Friday, April 3, 2009
Disney Ship to Call S.P. Home
When the Disney Wonder makes its home in San Pedro beginning in 2011, it’s expected to generate 2,600 jobs and $7 million a year, according to the Daily Breeze.
60-Day Relief for Downtown Night Parking
The downtown San Pedro parking meters will not be enforced after 5 p.m. in April and May, Councilwoman Janice Hahn wrote in a letter to business owners. The councilwoman is also pushing for a parking permit system and a regular end time of 6 p.m., according to her March 27 letter.
Downtown Residential Update
Renting at the Vue: The Daily Breeze has more information about the rental units in the downtown Vue condominium building. Starting rents are $1,600 for a one-bedroom unit, $2,100 for two bedrooms and $2,700 for three bedrooms.
The San Pedro Chamber of Commerce covers the status of several downtown residential developments on the front page of its newsletter.
The San Pedro Chamber of Commerce covers the status of several downtown residential developments on the front page of its newsletter.
Easter Fun Downtown
There’s a new Easter celebration in town this year. Bring the kids for an Easter egg hunt next Saturday (April 11) at 12 noon on 7th Street between Mesa and Centre Streets. For more information, call Dance and Shoppe at (310) 272-0767.
Coffee Time on ‘Via Dolce’
Via Dolce Coffee House, which replaced It’s a Grind on Western Avenue last month, is open for breakfast, lunch and early dinner. It serves coffee drinks, fruit smoothies, bakery sweets and a full menu of homemade foods including breakfast bagels, cold and grilled sandwiches, salads and wraps.
Via Dolce is a small L.A. chain that originated in Santa Monica in 2000.
The shop at 29050 S. Western Ave. is open Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 6 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Phone (310) 547-3704.
Technical Snafu Last Week
For inexplicable reasons, subscribers did not receive last week’s edition on Saturday morning. The system is totally automated and beyond our control. Even if you don’t get your news blast, you can always find the new stories on the San Pedro News home page.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Civic Datebook
Ponte Vista is holding an open house from 1 to 4 p.m. today (March 28) at the Boys and Girls Club, 100 W. Fifth St. in downtown San Pedro. Presentation boards will outline the developer’s latest proposal, incorporating input from the first open house two weeks ago. Supporters and opponents of the Western Avenue residential development are looking ahead to the pivotal City Planning Commission hearing in downtown L.A. on April 9. See the Ponte Vista blog for more information about the “emerging land-use concept” and R Neighborhoods Are 1 for an update from grassroots opponents.
Who turned out the lights? The Vincent Thomas Bridge will go dark at 8:30 p.m. tonight (March 28) on purpose. The switch will be flipped to mark Earth Hour, a worldwide grassroots campaign to raise awareness about global warming and energy conservation.
An idea has surfaced for ballfields and an amphitheatre on Knoll Hill, but the concept isn’t universally cheered, the Daily Breeze reported Thursday.
See the Daily Breeze story and pictures of “high-tech democracy” – the new live video feed connecting San Pedro with the L.A. City Council meeting.
Who turned out the lights? The Vincent Thomas Bridge will go dark at 8:30 p.m. tonight (March 28) on purpose. The switch will be flipped to mark Earth Hour, a worldwide grassroots campaign to raise awareness about global warming and energy conservation.
An idea has surfaced for ballfields and an amphitheatre on Knoll Hill, but the concept isn’t universally cheered, the Daily Breeze reported Thursday.
See the Daily Breeze story and pictures of “high-tech democracy” – the new live video feed connecting San Pedro with the L.A. City Council meeting.
Social Datebook
Muriel Olguin. Photo courtesy Medea Gallery.Longtime San Pedro artist Muriel Olguin will receive a lifetime achievement award at Medea Gallery today (March 28). The reception takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. at the downtown gallery, 445 W. Seventh St. A number of political representatives will attend the 5 p.m. awards ceremony to honor Olguin. See the gallery’s website for more information.
Tonight (March 28) is the first special wine dinner with Off the Vine Wines and 7th Street Chophouse. Given the talent behind the event, it’s bound to please. RSVP required.
The First Thursday artwalk is April 2. Highlights were not posted online at presstime. Check the website next week for an update. Meanwhile, see our reports below for new nightlife venues and new apparel shops to visit during First Thursday.
New Downtown Shops
Image Men’s Clothing
This new Sixth Street shop carries a wide range of men’s business casual and weekend clothes in classic and contemporary styles. Selections include graphic t-shirts and designer jeans for fashion-forward guys plus basic Levi’s, Bermuda shorts and traditional preppy Izod polos.
The shop is located at 317 W Sixth St. in the space formerly occupied by Glamour Puss beauty shop. Hours are Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Phone (310) 519-8019.
Maral’s Designs
This women’s shop moved from the 8th Street Lofts to Seventh Street. In her new location next door to the Whale & Ale, owner Maral Malikyar has much more space to display her diverse collection of women’s apparel and accessories.
Labels include Citron and Flax, plus other brands of classic and trendy everyday clothes and special-occasion pieces. The shop carries shoes, handbags, handmade jewelry, scarves and other accessories.
A collection of children’s wear has also been added to the stock, pictured above with Malikyar.
The shop is located at 331 W Seventh St. Hours are Tues.-Sat. 12-6 p.m. Call (310) 418-0109.
This new Sixth Street shop carries a wide range of men’s business casual and weekend clothes in classic and contemporary styles. Selections include graphic t-shirts and designer jeans for fashion-forward guys plus basic Levi’s, Bermuda shorts and traditional preppy Izod polos.
The shop is located at 317 W Sixth St. in the space formerly occupied by Glamour Puss beauty shop. Hours are Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Phone (310) 519-8019.
Maral’s Designs
This women’s shop moved from the 8th Street Lofts to Seventh Street. In her new location next door to the Whale & Ale, owner Maral Malikyar has much more space to display her diverse collection of women’s apparel and accessories.
Labels include Citron and Flax, plus other brands of classic and trendy everyday clothes and special-occasion pieces. The shop carries shoes, handbags, handmade jewelry, scarves and other accessories.
A collection of children’s wear has also been added to the stock, pictured above with Malikyar.
The shop is located at 331 W Seventh St. Hours are Tues.-Sat. 12-6 p.m. Call (310) 418-0109.
New Downtown Entertainment
7th Street Chophouse will turn the mic over to comedians on First Thursday. The upstairs Levels Lounge will host the night of comedy on April 2 at 8 p.m. $10 cover charge. Smooth Jazz saxophonist Jessy J will perform on April 11. $15 cover charge. Call (310) 684-1753 for information and reservations.
Sixth Street Bistro has a new entertainment lineup. Flamenco guitarist Gambiz performs on the first and third Thursdays of the month. Eclectic musician Jamie Carey sings classic rock, country and other genres on Fridays, while Rob the piano man (of Whale & Ale fame) tickles the ivories on Saturday nights. Happy Hour is Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m., with half-price cocktails, beers and appetizers. New look: The restaurant has remodeled to create a strong, sultry feel with a black color scheme for the tables and contemporary artwork to replace the large mural inside. New food, too: New steaks and seafood dishes have been added to the regular menu. Also on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, you can ask your server if the special wine dinner is available, an off-menu impromptu creation of five courses paired with wine. Call (310) 521-8818.
The Whale & Ale features jazz by the Mike Guerrero Trio on Sundays.
Up closer to Gaffey Street, there’s music, dancing, drink, food and merriment regularly at the Copper Room and Babouch Moroccan Restaurant.
Sixth Street Bistro has a new entertainment lineup. Flamenco guitarist Gambiz performs on the first and third Thursdays of the month. Eclectic musician Jamie Carey sings classic rock, country and other genres on Fridays, while Rob the piano man (of Whale & Ale fame) tickles the ivories on Saturday nights. Happy Hour is Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m., with half-price cocktails, beers and appetizers. New look: The restaurant has remodeled to create a strong, sultry feel with a black color scheme for the tables and contemporary artwork to replace the large mural inside. New food, too: New steaks and seafood dishes have been added to the regular menu. Also on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, you can ask your server if the special wine dinner is available, an off-menu impromptu creation of five courses paired with wine. Call (310) 521-8818.
The Whale & Ale features jazz by the Mike Guerrero Trio on Sundays.
Up closer to Gaffey Street, there’s music, dancing, drink, food and merriment regularly at the Copper Room and Babouch Moroccan Restaurant.
Bank Lofts Update
The new management company at the Bank Lofts is rolling out the welcome mat.
“We’re here to be part of the San Pedro arts district and to fit into the neighborhood,” said leasing manager Janet Williams.
An open house will be held on April 2 and every First Thursday. The leasing office is open seven days a week just west of the 407-409 W. Seventh St. lobby.
These are open-door opportunities for Williams and her staff to show the 89-unit property as an “intimate, pet-friendly community.”
The 8th Street building is fully occupied and the 7th Street building is at 50% occupancy.
The property includes flats, lofts with internal mezzanines, two-story lofts and penthouses from 974 to more than 2,600 square feet. Rent goes from $1,500 for a smaller loft to $4,000 for the largest two-story unit.
“We’re here to be part of the San Pedro arts district and to fit into the neighborhood,” said leasing manager Janet Williams.
An open house will be held on April 2 and every First Thursday. The leasing office is open seven days a week just west of the 407-409 W. Seventh St. lobby.
These are open-door opportunities for Williams and her staff to show the 89-unit property as an “intimate, pet-friendly community.”
The 8th Street building is fully occupied and the 7th Street building is at 50% occupancy.
The property includes flats, lofts with internal mezzanines, two-story lofts and penthouses from 974 to more than 2,600 square feet. Rent goes from $1,500 for a smaller loft to $4,000 for the largest two-story unit.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Hungry for Politics
Ponte Vista will hold a second open house on March 28 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club, 100 W. Fifth St. in downtown San Pedro. Call (310) 241-0699 for more information.
Harbor Area residents can now testify on city issues without driving to L.A. City Hall. A live video teleconference will be set up at the San Pedro municipal building for city council meetings, allowing constituents to testify remotely in real time. It will be active at 10 a.m. for the Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday meetings beginning next week. Councilwoman Janice Hahn is featured in this video explaining the pilot program. The councilwoman’s office will host an “opening-day gathering” at 9:30 a.m. on March 25 at the facility at 638 S. Beacon St. For more information, call (310) 732-4515.
Harbor Area residents can now testify on city issues without driving to L.A. City Hall. A live video teleconference will be set up at the San Pedro municipal building for city council meetings, allowing constituents to testify remotely in real time. It will be active at 10 a.m. for the Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday meetings beginning next week. Councilwoman Janice Hahn is featured in this video explaining the pilot program. The councilwoman’s office will host an “opening-day gathering” at 9:30 a.m. on March 25 at the facility at 638 S. Beacon St. For more information, call (310) 732-4515.
Hungry for Dinner
Long-time restaurants are launching new specials and new dining establishments are bringing a fresh wave of innovation to the San Pedro dinner table.
7th Street Chophouse and Off the Vine Wines are having a Napa Valley wine dinner at the new downtown steakhouse on March 28. During the five-course dinner, winemakers will share their insights and the chef will explain the inspiration behind the dishes, all specially created for the wine dinner. Cost is $90 per person. See the menu for details and RSVP information.
The Maritime Research Center in downtown San Pedro is recreating the first night’s dinner aboard the Titanic. The French dinner will be served at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on April 3. Living historians will be present to help take guests back in time. Cost is $95 per person or $105 at a living historian’s table. See the flyer for the menu and RSVP information.
