to be offering healthier choices, in addition to our pastries.” She also says that the new space will allow Sirens to bake their own in-house items, like fresh bread and cookies. “And we’re going to host pop-ups,” she adds. “Every so often we'll have a pop-up shop. We’ll also be doing beer and wine tastings, as soon as we get our license.” There are also plans to open up a small speakeasy bar in another part of the building in the near future. Now that construction, for the most part, is finished, Regalado is finally
coming to terms with just how much the coffee shop’s absence was felt downtown and is excited to see all her regulars once again. As we’re finishing up our interview, an older lady pokes her head inside the shop to say hello. After exchanging pleasantries, the lady leaves and Regalado’s eyes light up. “Want to hear a story about that lady?” she asks me, as if I was going to say no to such a juicy question. “That lady, she’s a local artist, and before I opened up the first location, when I was looking at that building, she came outside and asked what I was doing,” she recalls. “I said, ‘I'm going to build a coffee shop.’ She goes, ‘Why?’ And I said, ‘Why not?’ Then she says, ‘We don't want you here. It’s not going to do well.’ I said, ‘Okay, but when we do open, will you come in and have a cup of coffee?’ She said, ‘Maybe.’ She's our biggest fan now.” spt Sirens Java & Tea is located at 402 W. 7th Street in Downtown San Pedro. For more info, visit sirensjavahouse.com or find them on Facebook and Instagram. Top: The new community mural on the back wall of Sirens, titled "Adventures in Public Art;" Bottom: Ray and Yolanda Regalado (center) are joined by board members of the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce and Supervisor Janice Hahn during the "soft" reopening ribbon cutting ceremony. (photos: courtesy San Pedro Waterfront Arts District, John Mattera Photography)
SEPTEMBER 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 25
THE MIRACULOUS MACHINE
never dreamed of receiving hundreds, let alone thousands of calls a day. The number he selected, (213) 833-3339 and post-area code re-assignment, (310) 833-3339, was a statistical gamble that was a jackpot.” Champion steadfastly felt that “one of the biggest draws to people wanting to hear the skits of The Machine was the sheer challenge of beating the busy signal.” Frank Politeo, father of Tom Politeo, shared his thoughts. “The Machine was a hobby that became a social phenomenon. From day one, my son, Tom, was always working with electricity. When he was approximately six-years-old, he amazed my wife, Zdenka, and I when by Valerie Electra Smith-Griffin he took a television apart and put it back together. He loved the dynamics of When San Pedro environmental electricity. Tom played with wires and activist Tom Politeo passed away in telephones, and he and his good friend, 2018, he left behind a telephonic legacy Steven Stein, would connect the phones that celebrates its 50th anniversary on together and collaborate. It was a purSeptember 12, which also happens to be suit that quickly spread like wildfire in Politeo’s birthday. San Pedro.” In 1969, 93 years following AlexanThe Machine sported a newsletder Graham Bell’s first patent award for ter and a P.O. Box that overflowed his telephone design, or as he referred with scores of fan mail that included to it, the “electric speech machine,” the a letter from Dr. Demento, who had astonishing accomplishment of The a wildly popular satire radio show on Machine, an entertainment telephone 94.7 KMET FM. He was so enthused answering service, was revealed to the by The Machine that he sent a letter to The men behind The Machine (top to bottom): Gabriel (“Eric”) Bouvier, Tom San Pedro community. the young, aspiring phone phreaks and Plimmer, and Tom Politeo (photo: courtesy Robyn McIntyre) This distinctive public service was played “Debbie, the Doll That Dies,” a answering machine. Reel-to-reel aufounded and created by three San Pedro ment for the masses. The Machine’s much-requested satirical recording on fans, ever curious to hear the parody diotape ran at seven inches per second, the death of Barbie, on his radio show. High School students, Politeo, artist skits and commercials, discovered the so two minutes of audio translated into Steven Stein, and Tom Plimmer who, If The Buggles 1978 song mournaccording to Stein, started testing their number by word-of-mouth, or inscribed seventy-feet of audiotape. This audiofully informed us that “Video Killed the on a shiny silver or green business tape was festooned around Politeo’s project with an AKAI tape recorder. Radio Star,” The Machine convinced Ma card, commanding those who held it to bedroom. When The Machine was play- Bell that the phone company was in a Immersed in the dynamics involved “CALL THE MACHINE.” ing a skit, it was as if his bedroom had in making an answering system, they whirlwind, as it kept tantalizing