San Pedro Today - November 2023

NOVEMBER 2023

WEST HARBOR RISES

THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED WATERFRONT PROJECT FINALLY BEGINS CONSTRUCTION.

PLUS:

• YWCA: EMPOWERING WOMEN • CABRILLO MARINE AQUARIUM IMPROVEMENTS • TIME MANAGEMENT & YOUR FITNESS • EAT IN SAN PEDRO: NEW TO THE SCENE • NOVEMBER EVENTS & MUCH MORE!

SCAN TO READ MORE AT SANPEDROTODAY.COM

Smile A While.

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I NOVEMBER 2023 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 3

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NOVEMBER 2023 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/ART DIRECTOR

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Check out the latest news and events at sanpedrotoday.com.

VOLUME 15 | NUMBER 10

ON THE COVER: The current artist rendering of an aerial view of West Harbor. (photo: Studio One Eleven/West Harbor)

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NOVEMBER 2023

EVENTS

Every Friday – SAN PEDRO FARMERS MARKET (396 W. 6th St., corner of 6th and Mesa), 11a-3p. – New location!

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.

SEUM at Old Fire Station 36 (639 S. Harbor Blvd.), 10a-3p. – The LA Fire Department Historical Society invites you to tour and experience San Pedro and Wilmington's fire protection and rescue history with vintage fire apparatus and displays. Come to visit or to volunteer. FREE admission. For more info, visit lafdmuseum.org/harbor/.

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 11a-3p. 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.

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.

Every Tuesday & Every Saturday – BELMONT SHORE MODEL RAILROAD CLUB at Angels Gate Park (3600 S. Gaffey St., Building 824), Tuesdays 7-10p & Saturdays 12-4p.

– The best kept secret in San Pedro!

The Belmont Shore Model Railroad Club is the oldest and largest N scale club and offers clinics on modeling and an opportunity to explore a new hobby. Admission is FREE and open to the public. For more info, call (310) 831-6262 or visit belmontshorerr.com.

Every Friday – LAFD HARBOR MU-

2-5 (Thurs-Sun) – 12th ANNUAL SAN PEDRO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL at the Warner Grand Theatre (478 W. 6th St.), various showtimes.

– The San Pedro International Film Festival was founded to celebrate the diverse culture and community of San Pedro with a wide spectrum of independent film, documentaries, and shorts.

Included in the program will be a screening of The Stones and Brian Jones — celebrating the legendary band The Rolling Stones and their iconic member Brian Jones — on Saturday, November 4 at 7p. For tickets or to view the full festival schedule, visit spiffest.org.

4 (Sat) – ANNUAL PUMPKIN SMASHING COMPOST EVENT at Feed and Be Fed (429 W. 6th St.), 4-6p. – Join the party to smash old pumpkins to be turned into compost. Family fun! For more info, visit feedandbefed.org.

4 (Sat) – SICILIAN SONGS AND STORIES WITH MICHAELA MUSOLINO at Collage: A Place for Art & Culture (731 S. Pacific Ave.), 7:30p. – Michela Musolino has been internationally lauded for her unique ability to reimagine Sicilian folk and roots music, alchemized with renowned American musical genres from rockabilly to soul.

Musolino has sung in medieval Sicilian castles and ancient Sicilian temples, NYC landmarks, honky-tonks, and national folk festivals, connecting listeners in a brotherhood of shared emotions and experiences. Musolino creates roots music that will make your toes tap and your heart sing. For tickets and more info, visit collageartculture.org.

5 (Sun) – MODERN FOLK WITH JOSELYN & DON at Collage: A Place for Art & Culture (731 S. Pacific Ave.), 7:30p. – Montana natives turned Angelenos, Joselyn & Don’s intoxicating music feels like a walk through mountain wildflowers and Southern California Joshua trees. The duo’s 2020 debut album Soar and 2022 EP Seeds & Bones have been warmly received by critics and added to over 200 independent radio stations worldwide, reaching number 5 on Roots Music Report’s Americana Album Chart and the Top 100 of the Americana Music Association's album chart. For tickets and more info, visit collageartculture.org.

10-19 (Fri-Sun) – CHRISTMAS BAZAAR at The Norwegian Seaman’s Church (1035 S. Beacon Street), Monday thru Saturday 11a-4p and Sundays 12-4p. – Join us for this

multi-day event, a cozy Scandinavian Christmas bazaar with Norwegian and Swedish Christmas decorations, bakery, crafts, gifts, and raffle!

11 (Sat) – GUIDED NATURE WALK at White Point Nature Preserve (1600 W. Paseo Del Mar), 9a. – Celebrate Veterans Day by walking through restored coastal sage scrub habitat and stop at a former gun emplacement to learn about the military history of the area. Don’t miss the Nature Education Center with activities for the whole family. Easy to moderate. Presented by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. Sign up at pvplc.org/calendar.

11 (Sat) – NATIVE PLANT SALE at George F Canyon Nature Center (27305 Palos Verdes Dr. East, Rolling Hills Estates), 10:30a–1p. – Monthly plant sales are back! Come to our nature centers during our sales to learn more about growing local native plants and purchase some for your garden! An additional plant sale will take place on Saturday, November 25 at White Point Nature Preserve (1600 W. Paseo Del Mar), 10:30a–1p. Presented by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy.

For more info, visit pvplc.org/calendar.

12 (Sun) – A JAZZ AFTERNOON WITH THE ITTY BITTY BIG BAND at Collage: A Place for Art & Culture (731 S. Pacific Ave.), 4p. – Enjoy a fall Sunday with a late afternoon jazz concert with classic swing tunes, lovely ballads, a wine tasting, and light refreshments. The Itty Bitty Big Band is a new project by the well-known Harbor

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Jazz Ensemble. As the name suggests, this group plays cool arrangements reminiscent of a Big Band, and at the same time, showcases all the musicians’ improvisational skills and their joy in sharing this truly original American art form called jazz. For tickets and more info, visit collageartculture.org.

15 & 25 (Wed & Sat) – PECK PARK CANYON HIKES at Peck Park (560 N. Western Ave.), 9a. – Exercise walks are led on the third Wednesday of each month at 9a and last 1 to 1½ hours. Nature walks are led on the fourth Saturday of each month at 9a.

All walks leave from the trailhead in the lower parking lot at Peck Park.

18 (Sat) – GIVE THANKS SAIL at Los Angeles Maritime Institute (550 S. Harbor Blvd.), 3p. – Gather friends and family to share in a great afternoon on the water, and give thanks on one of the Los Angeles Maritime Institute's tall ships. You can sit back and relax or become part of the crew – your choice!

Don’t forget to bring a picnic to enjoy

too (no glass bottles please). Tickets $60 for adults, $30 for children (12 and under). LAMI members receive 10% off all ticketed events. For tickets and more info, visit lamitopsail.org/events.

18 (Sat) – AMERICANA CONCERT WITH JAKL TRIO at Collage: A Place for Art & Culture (731 S. Pacific Ave.), 7:30p. – JaKL is three accomplished songwriters and performers joining forces, united by a love for American traditional music. Jaynee Thorne, Karen Tobin, and Leslie Barker bring their talents, songs, and harmonies to create a compelling vocal blend. Their wellcrafted original songs, as well as choice selections from other writers, involve the listener with emotional honesty and meticulous arrangements. They’ll be performing new music at this show, and you’ll want to be there! For tickets and more info, visit collageartculture.org.

