Target Opens Next Week

The new Target store on North Gaffey Street is opening next week.

Look for a probable “soft” opening on Wednesday, when the store will be open in transitional mode.

Sunday, Oct. 12 is the official opening day. No special celebrations are planned.

The store is located at 1701 N. Gaffey St. (at the former Di Carlo Bakery property). Call (310) 507-6289 to check on special hours Wednesday-Saturday.

What’s Cooking? Find out at these New Restaurants

Porky’s BBQ





Porky’s BBQ of Inglewood has opened on Sixth Street in downtown San Pedro. The barbecue menu features hickory-smoked meats, homemade sides and desserts.

Then there’s an additional menu of Muggie’s Chicken and Biscuits. The restaurant is decorated with homey, retro knick-knacks from a country kitchen.

362 W. Sixth St., (310) 521-9999, www.ribs123.com. Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Monster Burgers


This independent burger joint is an island in a sea of fast-food chains on Gaffey Street.

Burgers include Greek, Frisco, Jalapeño and Monster creations in addition to the familiar bacon cheeseburgers. The menu also features sandwiches, gyros, salads and Mexican fare.

There’s a drive-thru or you can dine in. The interior is clean and simple, with bright yellow booths along the windows.

228 N. Gaffey St., (310) 521-8853. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

Aloha Ice Cream and Coffee


Owners Martin and Mickky Chaput proudly opened their doors on Sept. 25 after months of frustrating delays.

True to its name, Aloha Ice Cream and Coffee brings tropical treats to 25th Street and Western Avenue, operating in the old Billy Baker’s location.

Ice cream, Hawaiian shaved ice, pastries and coffee drinks are among the offerings.

The credit card machine isn’t running yet, so bring cash for now.

1615 W. 25th St. (near Hollywood Video), (310) 547-1702, www.alohaicecreamandcoffee.com. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 6 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Downtown Development Updates

Parking Signs Installed at Centre Street Lofts


Signs have gone up to clarify the public parking area at the Centre Street Lofts.

A large “public parking” sign has been installed above the garage entrance. Interior signs direct visitors to the available parking spaces and the pedestrian exit to Sixth Street.

The garage is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The public may park for four hours free. Overnight parking is prohibited.

Apartments Open at 8th Street Lofts


A banner on the 8th Street Lofts building is announcing the grand opening of the rental apartments. The units have been approved for occupancy and rental applications are now being accepted.

The building at 8th Street and Pacific Avenue is a residential and lifestyle complex with retail shops, a hair salon, casual dining and a banquet hall on the ground floor and loft apartments above.

The popular Caffe Port Town was shut down in January for lack of proper health permits. A sign near the coffee bar now reads, “Michel’s Unique Café, coming soon.”

Bank Lofts Become Rentals
The Bank Lofts have been converted entirely to rental units. Condominiums were originally planned for the development’s Mint building at the northeast corner of Eighth and Mesa Streets, but only a handful of the 23 units had been sold. The larger Vault building on the northwest corner is under construction. It is expected to open as rental units this fall.

Vue Prepares for November Completion
The 318-unit Vue is expected to be completed and ready for occupancy in November. The 16-story glass condominium building at Fifth and Palos Verdes Streets is a dominant feature in the downtown San Pedro skyline.

Construction Continues at LaSalle Lofts
Construction is proceeding at the LaSalle Lofts, expected to be completed by the end of the year. What happens next is an open question. The developer hasn’t decided whether to sell or rent the units or put the entire building on the market.

First Thursday Next Week

The monthly artwalk is Oct. 2 in downtown San Pedro.

Highlights appear on the First Thursday home page.

If the smells of barbecue fill the air, they may be coming from the Corner of Sixth and Nelson Streets. That’s where Porky’s BBQ is opening by First Thursday, if not sooner.

Political News

Palin to Visit Carson
Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin will rally at the Home Depot Center in Carson on Saturday, Oct. 4. The Daily Breeze has all the details.

Democrats Huddle to Watch First Debate


Two days before Friday’s presidential debate, a pair of San Pedro Democrats spontaneously decided to invite their friends to a viewing party at the Los Angeles Yacht Club in Cabrillo Marina.

Dozens accepted John and Terry Miller’s invitation, coming together to root for their candidate and jeer their opponent as Sens. Barack Obama and John McCain held the first of three debates.

Voter Forum Set for Oct. 21
San Pedro voters will have the opportunity to learn about the candidates and issues, ask questions and get politically active at a voter forum next month.

The forum will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 21, exactly two weeks before the Nov. 4 national election. It begins at 6 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building, Berth 28 in Cabrillo Plaza.

Leaders of San Pedro-based Democratic and Republican groups will represent their respective presidential candidates, articulating their positions on the major national issues. This is not a back-and-forth debate but a straight speaking opportunity by each party.

After the portion focusing on the presidential candidates, the forum will shift to local politics.

Neighborhood council presidents will speak and boardmembers in attendance will be introduced. The grassroots leaders will explain how voters who are passionate about the presidential race can “think globally, act locally” by becoming active in community issues year-around through neighborhood councils.

Candidates for Congress, State Assembly and State Senate will also speak.

The forum takes place just days before the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council election on October 25 (9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Cetacean Society Building in Pt. Fermin Park), giving voters an immediate chance to participate in a local election before they vote in the national election.

The forum is sponsored by San Pedro News and the Central, Coastal and Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Councils.

City Controller Releases Port Audit

Los Angeles City Controller Laura Chick released an audit of the Port of L.A. Tuesday. “We didn’t find any cases of wrongdoing or suspicion of abuses, but we did find a high risk of liability,” Chick told the Daily Breeze.

Ponte Vista Opponents Raise Funds for Legal Battle

R Neighborhoods Are 1, the group advocating lower density development at the old Navy housing site on Western Avenue, recently announced it is hiring a lawyer. The attorney will assist the organization as it prepares for city hearings about the development, known as Ponte Vista.

Bisno Development is proposing to build nearly 2,000 condominiums on the 62-acre property across from Green Hills cemetery. The R-1 group wants to hold the number of units down to the 500-700 allowed by current zoning.

RNA1 is seeking donors to help defray the cost.

“We’re up against a guy who has a closet full of lawyers and lobbyists,” said R1 supporter Bruce Horton. “We need all the help we can get to fight Ponte Vista.”

Donations can be made online at www.rneighborhoodsare1.org.

Councilwoman Salutes Aquarium Fundraisers

Respecting the Sea: Community leaders Bruce Horton, Councilwoman Janice Hahn, John Stinson, Debbie Sue Stinson and Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Executive Director Mike Schaadt at the Stinsons’ fundraiser. Photo by Tony Haig.

Councilwoman Janice Hahn attended a grassroots fundraiser for the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium youth programs last Saturday, where she paid tribute to hosts John and Debbie Sue Stinson of San Pedro for organizing their 16th-annual event.

This year’s effort raised nearly $5,000. “It’s a record,” said John Stinson.

In keeping with the aquatic theme, Finnie the fish is the mascot of the annual fundraiser. Finnie changes with the times and is a presidential candidate this year, hence the campaign sign and patriotic T-shirts modeled in the photo.

San Pedro Magazine Launches Website

San Pedro Magazine has added an online edition at www.sanpedromag.com.