devoAccording to Phil Lapsley, author of come alive, a whirling, reeling mass of originally built one with the aids of tees to pick up the rotary handset and Exploding the Phone, phone phreaking, moving audiotape.” mundane household items, like paper keep dialing. The Machine Telephone meaning those that were obsessively Today, The Machine sports a Faceclips and toothpicks. The Machine Entertainment Network, a flamboyant interested in the telephone, skyrockbook page and thanks to the efforts of thrived during the “phone phreak” era, title sprouting as much parody as the eted in the late 1960s and early ‘70s, Alex Kasperavicius of Berlin, Germany, skits, wreaked havoc with the Pacific and undeniably takes center stage in wrestling with the infancy of computer the parody skits are now reactivated for Bell Telephone System, which was San Pedro’s telephone and electronic and network security, wiretapping, and all to enjoy. history archives. experiencing excruciating migraines privacy issues. Notorious phreakers “The Machine was one of the first, if over its inability to keep up with the According to Stein: “Plimmer was included: Cap’n Crunch, who used toy not the first, self-publishing systems for landslide of callers. Following the the Lennon and Politeo was the Mcwhistles from the cereal box to make recorded entertainment,” said KasperCartney of The Machine. We’d peruse advent of The Machine, at its peak, calls phone calls; Apple co-founder Steve avicius. “It proved it was possible to a Mad Magazine and go to the scripts shot to more than 2,000 a day, occasiondistribute alternative recorded entersection to record them just for the sheer Wozniak, who discovered the hobby ally busying out the entire prefix, which tainment to the masses, when at the enjoyment. We read Popular Electronics after reading a 1971 Esquire article (after a lot of back and forth between magazines and such articles as: ‘How to entitled, “Secrets of the Little Blue Box;” time everything else was all for-profit Politeo and Pacific Bell) resulted in The and Joe Engressia, or “Joy Bubbles,” controlled media. The Machine most Build Your Own Answering Machine.’ Machine being shut down. who ordained himself as the minister in definitely wasn’t, and I think that’s one The San Pedro Boy’s Club, under the Join in the revival of The Machine, direction of then Nicholas N. Trani, be- his self-made “Church of Eternal Child- reason it was exciting, it even had an with its history, frivolity and parodies. hood,” and about whom a documentary underground feel to it.” came ground zero, where further work Enter those notorious digits in your is currently being produced. Pre-electronic switching, the on what would eventually become the smartphone contacts or, for a thrill like The Machine was captured in Lapsstep-by-step phone system was restric- no other, dust off grandma’s avocado device for The Machine took place.” ley’s book: “While The Machine was tive, and the 24/7 constant calls that Keen intellectual curiosity, united green, rotary dial and “Let your fingers the youth’s creation, it looked more bombarded The Machine detonated with an extensive comprehension of do the walking.” like something that Rube Goldberg, the phone company’s switching gears. electronics and unrestrained imaginaCall The Machine at (310) 833-3339. the American cartoonist, engineer “No one had a grandiose ego and tions, enabled the youths to envision Former cast member and scriptwriter and inventor designed. It consisted of The Machine was tightly organized,” adventures that swiftly ballooned into Robyn Hugo McIntyre summarizes it an open-reel tape recorder and some remembers Loyd Champion, an avid fan best, “Nonsense is our business, our nothing less than the equivalent of a and close friend of the creators. “Politeo only business.” spt Cirque du Soleil in telephone entertain- custom electronics to turn it into an
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26 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
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BUKOWSKI IN BRONZE
SAN PEDRO HERITAGE MUSEUM LEADS CHARGE TO HONOR LATE WRITER by Angela Romero I can’t remember when I learned who Charles Bukowski was and that he lived in San Pedro. However, I do remember searching YouTube for Charles Bukowski videos back when I first started researching San Pedro history and culture. Mixed among the results was a shaky video of a European tourist wandering through downtown San Pedro, desperately seeking out any hint that Bukowski had been there. Over the last ten years, I’ve mentioned that video many times to illustrate the fact that we don’t really celebrate our notable residents or make any kind of fuss, really, over anything positive that goes on here. Instead, negative news and groups get highlighted because we let other people control our narratives. When I founded the San Pedro Heritage Museum, I decided that a big part of the mission would be to shout all of the great things about San Pedro from any rooftop that will have me. Recently, I was talking with someone about Charles Bukowski. She didn’t know who he was and was completely unaware that he had a large international following. Again, I brought up that video. I said, “The guy was probably looking for a statue and couldn’t believe that there wasn’t one. His fans love him that much!” Her response changed the course of my entire summer. “What if there was one? Would people come see it?” What if there was one?! Those words ignited a fire in me that I’ve realized has only ever blazed for San Pedro related projects. Immediately, I started texting friends and scheduling meet-