25 (Sat) – NATIVE PLANT SALE at White Point Nature Education Center (1600 W. Paseo Del Mar), 10:30a–1p.

– Monthly plant sales are back! Come

10 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2023 I sanpedrotoday.com

to our nature centers during our sales to learn more about growing local native plants and purchase some for your garden! An additional plant sale will take place on Saturday, November 11 at George F Canyon Nature Center (27305 Palos Verdes Dr. East, Rolling Hills Estates), 10:30a–1p.

Presented by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. For more info, visit pvplc.org/calendar.

26 (Sun) – DOCENT GUIDED NATURE WALK at Abalone Cove Shoreline Park (5970 Palos Verdes Dr. South, RPV), 1p. – Enjoy a guided tour of Abalone Cove led by the Los Serenos Docents. Hike past the unique native flora and fauna and explore the tide pools teeming with fascinating marine life. The hiking difficulty is moderate to strenuous. The trail to and from the tidepools is approximately a mile and involves about a 120-ft change in elevation. This is a kid-friendly hike, but the trails and rocky beach are unsuitable for baby strollers. Sorry, no dogs are allowed on the beach. The

hike is FREE, and rain cancels the hike.

Abalone Cove parking is extremely limited; carpooling is highly recommended. The theme of this nature walk is “tidepool creatures." For more info, call (310) 544-5366 (Abalone Cove), (310) 544-5375 (PVIC Museum Front Desk), or visit losserenosrpv.org. spt Events deadline for December 2023 is Wednesday, November 15.

Email events@sanpedrotoday.com to place a listing. Find more events at sanpedrotoday.com.

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I OCTOBER 2023 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 11

VOICES

TIGHT-KNIT SPORTS COMMUNITY SUFFERS HEARTBREAKING WEEK

linebacker earned him a scholarship to Utah. After graduating from San Pedro High, he joined the Coast Guard, but October saw the passing of four former San Pedro athletic greats. his scholarship was still good when his two-year stint ended. He went to Utah,

by Steve Marconi reuniting with his former Pirates teammate Jerry Garcia, and again doubled Two of the best- ning it all in 1992, when he was named in 1951. After four years in the service, up in baseball and football, earning a City Coach of the Year. he enrolled at Harbor Junior College known figures football letter as a two-way lineman in Major leaguers Garry Maddox, Alan in 1955 and went out for the basketball 1971. in San Pedro’s Ashby, Eddie Jurak, and Brian Harper team. His maturity and muscular 6’3” storied sports Brummel retired from a career as a were among his many star players. frame were put to good use. Quickly history died cement contractor and moved to HaLovarov was a member of the San Pedro gaining a reputation as an “enforcer,” within days of waii to be closer to his family but was his defense and rebounding were keys each other ear- Athletic Hall of Fame’s inaugural class a regular contributor to the San Pedro lier this month, in 2014, along with Maddox, Ashby, and to the Seahawks’ run to the school’s Born and Raised Facebook page.

Jurak. first state championship. He repeated culminating A rare and extremely aggressive Out of uniform, Lovarov is also first team all-conference honors the fol- cancer took the life of Ron Galosic long and full lives. Then, before lowing year before receiving a scholar- (1984 grad) on October 9 at age 57. As the week was out, two more former fondly remembered by generations of Pirates as a driving education instrucship to Oregon, where he played only Pirate athletes died, lives tragically a senior for the 1984 Pirates, he was 6-2 tor, and he and his Buick Riviera were one season but earned kudos from rivals on the mound with a 1.59 ERA, batted cut short. fixtures around such as Cal’s Joe .375, and made The first and town long after his Kapp, who said first team Alloldest to die was retirement.

Padovan was “the Marine League, Jerry Lovarov. In He was a toughest player second team Allthe pantheon of member of the San I ever played City, and received San Pedro High Pedro High HOF against.” a scholarship to athletics, Lovarov committee from its Padovan UCLA. was not a legend; inception and was His three chilreturned to his he surpassed that still involved when dren — Ron Jr., hometown and betitle long ago. he fell earlier this Mike, and Annette gan a long career Lovarov, who Ron Galosic.

Jerry Lovarov.

Ed Brummel.

George Padovan. year and slipped — and brother as a dockworker. died October 2 at into a coma from Randy all starred Arrangements for Lovarov weren’t age 94, was a San which he never recovered. even complete when news came within in athletics at San Pedro High. Along Pedro institution. He played baseball The term “legend,” thrown around with the family patriarch, Joe, the days of the deaths of two of his former and basketball at San Pedro High, Galosics were inducted into the SPHS players. graduating in 1948. He then returned to pretty loosely these days, certainly applied to George Padovan, who died HOF in 2019.

Ed Brummel (class of W’68) died his alma mater in 1954 with his degree Galosic went on to work for Sysco from UC Santa Barbara and began a 40- October 7 at age 89. His exploits on the October 7 in Maui, the day after falling basketball court in the ‘50s are a part of off his bicycle. He had refused to go to Food Services but also found time to year teaching and coaching career. He San Pedro lore, reflected in the fact that the hospital and was found dead at a coach youth baseball and was a longcoached three generations of San Pehe is in both the San Pedro High and time board member of Eastview Little bus stop the next day. He was 74. drans as head baseball coach, starting in Harbor College athletic halls of fame.

League. spt The burly Brummel started for the 1961 and retiring in 1994, compiling a Padovan’s playing career was short Pirates in baseball, where he played record of 442-210 with 16 league titles.

Steve Marconi can be reached at His Pirates reached the City semifinals but eventful. He played only one season with Maddox and Ashby, and in footat San Pedro High before leaving school ball, his two-way play at center and spmarconi@yahoo.com. twice and the finals twice, finally win-

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I NOVEMBER 2023 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 13

VOICES

EMPOWERING WOMEN FOR A CENTURY San Pedro’s YWCA continues to meet the needs of the community.

by Jennifer Marquez Built in 1918, the Morgan House on W. 9th Street was designed in the Craftsman architectural style by master architect Julia Morgan. It was designated a Los Angeles HistoricCultural Monument in 1978. (photo: YWCA)

For over 100 years, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of the Harbor Area, a nonprofit agency, has been providing services to San Pedro.

The YWCA has a long history of empowering women, promoting peace, and, more recently, fighting to eliminate racism. Often confused with the YMCA, a separate organization, the YWCA is frequently misunderstood. People also assume it is a faith-based agency because of the name, but that is no longer true.

“The YWCA has always been an advocate and pioneer in women’s issues.

We are still here helping women and their families in relevant ways in San Pedro and surrounding areas,” says Sonia Bailey, executive director of YWCA Harbor Area. “We serve people that need help and also provide an avenue

for people to volunteer and help others as well.”

In 1918, Julia Morgan designed the YWCA as a clubhouse in a residential area in San Pedro. Morgan, the first woman architect licensed in California, designed more than 700 buildings. She succeeded in a male-dominated profession, paving the way for future women architects with her reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and keeping within a tight budget.