Marcello Tuscany Restaurant has a new menu, new management and new pricing. There’s live music on the weekends and a weeknight earlybird special of appetizer, salad, entree, dessert and wine for $19.95 from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The restaurant is open for dinner seven nights a week and lunch weekdays.
Ports O’ Call Restaurant is offering a new seasonal menu, an earlybird dinner special and half of wine bottles with entree purchase on Monday and Tuesday.
The Whale and Ale has added a Tuesday wine tasting called Tasty Tuesdays. Sample four wines for $8-10.
7th Street Chophouse and Off the Vine Wines are offering an ongoing promotion of no corkage fee at the chophouse for wines purchased at Off the Vine.
7th Street Chophouse and Off the Vine Wines are having a Napa Valley wine dinner at the new downtown steakhouse on March 28. During the five-course dinner, winemakers will share their insights and the chef will explain the inspiration behind the dishes, all specially created for the wine dinner. Cost is $90 per person. See the menu for details and RSVP information.
The Maritime Research Center in downtown San Pedro is recreating the first night’s dinner aboard the Titanic. The French dinner will be served at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on April 3. Living historians will be present to help take guests back in time. Cost is $95 per person or $105 at a living historian’s table. See the flyer for the menu and RSVP information.
Marcello Tuscany Restaurant has a new menu, new management and new pricing. There’s live music on the weekends and a weeknight earlybird special of appetizer, salad, entree, dessert and wine for $19.95 from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The restaurant is open for dinner seven nights a week and lunch weekdays.
Ports O’ Call Restaurant is offering a new seasonal menu, an earlybird dinner special and half of wine bottles with entree purchase on Monday and Tuesday.
The Whale and Ale has added a Tuesday wine tasting called Tasty Tuesdays. Sample four wines for $8-10.
7th Street Chophouse and Off the Vine Wines are offering an ongoing promotion of no corkage fee at the chophouse for wines purchased at Off the Vine.
In Other News
Downtown real estate
Units are now available for purchase or lease at the Vue. A new website, Dwell at Vue, tells prospective renters about the property. Lease prices are not posted. Stay tuned for a follow-up story.
The Bank Lofts, another condo-turned-rental property in downtown San Pedro, has opened a leasing office in the ground floor of the 7th Street building. Watch for an open house on First Thursday.
Downtown nightlife and shopping
7th Street Chophouse and Marcello Restaurant are among the new places to hear live music in San Pedro. Meanwhile, surrounding retail shops are opening and closing in the downtown district. Watch for a complete report in next week’s issue.
Western Avenue
It’s a Grind coffee house on Western Avenue has become Via Dolce Neighborhood Cafe, serving coffee, sandwiches and salads. Stay tuned for more info in an upcoming issue.
Units are now available for purchase or lease at the Vue. A new website, Dwell at Vue, tells prospective renters about the property. Lease prices are not posted. Stay tuned for a follow-up story.
The Bank Lofts, another condo-turned-rental property in downtown San Pedro, has opened a leasing office in the ground floor of the 7th Street building. Watch for an open house on First Thursday.
Downtown nightlife and shopping
7th Street Chophouse and Marcello Restaurant are among the new places to hear live music in San Pedro. Meanwhile, surrounding retail shops are opening and closing in the downtown district. Watch for a complete report in next week’s issue.
Western Avenue
It’s a Grind coffee house on Western Avenue has become Via Dolce Neighborhood Cafe, serving coffee, sandwiches and salads. Stay tuned for more info in an upcoming issue.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Ponte Vista: They Came, They Saw, They Commented
Hundreds of community members attended Thursday’s open house on the Ponte Vista housing development. Large display boards traced the history of the development and outlined the “emerging directions” the developer is proposing to take. Boards were set aside for public comment, where the community opined on oversized post-it notes.
The number of units being proposed is now 1,375-1,475 for the 61-acre Western Avenue property, a figure opponents still view as too dense.
Ponte Vista is holding another open house on March 28 at the Boys and Girls Club, preceding the L.A. City Planning Commission hearing on April 9.
The Los Angeles Times and Daily Breeze ran stories before and after the meeting, respectively.
The number of units being proposed is now 1,375-1,475 for the 61-acre Western Avenue property, a figure opponents still view as too dense.
Ponte Vista is holding another open house on March 28 at the Boys and Girls Club, preceding the L.A. City Planning Commission hearing on April 9.
The Los Angeles Times and Daily Breeze ran stories before and after the meeting, respectively.
Business Bust: Parking Meters Drain Downtown Commerce
Downtown businesses are losing customers over the drastic increase in parking meter rates. Merchants are hurting badly and they’re mad as heck, the Daily Breeze reported Thursday.
Coastal Council Meeting Monday
The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets on March 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building, Cabrillo Plaza, Berth 28. View the agenda, visit www.cspnc.com or call (310) 290-0049 for more information.
New Neighborhood Councilmembers
Jennifer Radisic was appointed to the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council. Here’s information about Radisic from Random Lengths News:
Phillip Strout, development director for Beacon House, was appointed to the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council this week.
“The owner of a local plumbing business was recently elected to fill a vacant seat on the Coastal’s Governing Board. Jennifer Radisic told the audience that participating in a community project to plant trees on Pacific Avenue was ‘one of the greatest experiences’ of her life. She added that she used to work for the San Pedro News-Pilot, and that one of her efforts as a new member would be to help reduce the level of graffitti around town.
“Radisic is opposed to the development of a cruise terminal in the outer harbor, but declined to comment on whether an off-leash dog park should be put at Joan Milke Flores Park, and whether the school district should build SRHS15.
“‘I’ll take the fifth,’ said Radisic.”
Phillip Strout, development director for Beacon House, was appointed to the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council this week.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Ponte Vista, Neighborhood Council Meetings This Week
Ponte Vista Open House
The community will get a first look at new designs for the Ponte Vista housing development at an open house Thursday.
The open house takes place from 4-8 p.m. on March 12 at Peck Park, 560 N. Western Ave.
Public comment forms will be provided for feedback about the new designs, said to reflect the developer’s re-thinking of the “overall scale, makeup and density” of the Western Avenue residential project.
This will be the first public meeting following the December management shake-up that ousted Bob Bisno and shifted the project to DLJ Real Estate Capital Partners, a subsidiary of Credit Suisse First Boston bank.
The open house comes a month before the L.A. City Planning Commission is set to vote on the project at an April 9 hearing in dowtown L.A.
Neighborhood Councils
The Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, March 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Peck Park, 560 N. Western Ave. View the agenda, visit www.nwsanpedro.org or call (310) 732-4522 for more information.
The Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Tuesday, March 10 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, visit www.sanpedrocity.org or call (310) 918-8650 for more information.
Two seats are open on the Central board. They will be filled by appointment at the meeting Tuesday. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by contacting President John Delgado at Johndelgadosp@aol.com.
The community will get a first look at new designs for the Ponte Vista housing development at an open house Thursday.
The open house takes place from 4-8 p.m. on March 12 at Peck Park, 560 N. Western Ave.
Public comment forms will be provided for feedback about the new designs, said to reflect the developer’s re-thinking of the “overall scale, makeup and density” of the Western Avenue residential project.
This will be the first public meeting following the December management shake-up that ousted Bob Bisno and shifted the project to DLJ Real Estate Capital Partners, a subsidiary of Credit Suisse First Boston bank.
The open house comes a month before the L.A. City Planning Commission is set to vote on the project at an April 9 hearing in dowtown L.A.
Neighborhood Councils
The Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, March 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Peck Park, 560 N. Western Ave. View the agenda, visit www.nwsanpedro.org or call (310) 732-4522 for more information.
The Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Tuesday, March 10 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, visit www.sanpedrocity.org or call (310) 918-8650 for more information.
Two seats are open on the Central board. They will be filled by appointment at the meeting Tuesday. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by contacting President John Delgado at Johndelgadosp@aol.com.
New Issue of San Pedro Today Online
The second monthly issue of San Pedro Today has a cover story on Mishi’s Strudel and Garth Trani’s Port Gelato Cobblershop and Soup Kitchen (a new, elongated name for the Italian ice cream shop at Seventh and Centre Streets.) More feature stories and columnists are found inside the print edition or online at www.sanpedrotoday.com.
New Wellness Businesses Come to Downtown
Two natural health and wellness businesses have opened in downtown San Pedro. The Body Purification Center and Moya Body Care & Colon Hydrotherapy approach health care holistically, bypassing pharmaceutical remedies in favor of counseling, medicinal foods and herbal treatments to improve clients’ wellbeing in body, mind and spirit.
Body Purification Center
It’s a toxic world and even more so adjacent the harbor.
Even if symptoms aren’t as extreme as asthma, air pollution combined with an unhealthy diet, stress and job-related aches and pains can make a person feel sluggish and run down.
Body Purification Center on Sixth Street is dedicated to healing these problems.
“Our passion is dealing with the health impact of environmental issues,” said co-owner Marc Ryan. “We offer non-toxic solutions to health problems.”
The lounge at Body Purification Center.
The herbal pharmacy.
The facility is a “multi-specialty health and wellness center for all ages focused on treating health issues resulting from exposure to environmental toxins and injuries, aches and pains caused by work.”
It offers preventative treatment for maritime-industry workers and others who want to strengthen injury-prone muscles and mitigate the effects of air pollution. The center also offers rehabilitation services for injured workers.
Clients are treated by Ryan, a integrative medicine specialist at UCLA, and his colleagues: acupuncturist and herbalist Olesia Farberov, personal trainer Steve Sanchez and chiropractor Dr. Gregory Cartmell.
Whether a person is preventing or recovering from a job-related injury or just wants to explore an alternative approach to better health, the Body Purification Center offers individualized remedies based primarily on a blood chemistry analysis performed on site.
After reviewing the results of the blood test, the experts will recommend a regimen of diet, exercise and herbal supplements for preventative or rehabilitative purposes.
The center offers detox foot baths “a la carte,” so clients can literally get their feet wet before deciding to undergo a full purification diagnosis.
Integrated, holistic treatment may include a combination of personal training, acupuncture, massage, chiropractic treatment, teas, herbal tonics and elixirs.
Prospective clients are invited to come by for a cup of tea and learn more about the center.
Located at 150 W. Sixth St., Suite 200. Open Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (310) 831-2202; www.body-purification-center.com
Moya Body Care & Colon Hydrotherapy
This new business specializes in colon hydrotherapy, a treatment to remove bodily waste from the colon. The procedure can improve overall wellness and help relieve constipation and other maladies.
The treatment is performed by Monisha Garner, owner of Moya Body Care at the 8th Street Lofts.
Monisha Garner of Moya Body Care.
Services are based on the philosophy of “retreating back to our natural state of wholeness, becoming centered well-beings and maintaining a balance between a healthy lifestyle and genuine wellness.”
Services include colon hydrotherapy, wellness coaching, massage, yoga, Pilates, detox foot baths, ear candling, detox retreats and organic body care products.
Prospective clients may be people who want to lose weight, have more energy, sleep better, improve facial complexion or just have a more positive, empowered attitude towards life.
“I use a lot of affirmations and controlled breathing to help people release what’s hurting them, physically and emotionally,” said Garner. “Just learning how to breathe deeply and fully can be so powerful. When you allow your organs to stretch out and breathe, you can get rid of the negative and give the positive room to flourish.”
Located at 800 S. Pacific Ave., Suite 201. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and Sun. by appointment; (562) 682-0818; www.moyabodycare.com
Body Purification Center
It’s a toxic world and even more so adjacent the harbor.