A large crowd gathers at Sacred Grounds Coffee Shop for a night of Bukowski readings on what would've been the writer's 99th birthday, (inset) Romero with Linda Lee Bukowski. (photos: courtesy San Pedro Heritage Museum)
ings with key people who could help me answer not the what if, but whether it could it be done by Bukowski’s 100th birthday next year. My first contact was my friend Andrea Kowalski. She used to own a little bookstore, Vinegar Hill Books on 6th Street. Bukowski used to come into the store to play with her cats and secretly autograph his books. She also famously threw him his last public birthday party, and he attended! Andrea told me that there had been a movement to erect a statue of Bukowski following his death in 1994, but it lost steam. There have been a couple of attempts to immortalize Bukowski in bronze, with the same result. I knew I would need the right team to make this dream a reality. San Pedro Today, my home publication, supported me wholeheartedly. Branimir Kvartuc from Councilman Joe Buscaino’s office lit up like a Christmas tree at the mere mention of it; they were in. The San Pedro Business Improvement District, Chamber of Commerce, Arts District, Grand Vision Foundation and Angels Gate Cultural Center were all in support of the idea, as well. Apparently, a statue of Charles Bukowski in downtown San Pedro was a no-brainer. But to see if it was feasible to accomplish in 12 months, there was only one person I wanted to talk to: local world-renowned sculptor Eugene Daub. Eugene Daub is so amazingly tal-
28 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
ented, and he’s lived here in San Pedro for years. His statue of Harry Bridges was recently unveiled at the new ILWU Hall, and his Rosa Parks statue sits in the Statuary Hall in Washington D.C. (we have some really awesome people living among us). At his studio, among all the magnificent heads of his previous works, Eugene told me that a year was a perfect amount of time to get a statue done. It takes a couple of stages of development: It starts with conceptual drawings, then a small three-dimensional model is made and once the design is final, it goes to the foundry to be cast. When asked if he’d be interested in sculpting the statue, Eugene was excited about it. He loves sculpting iconic people. The fact that it would be a fellow San Pedro resident was icing on the cake. In just one short week I was able to get local civic support and one of the best sculptors in the country. There was only one more person I needed onboard, Linda Lee Bukowski, Charles Bukowski’s widow. I was so excited after talking to Eugene that I asked a friend who knew Linda to introduce me. It was a quick introduction on her front porch with a promise to be back with more information. A month later, I was back with Eugene and Anne Daub and some really early conceptual sketches. We got to see Bukowski’s private writing room that’s just as he left it 25 years ago, the pool where Linda taught him how
to swim and the archive full of photos that’s like a treasure trove for a sculptor like Eugene. At the end of the visit I left with Linda’s blessing to proceed with the project, literally -- she had scribbled it in my notebook. With Linda Lee Bukowski’s blessing, we knew we wanted to launch the crowd-funding campaign on August 16, 2019, what would’ve been Charles Bukowski’s 99th birthday. It was a mad dash, but we pulled it off. We marked the occasion with a celebration of both our launch and Bukowski’s birthday. There was birthday cake and selected readings of Bukowski’s writings. Linda Lee Bukowski showing up at the end made the event even more special. Raising over $150,000 for a monument is a huge feat, but I think San Pedro honoring Charles Bukowski, a prolific writer who gave the most and the best of himself while he lived here, is long overdue. Our hope is to unveil the statue on August 16, 2020, Bukowski’s 100th birthday. The minute that statue is cast, I’m going to find that YouTube video of the wandering European and leave a message for him, welcoming him back to San Pedro to see the statue and thanking him for the inspiration. spt To donate to the Bukowski in Bronze campaign, visit gofundme.com/Bukowski
Dr. Kardovich and staff enjoying San Pedro in the summer!
