RLn 5-12-22

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A New Lawman Round These Parts?

Candidates for sheriff from left to right: Eli Vera, a commander in the LA County Sheriff’s Department; Lt. Eric Strong of the Sheriff’s Department, Robert Luna, former Long Beach police chief; Cecil Rhambo, chief of police at LAX. Above: current Sheriff Alex Villanueva. Graphic by Suzanne Matsumiya and Terelle Jerricks

Reactions to planned 6,200-seat amphitheater at West Harbor Project p. 2

Robert Luna

From the Long Beach Police Department, Robert Luna, like most of the contenders for sheriff, boasts a long career in law enforcement. Luna has served as the chief of the Long Beach Police Department for seven years and an officer for 29. He holds a master’s degree in public administration from Cal State Long Beach. In addition, he

has completed three programs targeted at professional executives for local institutions, one at the FBI’s National Executive Institute, one at Harvard University and one at USC’s Delinquency Control Institute. According to Luna, he advocates for a relationship based model of policing, using cooperation with local institutions and figures to accomplish this. In order to achieve his model of policing, Luna has put forward five points he wishes to achieve as sheriff. These points are reductions in both crime

The Illegitimate Court By Paul Rosenberg, Senior Editor

“It’s the basis of democracy that you control your own body. And it’s the basis of hierarchy and totalitarian regimes that you don’t.”

— Gloria Steinem, Reversing Roe

For the first time since the Dred Scott decision declared that Black people were “so far inferior that they had no rights which the white man was bound to respect,” the Supreme Court is poised to extinguish a fundamental right — the right to abortion enshrined in the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision — and return us to the days of back-alley abortions almost immediately in more than a dozen states. It could even be nationwide within three years if Republicans have their way. This one-way ticket to Gilead comes on the basis of multiple lies so outlandish they constitute gaslighting — an attack on public sanity, the taken-for-granted foundation on which democratic self-governance depends. Indeed, when oral arguments were heard in December, both Linda Greenhouse at the New York Times and Dahlia Lithwick at Slate wrote stories headlining the gaslighting involved. On May 2, a leaked draft of the written decision by Justice Samuel Alito provided much more of the same. The most blatant gaslighting was retroactively revealed: the bald-faced lies of five justices during confirmation [See Illegitimate, p. 13]

and homelessness, raising conditions in holding facilities, improving employee wellness and restoring public trust.

Cecil Rhambo

Cecil Rhambo currently serves as chief of LAX’s airport police. A graduate of Humboldt State University, he has a 33-year-long career, and has found himself in a wide variety of roles within the LA County Sheriff’s Department. As a lieutenant for internal affairs he assisted in the creation of a database for officer misconduct after the fallout of the Rodney King protests. He served as lead on the Asian Crime Task Force and afterward, in 2000, as captain of Compton’s branch of the Sheriff’s Department. Following this he was asked to create the Sheriff’s Community Oriented Policing Bureau, focusing on aligning department approaches on unhoused individuals and those experiencing a mental health crisis. Then under Assembly Bill 109 he was tasked with bringing prisons into consensus with the bill, it would be this that led Rhambo into his most high-profile moment as an officer. The FBI, along with the ACLU, were investigating the Sheriff’s Department under former Sheriff Lee Baca for abuse of inmates. Rhambo urged Baca to cooperate with the investigation and later took the stand to testify against him. Baca, after a retrial, would go on to serve two years of prison time. Rhambo bills himself as a reformer and has a long history of policy implementation within [See Sheriff, p. 3] 1

May 12 - 25, 2022

With new developments underway, what will become of San Pedro’s staple restaurants? p. 11

to decide whose vision for justice on the ground they would like to see enacted.

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If there is one arm of the Los Angeles County government flush with cash, it is that of the Sheriff’s Department. Long is the arm of the law and many are their responsibilities, some expected, some thrust upon the department. As we live in a democracy we are given a chance to decide who will wield the enforcement power of state. For the first time since the dramatic George Floyd protests and proceeding conversations on police reforms, residents of Los Angeles County, the most populous county in the nation, will have a chance

By Anealia Kortkamp, Reporter


Community Announcements:

Harbor Area Applications Open for LB Creative Economy Grants Program

The application period opened for the City of Long Beach’s creative economy grants program. This program, funded by the Long Beach Recovery Act, will provide funding to local arts, culture and history nonprofits and professional artists to be utilized for operational recovery, public murals, community projects and artist fellowships. The application period for all programs will close June 10, with the exception of the public mural program, which closes Aug. 5. Details: www.artslb.org/creative-economy-grants

Checkbook LA

LA Controller Ron Galperin unveiled an updated, enhanced version of his Checkbook LA website, which allows the public to review current and historical data on how the city spends its money on goods and services. Users can search by department, vendor or item, and will find data for 2022 and each fiscal year back through 2013. Details: https://lacity.spending.socrata.com/#!/ year/2022/

California State Parks Passes Available at LA and LB Public Libraries In partnership with California State Parks and the California State Library, you can now check out a vehicle day-use entry pass for over 200 California state parks. Details: www.longbeach.gov/california-statelibrary-parks-pass-available

In-Person Senior Nutrition Program Resumes

May 12 - 25, 2022

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The City of Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine has resumed its inperson Senior Nutrition Program at various sites throughout the city. Hot or cold nutritious meals are served to residents age 50 and above. Details: www.long-beach-parks-recreation-andmarine-resumes-in-person-senior-nutritionprogram