Morgan graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in civil engineering. She is best known for her work on Hearst Castle in San Simeon. She designed over 30 YWCA buildings in her career.

The YWCA in San Pedro is the last standing Julia Morgan building still used as a YWCA. Morgan’s imprint on the San Pedro YWCA is fitting, as the agency has worked to empower women for decades. While the community’s needs have shifted over the years, the YWCA has evolved to address today’s issues.

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Morgan, is a thrift store that also takes tokens from clients from local shelters, including a domestic violence program.

The tokens give individuals working to rebuild their lives the opportunity to select clothing and housewares at no cost.

Donations are received from individuals and companies on select days.

One of their newest programs is a food distribution every Friday at 1 p.m. outside the YWCA. Individuals, including seniors from the neighborhood experiencing poverty, receive groceries donated by local grocery stores like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods. The YWCA staff also prepares food made with donations to encourage healthy eating habits. Produce that is not distributed is used in the YWCA’s compost bins to fertilize their garden and promote environmental sustainability.

The yearly Breakfast with Santa event provides local children with a holiday celebration with breakfast and gifts. The families participating in this program often do not have extra funds to purchase presents for their children.

With toy donations down in the Los Angeles area, the YWCA welcomes donations of new unwrapped toys for ages up to 10 for this event, which will be held on December 2.

The YWCA also provides daycare for ages three months to five years old, free health clinics, digital skills in English and Spanish for work readiness, basic coding and web development, and human trafficking prevention and awareness. The YWCA hopes to one day provide housing for people who are low-income, including female seniors.

Walking into the YWCA is like stepping back in time; the building has been well-preserved, and the fight to help the underserved is stronger than ever.

Bailey invites the community to see what’s happening at your local YWCA. For more information about volunteering or donating, visit ywcaharbor.org or call (310) 547-0831. spt Jennifer Marquez can be reached at jennifertmarquez@yahoo.com and @jenntmqz on X and Instagram.

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I NOVEMBER 2023 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 15

VOICES

TH-ANGST-GIVING

If you're reading this, you're awesome.

While incredibly thankful, concerns prevail.

by Mike Lansing

fully address the food insecurity facing far too many in this, the richest country in the world.

LOCAL OFFICIALS: While at the national level, our government is not supporting us well, I am most thankful for our local elected officials who have supported our community and our Boys & Girls Clubs with their advocacy and family and friends. prioritization of the needs of those we While I am most thankful on so serve. many levels and look forward to this Thank you once again to Supervisor special holiday, I cannot help but Hahn, Councilman McOsker, Congressacknowledge some of our community’s woman Barragan, Congressman Lieu, many challenges and disparities.

State Assemblymembers Gipson and SAN PEDRO: I am so thankful to Muratsuchi, and State Senator Bradford. have been born here, grown up here, Each has been most supportive of the and lived my entire life in this speTo advertise, contact: youth of San Pedro and our greater cial community. A lifetime of fond (424) 224-9063 Harbor Area communities, and I am www.sanpedrotoday.com memories, community engagement and most thankful for that. ads@sanpedrotoday.com support, family, and lifelong friends — NONPROFITS: I am thankful for the many of whom I met while attending bevy of nonprofits doing great work the San Pedro Boys Club as a kid. supporting our San Pedro community.

But while our community is making Short Term Rental Management I am most grateful to have been the several upgrades, including downtown, Boys & Girls Club director for so many • Experienced Superhost West Harbor, coming employment years and for the tremendous support • Best Rates in Town opportunities, and more, one cannot provided by local individual donors, • Professional, Turnkey forget the everyday struggles of so • Owners: All you have to do is get paid! businesses, corporations, foundations, many of our neighbors: lack of affordTESTIMONIAL TESTIMONIAL and our elected officials. ablestarted housing and a living wage, lack My business to prosper immediately I am very grateful for But the “angst” I and my nonprofit with the Business & Service Directory of accessibility proper ad! Equally I am very grateful forto meeting some physical and meeting some wonderful director peers face every day is intense. wonderful local folks and am honored to manage local folks and am mental5 star healthcare, internet connectivity such spectacular short term vacation Do we have enough financial resources, honored to manage such rentals. limitations, and the recent increase of spectacular 5 star short Skye staff, sites, comprehensive programgunAIRBNB violence in a handful of our neighterm vacation rentals. & MORE ming and services, and overall impact 818-939-2759 -- Skye borhoods. A true “Tale of Two Cities” to meet the varied and growing needs for far too many of those we live near of those who need us most? While Skye: (818) 939-2759 and pass daily.

TURKEY DAY: Most of us will enjoy thankful, this angst is on the mind of all a robust turkey dinner on Thanksgiving executive directors each and every day.

Thanksgiving is a time of celebration with all the trimmings, overeating and and recognizing all our blessings, and loving it. We will give thanks for the I hope we all have a great holiday. But bounty we will enjoy that day, which at the same time, while being thankful, many of us have probably experienced we — individually and as a community most of our lives.

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VOICES

CHANGES COMING TO CABRILLO MARINE AQUARIUM

Portions of the aquarium will temporarily close to replace its aging life-support system.

The scene at this year's Grand Grunion Gala put on by the Friends of Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. (photo: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium/Facebook)

by Lee Williams

Every year, I look forward to the Grand Grunion Gala put on by the Friends of Cabrillo Marine Aquarium.

This year’s event — Rock Lobster — did not disappoint, with everyone dressed in red or rocking their favorite B-52s look.

I hope everyone realizes what a unique treasure we have in the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, which some of us still lovingly refer to as the “museum.”

Since its humble beginning in the Cabrillo Beach Bathhouse in 1935, Cabrillo has been the place to learn about Southern California marine life. Some of us were lucky enough to learn at the feet of the legendary John Olguin, the aquarium’s revered co-director for decades.

Every year, 220,000 people come from all over Los Angeles — actually, all over the world — to visit the aquarium.

Some come specifically to see the building, designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry of Walt Disney Concert

Hall and Guggenheim Museum Bilbao fame. Others come to see the gorgeous John Van Hamersveld murals.

Each year, thousands of students come to the aquarium on field trips— many on buses funded by local companies. So many of those kids say it’s their first time seeing the ocean.

What a privilege and responsibility to teach those students about the marine environment.

Perhaps you don’t know that our beloved aquarium is on the brink of some significant changes. Later this winter, the Susanne Lawrenz-Miller Exhibit Hall will close so the aquarium can replace its aging life-support system. First installed with the opening of the Gehry building in 1981, this system of plumbing, pumps, and filters has reached the end of its life. The upgrade is crucial so the aquarium can maintain its accreditation by the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which holds its members to the highest animal care and safety standards.

Friends of Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, led by my friend Caroline Brady, invested $300,000 to design the new life support system. I am proud to say that the Port of Los Angeles plans to invest

$1.2 million to build the new system, matching funds from the Department of Recreation and Parks, which owns the aquarium. Kudos to Aquarium Executive Director Crislyn McKerron for working her magic to bring these partners together.