Writing in the October issue, editor Joshua Stecker explains he built the site himself after years of attempts to get management support from the magazine’s corporate parent.

RPV Hearing on Ponte Vista Monday

The Rancho Palos Verdes Traffic Safety Commission is holding a forum on Monday, Sept. 22 to hear public comment about potential traffic and transportation impacts from the proposed Ponte Vista residential development.

The forum takes place at 7 p.m. in the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council chambers (29301 Hawthorne Blvd. in Fred Hesse Park; note that this is not RPV City Hall).

The purpose of the forum is to receive comments on the proposed traffic and transportation mitigation for Ponte Vista within the area of Rancho Palos Verdes along Western Avenue and some intersecting streets.

Comments received during the forum will assist the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council in deciding to accept, reject or seek changes to the proposed mitigation within RPV city limits.

The Los Angeles Departments of Transportation and Planning consider RPV a stakeholder in the decision-making processes concerning traffic and transportation mitigation for the proposed development.

For more information, call RPV City Hall at (310) 544-5252.

One More Local Election Before the Big One

Candidates for next month’s Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council election will introduce themselves to voters at a forum on Monday, Sept. 22.

The candidates forum takes place at 6 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building, Cabrillo Plaza, Berth 28.

Voters will elect 17 governing board members on Election Day, Oct. 25.

Thursday, Sept. 25 is the candidate filing deadline. Se the filing form for eligibility requirements.

See the Future Port

The Port of Los Angeles will release a draft environmental document Monday specifying plans for waterfront redevelopment and expansion.

Observers have watched as plans were drafted, debated and shelved through the years. Now everyone is wondering, will it really happen this time?

Port leadership said so emphatically in a Daily Breeze story headlined, “Commission wants to get San Pedro waterfront project started.”

The draft environmental impact report will be posted at www.portoflosangeles.org and available at libraries.

Following a public comment period, staff will write a final environmental impact report, which will then go before the Board of Harbor Commissioners for a vote.

Once a plan is approved, contracts will be put out to bid and a phased, years-long construction process will begin.

Another Busy Saturday of Work and Play

Morning Mission: Be Safe, Clean the Seashore

This morning, you could attend the City of Los Angeles Emergency Preparedness Fair (10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Harbor City; see details in last week’s story).

Alternatively, you could head to Cabrillo Beach to take part in California Coastal Cleanup Day. Volunteers will meet at the outer beach at 9 a.m. and scrub the shore until 12 noon. The cleanup will be followed by an open house and refreshments at the salt marsh, Salinas de San Pedro, from 12-2 p.m.

Afternoon Mission: Love the Lobsters

This weekend’s Lobster Festival is serving up food, music and entertainment from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. 7 p.m. Sunday.

Read about the ticket packages and other details at www.lobsterfest.com.

Here’s a play by play of the Maine action from opening day on Friday.

Get in and line up.


Dress the part.


Find a seat.


Feast on lobster, cole slaw, a roll and “buttery topping.” First-class ticketholders get watermelon, too. Repeat as necessary.

Evening Mission: Music for Many Tastes

Those with contemporary musical tastes may enjoy the lobster festival’s lineup of popular and up-and-coming bands.

For a multicultural experience in an intimate setting, Japanese drummers are performing at the Saturday night debut of the Grand Annex. See details in last week’s story.

Textbook Politics at Play in Central Council Election

Interest Groups Spin Results; New Leaders Look Ahead

Time-honored political tactics came into play in this week’s Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council election.

As reported in the midweek update, a record-setting 306 voters cast ballots in the 25-candidate election for five board seats.

The winning candidates – Phillip Trigas, Frank B. Anderson, Linda L. Alexander, Arthur Almeida, and Raymond Lee Parker – will be seated next month.

They ran together on the “Accountability ’08” slate. (See commentary below for an analysis of the “accountability” theme.)

Much like campaigns for higher office, the neighborhood council election included competing slates of candidates, special-interest endorsements, get-out-the-vote mailers and a late-breaking surprise.

The final week before the election brought high political drama to the San Pedro civic arena.

The “accountability” slate intensified efforts to reach out to voters. Candidates and supporters aggressively campaigned for votes at markets, libraries, community meetings and anywhere else potential voters could be found.

Just minutes before the deadline, a slate of three incumbents and two newcomers filed to run as write-ins. Their public campaign had begun just days earlier, with flyers appearing for the first time at First Thursday on Sept. 4.

At least three special-interest groups backed one of the slates.

Ponte Vista, a proposed 1,950-unit housing development on Western Avenue, urged constituents to consider seven candidates for the five seats: Joe Gatlin, Mayra Perez, Pamela Foster, James Brown, James Cordero, Aphram Khalbourji and Phillip Trigas.

“These candidates have demonstrated a willingness to work together to support economic, business and development opportunities to improve the future of San Pedro,” wrote Ponte Vista official Elise Swanson in an email.

Gatlin, Perez, Foster, Brown and Cordero ran as a slate of write-in candidates.

Trigas campaigned on the opposing slate of “accountability” candidates and was the top vote-getter on the ballot.

Ponte Vista’s Swanson did not respond to a request for comment on the election results.

The Sierra Club Harbor Vision Task Force and R Neighborhoods Are 1 endorsed the winning “accountability” slate.

“Educating voters and candidates on environmental issues is how the Sierra Club participates in the democratic process,” wrote Sierra Club leader Tom Politeo in a San Pedro News commentary (See below).

“By being a part of larger processes and reaching out to candidates and groups that agree with us and those that don’t, we help bring interest to an election and encourage voter participation and turnout,” wrote Politeo.

The Sierra Club sent out a mailer encouraging members to go the polls and vote for the club’s endorsed candidates.

R Neighborhoods Are 1, a grassroots group that supports single-family R-1 zoning at Ponte Vista, emailed a get-out-the-vote message to residents associations and community activists.

“Obviously, people felt strongly enough about this election that they turned out in goodly numbers,” said R Neighborhoods Are 1 member John Stinson, a resident of the Central council area.

“Our candidates won decisively. It’s a victory of the people over special-interest developers,” said Stinson.

Meet the Councilmembers-elect

Here’s a look at the five new members of the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council governing board.

Linda L. Alexander
A consultant to small businesses and non-profit organizations, Alexander currently works with the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce and focuses on issues involving the arts, business and downtown redevelopment.

She served as development director for Rainbow Services in downtown San Pedro until 2007, raising funds to support domestic violence victims.

Before her election to the Central council board, she was a member of the council’s finance committee, advocating openness and accountability in money matters.

Arthur A. Almeida
A San Pedro native with a 55-year history of community leadership, Almeida had walked the walk and talked the talk.

The retired longshoreman has been active in the San Pedro Bay Historical Society, Holy Trinity Parish, L.A. Harbor College and countless other civic organizations.

His goals as a councilmember are to “make sure services are adequately supplied by the city as new projects are approved.”

Frank B. Anderson
Anderson is a retired teacher and union leader who worked at Todd Shipyard and Kaiser Permanente before earning his teaching credential.

Today, he is an active member of the San Pedro and Peninsula Homeowners Coalition, the Leland and Peck Park advisory boards, the San Pedro Bay Historical Society and the San Pedro Youth Sports Association.