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Committed to Independent Journalism in the Greater LA/LB Harbor Area for More Than 40 Years

Reactions to Planned Amphitheater at West Harbor By Hunter Chase, Community Reporter

The plans for the West Harbor development project, which is at the former site of Ports O’ Call, originally included a 500-seat amphitheater, as well as several restaurants. However, the Port of Los Angeles announced plans in April to expand the amphitheater to 6,200 seats, with plans to host about 100 paid events per year. In addition, the planned changes include replacing a Ferris wheel with a viewing tower. The port released an initial study/notice of preparation, or IS/NOP, on April 14. In addition, it held a public scoping meeting on Zoom on May 3 to gather public comment. Following the public review period of the project, which ends June 15, the port will release a draft environmental impact report. The proposed amphitheater will take up about 108,000 square feet, including a 35,000 square foot stage, backstage and box office area. In addition, it will have an artificial lawn that is over 50,00 square feet. The port has already determined that these changes to the project will not have a significant impact on water quality, energy, hazardous materials and utilities and services systems, said Nicole Enciso, project manager. The port will not be considering these impacts in its supplemental environmental impact report. However, the port has determined the changes could have a significant impact on air quality, greenhouse gas

A rendering of the West Harbor development project. Courtesy of the Port of Los Angeles

emissions, noise and transportation. The port will study these areas in the report. Many criticized the planned changes for their environmental impact. Dianne Woelke criticized the proposed use of synthetic turf in particular, which contains polyfluoroalkyl, or PFAs substances. These are man-made compounds that are

potentially harmful to humans and the environment because they break down very slowly. “[They] are forever chemicals that will forever be in your environment, your aquatic waterways,” Woelke said. (They were the subject of a Project Censored top 10 story last year.) [See Residents, p. 4]


[Sheriff, from p. 1]

Sheriff

multiple departments. Among these is his advocacy for the decertification of misconducting officers, including those found to be members of a deputy gang such as the Reapers or Banditos. He also urges an all-out ban on the forprofit prison system, which have been credibly accused of forced labor and slavery like conditions for inmates. In addition to this, he urges the closing of decrepit facilities and the rehousing of those within. He has vowed to work with oversight commissions to improve policing, which stands in heavy contrast to current department behavior.

in the Sheriff’s Department. Steinbrenner holds a masters in administration from the University of La Verne on top of having an extensive history with the department. The former captain of the County Services Bureau served an 8-month stint as head of the department’s operation center’s coronavirus taskforce, worked in the risk manage-

Matt Rodriguez

Matt Rodriguez is the former interim chief at the City of Santa Paula. Rodriguez has had a 32-year-long career, ultimately retiring with the rank of captain. Much of his background is traced to transit policing, including public safety manager for Metrolink

Retiring from the department in March, Britta Steinbrenner has 35 years

Eli Vera

Eli Vera served in the Sheriff’s Department for 33 years and as with his competitors, he has climbed the department ladder to where he is today. His is a career marked specifically by an orthodox climb in rank, going from, in 2008, a lieutenant in Century City, to in 2013 a captain in South LA, to finally in 2019 a division chief. He mentions that he has been given numerous accolades, specifically three for going “above and beyond the scope of his duties.” Beyond this he also holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice [See Sheriff, p. 13]

Off the Streets

Photo by Taso Papadakis

On May 7, Supervisor Janice Hahn and Sheriff Alex Villanueva toured the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Community Advisory Council’s gun buy back event that took 365 guns off of the streets. The event was sponsored by LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn’s office and the Sheriff’s Department. Gift card amounts differed depending on the weapon returned. The guns collected ranged from handguns and pistols to semi-automatic and automatic assault rifles. Photo by Raphael Richardson

741 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro (310) 351-0070 servubiz@aol.com www.decoartdeco.com OPEN BY APPOINTMENT

May 12 - 25, 2022

Britta Steinbrenner

An officer of 29 years, Eric Strong distinguishes himself by saying he has experienced the justice system from both sides, and has seen it at its worst and at its best. He holds a B.S. in Management and is a graduate of LA County’s Management Development Program and the FBI National Academy. Strong has been put in positions of police leadership before both in and outside the department, he is a founding board member of Police Against Racism and has handled multiple internal affairs investigations, including those against deputy gangs. Strong notes his work with youth as a volunteer with programs such as Officers Against Crime Summer Camp and as a coach for multiple youth sports. Strong, fitting to his name, puts forward one of the stronger responses to deputy gangs, stating bluntly that he will ban them, protect whistleblowers, and discipline both those in the gangs and those who acted as bench sitters, watching and doing nothing. There is talk of construction of new men’s central jail facilities as the current ones reach obsolescence. Rather than putting more money into building prisons, Strong advocates putting funds into programs to reduce homelessness and recidivism, thus eliminating the need to expand facilities. He seeks to up department transparency, crackdown on department favoritism and increase accessibility to knowledge regarding internal practices, the goal being a restoration of department trust.