While the aquarium’s main exhibit hall will be closed for about eight months, the rest of the facility will be open during construction. The Aquatic Nursery has three great new exhibits you must check out. Everybody’s favorite — the Look-up Tank — is getting a refresh too. And the program staff is adding many fun educational carts and outdoor activities to keep everyone engaged. While the hall is closed, the new Jelly Lab will be built, showcasing more of these fantastic planktonic creatures.

In addition to the life support system, Friends recently invested in an Interpretive Master Plan, the blueprint that will help the aquarium plan the next steps for updating its facilities. With San Pedro’s waterfront moving forward as a tourist destination, how can the aquarium better serve visitors? Some have suggested a name change to incorporate the words “Los Angeles” into the title. Right now, If you Google “Los

Angeles aquarium,” the results send you to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. While I love our neighbors to the east, don’t we want to keep visitors here in San Pedro for a full day of fun?

What if we changed the name to “Cabrillo Marine Aquarium at the Port of Los Angeles” or “Los Angeles Aquarium at Cabrillo Beach”? Some would even argue that it’s time to drop “Cabrillo” altogether because of its association with Spanish conquistador Juan Cabrillo, who brutalized the indigenous people who originally occupied this land.

I’d love to hear your opinions about Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. How would you like it to grow and improve?

No matter what, schedule a visit to Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. It’s free, with donations accepted but never required. Check out the new stuff and help imagine what’s next. spt Lee Williams leads The Lee Williams Real Estate Group at REAL Broker and is a Los Angeles Harbor Commissioner. He can be reached at lee@lamove.com.

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THE COVER

WEST HARBOR RISES

THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED WATERFRONT PROJECT FINALLY BEGINS CONSTRUCTION.

by Joshua Stecker

PORT SOUNDS: An artist rendering of the proposed 6,200-seat waterfront amphitheater.

(photo: Studio One Eleven/West Harbor)

It’s really happening.

If you’ve taken a drive along Harbor Boulevard recently, you’ve probably seen it yourself: The construction of West Harbor is finally underway, and those massive, shiny, triangle-shaped metal frameworks of buildings that we’ve only seen through artist renderings are coming to life. San Pedro’s future is being written.

It’s been a long time coming. For a decade, many San Pedrans have been openly skeptical about the future of our waterfront and what it means for our community, and for good reason. Since the Port of Los Angeles announced that The Ratkovich Company and San Pedro-based Jerico Development were taking on the project to replace Ports O’ Call Village in 2013, it’s been a decade of name changes, concept shifts, the addition of a 6,200-seat amphitheater, and many stops and starts.

But now, with construction in full swing and new leases signed, the momentum has swung forward at a feverish pace. If the current timeline sticks, San Pedro will welcome West Harbor, a one-mile-long seaside shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, in the sum-

mer of 2025.

“We’ve hung in long enough,” says Eric Johnson of Jerico Development.

“Good things keep happening. It’s a national and regional story, so we’re getting a lot more interesting folks approaching us now.”

LONG PROMISED ROAD No one knows the community’s history with West Harbor better than Eric and Alan Johnson, the brothers behind Jerico. Having hosted numerous public meetings over the years showcasing their constantly evolving plans for the 42-acre, $170 million project, and being locals who own many properties in San Pedro, they’ve read and heard every comment and criticism thrown their way.

The Johnsons are quick to admit the road hasn’t been smooth. Still, the skepticism has turned into anticipation now that the community can see actual progress, including recent pop-up market events along the partially completed Waterfront Promenade.

“It’s been a gauntlet of challenges, and we’re just resolved to solve them,” says Eric. “There’s more to be done and more money to be spent, and we’re

20 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2023 I sanpedrotoday.com

working through all of that and accelerating this build, which, at the end of the day, will cost less and be open quicker.”

It’s been an interesting couple of years for the redevelopment project, filled with several highs and lows. In August 2021, after making it through the height of the pandemic, the developers announced the signing of the first seven anchor tenants. That number has more than doubled, a testament to

business and investors’ confidence in the project.

Last November, after securing $90 million in construction financing (adding to the already secured $65 million of investor equity), West Harbor finally broke ground and construction began.

Adding to the momentum, with the first phase of the Waterfront Promenade project completed by the Port of Los Angeles in late 2021, construction

The late Wayne Ratkovich (center), founder and CEO of The Ratkovich Company who passed away in September, with Eric (left) and Alan Johnson of Jerico Development in a 2013 file photo. (photo: John Mattera Photography)

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West Harbor's official timeline.

(graphic: West Harbor)

on the second and final phase began in July. When completed, the nearly one-mile-long, 30-foot-wide open space pathway will stretch from the L.A. Maritime Museum to the southern end of West Harbor.

In August, the infrastructure was in place to begin construction on West Harbor’s Building A, the future home of Mike Hess Brewing and Hopscotch Immersive Art, two of the project’s original anchor tenants.

Sadly, tragedy hit on September 24 with the passing of beloved L.A. real estate developer Wayne Ratkovich.

Best known for saving several L.A. landmarks, Ratkovich was instrumental in forming the partnership with Jerico Development and securing the Ports O’ Call redevelopment project from the Port. He also led many of the project’s public meetings. While he stepped down from his daily involvement with West Harbor in 2020 during the pandemic, his influence and legacy are still being felt, according to the Johnsons.

“He made really valuable projects and properties come back to life,” says Alan. “He just changed the whole mindset in my way of thinking about [development]. It was really exciting [to work with him], and he was all the

things you could have hoped for. He’s just going to be so missed.”

Factory at West Harbor have changed, with new details yet to be announced.

The Win~Dow and Pitfire Pizza – WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW? Both owned by restaurateur Paul Hibler, If you ask the folks at Jerico, West The Win~Dow is known for its smash Harbor is already “open.” Kind of. burgers, while Pitfire Pizza specialWhile construction continues to the izes in artisan, wood-fired pizzas and south, the developers have begun actispecialty pastas. vating the first phase of the Waterfront King and Queen Cantina – Owner Promenade to the north near the L.A. Jorge Cueva (Mr. Tempo) is expanding Maritime Museum.

WHO'S MOVING IN? his empire to San Pedro with an origiEarlier this year, the San Pedro MakHere is the current list of upcoming nal Mexican cantina concept restaurant ers Market held several monthly pop-up West Harbor tenants that have officially that will include outdoor waterfront events featuring food vendors and been announced: dining. artisans that drew sizable crowds to the Mike Hess Brewing – The San Olala Crepes – The San Diego-based promenade. Also, the San Pedro Fish Diego-based company was the first to creperie will open its first Los Angeles Market opened their temporary outdoor sign on to West Harbor. The popular location at West Harbor, offering a dining spot called The Landing earlier brewery has plans for a 20,000-squarewide selection of high-quality crepes this summer, attracting their enormous, foot, indoor-outdoor, dog-friendly beer and paninis. mostly out-of-town, customer base back garden with lawn games and entertainThe Baked Bear – Founded in 2013 to the waterfront. ment right next to the highly anticiby childhood friends Rob Robbins and The developers are also working with pated amphitheater.

Shane Stanger, the San Diego-based smaller, independent vendors, like San Marufuku Ramen – The popular company is famous for its custom ice Pedro start-up Chimney, Crepes, and authentic Hakata-style Tonkotsu ramen cream sandwiches and cookies.