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SEPTEMBER 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 29
SPORTS
2019 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW by Jamaal K. Street
Football is back, and it looks like a promising year for San Pedro and Mary Star High Schools as the 2019 season officially begins. No one anticipated San Pedro High School’s 2018 season going the way it did. The Pirates started off strong in their first five games last year, but then hit a tailspin losing their next four before finally closing the regular season strong with a victory over Gardena, their only Marine League win in four league games. Once the CIF-Los Angeles City Section Division 1 playoffs finally arrived, San Pedro would go all the way, capturing the program’s sixth CIF-LACS crown with a stirring 22-20 victory over Dorsey at El Camino. The 2019 Pirates will carry that experience over in the hopes of defending the Division 1 crown, or maybe challenge for the Open Division title if the Pirates (8-6 overall in 2018) are in the top eight by the end of the regular season via the Cal Preps computer poll. Senior RB/LB Joshua Ward returns for the Pirates, and that’s always a great sign when the reigning CIF-LACS Division 1 Player of the Year is still on the roster. Ward had a phenomenal playoff run in 2018, as he rushed for 1,361 yards and 18 touchdowns on 208 carries for San Pedro, also scoring four more touchdowns on three receptions and a kickoff return. Defensively, Ward was equally impressive with 70 tackles, four sacks, three fumble recoveries and three forced fumbles. Ward is one of six returning All-City Division 1 players. Senior linebacker Miguel Lopez-Rosales, like Ward, is drawing some college interest. Last year, Lopez-Rosales led all of San Pedro with 121 tackles, while also forcing
Prep Football Standouts: (top) San Pedro High School's Joshua Ward (left) & Miguel LopezRosales; (bottom) Mary Star High School's Jesse Tello (left) & Marco Ibarra. (photos: John Mattera Photography)
three fumbles, recovering one. Junior defensive back Richie Sanchez came out of nowhere for the Pirates in 2018, posting 81 tackles, and leading with five interceptions, including a clutch ‘Pick 6’ in San Pedro’s 44-14 semifinal victory over South Gate. Andres Srsen, a senior WR/DB, is the steadiest two-way player for San Pedro, catching 15 passes for 180 yards on offense, while registering 83 tackles, three pass deflections and a fumble recovery. Fellow returning senior WR/ DB Jerad Braff has big play capability, catching 12 passes for 145 yards and a pair of touchdowns, also intercepting two passes. The player who made the biggest impact in the 2018 CIF-LACS Division 1 final is returning junior WR/ DB Joshua Johnson (13 receptions, 191 yards, 56 tackles). His second interception of 2018 was a 27-yard return for a touchdown, which put the
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Pirates ahead for good midway through the second quarter. Stepping into the role as full-time starting quarterback for San Pedro is talented two-sport junior, Dylan Kordic. As the back-up to the departed All-City two-year starter Justin Bernal, Kordic, who helped San Pedro’s baseball team win 27 games and a Marine League title as the starting third baseman, threw for 218 yards and two touchdowns on 32-of-69 passes (46.4% completion rate). Corey Miller enters his fourth year as the Pirates’ head coach after earning his first CIF-LACS Division 1 Coach of the Year honor. San Pedro begins their 2019 season at North Torrance, while the schedule also features 2018 CIF-Southern Section Division 3 champion Sierra Canyon and five-time defending CIF-LACS Open Division champion Narbonne. Meanwhile at Mary Star, fifth-year head coach Jason Gelber guided the
Stars back to postseason play, as the Stars finished 7-4 overall, falling in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 13 playoffs to eventual champion Linfield Christian. Mary Star nearly won the Camino Real League title with a 2-1 mark, only losing 24-17 to Bishop Montgomery in a game the Stars led 17-6 in the second half. Senior OL/DL Jesse Tello returns after making a big impact in just six games played following his transfer sit-out period from San Pedro. In that short time of action, Tello’s imposing presence on the line impressed the other league coaches enough to choose the All-CIF Division 13 selection as the 2018 Camino Real League Lineman of the Year. The Stars rely on a lot of