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and deputy director for transit security in San Diego. He holds two masters, one from USC in Executive Leadership, and one in Public Administration from CSULB. Rodriguez advocates permanent supportive structure to help the unhoused as well as income opportunities, but does not seem to go further into what that would entail. He quite pointedly states that he is the only sheriff candidate calling for the recall of District Attorney George Gascón. The recall campaign stems from the idea that crime is significantly higher under Gascón due to a reformist agenda, which is untrue for two large reasons. Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department’s most recent crime data up to 2020, Gascón himself only being elected in December of that year, and of the data we do have, from 2019 to 2020, show a net decrease in both incidents reported and arrests made. On criminal justice reform, Rodriguez says he opposes business as it is done currently, and says he would like to go with evidence based solutions but does not seem to provide any examples. As for community partnerships, he believes in close partnerships and that “the community and law enforcement should be one and the same.” He is also opposed to the current concealed carry program, believing it to be too restrictive.

ment bureau, emergency operations bureau, information bureau and the international liaison unit, and homeland security division. For her part, Steinbrenner is more than willing to get deep into the weeds on policy, her proposals showing a high level of forethought. The overall gist is she has a reform-minded agenda. On the issue of homelessness, she puts forward extensive plans for expanded resources for those experiencing crises of mental health, from life skill training to conservatorship, but puts little forward to those experiencing it on economic grounds. Steinbrenner also admits to the problem sheriff deputies gangs present, both to the communities they are meant to serve and to non-affiliated officers. To eliminate them she seeks to hold supervisors accountable and to provide reporting systems for internal affairs staff. In addition to these, she wants to strengthen community ties and partnerships to both better engage in community policing and to rebuild institutional trust. Her plans as sheriff are some of the most nuanced available on this list and showcase a level of pre-planning not often seen from local politicians.

Eric Strong

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[Residents, from p. 2]

Residents Respond to Amphitheater

May 12 - 25, 2022

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Woelke pointed out that PFAS are known to have caused reproductive and developmental issues, as well as liver and kidney problems. They have also been associated with cancer, heart disease and hypertension. “You’re going to have to use ungodly amounts of water to clean and sanitize it,” Woelke said. “Chemical use is recommended. Again, you are on the water. You’re talking about adding horrific amounts of plastic, microplastic waste.” Woelke said that a regulation playing field, which is 80,000 square feet, sheds 551 to 661 pounds of plastic waste every year. Eva Cicoria, founder of Paddle Out Plastic, said that the project is going to comply with the city’s green new deal and phase out certain kinds of single-use plastics. However, she wanted to know what would take their place. “Why not make this a model of sustainability with fully reusable food service wear and snack and room services that rely on reusable containers and associated deposits and dispensing systems?” Cicoria said. “Short of such a plan for across-the-board reusables, we would expect to see a significant increase in litter hitting LA harbor, and we expect the site to be a substantial source of polluting run-off.” Cicoria said that even though the amphitheater will be cleaned after every event, the wind can still blow plastics or other trash during the events. She also criticized the proposed use of pyrotechnics, which will be set up over the water, bringing hazardous materials into the air and water. She said that these impacts need to be mitigated. Elise Swanson, president of the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber supported the changes to the project.

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“The amphitheater will complement our vibrant arts community in San Pedro and provide additional venues for performing arts, as well as event space for area nonprofits,” Swanson said. “This investment will also provide new jobs and opportunities for youth employment, which is very much needed in the Harbor Area.” Swanson said she would like the port to study the economic impact of the project to see if it will help local businesses. Betty Sedor, a San Pedro homeowner, was one of several people who expressed concern about noise pollution. She said that residents nearby the harbor already hear fireworks from various events, and more fireworks are planned for the project. “Above Leland, I can hear every single concert, and I don’t appreciate it,” Sedor said. “I would like to attend concerts, but I would like guarantees that the way in which they build the amphitheater will keep the sound within that area alone.” Sedor said that increasing the seats to 6,200 is excessive, and the addition of the tower is unnecessary. “It seems as if it will out-date itself pretty quickly,” Sedor said. “I’d rather that the funding for a gimmicky tower go towards supporting more artists in our community to create art for this project, or for more natural outdoor spaces.” San Pedro resident Dannia Hernandez said that the amphitheater will bring more tourists and revenue, but that this was not necessarily a good thing. “San Pedro is charming, it’s small, it’s unique,” Hernandez said. “There’s culture to it. There’s people who have lived here for years. And I think that’s getting pushed out when these large projects are being built in this little, small, charming town that we grew up in.” Hernandez said her biggest concern is the effect the project will have on traffic congestion. “Coming in and out of San Pedro is hell, to be honest with you,” Hernandez said. “I think that is going to be one big headache.” Rema Wasserman, a representative of Nederlander Concerts, which will run the amphitheater, said her organization was taking people’s comments seriously. “We look forward to addressing and mitigating all of the concerns you have, because they’re our concerns as well,” Wasserman said. “We ran the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles for 40 years, and I think we improved the neighborhood with our presence.” Wasserman said that Nederlander is sensitive to neighbors’ concerns about noise and traffic, as those are the two biggest issues around the Greek Theatre. “We have been very careful to research the layout of the venue itself to decrease any factors of noise in the neighborhood,” Wasserman said. “And we think with the technology of 2022, that we will be very successful in this effort.” Cicoria said that the project does have potential, despite her concerns with pollution of noise and hazardous materials. “This could be a dream of a project,” Cicoria said. “An opportunity for the community to enjoy music in a special setting on the water, honoring the proximity to wildlife and thereby educating the public as to the value and importance of it. Or it could be a nightmare.”