Even if symptoms aren’t as extreme as asthma, air pollution combined with an unhealthy diet, stress and job-related aches and pains can make a person feel sluggish and run down.
Body Purification Center on Sixth Street is dedicated to healing these problems.
“Our passion is dealing with the health impact of environmental issues,” said co-owner Marc Ryan. “We offer non-toxic solutions to health problems.”
The lounge at Body Purification Center.
The herbal pharmacy.The facility is a “multi-specialty health and wellness center for all ages focused on treating health issues resulting from exposure to environmental toxins and injuries, aches and pains caused by work.”
It offers preventative treatment for maritime-industry workers and others who want to strengthen injury-prone muscles and mitigate the effects of air pollution. The center also offers rehabilitation services for injured workers.
Clients are treated by Ryan, a integrative medicine specialist at UCLA, and his colleagues: acupuncturist and herbalist Olesia Farberov, personal trainer Steve Sanchez and chiropractor Dr. Gregory Cartmell.
Whether a person is preventing or recovering from a job-related injury or just wants to explore an alternative approach to better health, the Body Purification Center offers individualized remedies based primarily on a blood chemistry analysis performed on site.
After reviewing the results of the blood test, the experts will recommend a regimen of diet, exercise and herbal supplements for preventative or rehabilitative purposes.
The center offers detox foot baths “a la carte,” so clients can literally get their feet wet before deciding to undergo a full purification diagnosis.
Integrated, holistic treatment may include a combination of personal training, acupuncture, massage, chiropractic treatment, teas, herbal tonics and elixirs.
Prospective clients are invited to come by for a cup of tea and learn more about the center.
Located at 150 W. Sixth St., Suite 200. Open Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (310) 831-2202; www.body-purification-center.com
Moya Body Care & Colon Hydrotherapy
This new business specializes in colon hydrotherapy, a treatment to remove bodily waste from the colon. The procedure can improve overall wellness and help relieve constipation and other maladies.
The treatment is performed by Monisha Garner, owner of Moya Body Care at the 8th Street Lofts.
Monisha Garner of Moya Body Care.Services are based on the philosophy of “retreating back to our natural state of wholeness, becoming centered well-beings and maintaining a balance between a healthy lifestyle and genuine wellness.”
Services include colon hydrotherapy, wellness coaching, massage, yoga, Pilates, detox foot baths, ear candling, detox retreats and organic body care products.
Prospective clients may be people who want to lose weight, have more energy, sleep better, improve facial complexion or just have a more positive, empowered attitude towards life.
“I use a lot of affirmations and controlled breathing to help people release what’s hurting them, physically and emotionally,” said Garner. “Just learning how to breathe deeply and fully can be so powerful. When you allow your organs to stretch out and breathe, you can get rid of the negative and give the positive room to flourish.”
Located at 800 S. Pacific Ave., Suite 201. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and Sun. by appointment; (562) 682-0818; www.moyabodycare.com
Happy Birthday to Us
San Pedro News turns 1 with this issue. We have been delivering the news faithfully every Saturday since March 8, 2008. Don’t shower us with lavish gifts; just tell your friends and family to subscribe. And thanks for reading!
Friday, February 27, 2009
All the News that’s Fit to Post
Pt. Fermin street closures and fireworks Saturday: A group affiliated with USC is staging a triathlon Saturday morning. Paseo del Mar and surrounding streets are closed. The Palisades Residents Association has posted the list of street closures. The Ft. MacArthur Museum is holding its annual L.A. Air Raid commemoration from 3-8 p.m. Saturday, including a fireworks show.
The parking meters downtown are reprogrammed to the new, 300% higher rates, as detailed in the Daily Breeze.
Tuesday is Election Day. The Daily Breeze and Los Angeles Times have candidate and initiative information on their election pages.
“Janice Hahn eyes funds to keep Knoll Hill fields,” but the councilwoman’s idea isn’t universally cheered, according to the Daily Breeze report.
It’s First Thursday this week. Take a stroll downtown on March 5 for your monthly dose of culture, cuisine and camaraderie.
The Vue downtown condominium building is having a community grand opening on March 7 from 1-5 p.m.
A Ponte Vista community meeting has been confirmed for March 12 from 4-8 p.m. at Peck Park. The public will be invited to comment on new proposals the developer will unveil.
The parking meters downtown are reprogrammed to the new, 300% higher rates, as detailed in the Daily Breeze.
Tuesday is Election Day. The Daily Breeze and Los Angeles Times have candidate and initiative information on their election pages.
“Janice Hahn eyes funds to keep Knoll Hill fields,” but the councilwoman’s idea isn’t universally cheered, according to the Daily Breeze report.
It’s First Thursday this week. Take a stroll downtown on March 5 for your monthly dose of culture, cuisine and camaraderie.
The Vue downtown condominium building is having a community grand opening on March 7 from 1-5 p.m.
A Ponte Vista community meeting has been confirmed for March 12 from 4-8 p.m. at Peck Park. The public will be invited to comment on new proposals the developer will unveil.
My Votes on Tuesday
By Doug Epperhart
I don’t think I’ve ever missed an election in the years since I turned 18. I’ll be there Tuesday and here are my picks:
Mayor: NONE OF THE ABOVE. But, if somebody held a gun to my head, I’d vote for Walter Moore – or maybe David Hernandez. I vote for candidates who make a positive argument for why they want the job and are qualified to do it. I don’t vote for a candidate just because he’s not the other guy. None of the nine challengers has convinced me to vote for them. Neither has Villaraigosa.
City Attorney: NOEL WEISS. I know Noel and like him. His heart’s in the right place and he’s not a city hall insider. That said, any of the other candidates – Carmen Trutanich, David Berger or Michael Amerian – would do a fine job. This is a tough pick because they’re all good candidates. Just don’t vote for JACK Weiss. He’s a Villaraigosa puppet.
City Controller: NICK PATSAOURAS. His main opponent, Wendy Greuel, is too closely aligned with Villaraigosa and too much the insider at city hall. Nick is independent and capable of shining a light on the dark corners of city government.
Councilmember: JANICE HAHN. I’m sure her opponent, Chris Salabaj, is a nice guy, but the city is at a critical juncture and I don’t think we can wait for him to complete on-the-job training. I’ve disagreed in print with Hahn more than once. I’ve agreed with her a lot more often. If nothing else, she’s a known quantity.
Measure A: YES
Measure C: YES
Measure D: YES
These proposed charter amendments have to do with technical matters involving the fire department and the police and fire pension plans. They provide additional oversight and flexibility.
Measure B: NO. This is the much-discussed solar power initiative. It was cooked up by the electrical workers’ union as a way to monopolize work at the expense of taxpayers. The city council rushed it to the ballot with little public scrutiny and no good estimate of how much it will cost. Five harbor area neighborhood councils oppose this measure. It’s so bad, other unions are against it.
Measure E: NO. Vaguely-worded amendment allowing the city to give “incentives” to lure business to L.A. Our mayor has spent a lot of time flying in corporate planes. Do you think this might be his way of helping the fat cats pay for jet fuel?
***
Doug Epperhart is a San Pedro resident, business owner and Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council board member.
I don’t think I’ve ever missed an election in the years since I turned 18. I’ll be there Tuesday and here are my picks:
Mayor: NONE OF THE ABOVE. But, if somebody held a gun to my head, I’d vote for Walter Moore – or maybe David Hernandez. I vote for candidates who make a positive argument for why they want the job and are qualified to do it. I don’t vote for a candidate just because he’s not the other guy. None of the nine challengers has convinced me to vote for them. Neither has Villaraigosa.
City Attorney: NOEL WEISS. I know Noel and like him. His heart’s in the right place and he’s not a city hall insider. That said, any of the other candidates – Carmen Trutanich, David Berger or Michael Amerian – would do a fine job. This is a tough pick because they’re all good candidates. Just don’t vote for JACK Weiss. He’s a Villaraigosa puppet.
City Controller: NICK PATSAOURAS. His main opponent, Wendy Greuel, is too closely aligned with Villaraigosa and too much the insider at city hall. Nick is independent and capable of shining a light on the dark corners of city government.
Councilmember: JANICE HAHN. I’m sure her opponent, Chris Salabaj, is a nice guy, but the city is at a critical juncture and I don’t think we can wait for him to complete on-the-job training. I’ve disagreed in print with Hahn more than once. I’ve agreed with her a lot more often. If nothing else, she’s a known quantity.
Measure A: YES
Measure C: YES
Measure D: YES
These proposed charter amendments have to do with technical matters involving the fire department and the police and fire pension plans. They provide additional oversight and flexibility.
Measure B: NO. This is the much-discussed solar power initiative. It was cooked up by the electrical workers’ union as a way to monopolize work at the expense of taxpayers. The city council rushed it to the ballot with little public scrutiny and no good estimate of how much it will cost. Five harbor area neighborhood councils oppose this measure. It’s so bad, other unions are against it.
Measure E: NO. Vaguely-worded amendment allowing the city to give “incentives” to lure business to L.A. Our mayor has spent a lot of time flying in corporate planes. Do you think this might be his way of helping the fat cats pay for jet fuel?
***
Doug Epperhart is a San Pedro resident, business owner and Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council board member.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Break the Piggy Bank: Parking Meters Rising This Week
The department is coming, the department is coming!
That would be the city department of transportation and their mission will be costly.
After months of bureaucratic delay, technicians will be adjusting downtown San Pedro parking meters this week to reflect the citywide rate increase enacted last summer.
Rates will go up to $1 an hour or $4 for 10 hours in the long-term lots.
Individual street meters will now run an extra two hours, until 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
In the long-term lots, the new hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, including Sunday, with one exception. The meters are not in effect Sundays in the lot at Ninth Street and Pacific Avenue, behind Kragen Auto Parts and the 99¢ Only store.
That would be the city department of transportation and their mission will be costly.
After months of bureaucratic delay, technicians will be adjusting downtown San Pedro parking meters this week to reflect the citywide rate increase enacted last summer.
Rates will go up to $1 an hour or $4 for 10 hours in the long-term lots.
Individual street meters will now run an extra two hours, until 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
In the long-term lots, the new hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, including Sunday, with one exception. The meters are not in effect Sundays in the lot at Ninth Street and Pacific Avenue, behind Kragen Auto Parts and the 99¢ Only store.
Civic Calendar: Meetings This Week
Coastal Council
The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building, Cabrillo Plaza, Berth 28. The agenda was not posted online at presstime. For more information, call (310) 290-0049.
Measure B
The Department of Water and Power is hosting a public meeting Wednesday to report on the solar-power initiative, Measure B, on the March 3 ballot. Officials will give a presentation, followed by audience questions and answers. The meeting takes place on Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. at Banning’s Landing, 100 E. Water St., Wilmington. See the current issue of Random Lengths News for grassroots perspectives on the subject.
Angels Gate High School
Here come the bulldozers. The L.A. school district is holding a briefing Thursday to explain the demolition schedule for construction of a public high school at Angels Gate. The meeting takes place on Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. in the Dana Middle School auditorium, 1501 S. Cabrillo Ave. For more information, call (800) 704-1267.
The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building, Cabrillo Plaza, Berth 28. The agenda was not posted online at presstime. For more information, call (310) 290-0049.
Measure B
The Department of Water and Power is hosting a public meeting Wednesday to report on the solar-power initiative, Measure B, on the March 3 ballot. Officials will give a presentation, followed by audience questions and answers. The meeting takes place on Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. at Banning’s Landing, 100 E. Water St., Wilmington. See the current issue of Random Lengths News for grassroots perspectives on the subject.