“I hope to deal directly, collaboratively and consensually not only with the issues that are particular to central San Pedro, but also to involve the other neighborhood councils, community groups and local government bodies in the decision-making process and resolution of community-wide issues,” said Anderson.

Raymond Lee Parker
As a jazz musician, Parker seeks to harmonize the arts and economic development in downtown San Pedro.

He has married into a longtime San Pedro family through his wife, Bonnie, daughter of the late Flora Baker. Parker’s personal and professional background gives him first-hand knowledge of San Pedro working artists and the town’s cultural heritage.

Phillip Trigas
Trigas is an architect and resident of the Centre Street Lofts in downtown San Pedro. Soon after unpacking his boxes, he started attending neighborhood council meetings.

“I quickly found myself getting drawn in, getting involved in this committee and that committee and meeting great people who welcomed me in and encouraged me to get involved,” said Trigas.

“I immediately realized I was living in an authentic, close-knit community – a rare find,” said Trigas. “I hope to use my background to have a positive impact on the development of our downtown Arts, Culture and Entertainment District.”

San Pedro Marks 9/11

A handwritten sign on the Port Gelato storefront urges public appreciation of first responders.

A downtown business owner organized a Patriot Day tribute to local police officers and firefighters in remembrance of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Rebecca Trani of Port Gelato Creamery put together care packages with coupons for free ice cream at Port Gelato, coffee at Mishi’s Strudel and a meal at Big Nick’s Pizza.

Trani delivered the care packages to 12 Harbor Area police and fire stations to express appreciation to the first responders.

“My son is a soldier in Iraq. He has to know I’m safe and he feels better knowing I’m in good hands with our local police and firefighters,” said Trani.

The owners of Mishi’s wrote a tribute statement, displayed on the counter.

“Through their selfless acts of caring, nurturing the suffering and compassionate, tireless dedication, our servicemen teach us the true meaning of ‘civilization;’ that we are only a ‘civilization’ if we, in turn, care for and nurture each other!” the Mishi’s statement read.

Other San Pedro business owners, their employees and customers wrote messages of gratitude to the public safety officers.

Emergency Preparedness Fair Next Saturday

An emergency preparedness fair is taking place in the Harbor Area next Saturday, Sept. 20.

The fair will be held at Ken Malloy Park (25820 Vermont Ave., Harbor City) from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The free event will include sample products, demonstrations and information to prepare families, homes and businesses for an emergency.

The fair will also include nature walks in the park, a kids pavilion and music.

It is sponsored by the City of L.A. and Community Outreach Promoting Safety and Security, a grassroots group led by San Pedro activist Lonna Calhoun.

Have Dinner, Watch the Game and ‘Take a Bite Out of Crime’

Local police officers are once again trading their patrol cars for servers’ aprons, waiting tables to raise funds for Harbor Division youth programs.

The San Pedro Brewing Company is hosting the “tip-a-cop” fundraiser from 5-9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15.

The football game will provide additional entertainment to go with the experience of being served by an off-duty officer impersonating a rookie waiter.

When diners tip the cop-server, the full amount is donated to the station’s youth programs.

The restaurant is located at 331 W. Sixth St. in downtown San Pedro.

For more information, call (310) 522-2042.

Coastal Neighborhood Council Meeting Monday

The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, Sept. 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building.

For more information, view the agenda or call (310) 290-0049.

TriArt Festival Set for This Weekend

Art, music and classic cars will assume the spotlight at this weekend’s TriArt Festival in downtown San Pedro.

Mesa Street between Fifth and Seventh Streets will be lined with artists booths, displaying their artwork and submitting pieces to the festival’s juried competition.

The Warner Grand Theatre will host several performances, while classic cars, music and more performances take center stage outdoors on Seventh Street.

Festival hours are 12 noon-6 p.m. both days.

This second TriArt Festival honors the memory of San Pedro artist Violet Parkhurst and longshoreman Thomas “Jack” Stenehjem.

For more information, visit www.triartfestival.com or call (310) 547-1460.

Lobster Anyone? Festival Next Weekend

The annual crustacean invasion is next weekend, when the Port of Los Angeles Lobster Festival unfolds for three days of music, entertainment and tons of Maine lobster.

The festival takes place Friday-Sunday, Sept. 19-21.

In addition to lobsters and other foods, the festival promises to entertain guests with dancing, parades, street performers, a pirate camp, tall ships, arts and crafts booths and musical performances.

Visit www.lobsterfest.com for more information or call (310) 798-7478.

New Performance Space to Open Downtown with Shows Next Weekend

The Grand Vision Foundation is opening the Grand Annex at 434 W. Sixth Street with a Sept. 20 performance of Japanese drumming.

The annex is a small, intimate performance space a few doors down from the Warner Grand Theatre.

“We’re really excited about bringing live music to our local and intimate listening room setting,” said Liz Schindler-Johnson, director of the Grand Vision Foundation. “This is something the community has said they want and that’s what we’re going to provide.”

The annex’s fall calendar includes a mix of familiar acoustic performers and a significant array of new and unique programming.

The inaugural season kicks off with a Japanese Fusion Series.

The Sept. 20 performance features Hiroyuki Hayashida and Zi-Pang taiko drummers, preceded by a workshop to learn the taiko drumming technique.

The next day, straight-ahead jazz is the theme as the Richard Glaser Band performs on Sunday, Sept. 21 with special guest artist Bill Tapia on his Hawaiian-style jazz ukulele.

For tickets and more information, visit www.grandvision.org or call (310) 833-4813.

OPINION: The Long, Combative Road to Central Council ‘Accountability’

By Doug Epperhart

This week’s Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council election was the culmination of a lengthy tug-of-war between political philosophies.

One side appeared to believe the council’s role was to support special interests seeking favors (not unlike our highly-paid brethren on the city council).

The other side viewed the council as a sounding board for public opinion, amplifying the community’s voice.

The campaign that ended Tuesday evening really began a year ago when the first “accountability slate” of 11 candidates swept into office promising a new commitment to Central’s constituents.

These individuals, for the most part, worked together to forge new bylaws governing the council. They created a more open agenda-setting process, for one thing.

They also empowered the councilmembers to elect officers, replacing the past practice of direct election by the voters. It was this last rule that had caused most of the problems.

Because the officers were guaranteed two years, they didn’t have to be responsive to the other 12 board members. The council’s officers frequently seemed to confuse legislative leadership and executive authority.

Earlier this year, when some board members realized they didn’t have the votes to prevent bylaws reform, they tried to end the meeting by walking out. It didn’t work.

A month later, they tried to expel board members they didn’t like. That didn’t work either.

And now Central’s president, vice president, and secretary have been turned out of office by the voters.

Next month, board members will choose officers who will, presumably, understand their colleagues have given them the obligation to serve and not the right to command.

Democracy works.

***
Doug Epperhart is a San Pedro resident, business owner, Coastal council board member and Central council stakeholder.

OPINION: Electing Political Allies to Advance Sierra Club Goals

By Tom Politeo

The Sierra Club was delighted to see a slate of candidates who provided thoughtful answers on environmental issues win for the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council.

Though not all the answers were in full agreement with club positions, they did broadly reflect a positive concern about environmental issues.