My Recycled Life:

Little Free Libraries By Lyn Jensen, Columnist

“If we could just get this bookcase out of here,” said a professional organizer, sounding more like an interior decorator, as she looked around my mother’s old bedroom. The bookcase is squeezed against the wall at the foot of the bed, with perhaps a foot of space between, but the simple fact is, there’s no place else to put the books. My family’s library currently takes up five bookcases scattered around the house, and still some of the book collection spills over into a box, while some old collectible magazines continue to inhabit a drawer. That’s after I’ve spent considerable time downsizing the collection, selling some books off to various used bookstores, donating others and even resorting to putting some tattered old paperbacks and outdated booklets in the recycling bin. Used bookstores are a venerable institution, springing back into popularity as the COVID pandemic wanes, and I’m one of millions who make a habit of buying and selling used books. Many libraries are also a place to donate used books. One fairly recent option for reusing and recy-

cling used books is the trend for the Little Free Library, more and more often being found in someone’s front yard, or in a public space. During the pandemic lockdown, when shops and libraries were closed, I sometimes left donations at ones in Carson and Anaheim. To me, the little boxes filled with free used books often resemble large birdhouses, but with a door for books instead of a hole for a bird. Churchgoers may be reminded of a church’s tithing box. The first ones were strictly DIY projects, more recently, kits to assemble your own Little Free Library have come on the market. Some get quite elaborate, even resembling doll houses or miniature schoolhouses. “Take a book, share a book” is the idea behind these book exchanges, but you don’t have to leave a book to take one, and you can take as many as you like. The first one appeared in Wisconsin in 2009, and grew into a global nonprofit organization with its own website, where persons interested in starting their own Little Free Library are requested to only use the name

if registered as a “charter” on the site. The website includes a map of locations, and I count about three dozen in the Los Angeles Harbor communities, including San Pedro, Wilmington, Carson, Harbor City, and Palos Verdes. I count roughly another three dozen in the Long Beach area. Community groups,

schools, and even brick-and-mortar libraries are getting in on the act. In Carson, there’s a Little Free Library at 22328 S. Main St., another at 23501 Maribel Ave., and another at the local sheriff’s station. Details: www.littlefreelibrary.org

Rep. Barragán Tours LACI Rancho SP EV Car Share Program Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44) May 6, joined the CEO of LA Cleantech Incubator (LACI) Matt Petersen, representatives from the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, and residents of the Rancho San Pedro public housing complex, for a tour and demonstration of the LACI Rancho San Pedro electric vehicle

demonstration. Photo by Chris Villanueva

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(EV) car share program. The program inspired Rep. Barragán’s authorship of H.R. 6662, the EVs for All Act, which she introduced in Feb. 9, 2022. The EVs for All Act would establish a U.S. Department of Energy grant program to support electric vehicle car sharing for public housing residents, with investments in building EV charging stations in underserved and pollution-impacted communities. Barragán and LACI CEO Matt Petersen participated in a demonstration of the LACI Rancho San Pedro EV car share program. Petersen urged Congress to pass H.R. 6662 to replicate proven zeroemission vehicle programs that prioritize EV access for communities suffering from pollution and inadequate access to clean transRep. Nanette Barragán speaks at the LACI Rancho San Pedro EV car share portation options.

May 12 - 25, 2022

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It’s District 15 ­Not Area 51 There are times that this part of LA is like a secret By James Preston Allen, Publisher

May 12 - 25, 2022

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The harbor district has always held some kind of mystique for the rest of Los Angeles, like the highly classified United States Air Force facility, Area 51, in north Las Vegas — the Waterfront, Beacon Street, Sunken City and tunnels of old Fort MacArthur all have their mysteries and folklore. San Pedro’s distance from city hall and the awkward shape of the district make it distinct and isolated in the great metropolis. It’s part of why people move here, it’s also why many complain. The year was 1925 and the Los Angeles City Charter was changed to create 15 council districts as opposed to having “at large” councilmen. And even though women could vote and run for office in California well before the passage of the 19th Amendment, none were elected to office here until decades later. In fact, the 15th district would not have a councilwoman until after the 30 year reign of John S. Gibson (1951-1981), for whom the boulevard was named, he was one of the most powerful politicians in LA in his day. His unlikely successor was his female deputy, Joan Milke-Flores (1981- 1993), and the 15th district boundaries have stayed the most static of the entire city for almost a century with only the northern border shifting a little north or south between Watts and South LA. The second councilwoman was Janice Hahn (2001-2011) who is now the LA County supervisor for the 4th district, the sister of former LA Mayor James Hahn and daughter of the famous Kenny Hahn. All of the others were men of European lineage, but this district has changed in the last 100 years. Back in 1925 when Charles J. Colden was elected with just 4,750 votes he probably rode the Red Car to city hall, a luxury that is missing today. The Port of Los Angeles had just been through its war expansion and the city had suffered the misnamed Spanish Flu pandemic. Prohibition fueled a surge in the illicit import business. And the immigration issue of the day was the influx of Yugoslavians, Italians and Japanese to the growing fishing industry. The “radical” union on the waterfront was the Industrial Workers of the World, known as Wobblies, and they were despised by the white protestant power structure. Councilman Charles Colden was the past president of the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce that was not sympathetic to the Wobblies — whose

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motto was “An injury to one is an injury to all.” The International Longshore and Warehouse Union only later adopted this motto after the 1934 West Coast general strike. So here we are some 98 years later with a city council race between two white men, a young first generation African-American man and Danielle Sandoval, the only Latina in memory to run for this office. Both Tim McOsker and Anthony Santich are former presidents of the San Pedro Chamber, which for over 100 years has wielded overbearing influence on district politics. I like to say that there’s a well-worn path in the sidewalk between San Pedro city hall and the Chamber office. They leaned to the conservative side of politics up until Hahn was elected and it became apparent that 65% of the registered voters here were Democrats, pro-union and not necessarily ethnic European. Still for some reason San Pedro voters were the ones that tipped the scale on district elections and this is what’s at play in the June 7 primary.