Angels Gate High School
Here come the bulldozers. The L.A. school district is holding a briefing Thursday to explain the demolition schedule for construction of a public high school at Angels Gate. The meeting takes place on Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. in the Dana Middle School auditorium, 1501 S. Cabrillo Ave. For more information, call (800) 704-1267.
Crowne Plaza Restaurant and Bar Gets New via ‘Blu’
The new Blu bar and lounge, a mix of metallic and neutral decor. Romeo and Juliette have faded into the history books at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in downtown San Pedro.
Blu is the new name of the restaurant and bar, replacing the Shakespearean age with a new, modern moniker.
After months of renovation, the restaurant and bar are now fully open.
The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in a setting that’s “bright, elegant and cozy,” in the words of Food and Beverage Manager Pietro Malinverni.
Lunchtime offers a choice of the regular menu or a themed buffet that may be Italian, Latin American, Asian or other global flavors.
Crown of the Orient chicken salad. 
Potato-wrapped sea bass.One eye-catching dish is the Crown of the Orient chicken salad (pictured), made with sesame marinated chicken, crispy wontons and rice noodles, oranges and an orange-sesame dressing.
The dinner menu includes diverse dishes for all tastes. The potato-wrapped sea bass (pictured) is baked with a thin layer of delicately crusty potato, stuffed with crab and served with a lobster cream sauce.
The Malaysian cuisine is a novel feature, added to accommodate the hotel’s regular guests from Malaysia Airlines.
“We serve excellent international cuisine below fine-dining prices,” said Malinverni.
Under Malinverni’s direction, the restaurant participates in First Thursday and the Taste in San Pedro food festival.
The new bar was carved out of the restaurant’s northern edge along Sixth Street.
Silver leather couches and icy metallics set a sultry, contemporary tone as guests enter the scene. Fire pits and new outdoor furniture will be added to the patio to create an inviting space to socialize. Happy Hour is held weekdays from 4 to 7 p.m.
Crowne Plaza Hotel, 601 S. Palos Verdes St., (310) 519-8200.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Some Politics This Week: Campaigns and Elections
The L.A. municipal election is about two weeks away and campaigns are revving up as the March 3 balloting approaches. The offices of mayor, city attorney, city controller, city council member and community college trustee are up for election, along with the hotly debated Measure B and four other city initiatives.
Voter Registration Deadline Tuesday
Feb. 17 is the last day to register to vote in the March election. Visit the city clerk election page for details.
Voter Forum Thursday
Harbor Area neighborhood councils and chambers of commerce are sponsoring a candidates forum Thursday covering the offices and measures on the upcoming ballot.
The forum will take place on Feb. 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rolling Hills Preparatory School community room, 1500 Palos Verdes Dr. North, San Pedro.
As of Friday, the following candidates had confirmed their attendance:
City Council, 15th District:
Janice Hahn (Hahn is expected to attend towards the end of the event)
Chris Salabaj
City Attorney:
Michael Amerian
David Berger
Carmen Trutanich
Noel Weiss
Controller:
Suzy Evans
Nick Patsaouras
Representatives for and against the solar-power initiative, Measure B, are also confirmed.
For more information, contact johnmmavar@aol.com or (310) 344-0023.
High-Tech Campaigning: Websites and Videos
Councilwoman Hahn has launched a campaign website at www.janicehahn.com.
New this election, the city clerk has posted video statements by the candidates and initiative supporters and opponents.
Voter Registration Deadline Tuesday
Feb. 17 is the last day to register to vote in the March election. Visit the city clerk election page for details.
Voter Forum Thursday
Harbor Area neighborhood councils and chambers of commerce are sponsoring a candidates forum Thursday covering the offices and measures on the upcoming ballot.
The forum will take place on Feb. 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rolling Hills Preparatory School community room, 1500 Palos Verdes Dr. North, San Pedro.
As of Friday, the following candidates had confirmed their attendance:
City Council, 15th District:
Janice Hahn (Hahn is expected to attend towards the end of the event)
Chris Salabaj
City Attorney:
Michael Amerian
David Berger
Carmen Trutanich
Noel Weiss
Controller:
Suzy Evans
Nick Patsaouras
Representatives for and against the solar-power initiative, Measure B, are also confirmed.
For more information, contact johnmmavar@aol.com or (310) 344-0023.
High-Tech Campaigning: Websites and Videos
Councilwoman Hahn has launched a campaign website at www.janicehahn.com.
New this election, the city clerk has posted video statements by the candidates and initiative supporters and opponents.
Some More Politics This Week: Development
Ponte Vista
A Ponte Vista consultant interviewed community leaders to find out whether and how the project can be revived, as reported in Tuesday’s Daily Breeze.
One of those interviewed, Doug Epperhart, analyzes the situation in a commentary below.
Waterfront
Restaurateur John Papadakis argues it’s “time to open L.A.’s ‘door to the sea’” in a Daily Breeze commentary about waterfront development.
Special Planning Workshop Tuesday
The city planning department is holding a workshop Tuesday to discuss development in hilly areas of L.A.
At issue are proposals to revise regulations governing single-family housing development in hillside neighborhoods. Officials will make a presentation then take questions and comments from participants.
The meeting takes place from 5-8 p.m. on Feb. 17 at Peck Park, 560 N. Western Ave.
For more information, contact (213) 978-1243 or erick.lopez@lacity.org.
A Ponte Vista consultant interviewed community leaders to find out whether and how the project can be revived, as reported in Tuesday’s Daily Breeze.
One of those interviewed, Doug Epperhart, analyzes the situation in a commentary below.
Waterfront
Restaurateur John Papadakis argues it’s “time to open L.A.’s ‘door to the sea’” in a Daily Breeze commentary about waterfront development.
Special Planning Workshop Tuesday
The city planning department is holding a workshop Tuesday to discuss development in hilly areas of L.A.
At issue are proposals to revise regulations governing single-family housing development in hillside neighborhoods. Officials will make a presentation then take questions and comments from participants.
The meeting takes place from 5-8 p.m. on Feb. 17 at Peck Park, 560 N. Western Ave.
For more information, contact (213) 978-1243 or erick.lopez@lacity.org.
Even More Politics: Late February Meetings
Measure B
The Department of Water and Power is hosting a public meeting on Feb. 25 to report on the solar-power initiative, Measure B, on the March 3 ballot.
Officials will give a presentation, followed by audience questions and answers.
The meeting takes place at 7 p.m. at Banning’s Landing, 100 E. Water St., Wilmington.
Angels Gate High School
Here come the bulldozers.
The L.A. school district is holding a briefing on Feb. 26 to explain the demolition schedule for construction of a public high school at Angels Gate.
The meeting takes place at 6 p.m. in the Dana Middle School auditorium, 1501 S. Cabrillo Ave. For more information, call (800) 704-1267.
Coastal Council
The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets on Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building, Cabrillo Plaza, Berth 28. The meeting is one week later than normal due to the Presidents’ Day holiday.
The Department of Water and Power is hosting a public meeting on Feb. 25 to report on the solar-power initiative, Measure B, on the March 3 ballot.
Officials will give a presentation, followed by audience questions and answers.
The meeting takes place at 7 p.m. at Banning’s Landing, 100 E. Water St., Wilmington.
Angels Gate High School
Here come the bulldozers.
The L.A. school district is holding a briefing on Feb. 26 to explain the demolition schedule for construction of a public high school at Angels Gate.
The meeting takes place at 6 p.m. in the Dana Middle School auditorium, 1501 S. Cabrillo Ave. For more information, call (800) 704-1267.
Coastal Council
The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets on Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building, Cabrillo Plaza, Berth 28. The meeting is one week later than normal due to the Presidents’ Day holiday.
OPINION: Time to Start Over at Ponte Vista
By Doug Epperhart
After three years, what can anyone possibly say about Ponte Vista that hasn’t already been said?
At least I had a new audience when I sat down to rehash the proposed development and its history with Jim Oswald, a consultant hired by Ponte Vista to help them figure out if the project can be salvaged.
By now, everyone’s aware that Robert Bisno, a developer based in Century City, bought the old Navy housing site on Western Ave. His project originally called for 2,300 condos. Eventually, he dropped it to 1,950.
Opposition by the Northwest San Pedro, Harbor City, and Coastal San Pedro neighborhood councils and residents associations led to the formation of RNeighborhoodsAre1, a group established to preserve the property’s single-family zoning.
On the other side were Bisno, his “outreach” team and several dozen “advisory board” members representing the pro-development stance.
Councilwoman Janice Hahn appointed a 13-member advisory committee to consider the project and make recommendations. After nine months of back and forth, the group voted in favor of single-family (R-1) zoning. Many attribute this to Bisno’s unwillingness to bend on the subject of density at Ponte Vista.
As the two sides worked to win the hearts and minds of San Pedro, the city planning department held hearings and received thousands of pro and con letters, postcards, emails and petitions. Finally, late last year, the official word was “no” to Ponte Vista. The planners recommended that Bisno’s application to build his project be denied. They suggested that the planning commission tell the developer to start over.
In December, Robert Bisno stepped aside and his lender, Credit Suisse First Boston (CSFB), took over. Subsequently, they got the city planning commission to delay their hearing until April.
In the meanwhile, they’re trying to let us know they’re not Bisno.
To that end, they hired Oswald, whose job is to talk to community leaders and report back to CSFB. They want to know if the current condo project can be revised to the point where San Pedro and its neighbors would support it.
I don’t know who was or will be interviewed. I know their comments will run the gamut from “Hell, no!” to “Hell, yes!” to “I don’t care” to “I don’t know.” Assuming Oswald can make some sense of it all, there will be a public meeting in March to present some ideas for a more acceptable project.
What did I tell Oswald? First, I don’t think the current plan can be saved. CSFB should withdraw its application for Ponte Vista and start over. I also don’t think any 60 of us “community leaders” can speak for anyone else. Over the past three years, I’ve heard dozens of ideas about what could be built at Ponte Vista. I suspect most everyone’s first choice for this site is “nothing.”
We’ve never been given the opportunity to talk about what the community will accept. Instead, Bisno subjected us to a sales campaign where our choices could only be yes or no. If CSFB is serious, they will start over and engage with the people of San Pedro and its environs.
It’s time for us to work together, but that can only be done if we have the time and trust needed to create a project that will benefit the community and developer.
________________________________________________
Doug Epperhart is a member of the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council governing board. He can be reached at dougepperhart@cox.net.
After three years, what can anyone possibly say about Ponte Vista that hasn’t already been said?
At least I had a new audience when I sat down to rehash the proposed development and its history with Jim Oswald, a consultant hired by Ponte Vista to help them figure out if the project can be salvaged.
By now, everyone’s aware that Robert Bisno, a developer based in Century City, bought the old Navy housing site on Western Ave. His project originally called for 2,300 condos. Eventually, he dropped it to 1,950.
Opposition by the Northwest San Pedro, Harbor City, and Coastal San Pedro neighborhood councils and residents associations led to the formation of RNeighborhoodsAre1, a group established to preserve the property’s single-family zoning.
On the other side were Bisno, his “outreach” team and several dozen “advisory board” members representing the pro-development stance.
Councilwoman Janice Hahn appointed a 13-member advisory committee to consider the project and make recommendations. After nine months of back and forth, the group voted in favor of single-family (R-1) zoning. Many attribute this to Bisno’s unwillingness to bend on the subject of density at Ponte Vista.