There were other good candidates running. To strengthen our influence, we focused on five, one for each vacant seat.

A couple of years ago, the club’s Harbor Vision Task Force, which is active in the San Pedro Bay area, got permission to carry out an expedited endorsement for the neighborhood council elections in San Pedro and Wilmington.

This is much faster than the usual Sierra Club endorsement process, which can take several months. We hope this will be adopted elsewhere in the club.

Educating voters and candidates on environmental issues is how the Sierra Club participates in the democratic process.

By being a part of larger processes and reaching out to candidates and groups that agree with us and those that don’t, we help bring interest to an election and encourage voter participation and turnout.

A good number of groups worked the Central neighborhood council election and it had the largest turnout ever in this election. This is a victory in its own right because even with the increase, the turnout in these elections is small.

We need to encourage more participation in neighborhood councils, as they have significant potential to influence City of Los Angeles policies.

Our questions to the candidates focused on three timely local issues of interest to the club, particularly our members in the Central area.

These included two on the waterfront and one on opening up LAUSD schools to joint use after school hours, which all impact the Central council area. Like most of Los Angeles, San Pedro needs more public facilities available for use, and this is one way to provide them.

Our task force has been very active in greening the ports, reducing air pollution and noise and improving labor conditions by opening the doors for union participation for port truck drivers.

We have also worked on environmental-justice access issues to improve public access to our beaches and waterfront in San Pedro, Wilmington and Long Beach.

We are now an intervener in court to defend the L.A. and Long Beach ports’ clean trucks programs and we are promoting the concept of a “Cool Cities” waterfront for the bridge-to-breakwater area.

Our new “Cool Cities” concept is beginning to guide city land-use and transportation decisions in a direction that will improve the quality of life and reduce climate change.

Based on the Port Community Advisory Committee sustainability plan, “Cool Cities” explores how to reduce carbon emissions by reducing car trips to San Pedro, increasing public transit, improving Ports O’ Call and local business and keeping the Kaiser Point area free from an industrially-scaled cruise industry.

***
Tom Politeo is chair of the Sierra Club’s Harbor Vision Task Force.

Midweek Update

Central Council Election Results; 110 Freeway Meeting Correction

‘Accountability’ Slate Sweeps Central Council Election

The five members of the “accountability” slate won seats in Tuesday’s Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council election.

Based on unofficial results, a record-setting 308 ballots were cast in the 25-candidate race for five board seats.

Councilmembers-elect Phillip Trigas, Frank B. Anderson, Linda L. Alexander, Arthur Almeida, and Raymond Lee Parker are expected to be seated at the council’s Oct. 14 meeting.

Here are the complete, unofficial results. Unofficial winners are boldfaced. The election administrator is expected to release the final results today.

In ballot order:

Sylvan Arguello: 11
Rosa Elvira Quintero: 41
Max W. Pierce: 5
Phillip Trigas: 198
Joey T. Pedroza: 14
Pedro Araujo Reyes: 13
Frank B. Anderson: 165
Linda L. Alexander: 194
R. Price-Guinn: 3
Vernon C. I. Connoly: 4
Margie Maxwell: 14
Renee Sanchez Durbin: 10
Wenceslao Murillo: 2
Arthur A. Almeida: 163
Aphram Khalbourji: 15
Raymond Lee Parker: 154
Heidi Bartlett: 9
Jason Herring: 1
Ray Buffer: 21
L. Tollstrup: 0
James Brown: 80
Joe Gatlin: 73
Mayra Perez: 62
Pamela Foster Newsom: 62
Jim Cordero: 65

***

110 Freeway ‘Congestion Pricing’ Workshop: Corrected Time

The time has been revised for the public meeting regarding carpool-lane tolls and other changes for the 110 Harbor Freeway.

The workshop is this Friday, Sept. 12 from 9:30 a.m.-12 noon at the Carson Civic Center (801 E. Carson St.). It is part of the Metro South Bay Governance Council meeting.

For more information, go to www.metro.net/fastlanes or call (213) 922-4200.

Central Neighborhood Council Election Tuesday

Voters will elect five boardmembers at Tuesday’s Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council election.

The election takes place on Sept. 9 from 3:30-7:30 p.m. at the Port of Los Angeles High School, 250 W Fifth St.

Eligible voters – stakeholders – are those who live, work or own property in the area, approximately north of 18th Street and east of Leland Street.

People can also vote if they have some other connection to the area. Examples of a qualifying connection include doing business, shopping or dining in the area, belonging to a community organization or patronizing a museum within the council boundaries.

Five seats will be filled in the election.

Seventeen candidates will appear on the printed ballot. At least eight write-in candidates are also running.

Write-in candidates must file in advance; candidates cannot declare the day of the election. The write-in filing deadline is Monday, Sept. 8 at 5 p.m.

At least two slates of candidates have formed.

Phillip Trigas, Frank B. Anderson, Linda L. Alexander, Arthur Almeida, and Raymond Lee Parker are running together on the “accountability” slate.

Incumbents Joe Gatlin, Mayra Perez and Pam Newsom are running with Jim Cordero and James Brown on another slate. These five candidates are running write-in campaigns.

Find more information, candidate filing forms and a district map on the council’s home page.

Meet the Central Candidates

Here is autobiographical information about the candidates, reprinted verbatim from their own candidate statements or campaign flyers.

In ballot order:

Sylvan Arguello
Statement not available

Rosa Elvira Quintero
I am self-motivated person. I have a positive outlook on life. I was elected as the community representative for Cabrillo Elementary School in San Pedro. I am currently employee by Los Angeles Unified School District as manager assistant in the cafeteria in San Pedro.

I live in the lovely community of San Pedro since 1995. My desire is to help improve the city and to increase San Pedro citizens participation to join in our efforts to enhance San Pedro.

Because I love San Pedro; I will devote my time, knowledge and experience to enhance the livelihood of our community for our children, friends, visitors, and our neighborhoods to make San Pedro a better place to live!

Rosa.quintero@att.net

Source: official candidate statement

Max W. Pierce
I became interested in the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council after talking to a member of the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council and getting elected to the Knoll Hill steering committee.

I have only lived in San Pedro for two years but have been aware of San Pedro activities all of my life.

I bring to the Board 33 years experience in Architecture 20 of those as a licensed Architect working in Public Works for the City of Los Angeles, Bureau of Engineering.

During those 20 years I’ve worked mostly on Public Works Projects involving Wastewater Treatment Plants including Terminal Island.

I am very interested in maintaining the character of Downtown San Pedro.

Source: official candidate statement

Phillip Trigas
Architect / Planner
Phillip Trigas is an Architect, Father and Homeowner living in the downtown district. He is running for the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council as the culmination of his wide-ranging commitmentto the CSPNC and its various committees. Phillip has “walked the walk” with his ongoing activism and involvement:

Harbor Area Representative, Congress of Neighborhoods Planning Committee
Steering committee member for the Knoll Hill Park planning process
Co-Chair Communications and Outreach Committee
Planning and Land Use Committee member

As a Board member, Phillip will advocate:

Consensus building to work together for common goals
An “Open Door Policy” for community input
Greater Stake Holder involvement
Support to grow our downtown Arts, Culture, and Entertainment District

Source: official candidate statement

Joey T. Pedroza
Statement not available

Pedro Araujo Reyes
Statement not available

Frank B. Anderson
My name is Frank B. Anderson. I am a life time resident of San Pedro, and a retired teacher. Currently, I am involved with several community groups. I am the president of the Leland Park Advisory Board and a member of the Peck Park Advisory Board. I am also the treasurer and acting secretary of a nonprofit group, the San Pedro Youth Sports Association, that raises money to subsidize sport registration fees, buy equipment and uniforms, and make physical improvements in local park facilities. Further, I am a fifteen year member of the San Pedro and PeninsulaHomeowners Coalition, a group that actively promotes local homeowner rights, and I have served as its secretary for the past ten years.