We would be well served to have Sandoval fighting for the people

Will the same power structure, which includes property owners, corporate interests and the Port of Los Angeles, get Tim McOsker elected as the chosen one or will there be a real contest that redefines District 15? The demographics of this district have changed markedly over the past two decades and I believe it is quite possible for a Latina, Danielle Sandoval, to force a runoff with either Santich or McOsker. And I would say that it’s about time that this takes place. Sandoval does not come from the old power structure, but has worked her way up the ladder of the neighborhood council system, if one can actually call it a “system”, and has earned some important “street cred” in running a her campaign by reaching out to some of the most disenfranchised areas of the district. Places that are only marginally recognized as being “in Los Angeles.” And in my humble opinion most of the district feels “disenfranchised.” Although each of the four candidates for this race bring something unique to the discussion — Bryant Odega with his activism within the Sunrise movement, which is needed now to combat climate change at our ports, Santich with his eye on corruption at the Port of LA and city hall and McOsker with his deep ties to city hall

“A newspaper is not just for reporting the news as it is, but to make people mad enough to do something about it.” —Mark Twain Vol. XLIII : No. 10 Random Lengths News is a publication of

Beacon Light Press, LLC

Published every two weeks for the Harbor Area communities of San Pedro, RPV, Lomita, Harbor City, Wilmington, Carson and Long Beach.

politics. Sandoval stands out as the one who I find has the most tenacity to actually fight for this district and not roll over. She doesn’t come with conflicts of interest as does McOsker. Santich has some of the most engaging ideas for getting the port to pay up on its deficit of pollution and environmental crimes which all need to be implemented no matter who gets elected. But I believe Sandoval would follow through with these initiatives and that McOsker would not. If the primary election came down to a choice between Sandoval and Santich, it would

be difficult choice. But the way it’s stacking up now, Sandoval has the most momentum to get into the runoff and the district would be well served to have a fiery Latina fighting for the people of this district. It’s time to break from the usual practice of the traditional power structure buying the council office. The secret of District 15 is that the majority of residents feel dissatisfied if not disempowered living in the shadow and pollution of the massive industrial port and so far from city hall.

Mickey Mouse Should Flee Florida By Jacob Pickering

“I love the Bay just like I love LA”

— Snoop Dogg (from Katy Perry’s California Gurls released in 2010)

June 2022 is going to be must-watch TV for all patriotic, anti-Vladimir Putin Americans. At this point, there should be no question about it whatsoever, but in case you still had any doubts at all about deranged, demonic Donald Trump’s terrible, treasonous and terroristic transgressions against our democratic republic, stay tuned to your TV sets starting June 9. Expect Ted Cruz (R-TX) to attempt to flee to Cancun again for a summer vacation. Hasta la vista, racist baby! Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, the delusional dimwit who actually believes America wants its next president to be a bookburning fascist who is so weak and wimpy that he’s terrified of transgender people, won the governorship in 2018 by only 30,000 votes. The Disney Corporation employs 80,000 Floridians. You do the math! Best of luck running for president in 2024, Ron the con, after Florida

votes you out in 2022. And by the way, current Florida racist Republican resident and failed fascist Fuhrer Donald Trump is 100% guilty of not only treason but pandemicide! Strap Trump the traitor into Florida’s electric chair Old Sparky and fry that Leningrad liar until all that’s left is a burnt pile of blubbery grisly goo! (As opposed to the blubbering pile of Greedy Old Perverted G.O.P. goo that Trump was in life.) If any state should be known as “the free state” in this “United” States of America, it is my home state of California. After all, one out of every eight Americans is a California resident for a reason! (A multitude of reasons, really.) An idea whose time has come that is worthy of the Golden State and its internationally successful California-born Disney Corporation is DISNEY

Columnists/Reporters Publisher/Executive Editor Melina Paris Assistant Editor/Arts James Preston Allen Community News james@randomlengthsnews.com Hunter Chase Reporter Assoc. Publisher/Production Fabiola Esqueda Carson Reporter Coordinator Anealia Kortkamp Reporter Suzanne Matsumiya Vera Magana Reporter

Design/Production Suzanne Matsumiya, Brenda Lopez

Photographers Arturo Garcia-Ayala, Harry Bugarin, Terelle Jerricks, Raphael Richardson, Chris Villanueva

Display advertising (310) 519-1442 Classifieds (310) 519-1016 www.randomlengthsnews.com 1300 S. Pacific Avenue San Pedro, CA 90731

Managing Editor Terelle Jerricks editor@randomlengthsnews.com Senior Editor Paul Rosenberg paul.rosenberg@ randomlengthsnews.com Internship Program Director Zamná Àvila

Contributors Mark Friedman, Lyn Jensen, Greggory Moore, Jacob Pickering Cartoonists Andy Singer, Jan Sorensen, Matt Wuerker