As the two sides worked to win the hearts and minds of San Pedro, the city planning department held hearings and received thousands of pro and con letters, postcards, emails and petitions. Finally, late last year, the official word was “no” to Ponte Vista. The planners recommended that Bisno’s application to build his project be denied. They suggested that the planning commission tell the developer to start over.
In December, Robert Bisno stepped aside and his lender, Credit Suisse First Boston (CSFB), took over. Subsequently, they got the city planning commission to delay their hearing until April.
In the meanwhile, they’re trying to let us know they’re not Bisno.
To that end, they hired Oswald, whose job is to talk to community leaders and report back to CSFB. They want to know if the current condo project can be revised to the point where San Pedro and its neighbors would support it.
I don’t know who was or will be interviewed. I know their comments will run the gamut from “Hell, no!” to “Hell, yes!” to “I don’t care” to “I don’t know.” Assuming Oswald can make some sense of it all, there will be a public meeting in March to present some ideas for a more acceptable project.
What did I tell Oswald? First, I don’t think the current plan can be saved. CSFB should withdraw its application for Ponte Vista and start over. I also don’t think any 60 of us “community leaders” can speak for anyone else. Over the past three years, I’ve heard dozens of ideas about what could be built at Ponte Vista. I suspect most everyone’s first choice for this site is “nothing.”
We’ve never been given the opportunity to talk about what the community will accept. Instead, Bisno subjected us to a sales campaign where our choices could only be yes or no. If CSFB is serious, they will start over and engage with the people of San Pedro and its environs.
It’s time for us to work together, but that can only be done if we have the time and trust needed to create a project that will benefit the community and developer.
________________________________________________
Doug Epperhart is a member of the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council governing board. He can be reached at dougepperhart@cox.net.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Greening the Land
Knoll Hill Sketches Unveiled
Officials presented draft plans of possible recreational uses for Knoll Hill at a community meeting Tuesday.
The designs include a mix of play areas, ballfields, trails, community gathering spaces, lookout points, picnic tables and other elements. (Click on the images to enlarge).
The public is invited to submit comments to Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative, answering these questions:
1. Do you have a strong preference for one of the conceptual alternatives over the others? Which one and why?
2. Indicate the program elements you would support having in the final Knoll Hill conceptual alternative. (You may indicate as many as you like with a *.)
DISCOVERY / PLAY AREA / ORGANIZED PLAY
Tot Lot – age 2-5
Play Equipment – age 7-12
Nature Play / Discovery Areas
Water Play Areas
Playground Games
Game Tables
Baseball Fields
Multi-Purpose Open Fields
Interpretive Signage (Learning & Education)
TRAILS
Pedestrian Trails and Paths
Stairs
Fitness Equipment at Stations
Bike Paths
Perimeter Sidewalk (Improvements on Front St.)
Gates
Security Fencing
COMMUNITY GATHERING
Amphitheater
Informal Gathering Space
Civic/Community Event Space
Outdoor Classroom
PLANTING
Native Planting Communities
Hillside Native Vegetation
Trees
Demonstration Gardens
BASIC AMENITIES
Lighting (for aesthetics and safety)
Rest Room Facilities
Drinking Fountains
Doggie Drinking Fountains
Seating
Shade (structure, trees)
Gateway Elements (signage, structures, lighting)
Emergency Call Box
Bike Racks
Open Lawn Areas
VIEW / ACTIVITY NODES
Lookouts
Education/Information Vista Points
Sculpture
Water Feature (e.g. fountain)
Restore “Knoll Hill” lettering on side of hill
Landmark Visual Feature - complementing bridge
Memorial
Individual Picnic
Group Picnic
BBQs
3. Which program elements would you not support having in the final Knoll Hill alternative?
4. Are there any program elements that you feel are missing from the concepts?
Send answers to Norma Fernandez at norma@lani.org. Contact Fernandez by email or phone (213-627-1822 ext. 13) to join the mailing list for notices of upcoming Knoll Hill meetings.
New Trees for Downtown’s Vinegar Hill
A crowd gathered on Palos Verdes Street near Ninth Street on Jan. 31 to mark the planting of 89 ornamental pear trees in the area around the Vinegar Hill historic preservation district.
The city’s environmental affairs department provided funds for the trees as part of a project to plant 1,000 trees throughout Los Angeles. The department also paid for cutting holes in sidewalks to accommodate the trees.
The inspiration for this project was an old picture of San Pedro that Vinegar Hill resident Kara McLeod saw at a local restaurant. The photo showed the area covered with trees. She wondered why her neighborhood didn’t look like that anymore and decided to do something about it.
She enlisted her husband, John Mattson, and a neighbor, Phillip West, in the effort.
West canvassed area residents to see if they would support the idea of adding trees along their streets. He talked about a growing sense of excitement as people got a sense of how the trees could enhance their neighborhood.
Mattson, a member of the city’s community redevelopment agency San Pedro advisory committee, said, “This shows that grassroots efforts can work. It started with a few people, and with the help of the environmental affairs department, we got it done.”
When mature, the Bradford flowering pear tree should reach a height of about 30-35 feet. It has snow white flowers in the spring, green leaves in the summer, and turns red-orange in the fall. Area residents chose this variety of tree for its colorful foliage.
Officials presented draft plans of possible recreational uses for Knoll Hill at a community meeting Tuesday.
The designs include a mix of play areas, ballfields, trails, community gathering spaces, lookout points, picnic tables and other elements. (Click on the images to enlarge).
The public is invited to submit comments to Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative, answering these questions:
1. Do you have a strong preference for one of the conceptual alternatives over the others? Which one and why?
2. Indicate the program elements you would support having in the final Knoll Hill conceptual alternative. (You may indicate as many as you like with a *.)
DISCOVERY / PLAY AREA / ORGANIZED PLAY
Tot Lot – age 2-5
Play Equipment – age 7-12
Nature Play / Discovery Areas
Water Play Areas
Playground Games
Game Tables
Baseball Fields
Multi-Purpose Open Fields
Interpretive Signage (Learning & Education)
TRAILS
Pedestrian Trails and Paths
Stairs
Fitness Equipment at Stations
Bike Paths
Perimeter Sidewalk (Improvements on Front St.)
Gates
Security Fencing
COMMUNITY GATHERING
Amphitheater
Informal Gathering Space
Civic/Community Event Space
Outdoor Classroom
PLANTING
Native Planting Communities
Hillside Native Vegetation
Trees
Demonstration Gardens
BASIC AMENITIES
Lighting (for aesthetics and safety)
Rest Room Facilities
Drinking Fountains
Doggie Drinking Fountains
Seating
Shade (structure, trees)
Gateway Elements (signage, structures, lighting)
Emergency Call Box
Bike Racks
Open Lawn Areas
VIEW / ACTIVITY NODES
Lookouts
Education/Information Vista Points
Sculpture
Water Feature (e.g. fountain)
Restore “Knoll Hill” lettering on side of hill
Landmark Visual Feature - complementing bridge
Memorial
Individual Picnic
Group Picnic
BBQs
3. Which program elements would you not support having in the final Knoll Hill alternative?
4. Are there any program elements that you feel are missing from the concepts?
Send answers to Norma Fernandez at norma@lani.org. Contact Fernandez by email or phone (213-627-1822 ext. 13) to join the mailing list for notices of upcoming Knoll Hill meetings.
New Trees for Downtown’s Vinegar Hill
A crowd gathered on Palos Verdes Street near Ninth Street on Jan. 31 to mark the planting of 89 ornamental pear trees in the area around the Vinegar Hill historic preservation district.
The city’s environmental affairs department provided funds for the trees as part of a project to plant 1,000 trees throughout Los Angeles. The department also paid for cutting holes in sidewalks to accommodate the trees.
The inspiration for this project was an old picture of San Pedro that Vinegar Hill resident Kara McLeod saw at a local restaurant. The photo showed the area covered with trees. She wondered why her neighborhood didn’t look like that anymore and decided to do something about it.
From left: Phillip West, an unidentified Vinegar Hill resident, John Mattson, Kara McLeod, Councilwoman Janice Hahn and other volunteers planted trees in the historic district last week.
She enlisted her husband, John Mattson, and a neighbor, Phillip West, in the effort.
West canvassed area residents to see if they would support the idea of adding trees along their streets. He talked about a growing sense of excitement as people got a sense of how the trees could enhance their neighborhood.
Mattson, a member of the city’s community redevelopment agency San Pedro advisory committee, said, “This shows that grassroots efforts can work. It started with a few people, and with the help of the environmental affairs department, we got it done.”
When mature, the Bradford flowering pear tree should reach a height of about 30-35 feet. It has snow white flowers in the spring, green leaves in the summer, and turns red-orange in the fall. Area residents chose this variety of tree for its colorful foliage.
Celebrating the Sea(son)
Fans of Queen Mary 2 Plan Afternoon Tea, Lunch and Sail for Ship’s Visit Tuesday
The new Maritime Research Center in downtown San Pedro and its neighbor, Mishi’s Strudel, are hosting a number of special events to celebrate Valentine’s Day and the arrival of the Queen Mary 2. The luxury liner will be in Berth 92 at the world cruise center until 5 p.m. Tuesday, when it will embark westbound on a transoceanic cruise.
Valentine’s Tea
Learn about European romantic traditions during afternoon tea at Mishi’s Strudel on Feb. 8. The 2 p.m. tea includes sandwiches, pastries and fruit, plus door prizes and a silent auction. Cost is $28.50 per person. Ladies are encouraged to wear hats and gloves for a truly in-character experience. Mishi’s is located at 309 W. Seventh St. View the flyer for details or call (310) 521-0175 for reservations.
Ocean Liner Fans’ Lunch
The Maritime Research Center invites ship enthusiasts to lunch Tuesday with like-minded people and products. The 2 p.m. lunch takes place in the nautical shop, located at 301 W. Seventh St. at the corner of Centre Street. Cost is $20 per person. View the flyer or call (310) 521-0175 for reservations.
Set Sail
The Maritime Research Center is taking to the seas to admire the QM2 from the water. The group will set sail aboard the Pacific Spirit from Berth 74 in Ports O’ Call at 3:15 p.m. Tuesday. Cost is $45 ($42.50 for Maritime Research Center members.) View the flyer or call (310) 521-0175 for reservations.
The new Maritime Research Center in downtown San Pedro and its neighbor, Mishi’s Strudel, are hosting a number of special events to celebrate Valentine’s Day and the arrival of the Queen Mary 2. The luxury liner will be in Berth 92 at the world cruise center until 5 p.m. Tuesday, when it will embark westbound on a transoceanic cruise.
Valentine’s Tea
Learn about European romantic traditions during afternoon tea at Mishi’s Strudel on Feb. 8. The 2 p.m. tea includes sandwiches, pastries and fruit, plus door prizes and a silent auction. Cost is $28.50 per person. Ladies are encouraged to wear hats and gloves for a truly in-character experience. Mishi’s is located at 309 W. Seventh St. View the flyer for details or call (310) 521-0175 for reservations.
Ocean Liner Fans’ Lunch
The Maritime Research Center invites ship enthusiasts to lunch Tuesday with like-minded people and products. The 2 p.m. lunch takes place in the nautical shop, located at 301 W. Seventh St. at the corner of Centre Street. Cost is $20 per person. View the flyer or call (310) 521-0175 for reservations.
Set Sail
The Maritime Research Center is taking to the seas to admire the QM2 from the water. The group will set sail aboard the Pacific Spirit from Berth 74 in Ports O’ Call at 3:15 p.m. Tuesday. Cost is $45 ($42.50 for Maritime Research Center members.) View the flyer or call (310) 521-0175 for reservations.