I desire to serve on the…..

Source: official candidate statement (truncated by election administrator to meet 125-word limit)

Linda L. Alexander

I am a business owner and have lived and worked in San Pedro for many years. I experience what our stakeholders experience, 24/7. My concerns are for the quality of life in all areas of San Pedro but most particularly, our Historic Downtown. There is much to be done, such as cleaning streets, and improving the appearance of storefronts, which will benefit our entire community.

I regularly attend and participate in the Central Neighborhood Council board and committee meetings. I am a member of the finance committee dedicated to transparent and fair oversight of the council budget. My many years of experience, in a variety of San Pedro organizations, allow me to contribute knowledge and stability to the board.

Source: official candidate statement

R. Price-Guinn
Our community sits on an unarticulated tragedy that will prevent us from ever becoming all that we might be. The problem is that of rampant and open “drug abuse” by our children, their parents, and et al. A closer look at the secondary effects of this scourge and a study of precisely just how it effects us all is called for in the most immediate future.

Sincerely, R. Price-Guinn

Source: official candidate statement

Vernon C. I. Connoly
Statement not available

Margie Maxwell
Statement not available

Renee Sanchez Durbin
Statement not available

Wenceslao Murillo
Statement not available

Arthur A. Almeida
I am a San Pedran by birth, born in 1928, in a house built by my father in 1921 on Black Hill. I am a retired stevedore after working on Los Angeles and Long Beach docks including during my early years as a newsboy. I have been involved in many community issues for the past 55 years.

I have been and am very interested in all San Pedro projects, including serving for 12 years on the original Beacon Street Development Advisory Committee. I have long been associated with the San Pedro Bay Historical Society as a charter member, president, and on the Board. I possess extensive knowledge of local history … where it has been and our hopes for its future. San Pedro’s evolution has been phenomenal.

Source: official candidate statement

Aphram Khalbourji
I have been with the Neighborhood Council since pre certification (February 12, 2002), and have served on the steering committee and assisted in the formulation of the By-laws.

At the first election I was honored to be elected to the Treasurer’s Office, working hard to provide the NC with proper accounting and accurate financial information. The most important duty the Treasurer should have is integrity and the safe guarding of assets. As a neighborhood council, it is our job to find the right people for the right positions, in order to provide our community with the best possible service that volunteers can give.

I would like to remain active in my neighborhood, as I learn more about it and become well trained in the stakeholders’ needs. We are getting all the experience we need, learning to grow and reach out, managing our talents, skills and expertise, all in the spirit of grassroots democracy. We need your trust and support to continue the path towards a better San Pedro, full of action, entertainment, more jobs, cleaner streets, healthier environment, safer neighborhood, and a deeper sense of belonging.

I have lived in San Pedro since November 2, 1983. I was 20 years old, single, student, and broke. Today, I am happily married with two handsome boys, live on 19th Street and Alma, and operate an accounting and tax practice on Meyler & 11th Street. I can surely say that I am not broke, but I am still searching for the American Dream.

I just would like to see San Pedro become the jewel of South Bay, Greater Los Angeles, and the World. Even though it is a treasure in itself, sometime I think that it remains empty. It is our constant duty and responsibility to make sure the treasure chest is always full of JEWELS!!!

Source: campaign flyer

Raymond Lee Parker
Raymond Lee Parker is a highly respected Jazz Musician & Recording artist who believes that the Central San Pedro arts district is on the verge of great success. He wants make certain that all races, ethnicities, social and economic classes work together to grow and prosper while maintaining an atmosphere where art and culture can flourish. Raymond is a disabled American Vet and feels that the council should have a voice representing this constituency. His wife, Bonnie, is the daughter of the late Flora Baker, and Raymond is committed to continuing the family legacy of honoring San Pedro’s rich historical culture.

Source: campaign flyer

Heidi Bartlett
Statement not available

Write-in candidates published in the official voter bulletin: (as of August 15, 2008):

Ray Buffer
I believe in the potential for San Pedro to grow and the need to embrace change. Not all change is good, and I believe it is the important role of the Council to determine and weigh the benefits and the costs of change. I run a Performing Arts Company that originated in Downtown San Pedro. I believe this historic area is on the verge of great growth and opportunity and I want to be a voice that represents the downtown interests. I bring with me the unique experience of running a non-profit, and years of working as a union actor, a union stage manager, and union singer. The arts can change attitudes, educate, and stimulate commerce making San Pedro a true destination.

Source: official candidate statement

Jason Herring
Statement not available

L. Tollstrup
Statement not available

Additional presumed write-in candidates:

Joe Gatlin
President, Central Neighborhood Council

Mayra Perez
Vice President, CNC

Pamela Foster
Secretary, CNC

Jim Cordero
Vice Principal, Mary Star Elementary

James Brown
Owner, San Pedro Brewing Co.
Homeowner, Centre Street Lofts

Source: campaign flyer

Meet the Slate Monday
These slate candidates will meet voters at the San Pedro Brewing Company on Monday night, Election Eve. They will talk about the election and campaign for votes during halftime of the 7 p.m. football game.

Harbor Republicans Cheer McCain-Palin

The newly formed Peninsula Harbor Republicans gathered in Palos Verdes to watch Sen. John McCain accept the party’s presidential nomination Thursday.

The viewing party was held at the former Marie Callender’s restaurant in Rolling Hills Estates, atop the Promenade of the Peninsula shopping center. The building will serve as Republicans’ local campaign headquarters through the election.

“McCain gave the speech he needed to give,” said John Stammreich of San Pedro, chair of 54th Assembly District Republican committee. “He had a big challenge following [Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin’s] energetic speech the night before.

“The biggest thing he made us realize is that he’s going to represent all of us, not just Republicans and not just the Republicans who backed him from the start.”

Peninsula Harbor Republicans President Gene Dotson, left, and 54th Assembly District party leader John Stammreich.

Gene Dotson, president of the Peninsula Harbor Republicans, said that local grassroots efforts would focus on 25th State Senate District candidate Lydia Gutierrez, 54th Assembly District candidate Gabriella Holt and 46th Congressional District incumbent Dana Rohrabacher.

Rohrabacher and Gutierrez – a San Pedro resident and Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council boardmember – attended the viewing party and spoke to the activists.

Neighborhood Council Meetings Coming Up

The Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Peck Park auditorium, 560 N. Western Ave.

For more information, view the agenda, browse the council’s website or call (310) 732-4522.

The Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Tuesday, Sept. 9 at the Port of Los Angeles High School, 250 W Fifth St. Refreshments are served at 6 p.m. and the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.