Advertising Sales Chris Rudd Chris@RandomLengthsNews.com

[See Florida, p. 7] Address correspondence regarding news items and tips to Random Lengths News, P.O. Box 731, San Pedro, CA 90733-0731, or email: editor@randomlengthsnews.com. Send Letters to the Editor to james@randomlengthsnews.com. To be considered for publication, letters must be signed with address and phone number (for verification purposes) and be about 250 words. For advertising inquiries or to submit advertising copy, email: rlnsales@randomlengthsnews.com. Annual subscription is $40 for 27 issues. Back issues are available for $3/copy while supplies last. Random Lengths News presents issues from an alternative perspective. We welcome articles and opinions from all people in the Harbor Area. While we may not agree with the opinions of contributing writers, we respect and support their 1st Amendment right. Random Lengths News is a member of Standard Rates and Data Services and the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies. (ISN #0891-6627). All contents Copyright 2022 Beacon Light Press, LLC. All rights reserved.


Community Alert

Public Review Period Extended for West Harbor Modification Project Initial Study, Notice of Preparation

RANDOMLetters

SAN PEDRO — The Port of Los Angeles has extended the public review and comment period to June 15 to provide opportunity for additional public feedback on the Initial Study/Notice of Preparation (IS/NOP) for the West Harbor modification project. POLA released an IS/NOP April 14, for a 30-day public review period that was set to close May 16. At the request of commenters, the port will provide an additional 30 days for public comment. The IS/ NOP is available for review on the Port of Los Angeles website at portoflosangeles. org/ceqa. Written comments on the IS/NOP will now be accepted through June 15 and may be submitted via email to ceqacomments@portla.org or to the following address during the public comment period: Christopher Cannon, Director of Environmental Management Los Angeles Harbor Department 425 S. Palos Verdes St. San Pedro, CA 90731 Comment letters sent via email should include the project title “West Harbor Modification Project” in the email subject line. Details: portoflosangeles.org/ ceqa; 310-732-3615.

As the West Harbor Rolls In

Why they demolished POLA … I never figured it out. Great place for me and the community... Now an amphitheater....concerts....trees (community fruit trees. I doubt that) Who is going to perform..The LA Phil....what other orchestral act...can they afford it? After the fees? Who is going to do maintenance on what looks to be a mostly vacant and costly structure that has destroyed a community resource I see no benefit in this ... “Follow The Money”... All the Presidents Men. Michael Rolenz San Pedro

The Real Reason for the reversal of Roe v. Wade

We are in the wild west of biotechnology. The material provided by fetuses you may recall the planned parenthood scandal from a new years back for a fetus (heart, lung, brain, liver...) If Roe v Wade is reversed, it is inevitable that backyard abortions will become available in communities. Local bosses (gang leaders, strong men) whatever you want to call them, will make deals with police for the abortion provider to hand over the material the fetuses for stem cell research) to medical supply companies in exchange to

[Florida, from p. 6]

Flee Florida

it. We’ll do it anyways. Or if not California, there’s always the possibility of getting Mickey Mouse mountain high in Colorado! John Denver (R.I.P.) would no doubt approve were he alive. Diminutive dolt Ron DeSatanist (R-FL) says to anyone who will listen that he is no fan of democracy. No, Ron the con is a classic crackpot Castro Cuban conservative. Just put a fake beard on his fascist face, a stogie between his lying lips, and some fatigues on his five-foot frame and Gov. DeSantis would look — and act — just like a mini-Fidel Castro.

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

WORLD BAY AREA. If necessary, the California crew of Mouseketeers will move every last piece of Disney World (including Epcot Center) back home from Orlando to California in the dead of night, just like the Mayflower movers surreptitiously relocated the NFL’s Colts franchise from Baltimore to Indianapolis back in 1984. Except no one will feel sorry for FL. Gov. DeSantis (R-FL) is a disgrace! If you keep Ron DeathSantis in office, Florida, we Californians will be taking Disney back ASAP. Just saying. You don’t have to like

not incriminate the abortion-provider. This is the real reason why Roe V. Wade is being overturned. There are many people who are being manipulated because perhaps they have regrets having had their own abortion in their youth and missing having children or grandchildren as a result of their choice and having pursued education or business (as women did for the last 30 to 40 years). The religious-right who are also oftentimes white think that they would have more numbers if there were less abortions. The White race was never a global majority. I believe they often think that their very identity is being threatened because they are concerned that they do not have big families. ... in addition to the fact that there is a lot of lonliness among people in general. There is something called transhumanism. It is the general trend in needing humans less because of robotics and automation displacing workers. Additionally, there is a lot of interest in augmented human enhancements and also enhancing robotic species (Boston Dynamics) and the narrative includes the idea that human biological material like (skin) will be grown around circuit board chips, AI, biological material and that will change what is created in the future. It is anticipated that these biological entities will serve humans. It’s a urobourus because as workers are displaced with automation/robotics and there are less people contributing to the tax base as workers Displaced workers and people in general will have a greater need for a safety net as there is an inevitable hardship (crisis) coming and perhaps pandemics somehow play into that? Marcy Bielma San Pedro

Read these online exclusives and more at:

RandomLengthsNews.com

https://www.randomlengthsnews.com/archives/2022/05/11/would-you-rather-die-slow/39442

May 12 - 25, 2022

Would You Rather Die Slow or Die Quick? Assemblyman Mike Gipson’s Interview with RLn