Ponte Vista Update
The L.A. City Planning Commission hearing on Ponte Vista previously set for Feb. 12 has been rescheduled to April 9.
Grassroots opponents in R Neighborhoods Are 1 have released a new action bulletin, urging the public to write letters against the proposed development and in favor of holding the April hearing in San Pedro instead of downtown L.A.
The official Ponte Vista website has not been updated.
Grassroots opponents in R Neighborhoods Are 1 have released a new action bulletin, urging the public to write letters against the proposed development and in favor of holding the April hearing in San Pedro instead of downtown L.A.
The official Ponte Vista website has not been updated.
Black History Month Celebration Sunday
Political leaders and performing artists will be among the dignitaries taking part in a Black History Month celebration Sunday at the Warner Grand Theatre.
The Feb. 8 program begins at 2 p.m. and includes remarks and performances by lawmakers, musicians, actors, community leaders and others paying tribute to the social contributions of African Americans.
The Warner Grand Theatre is located at 478 W. Sixth St. in downtown San Pedro.
The free event is organized by the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council, in partnership with the San Pedro Democratic Club, Peninsula Harbor Republican Club, The Relevant Stage Theatre Company, Random Lengths News and the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.
For more information, call Dan Pasley at ( 310) 801-4315.
The Feb. 8 program begins at 2 p.m. and includes remarks and performances by lawmakers, musicians, actors, community leaders and others paying tribute to the social contributions of African Americans.
The Warner Grand Theatre is located at 478 W. Sixth St. in downtown San Pedro.
The free event is organized by the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council, in partnership with the San Pedro Democratic Club, Peninsula Harbor Republican Club, The Relevant Stage Theatre Company, Random Lengths News and the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.
For more information, call Dan Pasley at ( 310) 801-4315.
Neighborhood Council Meetings Next Week
The Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Peck Park, 560 N. Western Ave. The agenda was not posted at presstime. Visit www.nwsanpedro.org or call (310) 732-4522 for more information.
The Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Tuesday, Feb. 10 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, visit www.sanpedrocity.org or call (310) 918-8650 for more information.
The Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Tuesday, Feb. 10 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, visit www.sanpedrocity.org or call (310) 918-8650 for more information.
Harbor Area Election Forum Feb. 19
Neighborhood councils and chambers of commerce are sponsoring a candidates forum on Feb. 19 covering the offices and measures in the March 3 city election.
The forum will take place at 6:30 p.m. at Rolling Hills Preparatory School, 1500 Palos Verdes Drive North, San Pedro.
Candidates for Los Angeles City Council, City Attorney and City Controller have been invited. The forum will also feature the controversial Measure B solar-power initiative.
Save the date and watch for more information next week.
The forum will take place at 6:30 p.m. at Rolling Hills Preparatory School, 1500 Palos Verdes Drive North, San Pedro.
Candidates for Los Angeles City Council, City Attorney and City Controller have been invited. The forum will also feature the controversial Measure B solar-power initiative.
Save the date and watch for more information next week.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Week in Review
The director of Angels Gate Cultural Center is leaving for a job in Santa Monica, the Daily Breeze reported Tuesday.
The premier issue of San Pedro Today was released Thursday. The magazine, published by the editor of the former San Pedro Magazine, features high school football and includes a number of columnists.
Councilwoman Janice Hahn opined about the port in a Daily Breeze letter and about city services in San Pedro Today.
The latest issue of the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council newsletter includes stories on the forthcoming park at 22nd Street, waterfront redevelopment and the controversial Measure B on the March L.A. city ballot.
The premier issue of San Pedro Today was released Thursday. The magazine, published by the editor of the former San Pedro Magazine, features high school football and includes a number of columnists.
Councilwoman Janice Hahn opined about the port in a Daily Breeze letter and about city services in San Pedro Today.
The latest issue of the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council newsletter includes stories on the forthcoming park at 22nd Street, waterfront redevelopment and the controversial Measure B on the March L.A. city ballot.
Knoll Hill Meeting Tuesday
A public meeting is taking place Feb. 3 to review proposed uses for Knoll Hill.
Officials will release the design ideas that came out of a community meeting last year to brainstorm uses for the hilltop land.
The meeting will be held at the Crowne Plaza hotel (601 S. Palos Verdes St.) at 6 p.m. For more information, contact Norma Fernandez at Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative, (213) 627-1822 x13 or norma@lani.org.
Officials will release the design ideas that came out of a community meeting last year to brainstorm uses for the hilltop land.
The meeting will be held at the Crowne Plaza hotel (601 S. Palos Verdes St.) at 6 p.m. For more information, contact Norma Fernandez at Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative, (213) 627-1822 x13 or norma@lani.org.
First Thursday: New Shops, Eateries to Debut; Closings, Moves and Other Downtown News
The monthly First Thursday artwalk is Feb. 5 from 5-9 p.m. in downtown San Pedro.
Several shops and restaurants are debuting.
7th Street Chophouse
Downtown’s new steakhouse is celebrating its grand opening with a 6:30 p.m. ribbon-cutting at 465 W. Seventh Street.
The steakhouse serves rib eye, New York strip steak, filet mignon and other classics from land and sea.
Chef Gabriel Contreras’ creations include globally-inspired appetizers and lamb, chicken, veal, seafood and vegetarian paella entrees as alternatives to steak.
Chimmichurri is one of Contreras’ five homemade steak sauces. The chef calls it an “herb salsa” made with parsley, cilantro, olive oil and powerful doses of garlic, citrus and pepper.
“We’re delighted to be part of the San Pedro community,” said Judy Garcia of Long Beach, who owns the restaurant with her husband, Ron, and business partners Stephanie and J.R. Perez.
“Our goal is to serve exceptional food with excellent service and to help bring new energy to downtown San Pedro.”
The bar opens at 4 p.m. and dinner is served from 5-10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
465 W. Seventh St., San Pedro, (310) 684-1753.
Dance and Shoppe
Dance and Shoppe is opening its doors at 377 W. Seventh St. The dance studio and clothing boutique is owned by Lorena Gomez-Maese, a longtime San Pedro dancer, teacher and businesswoman.
Gomez-Maese and her daughters, Raquel and Catalina, are teaching ballet, tap, hip hop, jazz, ballet folklorico and other dances to students from 18 months old through adult. A demonstration of the different types of dance will take place on First Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
Gomez-Maese produces Clarita’s Vogue Nutcracker at the Warner Grand Theatre in December and previously owned Chips and Salsa studio and A Place to Dream antique shop in downtown San Pedro.
In Other Downtown News
The Whale & Ale has added a Tuesday wine tasting called Tasty Tuesdays. Sample four wines for $8-10.
Nosh Cafe is now open until 5 p.m. The cafe is participating in First Thursday this month, hosting a children’s clothing trunk show by Kelley Hart Creations, a San Pedro-based designer.
Glamour Puss Beauty Boutique is going out of business at 317 W. Sixth St., (310) 831-0332. All stock is half-off through Jan. 31.
Infected Clothing is moving from its location near the Whale and Ale up the street to 361 W. Seventh St.
Many stores are having sales and Valentine’s Day specials. Bring your list and shop local!
Coming soon: Two establishments are hoping to open this week or soon afterwards. A sleek new bar and lounge is coming online in the Crowne Plaza hotel on the Sixth Street side. Also, Michel’s Unique Cafe expects to open this week in the 8th Street Lofts building at 8th Street and Pacific Avenue. The cafe will initially serve coffee, pastries and chocolate, later adding crepes, pizza and ice cream. (Full disclosure: your San Pedro News editor is a paid consultant for the 8th Street Lofts.)
Watch for reports on downtown entertainment and housing in February issues.
Several shops and restaurants are debuting.
7th Street Chophouse
Downtown’s new steakhouse is celebrating its grand opening with a 6:30 p.m. ribbon-cutting at 465 W. Seventh Street.
The steakhouse serves rib eye, New York strip steak, filet mignon and other classics from land and sea.
Chef Gabriel Contreras’ creations include globally-inspired appetizers and lamb, chicken, veal, seafood and vegetarian paella entrees as alternatives to steak.
Filet mignon with chimmichurri sauce.
American Kobe beef and Porcini mushroom ravioli appetizer.
Short rib sliders appetizer.
Chimmichurri is one of Contreras’ five homemade steak sauces. The chef calls it an “herb salsa” made with parsley, cilantro, olive oil and powerful doses of garlic, citrus and pepper.
“We’re delighted to be part of the San Pedro community,” said Judy Garcia of Long Beach, who owns the restaurant with her husband, Ron, and business partners Stephanie and J.R. Perez.
“Our goal is to serve exceptional food with excellent service and to help bring new energy to downtown San Pedro.”
The bar opens at 4 p.m. and dinner is served from 5-10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
465 W. Seventh St., San Pedro, (310) 684-1753.
Dance and Shoppe
Dance and Shoppe is opening its doors at 377 W. Seventh St. The dance studio and clothing boutique is owned by Lorena Gomez-Maese, a longtime San Pedro dancer, teacher and businesswoman.
Gomez-Maese and her daughters, Raquel and Catalina, are teaching ballet, tap, hip hop, jazz, ballet folklorico and other dances to students from 18 months old through adult. A demonstration of the different types of dance will take place on First Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
Gomez-Maese produces Clarita’s Vogue Nutcracker at the Warner Grand Theatre in December and previously owned Chips and Salsa studio and A Place to Dream antique shop in downtown San Pedro.
In Other Downtown News
The Whale & Ale has added a Tuesday wine tasting called Tasty Tuesdays. Sample four wines for $8-10.
Nosh Cafe is now open until 5 p.m. The cafe is participating in First Thursday this month, hosting a children’s clothing trunk show by Kelley Hart Creations, a San Pedro-based designer.
Glamour Puss Beauty Boutique is going out of business at 317 W. Sixth St., (310) 831-0332. All stock is half-off through Jan. 31.
Infected Clothing is moving from its location near the Whale and Ale up the street to 361 W. Seventh St.
Many stores are having sales and Valentine’s Day specials. Bring your list and shop local!
Coming soon: Two establishments are hoping to open this week or soon afterwards. A sleek new bar and lounge is coming online in the Crowne Plaza hotel on the Sixth Street side. Also, Michel’s Unique Cafe expects to open this week in the 8th Street Lofts building at 8th Street and Pacific Avenue. The cafe will initially serve coffee, pastries and chocolate, later adding crepes, pizza and ice cream. (Full disclosure: your San Pedro News editor is a paid consultant for the 8th Street Lofts.)
Watch for reports on downtown entertainment and housing in February issues.
Charitable Fun
A Pair to Admire
A fundraiser for breast cancer treatment is asking for donations of creativity as well as money.
For a $200 entry fee, donors are invited to decorate a bra in creative and/or sentimental ways. The bras will be sold in a silent auction benefitting breast cancer diagnosis and treatment for low-income Harbor Area women.
The entry deadline is Feb. 15 and the auction is Feb. 27.
The fundraiser is sponsored by Soroptimist International of Los Angeles Harbor. For more information, entry forms or event tickets, contact Marta Valladolid at (310) 832-5482 or martavalladolid@sbcglobal.net.
Merlot for Mammals
Drink wine, munch on hummus, sip soda and save the mammals.
The Corner Store is hosting another tasting fundraiser on Feb. 7, this one benefitting the veterinary program at the Marine Mammal Care Center.