two-sport standouts to keep on shining. Senior Marco Ibarra, a two-time all-league pitcher in baseball, is projected to be the new starting quarterback. Ibarra also excels at wide receiver (13 receptions, 108 yards, 4 touchdowns) and linebacker (60 tackles, 3 interceptions). Senior WR/DB Aaron Martinez (11 receptions, 212 yards, 2 touchdowns; 34 tackles, 3 interceptions, punt return touchdown) is a two-time all-league basketball guard. Another player looking to impress once again is senior WR/DB Isaac Colloca, who had a spectacular 2018, catching 15 passes for 325 yards, a whopping 29.5 yards per catch, and six touchdowns. Senior running back Giovanni Rizzo will now be the featured back at Mary Star, as he ran for 325 yards and six touchdowns on 52 carries. Junior Adam Turbide has great instincts at linebacker, registering 90 tackles last season. Believe it or not, the most notable change in Mary Star’s 2019 roster will be at kicker. All-Camino Real League girls’ soccer standout, sophomore Maddie Purves, will fill the role vacated by graduated All-CIF Division 13 selection Noah Guastella. Mary Star will now be in a much more improved Camino Real League with St. Monica and Cantwell Sacred Heart both making strides in the hopes of dethroning Bishop Montgomery. The Stars’ season opener is against Gladstone at Citrus College. spt
SEPTEMBER 2019 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 31
WELLNESS
UNCONVENTIONAL WAYS TO MEDITATE by Lori Garrett
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When people ask me if I meditate, I often give the same answer, “I’m not good at meditating.” And for the most part, it’s true. I have trouble concentrating and staying “in the moment.” When I’m supposed to be sitting quietly and focusing on the here and now, I find myself overly distracted by a million thoughts that decide to invade my head at that very moment. Perhaps it’s an impromptu mental review of that week’s grocery list or all the tasks I’ve yet to do that day, or the sudden urge to mentally prepare for what I’m going to make for dinner that night. It seems the more I try to concentrate, the more distracted I get by all the random thoughts that creep into my mind. Of course, I want to be good at it. And why wouldn’t I? Studies show meditation can have positive effects on health and can help treat numerous conditions, including pain, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, insomnia, IBS, and ulcerative colitis, to name a few. With stress being linked to so many medical conditions, it’s no wonder meditation has proven to be helpful in managing one’s health. But it seems whenever I attempt traditional meditation, I fail. And I know I’m not alone. I’ve heard many others also complain that they’re not good at meditating either, and this makes it all too easy to brush off the idea of meditation with a convenient “this isn’t for me” attitude. But while recently watching an episode of Dead to Me (the hit Netflix show that was largely shot right here in San Pedro), a thought popped into my head: maybe I’ve been approaching it all wrong. In the dark comedy, Christina Applegate plays a grieving widow who’s trying to come to terms with her husband’s untimely death. In her own way of coping, she reveals that she practices a unique way of “meditating” in order to manage her stress and anger: blasting heavy metal music in her car. Though unconventional, it’s her own personal way of releasing her pent-up grief, anxiety, and rage. But can we really call this meditating? Meditation is a practice of focus-
ing on a particular thought or activity in order to release stress and achieve calmness, mental clarity, and relaxation. Traditionally, meditation has involved sitting (or laying down) in a quiet space, usually with eyes closed, mindfully blocking out the “noise” of the world around us. But if the end result is the same – reaching a more peaceful state of mind and body – does it matter what method we choose to achieve it? I’d like to think we can embrace a looser definition of meditation, incorporating any activity that contributes to mindfulness, pulling focus into the moment, and putting the body and mind into a calmer state. It’s a pretty stressful world we live in, after all. We need all the options we can get. So, pushing tradition aside, here are some unconventional ways of meditating: Listen to music that moves you. Yes, even heavy metal music, if that’s your jam. Spend time in nature. Studies show exposure to trees and