View the agenda and home page for information or call (310) 918-8650.

What’s This About Tolls on the 110 Freeway?

Plans are underway to turn the carpool lanes of the 110 Harbor Freeway into toll lanes for single-occupant vehicles as part of a test project to reduce traffic congestion.

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is introducing FastLanes, an experimental effort to improve commutes along the 110 and 10 freeways.

When implemented in December 2010, the program will give more options to single drivers, carpoolers, vanpoolers and transit riders.

“Congestion pricing” will be implemented in the carpool lanes, opening them to single drivers for a sliding-scale fee.

The MTA will hold a public meeting on Friday, Sept. 12 from 9-11 a.m. at the Carson Civic Center, 801 E. Carson St., to hear community input about ways to improve commutes.

Meeting details and extensive background information can be found on the MTA’s FastLanes page.

Pt. Fermin Park Hosts Filipino Festival

The tents are all set for visitors to this weekend’s Filipino Festival. See the current issue of Random Lengths News for a feature story (not posted online at presstime).

Week in Review

San Pedro and Peninsula Homeowners Coalition President Andy Mardesich introduces City Controller Laura Chick. Photo by Frank B. Anderson.

Los Angeles City Controller Laura Chick spoke to approximately 80 community members at a meeting sponsored by San Pedro homeowners’ organizations. Chick discussed recent audits her office has conducted, including her findings that L.A. does not have a comprehensive emergency response plan.

***

An estimated 150 people attended a public meeting Thursday on the proposed high school at Angels Gate. The Daily Breeze headline “Proposed SP school under scrutiny” expresses the vocal neighborhood opposition.

***

More about downtown parking meters: Last week, San Pedro News reported that meters are increasing to $1 an hour. Readers have posted letters to the editor in response to a commentary on the topic. And, the Daily Breeze did a story this week, aptly headlined “San Pedro’s parking pain.”


***

There was major police action in coastal San Pedro Tuesday as a suspect locked himself in his home and caused a four-hour standoff. The Daily Breeze has the story and photos.

***

The Daily Breeze reported on the first meeting of the Knoll Hill committee, formed to study options and recommend a plan for the hill’s future.

***

What happened to the water in the Averill Park ponds? The Daily Breeze story has some answers.

Porky’s Barbecue Coming to Downtown S.P.

Pretty soon, San Pedrans will be saying, “Let’s go to Porky’s” and they won’t be referring to a chubby friend’s house.

Porky’s BBQ is opening on Sixth Street in the old Downtown Subs ’N’ More location.

The family-owned Inglewood restaurant and catering company has been wowing customers and food critics with its slow-cooked Kansas City-style barbecue.

The outside and inside of Porky’s in Inglewood, near the Great Western Forum

Porky’s soon-to-be San Pedro restaurant, site of the former Downtown Subs ’N’ More

Pork, beef, chicken and ribs are hickory smoked over low temperature for up to 16 hours. Sides and sauces are made from scratch. Portions are so generous that only the heartiest appetites can finish a meal.

Porky’s expects to open in the second half of September at 362 W. Sixth St., phone (310) 521-9999.

A smaller Porky’s, primarily take-out, opened in Long Beach this spring.

A positive Daily Breeze review is posted on Porky’s website.

OPINION: Vote for Trigas, Anderson, Alexander, Almeida and Parker

By Doug Epperhart

The Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council election will be held this Tuesday, September 9, from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Port of Los Angeles High School, 250 West Fifth Street (between Palos Verdes and Centre streets).

You need to go there and vote for these five candidates: Phillip Trigas, Frank B. Anderson, Linda L. Alexander, Arthur Almeida, and Raymond Lee Parker. They are on the ballot to fill five board member seats.

I support these individuals because they will bring a variety of needed talents to the Central council, have a track record of volunteerism, and, most importantly, are committed to serving our community.

They understand that neighborhood council board members should work for the people, not developers or other special interests.

The 33,000 inhabitants of the Central San Pedro area (roughly everything north of 18th Street and east of Leland Street) deserve better leadership than they’ve had from the incumbents running for re-election. It’s time to vote the rascals out and bring in new blood.

Under the city’s new rules, virtually anyone can qualify to vote in the Central election. If you live, work, or own property, you’re in.

You can also vote if you are a member of an organization in Central (such as the historical society, maritime museum, or chamber of commerce), have a library card, or shop or dine in the area.

You do not have to be a resident of the City of Los Angeles to vote. Even though it only takes a few minutes to mark your ballot, it can mean years of good government for the people of Central San Pedro.

Remember: vote for Trigas, Anderson, Alexander, Almeida, and Parker on Tuesday.

***
Doug Epperhart is a San Pedro resident, business owner and Central council stakeholder.

Editor’s note: San Pedro News has also invited the opposing slate of candidates to write a commentary about their campaign. Their statement will be posted upon receipt.

Monetary Change: Parking Meter Fees Going Up

Stash more coins in your glove compartment. L.A.’s parking meters are getting hungrier this fall.

Under the terms of a citywide increase, meters that previously cost 25 cents an hour – including those in downtown San Pedro – will go up to $1 an hour effective sometime after September 1.

Meters in certain areas of downtown L.A. will climb to $4 an hour.

Read more about the city ordinance in last month’s Los Angeles Times story.

Social Change: S.P. Democrats Cheer Obama

San Pedro Democrats applaud Barack Obama’s acceptance speech.

Members of the San Pedro Democratic Club gathered to watch Sen. Barack Obama accept the presidential nomination Thursday.

“It was great to be part of one of the many nomination night parties here in San Pedro and celebrate this historic night,” said club president David Greene.

“Barack Obama once again showed that Democratic values are American values and John McCain the Republican leadership are using slick marketing to sell fear and a broken promise.”

Steve Goldsmith of San Pedro was among the members who attended the viewing party, held at Bagels Galore. As a young political activist, Goldsmith attended the 1963 march on Washington led by Martin Luther King, Jr.

Forty-five years later to the day, Goldsmith watched history being made again as Obama accepted the party’s nomination.

Democrat Steve Goldsmith (left) and club president David Greene.

“Obama’s statement of change was just as inspiring,” said Goldsmith. “Both leaders were and are dedicated to bringing more people into the political process to make positive changes.”

Friday’s Daily Breeze story “Obama raises hopes in South Bay” contains additional reaction from Pat Nave and Bob Farrell of San Pedro.

Angels Gate School Opponents Campaign Online

Residents opposed to construction of a public high school at Angels Gate have launched a website ahead of this week’s meeting about the proposed school.

On its home page, Neighbors Organized and Involved to Support Education (NOISE) is encouraging the community to attend the L.A. school district’s Sept. 4 hearing.

The purpose of the meeting is to hear public comment on the draft environmental impact report for the proposed marine magnet high school. Drafts of the school design will also be presented.

The hearing takes place at 6 p.m. at Barton Hill Elementary School, 423 N. Cabrillo Ave. For more information, call the school district at (800) 704-1267.

Happening this Week

Last week, San Pedro News previewed some early September events, which now top the agenda for this week:

Labor Day March
Union workers from the Harbor Area and beyond will march through Wilmington on Monday, Labor Day.