Tastings will be held at 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. for a $15 donation.
Space is limited and reservations are advised. To sign up, visit The Corner Store at 1118 W 37th St. or call Jill Romano at (310) 548-5677.
A fundraiser for breast cancer treatment is asking for donations of creativity as well as money.
For a $200 entry fee, donors are invited to decorate a bra in creative and/or sentimental ways. The bras will be sold in a silent auction benefitting breast cancer diagnosis and treatment for low-income Harbor Area women.
The entry deadline is Feb. 15 and the auction is Feb. 27.
The fundraiser is sponsored by Soroptimist International of Los Angeles Harbor. For more information, entry forms or event tickets, contact Marta Valladolid at (310) 832-5482 or martavalladolid@sbcglobal.net.
Merlot for Mammals
Drink wine, munch on hummus, sip soda and save the mammals.
The Corner Store is hosting another tasting fundraiser on Feb. 7, this one benefitting the veterinary program at the Marine Mammal Care Center.
Tastings will be held at 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. for a $15 donation.
Space is limited and reservations are advised. To sign up, visit The Corner Store at 1118 W 37th St. or call Jill Romano at (310) 548-5677.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Celebration Time
New President
Locals gathered at Ports O’ Call restaurant to celebrate President Obama’s inauguration. Harbor Area bloggers documented their stories and photos in Random Lengths News’ Inauguration Notebook.
New Century for Bookstore
Councilwoman Janice Hahn was among many to congratulate Williams’ Book Store for its centennial anniversary. Owners Anne and Jerry Gusha, pictured with Hahn, also received commendations from Assemblywoman Bonnie Lowenthal, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the San Pedro Bay Historical Society.
Author Angi Ma Wong signed “Reggie: My Story” on Friday night, a children’s book – and stuffed animal – about the infamous Harbor City alligator.
Williams’ 1-0-0 was covered in the Los Angeles Times, Daily Breeze and Random Lengths. See the store’s website for this weekend’s schedule of readings and events.
Locals gathered at Ports O’ Call restaurant to celebrate President Obama’s inauguration. Harbor Area bloggers documented their stories and photos in Random Lengths News’ Inauguration Notebook.
New Century for Bookstore
Councilwoman Janice Hahn was among many to congratulate Williams’ Book Store for its centennial anniversary. Owners Anne and Jerry Gusha, pictured with Hahn, also received commendations from Assemblywoman Bonnie Lowenthal, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the San Pedro Bay Historical Society.
Author Angi Ma Wong signed “Reggie: My Story” on Friday night, a children’s book – and stuffed animal – about the infamous Harbor City alligator.
Williams’ 1-0-0 was covered in the Los Angeles Times, Daily Breeze and Random Lengths. See the store’s website for this weekend’s schedule of readings and events.
Governing, Local Edition
Coastal Council Meets Monday with New Boardmembers in Office, 1 Vacancy to Fill
The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, Jan. 26 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building.
View the agenda or call (310) 290-0049 for more information.
Two new governing board members were appointed to vacant seats in November. One more vacancy remains to be filled on Monday or thereafter. (Visit the website or call the council for more information about serving on the board.)
Here are profiles of the recently appointed board members.
Jennifer Marquez is a Pt. Fermin mother of two and magazine columnist with 15 years of experience at non-profit organizations. She wrote about issues concerning children for the former San Pedro Magazine and will continue in the forthcoming San Pedro Today.
“I ran for the board because I want to have more representation for families with children,” said Marquez. “This is a great community and I enjoy living here, however, it could be more family friendly.
“I am concerned that with all the new housing, the impact on the local schools is not being addressed. I hope to achieve a safer, healthier community that is committed to the future generations of San Pedro.”
Dawn Turner is a mother of three who works in the medical industry. Through her children’s sports teams and recreational activities, Turner is actively involved in many youth and community organizations.
“It is very important for me to be involved in the community in which I live,” said Turner. “As a private citizen, I have tried to affect things that will help my local community, but found it fraught with challenges and many times with minimal results.
“As I live in and engage the community, I’ve had many conversations with many people with very good ideas, comments, suggestions and complaints. I felt that I needed to act on my strong sense of civic responsibility, not only my behalf, but [for] all of those [people] that … feel like they don’t have a voice or don’t know how to have their voice heard.
“The board should be representative of the diversity of San Pedro. I think I can contribute to that tenet.”
The Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meets Monday, Jan. 26 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cabrillo Marina Community Building.
View the agenda or call (310) 290-0049 for more information.
Two new governing board members were appointed to vacant seats in November. One more vacancy remains to be filled on Monday or thereafter. (Visit the website or call the council for more information about serving on the board.)
Here are profiles of the recently appointed board members.
Jennifer Marquez is a Pt. Fermin mother of two and magazine columnist with 15 years of experience at non-profit organizations. She wrote about issues concerning children for the former San Pedro Magazine and will continue in the forthcoming San Pedro Today.“I ran for the board because I want to have more representation for families with children,” said Marquez. “This is a great community and I enjoy living here, however, it could be more family friendly.
“I am concerned that with all the new housing, the impact on the local schools is not being addressed. I hope to achieve a safer, healthier community that is committed to the future generations of San Pedro.”
Dawn Turner is a mother of three who works in the medical industry. Through her children’s sports teams and recreational activities, Turner is actively involved in many youth and community organizations.“It is very important for me to be involved in the community in which I live,” said Turner. “As a private citizen, I have tried to affect things that will help my local community, but found it fraught with challenges and many times with minimal results.
“As I live in and engage the community, I’ve had many conversations with many people with very good ideas, comments, suggestions and complaints. I felt that I needed to act on my strong sense of civic responsibility, not only my behalf, but [for] all of those [people] that … feel like they don’t have a voice or don’t know how to have their voice heard.
“The board should be representative of the diversity of San Pedro. I think I can contribute to that tenet.”
Friday, January 16, 2009
Presidential in Pedro
This handwritten lawnsign was displayed in the 2100 block of Paseo del Mar last November.
Inauguration Party
Harbor Area politicos will celebrate the presidential inauguration Tuesday at Ports O’ Call restaurant.
The Jan. 20 party is scheduled for 5-9 p.m. and will include a replay of President-elect Barack Obama’s inauguration, a no-host bar, appetizers and music.
The free event is sponsored by Random Lengths News, with MoveOn.org, the San Pedro Democratic Club and the Progressive Democratic Club. Ek & Ek Public Advocacy and Spirit Cruises are hosting the party.
Ports O’ Call is located at Berth 76 in Ports Call O’ Village. Call (310) 833-3553 for more information.
Here are a few of the other inauguration events happening throughout Los Angeles.
Play by Play
Two Harbor Area residents have gone East for the inauguration and are blogging about their experiences for Random Lengths News. Visit the RLN Inauguration Notebook for their field reports.
Election Analysis
Following is an excerpt of Random Lengths’ analysis of the Harbor Area vote. It assessed the vote by neighborhood council district, finding that 74.1 percent of Central San Pedro voters, 64.7 percent of Coastal San Pedro voters and 65.2 percent of Northwest San Pedro voters cast ballots for Obama.
How the Harbor Area Voted
In the Harbor Area, Barack Obama won a majority in every city or district except for the Republican strongholds on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, ranging from a high of over 80 percent in two districts, 86.0 percent in Harbor Gateway North and 81.3 percent in Long Beach Council District 1 to a low of 33.6 percent in small enclave of Rolling Hills. Obama’s share in San Pedro ranged from 64.7 in the Coastal Neighborhood Council District to 74.1 percent in Central San Pedro. His margin in Wilmington was 76.9 percent. The overall totals for the area covered were 146,240 votes for Obama (68.6 percent) compared to 62,877 votes for McCain (29.5 percent). This compares to a statewide margin of 8,063,473 votes for Obama (61.1 percent) compared to 4,902,278 votes for McCain (37.1 percent). Local results are final. Statewide results will not be final until Dec. 13. The Harbor Area was 7.5 percent more supportive of Barack Obama than the state as a whole.
Source: Random Lengths News, Dec. 12, 2008. A table of data accompanied the story and can be viewed on page 5 of the back issue.
Shaping Ponte Vista Anew
The new Ponte Vista management is pledging to work with the community to revise plans for the Western Avenue property.
“There is a spirit of cooperation. We are moving forward with community outreach,” a spokeswoman told the Daily Breeze in a story published Wednesday.
“There is a spirit of cooperation. We are moving forward with community outreach,” a spokeswoman told the Daily Breeze in a story published Wednesday.
Williams’ Book Store, Centenarian
Williams’ Book Store is celebrating its 100th birthday Jan. 23-25 with readings, discounts and more.
Author Ray Bradbury of “Fahrenheit 451” and “The Martian Chronicles” is scheduled to visit on Jan. 24. Local history will be told through stories of Reggie the Alligator, “San Pedro Faces and Places” and a series of readings on the event’s closing day.
See the Williams’ website for full details.
Author Ray Bradbury of “Fahrenheit 451” and “The Martian Chronicles” is scheduled to visit on Jan. 24. Local history will be told through stories of Reggie the Alligator, “San Pedro Faces and Places” and a series of readings on the event’s closing day.
See the Williams’ website for full details.
Coastal Council Meeting 1 Week Later
This month’s Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council meeting is one week later than usual.
The meeting will be on Jan. 26 due to the Martin Luther King Day holiday. The agenda is already posted.
The February meeting is also a week later due to Presidents Day.
The meeting will be on Jan. 26 due to the Martin Luther King Day holiday. The agenda is already posted.
The February meeting is also a week later due to Presidents Day.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Coastal Panel OKs Angels Gate School
Hear Hahn at Northwest Council Meeting Monday
Councilwoman Janice Hahn will attend Monday’s Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council meeting to update the community on local issues.
The meeting takes place on Jan. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at Peck Park, 560 N Western Ave. As noted on the agenda, Hahn will speak at the beginning of the meeting.
The meeting takes place on Jan. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at Peck Park, 560 N Western Ave. As noted on the agenda, Hahn will speak at the beginning of the meeting.
New Board Members Join Central Council Tuesday
Two new board members will take office at Tuesday’s Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council meeting.
Caroline Brady-Sinco is development director at Harbor Interfaith Services. She previously worked at the old News-Pilot, Habitat for Humanity and Councilwoman Janice Hahn’s office. “In these tough economic times, I think it’s more important than ever to represent the homeless and working poor families who live in our community,” said Brady-Sinco. “I hope to build awareness and new friendships that will help serve the Harbor Interfaith constituency.”
Carlos Perez owns Best Tire on South Pacific Avenue and Third Street. Perez did not respond to San Pedro News’ request for comment.
The meeting takes place on Jan. 13 at 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. Check www.sanpedrocity.org to see if the agenda is posted.
Caroline Brady-Sinco is development director at Harbor Interfaith Services. She previously worked at the old News-Pilot, Habitat for Humanity and Councilwoman Janice Hahn’s office. “In these tough economic times, I think it’s more important than ever to represent the homeless and working poor families who live in our community,” said Brady-Sinco. “I hope to build awareness and new friendships that will help serve the Harbor Interfaith constituency.”
Carlos Perez owns Best Tire on South Pacific Avenue and Third Street. Perez did not respond to San Pedro News’ request for comment.
The meeting takes place on Jan. 13 at 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. Check www.sanpedrocity.org to see if the agenda is posted.
Perspectives on Parks
On the subject of parks and recreational facilities, Harbor Area residents want hiking trails and bike paths, according to the results of a city survey.