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May 12 - 25, 2022

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant


By Greggory Moore, Curtain Call Columnist

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photog (Erik Pfeifer) really have left live-in girlfriend Anna the activist (Karen Wray) on the eve of the article’s publication because he found out his pics were to be used for a hit piece? Do we really believe that he had so little faith in the love of his life — and so little regard for her feelings — that he bailed without a word, without so much as going back to the apartment for even his clothes or the cameras that were his livelihood, rather than simply saying, “Honey, I just saw the piece — my editor screwed us both”? We really don’t. And this isn’t the only example of characters acting sans credible motivation. Because the writing doesn’t ring true, it’s hard to know what the cast might have done with convincing characters. As it is, the energy between Wray and Pfeifer never quite generates emotional heat. As Anna’s husband, Pete Taylor has some nice moments, including the lion’s share of the play’s humor. As a grownup version of Anna’s daughter, whom we encounter as a sort of narrator, Mariana Arôxa has some nice moments of her own, but she’s hamstrung by the fact that Gibson has not adequately fleshed out the backstory behind this breaking of the fourth wall. With a few simple, subtle choices (orange-tinged lights, strategically-placed mirror), scene/lighting designer Eliot Ohlemeyer has effectively created a physical space with an apt mood. A little more attention to detail (e.g., when the script calls for lighting candles, light candles — otherwise, tailor the dialog to fit the action), and the mise en scène would be spot on. if nobody does remarkable things is every bit the “issue play” its title suggests, complete with a monologue that’s just shy of, “Hey, audience, we need to act now!” And as is so often the case with such work, its creator seems to leave the topic to do the heavy lifting all by itself, rather than delivering a piece of art that can carry its own weight. if nobody does remarkable things at Panndora Productions Times: Friday through Saturday 8 p.m.; Sunday May 8 2 p.m. and Thursday, May 12 2 p.m. The show runs through May 14 Cost: $18–$30 Details: panndoraproductions.com Venue: The Garage Theatre, 251 E. 7th St., Long Beach

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

n the not-too-distant future, when NYC cockroaches have adapted to climate change by taking flight and Saharan dust regularly coats distant beaches in a patina of Mars orange, a famous environmental activist lives a quiet seaside life with her husband and teenage daughter years after fallout from a New York Times hit piece forced her to flee the public eye. But her former lover, a photographer who shot an iconic image for said hit piece, has journeyed across the Atlantic in hopes of bringing her back into the game, because this is a time for heroes. This is the premise of Emma Gibson’s if nobody does remarkable things, the product of Panndora Productions’ annual new works festival. But despite plenty of good intentions and earnestness, … remarkable things feels like a workshop production, still in need of tinkering in order to provide adequate shelter for its ideas. Ironically, for someone who went out of her way to write an “issue play” — and …remarkable things is self-consciously that, complete with a monologue that’s just short of “Hey, audience, we need to act now!” — Gibson doesn’t seem to have done much research. For starters, according to NASA, an organization explicitly and prominently referenced by …remarkable things, “Africa’s annual dust plumes [are predicted to] actually shrink to a 20,000-year minimum over the next century as a result of climate change and ocean warming.” Add in the fact that flying cockroaches have long been at home in NYC — not to mention that the New York Post (for example) is a far more likely venue for a climate hit piece than the Times — and Gibson’s imagined future has a credibility problem. But what matters most is the people. If we buy the human drama of … remarkable things, perhaps we can overlook the obvious flaws in Gibson’s worldbuilding? Unfortunately, there are credibility problems here, too. While Gibson makes much of “the point of no return,” the moment you take action that will irrevocably change your life, more often than not her characters’ actions feel every bit as unconvincing as the world she built for them. Would Joel the

Left: Pete Taylor as Paul and Erik Pfeifer as Joel in if nobody does remarkable things. Upper right: Mariana Arôxa as older June in if nobody does remarkable things. Photos courtesy of Panndora Productions Long Beach

May 12 - 25, 2022

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Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant

t seems a good Cinco de Mayo celebration can’t be had these days without tequila. As a result, the quantity and the prices of distilled, true blue agave have risen in the minds of North American consumers. Back in the day tequila mostly meant Jose Cuervo, or something else not made with real agave, and most of it gave you a bad hangover. This was mostly true because what was delivered was in part cut with straight grain alcohol — something I don’t recommend. Little by little, Americans north of the border have become more hip to the difference between the unique flavors of distilled agave. It’s now gotten to the point where outside of the top 10 major brands (listed here in descending order by sales) Jose Cuervo, Patron, Sauza, 1800 Tequila, Don Julio, El Jimador, Hornitos, Clase Azul, Milagro Tequila, there is an increasing number of “boutique” tequilas — some promoted by celebrities as a kind of vanity liquor. What hath George Clooney wrought? The Oscar-winner’s Casamigos brand is far from the first celebrity-backed tequila to hit the market. But the rise and nearly $1 billion sale of his brand has seen a wave of actors, musicians, athletes and even reality stars follow in his wake. Over the last two years, some serious star power has signed on as either financial backers or ambassadors for tequila brands. The most high profile of the tequila brands includes actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Teremana, future NBA Hall of Famer LeBron James’ Lobos 1707, NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan’s Cincoro, recording artist Nick Jonas’ Villa One, actor Pierce Brosnan’s Don Ramon and reality television star and beauty products magnate Kendall Jenner and her tequila brand, 818. Likewise, some of the bottles have become most exquisitely shaped or exotically disguised to make them seem more valuable if not luxurious, like a high-priced bottle of Versace