City Controller to Speak Sept. 4
LA City Controller Laura Chick will visit San Pedro to discuss the nitty-gritty of the controller’s watchdog function, namely audits of city government.

San Pedro homeowners’ organizations are hosting Chick’s Sept. 4 talk, which is expected to detail the recent audit of the city’s emergency response plan.

Representatives of the grassroots group Community Outreach Promoting Safety and Security will be on hand to draw attention to a Sept. 20 emergency preparedness fair at Ken Malloy Park in Harbor City. (6:30 p.m. at the LA County Senior & Community Center, 769 W. Third Street. Call 310-251-7075).

First Thursday: Jazzed for Politics
First Thursday is Sept. 4 in downtown San Pedro. Check the website early next week for the schedule of special events.

Some candidates for the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council board are having a jazzy get-together at Crimsin lounge on First Thursday.

The slate of candidates will meet voters and talk politics over drinks as one of their own tickles the ivories.

Jazz musician and candidate Raymond Lee Parker will perform at Crimsin from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The event is free and appetizers will be served. Crimsin is located at 345 W. Sixth St.

Parker and his running mates are seeking votes for the Sept. 9 election, taking place from 3:30-7:30 p.m. at the Port of Los Angeles High School, 250 W. Fifth St.

Filipino Festival in Pt. Fermin Next Saturday

The annual Filipino festival is next weekend, Sept. 6-7. Thousands of visitors are expected to attend the 17th annual event in Pt. Fermin Park.

Wine not: Take a detour from the crowds and sip wine at The Corner Store. A wine, hummus and soda tasting on Sept. 6 will benefit local animal rescue efforts. Call (310) 832-2424 for tickets ($15) and information.

Food for Thought

Following up on last week’s dining and lifestyle story:


Dolci Mango frozen yogurt is now open. The shop is located in the Terraces, on the second level near Centinela Pet Supplies tucked beneath the stairwell with the Marshalls sign. Store hours are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. 28901 S. Western Ave., #227, Rancho Palos Verdes, (310) 984-1229, www.dolcimango.net

“Restaurateur finds ‘Prime’ location” is a new Daily Breeze story on Think Prime, the forthcoming steakhouse from the owner of Think Café and Think Bistro.

OPINION: Parking Meter Fee Hike Undercuts S.P. Revitalization

By Linda Alexander

Yes, the city needs to raise funds and yes, we must all do our part. However, this dramatic increase of 400% in historic downtown San Pedro will have a devastating effect on our businesses.

Downtown is the only shopping area in San Pedro with parking meters, yet another reason for shoppers to avoid downtown.

Although San Pedro is poised to become a prosperous area, that time has not arrived.

One Los Angeles city manager was quoted as stating that the increased fees would encourage drivers to utilize city parking structures. San Pedro is still without a parking structure despite calls for construction.

Business owners have endured a significant reduction of parking spaces in the past few years. Higher fees will open up spaces because customers will not come.

It is difficult to comprehend why, in newspaper articles, parking fees are compared with Hollywood, Pasadena and Santa Monica. San Pedro is far from that level of economic activity at this time.

I suggest that the fees be increased gradually over a period of five years. That should give enough time for us to realize the economic improvement which so many in our town are moving to create.

If the fees have not changed in 17 years during many periods of solid economic growth, they can wait now during this general downtime.

***
Linda Alexander is a San Pedro consultant to small businesses and non-profit organizations. This commentary is adapted from a recent letter she wrote to Los Angeles city officials.

Calm Before the Storm

Not much afoot right now at the lazy end of August. The news will resume in full force next month. Here’s a preview of the coming weeks.

September Preview: Community-wide Events

• First Thursday is Sept. 4.

• “Everything creative” will be on display at the TriArt Festival in downtown San Pedro Sept. 13-14. Until triartfestival.com is completed, you can learn more in the press release.

September Preview: Politics

The port is expected to release a much-anticipated draft environmental study of the waterfront redevelopment plans. Activists will be monitoring www.portofla.org for the document, which may be posted before the end of August.

***

Sept. 1 is Labor Day and workers will take to the Wilmington streets for the annual march and parade. Call (562) 595-1891.

***

At a public hearing on Sept. 4, the LA school district will take comments about the draft environmental impact report for the proposed marine magnet high school at Angel’s Gate. (6 p.m. at Barton Hill Elementary School, 423 N. Cabrillo Ave. Call 800-704-1267.)

***

LA City Controller Laura Chick will visit San Pedro to discuss the nitty-gritty of the controller’s watchdog function, namely audits of city government.

San Pedro homeowners’ organizations are hosting Chick’s Sept. 4 talk, which is expected to detail the recent audit of the city’s emergency response plan.

Representatives of the grassroots group Community Outreach Promoting Safety and Security will be on hand to draw attention to a Sept. 20 emergency preparedness fair at Ken Malloy Park in Harbor City. (6:30 p.m. at the LA County Senior & Community Center, 769 W. Third Street. Call 310-251-7075.)

***

The Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council election is Sept. 9. (3-7 p.m. at Port of Los Angeles High School, 250 W. Fifth St. Visit the election page for more information.)

***

Last but not least, a presidential election is underway. The Democratic convention is next week in Denver, followed by the Republicans in the beginning of September in Minneapolis/St. Paul. Will San Pedro be represented? If you know of any convention delegates from San Pedro, drop us a note and we’ll include them in our report.

September Preview: Dining and Lifestyle

A number of new restaurants are expected to open this fall.

Aloha Ice Cream and Coffee is moving into the space at 25th Street and Western Avenue formerly occupied by Billy Baker’s.

Dolci Mango, a European-style frozen yogurt shop, is opening in the Terraces on the Trader Joe’s level.



The owner of Think Café and Think Bistro is opening a steakhouse on Western Avenue where the Blue Crab recently closed. Now those provocative signs make sense …






The café at Port Town Plaza (formerly Caffé Port Town) will re-open under a new name and new management at the 8th Street Lofts complex.

A Lebanese restaurant is opening at 19th Street and Pacific Avenue.

Monster Burger is opening on Gaffey Street a few blocks before the freeway onramp, next to the newly remodeled Taco Bell.

In other food news:

Nosh Café is featured in the Long Beach newspaper The District, in a story headlined “Presence of Mind.”

Newcomer George’s Café is serving American and Mexican dishes for breakfast and lunch at 726 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 521-8307.

Don your bib and prepare for the Lobster Festival Sept. 19-21.

September Preview: Escapist Alternatives

If just reading about the back-to-back (and simultaneous) meetings is raising your blood pressure, find relief in some escapist alternatives:

• Have a drink for a good cause at The Corner Store’s Sept. 6 wine tasting. Tickets are $15 and include wine, hummus and soda tasting to benefit local animal rescue efforts. (Two tastings: 1:30-3:30 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. at 1118 W. 37th St. Call 310-832-2424 for registration and information.)
• Take a nature walk with the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. On Sept. 13, the group will lead a two-hour walk at Royal Palms beach. (2 p.m. at the upper lot at Western Ave. and Paseo del Mar. Call 310-541-7613 ext. 201 or visit www.pvplc.org.)

Just Peachy

This week’s farmers market included a special guest.

Los Angeles Times food writer Russ Parsons signed copies of his book How to Pick a Peach: The Search for Flavor from Farm to Table.