forests (and other green spaces, like parks and gardens) is particularly therapeutic and provides numerous health benefits, including boosting immune function, lowering inflammation, reducing blood pressure, and improving mental clarity Deep breathing. Simple, mindful deep breathing can be a quick way to become centered or achieve a calmer state of being. Pray. Both prayer and meditation are about focusing on something outside ourselves. And like meditation, there’s evidence that prayer can positively affect brain function and mental health. Personally, I find that having a “conversation” with a higher power allows me to clear my head, release stress, and become more centered. Create. Art therapy has been used to help treat various mental and medical conditions. Whether it’s painting, sculpture, or drawing (adult coloring books, anyone?), creating art is another way to achieve a meditative state while benefiting from its healing effects. Whether we call it meditating or not, if you’re looking to achieve that meditative state of calm and focus, I’m all for choosing whatever activity resonates with you personally. spt Follow Lori Garrett's wellness blog, at adventuresofasickchick.com.
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HEALTH & FITNESS
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34 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I SEPTEMBER 2019
chocolate, drive-thru, dinners, parties, nothing’s off limits. And come Monday, back on the wagon. This reminds me of one of my favorite quotes: “You can have anything you want. But you can’t have everything.” No matter how much you want to fight it, everything has trade-offs. And sadly, the science of weight-loss chance. doesn’t care if you have a bachelorette The day we arrived on the island of Mykonos, we settled in the hotel bar to party this weekend. Whatever result order a couple freddo cappuccinos. The you want, there might be something in your life you have to give up to get it. bartender was stacking glasses, scrubbing the counter, shuffling to get the bar At least temporarily. There is absoopen for the evening crowd. He stopped lutely nothing wrong with enjoying the weekend. You can loosen the reins on and took our order. “Two freddo capthe weekend and still lose weight, but puccinos, please.” As he turned to get it won’t be fast. If you have a serious to work on our drinks, just over his shoulder was a sign that read: There are weight-loss or a performance goal, you need to heed the same directive the three types of service here: good, fast, Greek bartender gave me (modified for and cheap. Pick two. I started laughing because it was the fitness): There are 3 types of results typical blunt truth you get from Europe- here: long-term, easy, fast. Pick two. You can have long-term and fast, ans. It was also spot-on. What you but it won’t be easy. You can have want comes with trade-offs. You can easy and long-term, but it won’t be have whatever you like, but you can’t fast. You can have fast and easy, but it have everything, so you have to choose won’t be long-term. what’s most important. A crash diet, cleanse, or detox will You can have good and fast, but it give you fast and easy results, but they won’t be cheap. You can have fast and won’t be long-term. cheap, but it won’t be good. You can A balanced flexible diet and exercise have cheap and good, but it won’t be plan will give you easy to manage, fast. long-term results, but it won’t be fast. Our society likes to tell people they A track-everything train-hard plan can have it all. Want a cupcake? Go for will get you fast, long-term results, but it! Want a flat stomach, too? Yeah, you it won’t be easy. deserve it! Want to undo ten years of The key to getting results is having bad habits and poor lifestyle choices in accurate expectations. Don’t expect one six-week challenge? And have a easy when that’s not what you signed few cheat days? Your wish is my comup for. Don’t expect fast if that’s not mand! what you committed to. Always know I see a lot of people negotiating sucthe trade-offs and be self-aware enough cess on their terms. They don’t want to know what you’re willing to do and to work out but want to look like they what you’re willing to sacrifice. do. They want a body like an Instagram So, as you go into Sirens Java & Tea model, but won’t change their habits or this month and order a cappuccino, do the preparation and work it takes to remember what I told you: good, fast, get them there. So, they haggle the price cheap. Pick two. spt of getting the result like it’s a swap meet. One example is the weekend. People Heyday Elite Fitness offers a 2-minute scan that provides a full 1-page are completely willing to work out, body fat analysis to help you tailor prep, and eat healthy during business hours. But come Friday night, the purge your fitness goals. For more info, email ricky@heydaytraining.com. bell sounds off. Beers, wings, wine, I went to Greece for my honeymoon last year. It was incredible. The beaches, food, culture, and history are all amazing. Go if you ever get the