Boba Tea, to keep the promenade active restaurant will open its ninth location Poppy + Rose – The popular on weekends. along the waterfront. It will be the com- country-style breakfast and brunch spot “We are working with a really excit- pany’s first location in L.A. County. in Downtown Los Angeles will open ing potential pop-up that will last for a Yamashiro – The century-old a new location along the waterfront, while,” says Lauren Johnson of Jerico Japanese-fusion restaurant in the Holwith an outdoor patio and active garden Development. “It’s part of the bigger lywood Hills will open its second locawhere they’ll grow their vegetables and plan to have larger, more established tion in San Pedro. Also, the company’s herbs on-site. food pop-ups [and] a beer garden, and previously announced plans for a Sugar Mario’s Butcher Shop & Delicates-

22 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2023 I sanpedrotoday.com

also uses that complement [them], like beverages, coffee, and desserts, that we’re working on for the promenade as we build out the bigger North Park space.”

Harbor Breeze Cruises and the Los Angeles Maritime Institute are also currently in operation along the promenade.

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Top: An artist rendering of Bark Social dog park and restaurant. Bottom: Construction on West Harbor's Building A commences. (photos: Studio One Eleven/West Harbor, John Mattera Photography)

sen – Based in Newport Beach, owner Chef Mario Llamas brings his high-end deli to West Harbor, featuring madeto-order sandwiches, burgers, and other deli market items.

San Pedro Fish Market – The wildly popular fish market will return to the San Pedro waterfront with a new permanent location at West Harbor.

The fish market’s current temporary location will move north in the coming months to accommodate construction.

According to the developers, plans are to open the new San Pedro Fish Market by 2026.

The previously announced Jay Bird’s Chicken, owned by Wild Thyme Restaurant Group, has changed concepts and will now be a new location for their high-end Mexican restaurant, Molé Comida.

In addition to the eateries, West Harbor will be home to Hopscotch Immersive Art. With one location in San Antonio, Texas, Hopscotch brings its immersive collaborative art projects to San Pedro with carefully curated exhibitions. The exhibit space will also feature

a bar and outdoor patio.

Bark Social – The self-described “first social club for dogs and dog lovers” will open its state-of-the-art dog park at West Harbor’s North Park area.

It will feature a dog-friendly restaurant serving humans and pups, craft beers, dog baths, multiple televisions, highspeed Wi-Fi, and more.

Harbor Breeze Cruises, owner Dan Salas will be bringing his fleet of double-decker sightseeing ships to West Harbor, offering whale watching and dinner cruises, while the Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI) will dock their tall ships along the promenade.

There are also early talks of moving the Battleship USS Iowa south from its current location near the Vincent Thomas Bridge to West Harbor.

The project’s final phase will be a proposed boutique hotel next to the L.A. Maritime Museum.

With 375,000 square feet of restaurant, retail, and entertainment space to fill, the developers expect 35-40 tenants of various sizes and businesses when the project is finished.

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“It’s a good solid group,” says Eric.

“One of the more striking things is the ecosystem of entrepreneurs that comprise our tenants. There are no [large] national chains. They’re mostly family businesses and just really unique people that get [stuff] done.”

WHAT ABOUT THE AMPHITHEATER? Plans are still in the works for the much-anticipated 6,200-seat seaside amphitheater, and the West Harbor developers, in partnership with Nederlander Concerts, are proceeding as if it will happen.

First, they must go through the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) process to determine the amphitheater’s effects on the community. At the top of the list are noise, traffic, and parking concerns.

When approved, the amphitheater is projected to host approximately 100 major events annually.

Sitting on 2.5 acres of park space, the amphitheater is also expected to serve as a much-needed public venue for local community events.

“Not every show is going to be 6,200 people. You can configure the space with all kinds of different seating to fit the show,” explains Eric. “Nederlander

has been a great partner, and it’s been great working with the Port.”

The developers also know how important something like a regional amphitheater is to the local economy.

“The amphitheater is also important because it will bring people [to San Pedro] to come down for the weekend, make a trip out of it,” says Alan. “That’s been a long-held desire of the business community. Plus, there’s so much more for [visitors] to see, from Point Fermin to the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium.”

The EIR is expected to be released by the end of the year, followed by a series of public comment sessions that will likely last a few months. The developers are hoping for a final decision on the amphitheater sometime next year.

“I think I said this at the groundbreaking,” remembers Eric. “Pedro has this great saying that I’ve always loved, ‘Let’s go big or go home.’ Well, we’re already home.” spt For more info on West Harbor, visit westharborla.com.

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FOOD

EAT IN SAN PEDRO:

NEW TO THE SCENE

by Sanam Lamborn In my opinion, San Pedro does not need any more Italian restaurants, pizzerias, sandwich shops, or Mexican food spots.

While they fully represent what our community has been known for, it’s also time to encourage the opening of a variety of independently owned gastronomic establishments. Of course, the stipulation is they offer unique and well-executed dishes. As it turns out, two new places recently opened that stand out. They are not your average “Mexican” restaurants.

I was excited to see a sign for Tacos El Goloso (247 N. Gaffey St.) when driving into town on Gaffey from the freeway because my husband and I have been to their Harbor City location and enjoy their food.

Their new San Pedro location has a history of adversity, as several restaurants have come and gone in recent years. I predict Tacos El Goloso won’t suffer the same fate, as their food is good, and most importantly, their specialty birria can’t be found at this

NEW TO TOWN (l to r): Jefe's Cocina's lengua quesadilla and Tacos El Goloso's birria tacos dorados. (photos: Sanam Lamborn)

level, consistency, or speed in town.

Authentic birria is made by stewing goat meat in red adobo sauce, and it’s served in a bowl with its broth and a side of tortillas. However, lately, it has been reinvented into tacos, made with beef instead of goat and served with consomé, the broth in which the meat is cooked, for dipping.

I order three menu items at Tacos El Goloso exclusively with birria. First, their tacos dorados stuffed with generous chunks of meat, cheese, onion, and cilantro. A new item to me is the vampiros, a tortilla crisped on the griddle topped with meat, a layer of golden fried cheese, shredded lettuce, sour cream, onion, and cilantro. They include an additional crisped tortilla on top to scoop up the delicious concoction. Lastly, their quesadilla — it’s pretty messy and greasy but finger-licking good. All three items are served with a small bowl of consomé for dipping, green or red salsa, and a roasted chili pepper.

The meat in their birria is consistently tender, and the consomé is very flavorful. They declare to have the best

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birria in town; I agree, it’s not hype. It’s true.

I am told the owners of Jefe’s Cocina (726 S. Pacific Ave.) are originally from Guatemala; however, their menu also includes options inspired by Mexican and Salvadoran cuisine. I was immediately drawn to their lengua (tongue) quesadilla. Imagine my elation when my food arrived, and I saw that the tortilla was handmade. I was impressed.

I was even more impressed that the meat was not minced, but the quesadilla was stuffed with big pieces of tasty tender lengua and cheese. Equally good are their Salvadoran pupusas (filled with your choice of chicharron, cheese, or beans) served with curtido (a tangy slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, onion, and oregano) and salsa.