The book contains straightforward instructions for selecting, storing and preparing peaches and other fruits and vegetables from A to Z. Williams’ Book Store hosted Parsons’ visit.

Ponte Vista Vote Questioned

The Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council passed a motion supporting elements of the Ponte Vista housing proposal amidst questions over conflicts of interest.

Heading into Tuesday’s meeting, the council was set to vote on a motion to endorse the 1,950-unit complex as proposed.

Before the vote was taken, questions were raised as to whether some councilmembers had conflicts of interest that might disqualify them from voting on the issue.

During the public comment period, Doug Epperhart, a boardmember of the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council and Ponte Vista opponent, presented a letter alleging conflicts of interest on the part of councilmembers Joe Gatlin, Mayra Perez, Pam Foster-Newsom, Joe Donato and Larry Henderson.

The City of Los Angeles ethics ordinance, which applies to neighborhood councils, says it is not in the public interest for individuals to act on a matter if they do not believe they could act impartially or if the public might reasonably reach that conclusion.

The letter states that four councilmembers have conflicts because they are employees or officers of entities that have received donations or contracts from Ponte Vista. Another councilmember serves on Ponte Vista’s own community advisory committee, a group organized by the developer and considered an advocacy body.

Councilmember Kara McLeod moved to postpone the Ponte Vista motion for a month so that the board could get an opinion from the city attorney about the alleged conflicts of interest.

McLeod’s motion was defeated 7-5 and the board went forward with a vote on the Ponte Vista resolution.

Councilmember Andrew Silber voluntarily recused himself because he is a board member of the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce. The business group has received significant monetary support from Ponte Vista and favors the project.

Councilmember Sue Castillo proposed an amendment to change the motion to endorse the general concepts of traffic mitigation, union jobs, housing for senior citizens and other such facets without affirming total support for the developer’s proposal.

Boardmembers voted to approve Castillo’s amendment. They then passed the Ponte Vista motion as amended on a vote of seven ayes, two noes and two abstentions.

19 Candidates File for 5 Central Council Seats

At least 19 candidates have filed to run in next month’s Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council election, when five seats will be filled.

Linda Alexander, Arthur Almeida, Frank Anderson, Sylvan Arguello, Heidi Bartlett, Vernon Connoly, Aphram Khalbourji, Margie Maxwell, Wenceslao Murillo, Raymond Lee Parker, Joey Pedroza, Max Pierce, R. Price-Guinn, Rosa Elvira Quintero, Pedro Araujo Reyes, Renee Sanchez Durbin and Phillip Trigas will appear on the ballot.

Ray Buffer and Jason Herring filed as write-ins at Tuesday’s council meeting.

Of the five incumbents, only Khalbourji filed to re-run.

The other four – President Joe Gatlin, Vice President Mayra Perez, Secretary Pam Foster-Newsom and Communications Officer Joe Donato – may run as write-ins.

Of the 19 declared candidates, seven attended Tuesday’s candidates forum and introduced themselves to voters.

The election is Sept. 9 and the deadline for write-ins is Sept. 8. More information is available on the central council’s election page.

Coastal Council Meeting Monday

The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, Aug. 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building.

For more information, view the meeting agenda or call (310) 290-0049.

Hearing Wednesday on Angels Gate High School

The Los Angeles Unified School District is holding a public hearing on Wednesday, Aug. 20 to report on environmental issues affecting a proposed high school at Angels Gate.

The hearing will center around the preliminary environmental assessment of the property. Such studies are conducted to determine if environmental clean-up is necessary at a given site.

The hearing takes place at 6 p.m. in the Barton Hill Elementary School auditorium, 423 N. Cabrillo Ave.

For more information, view the preliminary environmental assessment or call (213) 893-7045.

For general information about the proposed school, call Roberta Jones Booker at (800) 704-1267.

Everything Tallships

Weekend Festival Includes Free Ship Tours, Cannon Battles, Art Show and Films

The Eagle

Festival of Sail at a Glance

Where: The tallships are docked along the waterfront. Their approximate locations are just north of Fire Station No. 112 (Berths 87-90), at the Los Angeles Maritime Museum (Berth 84), Ports O’Call Village (Berths 77 and 78) and the S.P. Slip (Berth 73 ). Two high-profile ships, the USCG Eagle and movie star HMS Bounty are at the northern end in Berths 87-90. Food and information booths are in the adjoining parking lot. The booths continue south toward the Maritime Museum and across the street next to the municipal building at Sixth and Beacon Streets.

Parking: Available at the Boys and Girls Club at Fifth Street and Harbor Boulevard, Ports O’ Call Village and along 22nd Street. A shuttle runs from the 22nd Street lots to the festival and the Red Cars are operating from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

The Big Red Bus is shuttling visitors into downtown San Pedro.

Tallships-inspired student artwork is on display at Findings Art Center, 470 W. 6th St.

Saturday, Aug. 16

11 a.m.-7 p.m.: Festival and booths open. There is no charge to attend the festival or tour the ships.

12 noon: Parade of wooden hull boats in Main Channel

4:30 p.m.: Ships participating in cannon battles close

5 p.m.: Cannon battle sails. Tickets (if available) are $65 for adults and $40 for children. Purchase them at the “LAMI Battle Sails Will Call” booth. Download the video to experience a battle vicariously.

5-7 p.m.: Eagle closed

8 p.m.: “Master and Commander” at the Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. Sixth St. ($5)

Sunday, Aug. 17

11 a.m.-7 p.m.: Festival and booths open

12 noon: Parade of wooden hull boats in Main Channel

2 p.m.: “SpongeBob Square Pants: the Movie” at the Warner Grand ($5)

4 p.m.: “Hook” at the Warner Grand ($5)

4:30 p.m.: Ships participating in cannon battles close

5 p.m.: Cannon battle sails

The Daily Breeze has posted photos and video of Friday’s festival opening. (If the video does not load, access it from the Daily Breeze home page.)

For more information, visit the Festival of Sail website and the Port of LA tallships page.

Spaghetti Comes Fast and Flavorful at New Italian Restaurant

“Comfortable” isn’t a word often used to describe Western Avenue, but a new eatery might just relieve a bit of traffic-induced stress.

There’s yet more comfort food next door to the Marie Callender’s. The new P’sketti serves flavorful spaghetti and salad for lunch and dinner at affordable prices.

An order of spaghetti comes with a side salad and the house special p’sketti bread for $4.99.



“We serve the kind of good, family food you’d expect at home,” said operator Greg Reheis.

The bread is not garlic bread but an adaptation of a recipe from a Reheis relative. It’s made with a creamy, oniony topping that hints of tartar sauce.

“The bread is our effort to do something unexpected that’d really be a wow,” said Reheis.

P’sketti serves a lunch special from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Kids eat free on Wednesday nights from 5-9 p.m. with a paying adult. Sundays are all-you-can-eat spaghetti, salad, bread and soft drinks for $7.99.

P’sketti was formerly Pronto’s Mexican café and Charo Chicken before that. It retains the drive-thru from the previous restaurants.

P’sketti Spaghetti House, 29035 S. Western Ave., Rancho Palos Verdes, (310) 833-6712. Open daily 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 4:30-9 p.m.