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by Mike Harper & Peter Hazdovac
It seems like only yesterday we were sitting down to write our 2018 Real Estate Year in Review. Believe it or not, we are nearing the close of summer and headed toward the tail end of 2019. With this in mind, we thought it would be helpful to give readers a mid-year review of our local real estate markets and take a closer look at how they compare to last year. It’s no secret that our real estate markets have experienced a major comeback since the ultimate collapse of our financial markets in 2008 due to the failure of the largest financial institutions in the United States. At the end of 2018, we reported that home prices in San Pedro had reached alltime highs but that continued growth may be a challenge due to two primary factors: 1.) Rising mortgage rates were anticipated to exceed 5% by the end of 2019, and 2.) Housing affordability was becoming a major concern. In San Pedro, through the first six months (Jan-June) of 2019, according to our local MLS statistics, there were 132 single-family residences (SFR) sold. This was 22% less than the 170 SFR sales during the same period last year. However, the average sales price for an SFR in San Pedro had increased by 1%, up from $703,000 to $707,000. Average Days on Market (DOM) had increased from 31 to 35 days (+11%). In neighboring Rancho Palos Verdes, there were 163 SFRs sold in the first half of 2019, which was down 17% compared to the 196 sold during the same period in 2018. Average sales prices also dipped by 4% during the same period, from $1,610MM in 2018 to $1,544MM in 2019. Average DOM was at 47 days, which was a 6% increase from the year prior. The South Bay as a whole saw the number of SFR sales decrease
7% during the first six months of the year, from 2,006 in 2018 to 1,856 in 2019. However, the average sales price for an SFR increased 1.5% from $1.186MM to $1.203MM. Average DOM also increased 16% from 32 to 38 days during the first half of 2019. What about mortgage rates? In our 2018 review, we reported that mortgage rates had increased from 4% in 2017 to a high of 4.7% in 2018. The chief economist for the California Association of Realtors, Leslie Appleton-Young, had projected mortgage rates rising to approximately 5.2% in 2019. So far that hasn’t happened. Freddie Mac recently released results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) showing that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) rate averaged 3.6%, the lowest it has been since November of 2016. This has been the biggest surprise so far this year and has helped to propel our real estate market. So, what’s next? With current mortgage rates under 4%, unemployment decreasing and a continued high demand for housing in the South Bay, our local real estate market appears to be headed down a similar path to 2018. We hope you have enjoyed reading our real estate column and are always looking for real estate-related topics that interest the community. We appreciate any topic suggestions you may have for future columns. We would also like to open up future columns to a Q&A format from our readers looking for answers to their real estate questions. If you would like to participate, please email your questions and/or suggestions to: peter@harperhazdovac.com. spt Mike Harper and Peter Hazdovac are both licensed Realtors® with Keller Williams Realty. For more info, visit harperhazdovac.com.
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The former San Pedro News-Pilot building on 7th Street in downtown. The News-Pilot was the best source for local San Pedro news until 1998 when it was folded into the Daily Breeze. This was also the original location of Sirens Java & Tea, which was located on the right, two-story side of the building. (photo: San Pedro Bay Historical Society)
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