A must-try is their signature sandwich, La Mamalona. I equate it to a comfort sandwich made with toasted bread filled with refried beans, cheese, guacamole, and meat of your choice. By the time my carne asada La Mamalona arrived, the cheese had melted from the heat of the beans and meat, and it was incredibly satisfying. What makes this

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sandwich even more over the top is the housemade mango habanero sauce that it comes with.

I highly recommend the Guatemalan garnachas, which are crispy small tortillas topped with braised chicken or beef, curtido, salsa, and cheese. These are one of their weekly specials, so they are not on the regular menu. Noteworthy are their housemade salsas, which have a superb balance of spice and flavor and a dense, almost creamy texture since they are not watered down for volume. The signature Jefe’s sauce, a puree of serrano peppers and garlic, is delicious.

Overall, the portions are large, all tortillas are handmade, and to my amazement, despite the generous amount of cheese in various dishes, the food is not greasy at all. spt

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SP ARTS

NEW MURAL COMING TO THE WATERFRONT

The 72x15 foot painting by Revival Murals will depict the history of the shipping industry and much more.

by Linda Grimes The power of public art can embody our community’s spirit and aspirations by portraying our past and envisioning our future. – Anonymous After an extensive search, the San Pedro Waterfront Arts District is excited to announce a mural award of $13,750 to the Revival Murals team of Alonsa Guevara and James Razko. The Arts District received over 28 amazing mural renderings, and members of the Arts District Board, LAMI, and West Harbor chose Alonsa and James’ submission.

The 72x15 foot mural on the side of the Los Angeles Maritime Institute’s Building G at Berth 73 will depict the history of the shipping industry and the history of the building’s historic use as a purse seiners shop. This mural was funded by generous contributions from the Port of Los Angeles Community Investment Grant Program, along with a grant from the L.A. County Creative Recovery Program and numerous private donations.

James and Alonsa recently moved to San Pedro, and their studio is in the historic Arcade Building. Their cofounded company Revival Murals is a

San Pedro-based mural painting startup.

With over a decade of mural experience in New York City, James, a U.S. Army Veteran, brings his expertise to the Revival Murals team with his high level of painting skills. Alonsa is a Chilean-born artist, boasts 15-plus years in arts and teaching, and her works have been published in many well-respected outlets.

Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and her most recent solo show, “Counting Leaves,” was in April 2023 at Tashkeel Gallery Alserkal in Dubai, UAE. I was curious about their origin story and asked them a few questions: How did you two first meet?

Alonsa Guevara & James Razko: We met in NYC in 2013 at the New York Academy of Art. We were both pursuing our master’s degrees in painting. Our art studios were located across from each other. Since then, we have never stopped working together. Now, we’re very excited to launch Revival Murals here in San Pedro.

What was it about your upbringing that prompted you to be artists?

Alonsa: I grew up moving around frequently. Being exposed to various cultures made me develop an openminded perspective from an early age. I spent a big part of my childhood in the Ecuadorian Rainforest, where limited tech and entertainment pushed me to be

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creative to beat boredom. I spent hours remember crying my eyes out because sketching, singing, playing outside, I couldn’t color the inside the lines. My and making things with materials I mom helped me. Later in college, my found in the forest. Another crucial painting teacher, Margaret McCann, factor was having loving, intelligent, pushed me and taught me a lot. She and encouraging encouraged me parents who paid to pursue my attention to my master’s degree artistic direction at the New York from a young Academy of Art. age.

James: I never Why did you thought I would choose to be an artist. I move to San didn’t know any.

Pedro?

People didn’t do Alonsa & that kind of thing James: We where I was moved to L.A. for from. I joined many reasons: the military and There are great seriously considsurf spots, the Alonsa Guevara & James Razko. ered becoming a weather is amazdoctor. But after my deployment to Iraq, ing, and there is a culture of a “healthy it hit me — I had to be an artist. There lifestyle.” And why San Pedro? Because wasn’t a choice. There were things I it’s beautiful, surrounded by water, ofneeded to say, and I felt and still feel fers hiking opportunities, has a vibrant only art can do it. So, I dove into art community, and we are excited to be a and never looked back. part of San Pedro’s thriving art scene. ___________________________ Was there a particular mentor or family member who supported your The community is invited to join us arts endeavors? on November 2 at 5 p.m. to celebrate Alonsa: My Abuela Maruja was the 26th ArtWalk Anniversary of First one of my mentors. She is 92 now, a Thursday in the historic Arcade Buildvery strong woman with many talents. ing, 479 W. 6th Street. We will hold When I was 12 years old, she taught a San Pedro Chamber of Commerce me how to build my own canvases and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Alonsa gave me instructions about easel and and James’ studio, along with food and oil painting techniques. In my underdrinks from the The Artistry Wine Bar grad time, I was very lucky to have a and an artisan marketplace to help you great teacher, Francisco Schwember, start your holiday shopping. Tickets who guided me with his knowledge and and more information are available at kindness while trusting me to be his SanPedroWaterfrontArtsDistrict.com. assistant. spt James: My mom could doodle a bit.

But really, I’ve always been self-motiLinda Grimes is the executive direcvated when it comes to art. As far as I tor of the San Pedro Waterfront can remember, I always liked drawing.

Arts District and can be reached at My first art memory is kind of funny: I 55lindagrimes@gmail.com.

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I NOVEMBER 2023 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 29

IMPACT

FEELING THANKFUL

The author revisits a few people she interviewed this year and asks what they’re thankful for.

by Amber Sheikh

Like most of you, around this time of year, I start to ponder: Where did this year go?

As I approach the end of 2023, I find myself reflecting on how we’ve spent the months together in these pages, with the intention to share and listen to diverse voices.

And as I reflect, what I feel most is thankful. Thankful to be part of a community that is open and gracious, tenacious and caring, and while we may not always agree, we keep the conversation going. I love that.

This month, we revisit some of the folks who so generously spent some time with me this year and learn what they feel most thankful for.

Shauna Castle: Shauna shared her struggles with navigating the system to get housing for her and her dog Koa. Life is full of good days and some notso-great ones, but Shauna is grateful to have a home to come to, no matter what the day brings.

“I have been through quite a bit in the last six years, and there have been several times when I felt like I didn’t know how [I] was going to get through the next day and then, boom, a stranger shows me kindness. I am most grate-

ful for the people who have helped me survive and feel better about myself.

And, as corny as it may sound, Amber is one of those people and someone I’m most thankful for knowing and calling my friend,” says Shauna.

Manny Ortega: Manny loves bikes, so much so that he is endearingly known as the “bike whisperer.” Grappling with being unhoused off and on for several years, Manny recently started working at a local bike repair shop.

“I’m so thankful for my new job! It is a dream come true,” says Manny. “I’m so thankful for those who believed in me and to my friend who connected me to Harbor Connects. I’m thankful to the editor and staff of San Pedro Today and to my boss, the owner of The Bike Palace. I’m thankful for having this grand opportunity in life. Thank you all so much.”

Mitch Riggin: Mitch shared the struggles his brother experienced while being unhoused and the immense pain and sadness of losing a loved one, especially too soon.