The Daily Breeze story gives an overview of the city report, which found that area residents also favored neighborhood “pocket” parks, nature trails and swimming pools.
On a related note, Recreation and Parks official Mark Mariscal will speak at Tuesday’s meeting of the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council, where he will give a report on the Harbor Area parks budget.
The Daily Breeze story gives an overview of the city report, which found that area residents also favored neighborhood “pocket” parks, nature trails and swimming pools.
On a related note, Recreation and Parks official Mark Mariscal will speak at Tuesday’s meeting of the Central San Pedro Neighborhood Council, where he will give a report on the Harbor Area parks budget.
Inauguration Party at Ports O’ Call
An inauguration party is set for Jan. 20 at Ports O’ Call restaurant. The party will feature a replay of President-elect Barack Obama’s inauguration, a no-host bar, appetizers and music.
The free event is from 5-9 p.m. It is sponsored by Random Lengths News, with MoveOn.org, the San Pedro Democratic Club and the Progressive Democratic Club. Ek & Ek Public Advocacy and Spirit Cruises are hosting the party.
Ports O’ Call is located at Berth 76 in Ports Call O’ Village. Call (310) 833-3553 for more information.
The free event is from 5-9 p.m. It is sponsored by Random Lengths News, with MoveOn.org, the San Pedro Democratic Club and the Progressive Democratic Club. Ek & Ek Public Advocacy and Spirit Cruises are hosting the party.
Ports O’ Call is located at Berth 76 in Ports Call O’ Village. Call (310) 833-3553 for more information.
Resolving to Change
Expert Advice to Eat Healthy and Get Organized
Local experts are leading workshops to help organize your life and improve your health, two New Year’s resolutions you can keep with effort and determination.
Get Healthy
A professional nutritionist will give a free health lecture at Henry’s Market on Wednesday.
Nutritionist Janet Little will introduce “Whole Body Rehab,” a six-week program to naturally cleanse the body and teach participants about healthy eating habits that can be followed for life.
The lecture takes place on Jan. 14 at 6 p.m. at Henry’s Market, 820 N. Western Ave. See the web page for more information.
Get Organized
Consultant Nancy Miller recently taught a workshop on eliminating clutter and organizing your home and office.
Miller’s workshop, held at the Palos Verdes main library, was geared to helping people simplify, clean, neaten and organize the stuff in their lives.
Miller defines clutter as “anything that is excess for you.”
Here are some of the tips and insights Miller shared to eliminate clutter:
Clutter is a byproduct of stored fear and postponed decisions. People are so busy doing things, buzzing from one multitasking moment to the next, that they don’t have time to catch up. One solution is to create deadlines for yourself that once came naturally. For example, think back to the days when most people worked in an office. People would clear their desks before going on vacation. Nowadays, for purposes of the self-employed, retired people and home organization, the goal is to schedule a day of the week to simulate the pre-vacation ritual.
What you own owns you. “Whatever you bring home, you have to babysit for the rest of your life,” said Miller, using the theatre program as an example. Miller’s solution is to be brazen and shameless in pitching clutter. Efforts to be environmentally sensitive and recycle are admirable and should be made, said Miller, but sometimes “good intentions become junk. Throwing stuff away is wonderful. You have to get your head above the clutter before you can save the world.”
Most people wear the same 20% of their clothes 80% of the time. To clean your closet almost effortlessly, turn all the hangers around so they’re facing backwards, towards the inside of your closet. When you take something out to wear or wash it, face its hanger normally when you return it to the closet. The clothes that are still backwards after six months are evidently not being worn. Bid them farewell and get rid of them!
When filing something, ask five questions: why do I want it; is it in another file; is this material timely; how long should this be kept; and what would happen if it were lost? Miller’s premise here is that most things are kept on a discretionary basis. If it’s not critical to your basic livelihood and lifestyle – that is, if it won’t get you fired or divorced – then keeping it is a choice.
Miller suggested several exercises to help change habits. Pretend to go paperless. Pay all your bills online, for example. Also, don’t replace your printer’s ink cartridge right away; pretend you don’t have another cartridge on hand. Pretend you have to move tomorrow. Pretend you’re moving into a dorm room or nursing home. Pretend you have five minutes to evacuate your house.
Miller advises an annual ritual to go through the house and toss, relocate, give way or repair things that are out of place, out of use or just plain clutter. For this annual event and all other organizational efforts, though, Miller cautions not to devise a system that’s more complicated than the original problem.
A self-declared “clutterologist,” Miller has authored a book, CD and DVD on “clutterology” and makes house calls to “defeat clutter where it lives.”
Visit www.clutterology.com for more information.
Be Further Resolved
See this recent Daily Breeze write-up for more ideas on “making – and keeping – your resolutions.”
Local experts are leading workshops to help organize your life and improve your health, two New Year’s resolutions you can keep with effort and determination.
Get Healthy
A professional nutritionist will give a free health lecture at Henry’s Market on Wednesday.
Nutritionist Janet Little will introduce “Whole Body Rehab,” a six-week program to naturally cleanse the body and teach participants about healthy eating habits that can be followed for life.
The lecture takes place on Jan. 14 at 6 p.m. at Henry’s Market, 820 N. Western Ave. See the web page for more information.
Get Organized
Consultant Nancy Miller recently taught a workshop on eliminating clutter and organizing your home and office.
Miller’s workshop, held at the Palos Verdes main library, was geared to helping people simplify, clean, neaten and organize the stuff in their lives.
Miller defines clutter as “anything that is excess for you.”
Here are some of the tips and insights Miller shared to eliminate clutter:
Clutter is a byproduct of stored fear and postponed decisions. People are so busy doing things, buzzing from one multitasking moment to the next, that they don’t have time to catch up. One solution is to create deadlines for yourself that once came naturally. For example, think back to the days when most people worked in an office. People would clear their desks before going on vacation. Nowadays, for purposes of the self-employed, retired people and home organization, the goal is to schedule a day of the week to simulate the pre-vacation ritual.
What you own owns you. “Whatever you bring home, you have to babysit for the rest of your life,” said Miller, using the theatre program as an example. Miller’s solution is to be brazen and shameless in pitching clutter. Efforts to be environmentally sensitive and recycle are admirable and should be made, said Miller, but sometimes “good intentions become junk. Throwing stuff away is wonderful. You have to get your head above the clutter before you can save the world.”
Most people wear the same 20% of their clothes 80% of the time. To clean your closet almost effortlessly, turn all the hangers around so they’re facing backwards, towards the inside of your closet. When you take something out to wear or wash it, face its hanger normally when you return it to the closet. The clothes that are still backwards after six months are evidently not being worn. Bid them farewell and get rid of them!
When filing something, ask five questions: why do I want it; is it in another file; is this material timely; how long should this be kept; and what would happen if it were lost? Miller’s premise here is that most things are kept on a discretionary basis. If it’s not critical to your basic livelihood and lifestyle – that is, if it won’t get you fired or divorced – then keeping it is a choice.
Miller suggested several exercises to help change habits. Pretend to go paperless. Pay all your bills online, for example. Also, don’t replace your printer’s ink cartridge right away; pretend you don’t have another cartridge on hand. Pretend you have to move tomorrow. Pretend you’re moving into a dorm room or nursing home. Pretend you have five minutes to evacuate your house.
Miller advises an annual ritual to go through the house and toss, relocate, give way or repair things that are out of place, out of use or just plain clutter. For this annual event and all other organizational efforts, though, Miller cautions not to devise a system that’s more complicated than the original problem.
A self-declared “clutterologist,” Miller has authored a book, CD and DVD on “clutterology” and makes house calls to “defeat clutter where it lives.”
Visit www.clutterology.com for more information.
Be Further Resolved
See this recent Daily Breeze write-up for more ideas on “making – and keeping – your resolutions.”
Friday, January 2, 2009
Ponte Vista News
‘Arrested development’
The Western Avenue housing proposal was among the Daily Breeze’s top 10 stories of 2008. Under the headline “Arrested development,” the Breeze wrote:
According to Ponte Vista ...
There are reports that the official Ponte Vista blog has been updated with a message regarding some of the changes noted above. However, the website was having technical difficulties at presstime. Visit www.yourpontevista.com to see if anything materializes.
The Western Avenue housing proposal was among the Daily Breeze’s top 10 stories of 2008. Under the headline “Arrested development,” the Breeze wrote:
The end of 2008 saw a flurry of news surrounding San Pedro’s controversial Ponte Vista housing development.
In November, city planning officials issued a long-awaited ruling saying that the 1,950-home project for Western Avenue was too big and did not conform to the community plan.
It was a blow for developer Bob Bisno, who had been trying since October 2005 to win approval for the 61.5-acre project.
Then, another surprise: Bisno, a polarizing figure who had become a lightning rod for community critics of the project, was booted from his role as head of the development team.
A division of Credit Suisse bank, Bisno’s top investor, assumed control of Ponte Vista on Dec. 12, the day after a Planning Commission hearing was planned on the development. That hearing has been pushed back to Feb. 12.
What happens next is still unclear.
Credit Suisse officials are expected to meet with community members after the first of the year to discuss what, if any, changes might be made to the existing plan.
According to Ponte Vista ...
There are reports that the official Ponte Vista blog has been updated with a message regarding some of the changes noted above. However, the website was having technical difficulties at presstime. Visit www.yourpontevista.com to see if anything materializes.
Coastal Panel to Vote on Angels Gate School Wednesday
The California Coastal Commission will vote this week on a coastal development permit for the proposed Angels Gate high school.
The L.A. school district must get the state commission’s approval as the final step towards constructing the 810-seat hilltop school.
Some community opponents are planning to attend the Jan. 7 meeting in Oceanside to testify against the permit.
The public can also submit written testimony and view real-time audio or video of the meeting. Links and instructions are posted on the meeting agenda page.
The L.A. school district must get the state commission’s approval as the final step towards constructing the 810-seat hilltop school.
Some community opponents are planning to attend the Jan. 7 meeting in Oceanside to testify against the permit.
The public can also submit written testimony and view real-time audio or video of the meeting. Links and instructions are posted on the meeting agenda page.
Open House on Harbor Freeway Ramp Widening
An open house is taking place Wednesday regarding the proposed widening of the Harbor Freeway ramps most often used by truckers leaving the port.
The public meeting takes place on Jan. 7 at 6:30 p.m. at Bannings Landing, 100 E. Water St., Wilmington. It is co-sponsored by the port of L.A. and CalTrans.
The open house will cover plans to improve and/or widen the C Street and John S. Gibson Boulevard ramps and the Vincent Thomas Bridge transition road to the northbound Harbor Freeway.
For more information, call (310) 732-3362 or view the meeting agenda.
The public meeting takes place on Jan. 7 at 6:30 p.m. at Bannings Landing, 100 E. Water St., Wilmington. It is co-sponsored by the port of L.A. and CalTrans.
The open house will cover plans to improve and/or widen the C Street and John S. Gibson Boulevard ramps and the Vincent Thomas Bridge transition road to the northbound Harbor Freeway.
For more information, call (310) 732-3362 or view the meeting agenda.
More on Downtown Security Officers
The Daily Breeze published a story and photos of the new downtown security officers, as reported in last week’s San Pedro News.
On the Horizon
San Pedro Today is expected to debut this month; watch for it around town ... More homeowners will be moving into the Vue; watch for a new wave of downtown residents ... By mid-month, the downtown steakhouse will open as a promising new place to ‘meat’ up ... 100-year-old Williams’ Bookstore is having a grand three-day party in late January to mark a century in business.
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