“I’m thankful for our community — people trying to make it a better, more inclusive place, while also embracing the change that is certain to come with the port expansion. I look forward to our future,” says Mitch.

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Kent Wallace-Meggs: Working in to deliver food and supplies to encampsocial services for over two decades, ments. It is important to me that they Kent shared understand that how sometimes not everyone a simple soluhas access to the tion can make a same things. I huge difference have tried to anto someone’s swer their quesquality of life. tions openly and As the executive honestly, helping director of the them understand nonprofit Harbor that not everyConnects, he one has a place wholeheartto call home edly believes and that a home that each of us looks different has the abilto each person. ity to move the Their insights The author and her children. (photo: Tammy Khan) lever and make and instincts a difference for around solutions someone else. sear through the complexities most of “I am thankful to live and work in us adults are lost in. a community in which the rhetoric of As I listened to these other exprescaring is demonstrated collaboratively sions of gratitude, I wanted to give my by providing us with the resources kids the chance to also share what they and support to do our work,” says are most thankful for: Kent. “I am especially grateful for the LAPD Harbor Division’s commitment Allegra Ginsberg, 8 years old: “I’m in working with service providers to thankful to be alive. Sometimes I look compassionately assist the unhoused. It in the mirror and wonder if this is really makes a huge difference, so thank you.” happening or is it a dream.”

Shari Weaver: Shari shared her own lived experiences and how this drove her to be the person that makes it better, one person at a time, one day at a time — for so many.

“I am grateful for the privilege to help others and letting them know that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than their current situation,” says Shari. ___________________________ My kids, Allegra and Zayd, are my favorite people and North Star. I am so freakin’ thankful for their love and for being able to share my life with them.

They have often joined me on trips

Zayd Ginsberg, 6 years old: “I’m thankful for my parents and my life.

I’m thankful for everything that I have.

Some kids don’t have a lot of things.”

We’d love to hear from you — what are you most grateful for as 2023 comes to an end? spt Amber Sheikh is a San Pedro resident, mother of two, community advocate, and owner of Sheikh/ Impact, a nonprofit consulting firm.

She has nearly two decades of experience working in and with organizations solving homelessness and income inequality.

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MENTAL HEALTH

FINDING FORGIVENESS

Walking in someone else’s shoes can expand one’s consciousness from solipsism to altruism.

by Sophie Schoenfeld, MFT Forgiveness is a core concept that runs through most modern spiritual practices.

The evolution of social consciousness through scripture clearly reflects this evolution between the two testaments. The character of God in the Old Testament is a version of a deity like those depicted in classical and primitive cultures—a powerful and vengeful father figure who rules his children with an iron fist.

Primitive morality, just like that of an underdeveloped moral compass of a child, is primarily rooted in fear of retribution. Children try not to do bad things not because they fully understand the value of being a good person in society but because they do not want to get in trouble with their seniors. Only later in life does an individual begin to comprehend morality as a personal responsibility and a building block of one’s agency and freedom.

Unfortunately, not all adults reach this level of moral growth in any society. Nevertheless, that is the goal of a civilized society. God’s word in the New Testament distinctly departs from pagan traditions, moving toward a more sophisticated moral teaching emphasizing compassion as one of the

sacred principles of spiritual ascension and interpersonal relatedness.

Instead of “eye for an eye,” scripture evolves to “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” In this latter statement, we have an imbedded message that divine knowledge would prevent us from doing evil, and it is in ignorance that evil is allowed to fester. Traditional psychotherapeutic approaches also lean on the idea that awareness reduces unhealthy, amoral, and pathological behavior, and by increasing awareness, we evolve to become more compassionate and loving human beings and, thus, a more compassionate and loving society.

The progression from fear-based morality to integrated morality begets a healthier society, not only from a structural, mental, emotional, and spiritual standpoint, but it has a very concrete physiological impact on the evolution of our nervous system and brain wiring.

To operate from the basis of fear is to operate from a more primitive part of the brain, the limbic system. The limbic system is responsible for fightflight functioning, which requires a large secretion of stress hormones to alert the body to action, which, in turn, taxes our bodies.

Many studies have shown that cerebral cortex functions — which are higher-level executive functions in the brain — are compromised by exces-

sive cortisol levels in the body. This The only way to cultivate the evoluis the stress hormone our autonomic tionary process in the spiritual growth nervous system produces when we are of a given society is to integrate a in a sympathetic versus parasympapersonal religion of forgiveness. This thetic mode of change must functioning. originate from In other the inside out, words, when from each indiwe are afraid, vidual who conwe produce sciously strives chemicals that for personal interfere with enlightenment. our ability to It is hard think, learn, into watch the tegrate informasuffering and tion, memorize, murder of loved process informaones and not feel tion, and make murderous. But rational deciit is not impossions. In short, a sible. Meditation (photo: Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels) fear-based sociand mindfulness ety is, by default, techniques, talk a less psychologically evolved — and therapy, music, creativity, and cultivatherefore, less humane — society and a tion of empathy can all help enhance physically less healthy society. our ability to forgive and see things When we consider the scale of from multiple perspectives rather than poverty, oppression, corruption, and polarized black-and-white ones. decades of widespread violence in Walking in someone else’s shoes various cultures across the world and expands one’s consciousness from begin to comprehend the level of phys- solipsism to altruism. Without forgiveiological impact this has on the psyche ness, we are primitive beings simply of its inhabitants, it becomes easy surviving, not thriving. It is our moral to understand why the transgeneraobligation toward the evolution of tional cycle of violence is difficult to our species to cultivate the practice of break. Neither economic aid, military forgiveness. support, or any large-scale program Techniques like breathing exercises, can break the hardwired physiology focusing, and body tracking help of vengeance, violence, and chaos. A slow down our nervous system and mind that is not at peace is not capable mammalian fight-flight reactions. By of cultivating peace. doing so, we engage higher-level brain Children who grow up in abusive functions, which help us transcend our households have atrophied receptors animalistic instincts. for empathy. Societies that have been Without forgiveness, there is no huat war for generations develop a “wor- manity; without a humane society, we rier gene,” which gets transmuted from cannot claim to be a civilization. spt generation to generation. Hence, war is not simply an outcome of a parSophie Schoenfeld, MFT is a local ticular quarrel or circumstance but a marriage and family therapist. For transgenerational state of being. more info, visit sophiemft.com.

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FITNESS

TIME MANAGEMENT & YOUR FITNESS

Practical strategies to help optimize your time and achieve your fitness goals.

by Eddie McKenna In the fast-paced world we live in, time is an invaluable asset.

Balancing work, family, and social commitments can leave little room for fitness activities. Many individuals struggle to find time to prioritize their health and well-being amidst hectic schedules. However, with efficient time management techniques, integrating fitness into your daily routine becomes feasible and essential for a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

Here are some effective strategies to

(photo: Miriam Alonso/Pexels)

help you optimize your time and achieve your fitness goals. You may want to cut this one out and tape it to your fridge.

Set Clear Goals and Priorities: Begin by setting realistic fitness goals.

Whether it's weight loss, muscle gain, or overall well-being, having specific objectives in mind will help you stay focused. Prioritize these goals alongside other commitments, ensuring that less important tasks do not overshadow your fitness aspirations.

Plan and Schedule Workouts: Treat your fitness regimen like any other necessary appointment. Allocate specific time slots for exercise in your

34 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2023 I sanpedrotoday.com

daily or weekly schedule and adhere to them. Consider early morning workouts before the day's demands encroach or lunchtime exercises to break up the workday. Consistent scheduling fosters a habit-forming routine that ultimately becomes second nature.

Utilize Time Efficiently: Maximize the effectiveness of your workouts by incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or circuit training.

These techniques offer a comprehensive workout in a shorter time frame, enabling you to achieve significant results without spending hours in the gym.

Additionally, embrace opportunities for physical activity during daily tasks, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Even walking 30 minutes a day can count as your workout. Do not underestimate how beneficial getting 8,000-plus steps daily can be for your health.

Learn to Say No: Identify activities that consume excessive time without adding value to your life. Limit screen time, minimize aimless scrolling on social media, and reduce excessive television viewing. Redirect this saved time towards productive fitness endeavors. By consciously eliminating time-wasting habits, you create space for activities that contribute to your overall well-being.

Find Your Community: Surround yourself with individuals who prioritize fitness or share similar health goals.

Establishing a network of like-minded people can provide motivation and encouragement, making your fitness journey more enjoyable and sustainable. Join group fitness classes or engage in workout sessions with friends or family to foster a supportive environment that reinforces your commitment to staying active.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management: Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as meditation, yoga, or Kinstretch into your routine to manage stress effectively. A balanced mental state enhances your ability to focus and

manage time efficiently, ultimately facilitating a more productive and fulfilling fitness journey. By addressing stress proactively, you can prevent it from becoming a barrier to achieving your health and fitness goals.

Opt for Efficient Workouts: Consider exercises that target multiple muscle groups simultaneously, promoting overall strength and endurance.

Engage in compound movements like squats, lunges, and deadlifts that maximize the efficiency of your workouts. Incorporate functional training exercises that mimic real-life movements, enhancing your body's overall functional capabilities.

Track Your Progress: Monitor your fitness journey by recording your workouts, dietary habits, and overall well-being. Utilize fitness tracking apps or journals to document your progress and assess your development over time.

Analyzing your achievements and challenges will help you make necessary adjustments to your routine, ensuring continuous improvement and growth.

Balance Rest and Recovery: Recognize the significance of rest and recovery in achieving optimal fitness levels. Allocate sufficient time for adequate sleep and incorporate rest days into your workout schedule to prevent burnout and injuries. A well-rested body and mind are better equipped to tackle challenges and adhere to a consistent fitness regimen.

By implementing these time management strategies, you can seamlessly integrate fitness into your busy schedule. Remember that prioritizing your health and well-being is an investment in your overall quality of life. With dedication, discipline, and effective time management, achieving your fitness goals is possible and a rewarding journey towards a healthier and happier you. spt Eddie McKenna is co-owner of Heyday Elite Fitness. For more info, visit heydaytraining.com.

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REAL ESTATE

PROPOSITION 19: NAVIGATING THE BASICS Learn how to protect your estate planning in 2023.

by Mike Harper & Peter Hazdovac (photo: Alexander Isreb/Pexels)

As real estate professionals, we are often asked about Proposition 19 in our day-today business dealings.

Proposition 19 was put on the ballot and passed by California voters in November 2020. Certain elements went into effect on February 16, 2021, and April 1, 2021. To clarify, the California State Board of Equalization (BOE) oversees and ensures statewide uniformity

in the assessment of properties by the 58 county assessors, including Los Angeles County. Therefore, our LA County Assessor acts on directives initiated by the BOE. The following are the fundamental elements of Proposition 19 as provided by the Los Angeles County Assessor (assessor.lacounty.gov/homeowners/ proposition-19): Intergenerational Transfer Exclusion (Parent-to-Child transfers and Grandparent-to-Grandchild Transfers): Proposition 58 and Proposition

36 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I NOVEMBER 2023 I sanpedrotoday.com

193 previously allowed parents, and in certain cases, grandparents, to transfer their existing property assessments of a principal residence of any value without triggering a reassessment, which is generally required upon a change in ownership — even if the property is used as rental property by the child.

Proposition 58 and Proposition 193 also allowed for the inheritance of property assessments for up to $1 million in additional real estate, whether residential or commercial. Under the new Proposition 19 (effective February 16, 2021), parents and grandparents can transfer their property along with its Proposition 13 base year value to their children or grandchildren if the following conditions are met: 1. The property must be the principal residence of the parent(s) or grandparent(s).

2. The property must become the principal residence of the child or grandchild within one year, and all applicants must have a valid Homeowners’ Exemption (HOX) filed within one year of the transfer to qualify for this exclusion.

3. Only the principal residence of the parent(s) or grandparent(s) qualifies for a base year value transfer. Other property, residential or commercial, no longer qualifies for this benefit.

Inherited rental properties and second homes not used as primary residences will be reassessed at current market value when transferred. Also, there is a limit to the value that can be excluded for a family home. The value limit is equal to the property’s taxable value (factored base year value) at the time of transfer plus $1 million. The difference is added to the taxable value if the market value exceeds this limit.

to transfer the taxable value of their existing home to a new replacement home, so long as the market value of the new home is equal to or less than the existing home’s market value and located in Los Angeles County or one of nine other participating counties in California.

Proposition 19 (effective April 1, 2021) modified the previous provisions and now allows eligible homeowners to transfer the taxable value of their existing primary residence to a new replacement primary residence. The replacement residence can be of any value (with some limitations) and anywhere within the state. The exclusion can be filed up to three times by a property owner over their lifetime.

Transfer of Assessment to a Replacement Property (55 and Older and Disabled): Propositions 60/90 and 110 allowed persons over 55 or severely and permanently disabled persons

Mike Harper and Peter Hazdovac are co-owners of HH Coastal Real Estate, an independent local brokerage. For more info, visit hhcoastal.com.

Disaster Relief Tax Base Transfers: Proposition 50 provided that the base year value of property substantially damaged or destroyed by a disaster, as declared by the governor, may be transferred to comparable property within the same county. Proposition 171 allows the transfer of the base year value of a principal residence to a county that has adopted the ordinance. Proposition 19 allows homeowners to purchase a replacement home of greater value than their original home and transfer their tax base with an adjustment to account for the value difference in cases of homes destroyed by wildfires or other natural disasters.

With San Pedro and Rancho Palos Verdes consisting of many multigenerational families, local homeowners have considerable financial incentive to utilize Proposition 19. We always encourage our readers to contact a real estate professional, the local county assessor, or the BOE with any questions about your situation. spt

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I NOVEMBER 2023 I SAN PEDRO TODAY I 37

THE BACK PAGE

THE LANDSLIDE: On Nov. 20, 2011, a landslide took out a 400-foot-long section of Paseo Del Mar, a beloved coastal road that connected the western and eastern ends of San Pedro. In 2019, the City of Los Angeles allocated $1.2 million to figure out how to reconnect the road, but as of November 2023, no plans have been announced. (photo: Johnny Kuhn)

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