BIG NICK’S PIZZA

Tradition, variety and fast delivery or takeout—you get it all at Big Nick’s Pizza. The best selection of Italian specialties include hearty calzones, an array of pastas and our amazing selection of signature pizzas. We are taking all safety precautions to protect our diners and staff. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on new developments. Call for fast delivery or to place a pick up order. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fri.-Sun. Big Nicks’ Pizza, 1110 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro, 310-732-5800, www.bignickspizza. com

May 12 - 25, 2022

BUONO’S AUTHENTIC PIZZERIA

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Family owned and operated since 1965, Buono’s is famous for awardwinning brick oven baked pizza. Buono’s also offers classic Italian dishes and sauces based on tried-and-true family recipes and hand-selected fresh ingredients. Now limited dine-in and patio service, takeout and delivery. Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Buono’s Pizzeria, 222 W. 6th St., San Pedro, 310-547-0655, www.buonospizza.com

Something Awesome and Surprising in a Bottle By James Preston Allen, Publisher

AsomBroso Gran Reserva Ultra Anejo tequila. Right, AsomBroso La Rosa Bordeaux tequila. Photos courtesy of AsomBroso

perfume. Most of what’s inside are not much more or less than the stuff in a regular bottle. One of the latest arrivals on the tequila scene is called AsomBroso (pronounced Ah-sum-broso). Translated into English, it means “amazing” alongside all of its other synonyms. The makers of the tequila brand say that their tequila is very surprising and makes you feel pleasure or

CONRAD’S MEXICAN GRILL

Conrad’s reflects the cuisine of Oaxaca with a focus fresh on local, seasonal ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Now Conrad’s features Peruvian dishes, as well as an inventive Mexican vegetarian and vegan menu. Dine in, dine al fresco or order online for curbside pick up and delivery. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. S. Conrad’s Mexican Grill, 376. W. 6th St., San Pedro 424-264-5452, www.conradsmexicangrill.com

HAPPY DINER #1

The Happy Diner #1 in Downtown San Pedro isn’t your average diner. The selections range from Italian- and Mexican-influenced entrées to American Continental. Happy Diner chefs are always creating something new—take your pick of grilled salmon over pasta or tilapia and vegetables prepared any way you like. Dine in or al fresco or call for takeout. Hours: Mon.Wed. 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thurs.-Sat. 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Sun. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Happy Diner #1, 617 S. Centre St., San Pedro, 310-241-0917, www.happydinersp.com

admiration. I have to admit that having tasted a good number of tequilas in my time, this one is worth exploring. That it comes in an oddly shaped gourdish-looking bottle (some say phallic) is not what makes it special. Its subtle flavors are for those exploring the realm. There are a variety of choices that range from silver to rose to gold and then a rich dark Gran Reserva that is unlike any of the other brands. The ones that I tasted recently are what you’d call “sipping” tequilas as each has its own distinctive flavors, unlike infused vodkas, which I refuse to drink because I consider them to be a marketing fad. The La Rosa- reposado has a kind of flowery fragrance with a quite spicy taste and vanilla finish. I can easily imagine this for an afternoon cocktail party or for those who are not well-educated on the differences between tequila flavors. The various vintages are aged from three months to 12 years. Some are aged in virgin French oak barrels and the darker ones are double-barreled in hand-chosen port barrels from Portugal. The one that stood out for me was the Gran Reserva, aged five years in French oak barrels that have been compared to a sophisticated cognac. However, I found it to

HAPPY DINER #2

Built on the success of Happy Diner #1, Happy Diner #2 offers American favorites like omelets and burgers, fresh salads, plus pasta and Mexican dishes are served. Order online for delivery or call for pickup. Hours: Mon. - Sat. 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Happy Diner #2, 1931 N. Gaffey St., San Pedro, 310935-2933, www.happydinersp.com

HAPPY DELI

The Happy Deli is a small place with a big menu. Food is made-to-order using the freshest ingredients. Breakfast burritos and breakfast sandwiches include a small coffee. For lunch or dinner select from fresh salads, wraps, buffalo wings, cold and hot sandwiches, burgers and dogs. Order online or call for takeout or delivery. Hours: Mon. - Sat. 6 am. to 8 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Happy Deli, 530 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro, 424-364-0319, www.happydelisp.com

have hints of something richer with a back taste that was almost sweet. Ricardo Gamarra is the founder and CEO of AsomBroso Tequila, a local entrepreneur from Redondo Beach California, who formed various other enterprises in the creative arts industry. Gamarra began and built Focus on Cars, an automotive prep company catering to the automotive advertising industry, and South Bay Studios, a production studio facility in 1984. After many years in the creative production industry, Gamarra made a move and set off to launch his very own tequila brand. According to industry sources, Gamarra was the first distiller to market a pink-hued, Bordeaux-rested reposado, the first to rest a five-year añejo in new French oak barrels, and the first to rest an extra-aged 11-year añejo tequila in a new French oak barrel. His highest achievement today, The Collaboration, is a 12year double barrel-rested tequila that combines his 11-year Extra Añejo with Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon American oak barrels for an additional 13 months. This produced tequila that achieved a rating of 97 from industry expert Anthony Dias Blue in The Tasting Panel Magazine, making it the publication’s highest rated tequila. AsomBroso’s tequilas have also been awarded multiple honors from the Robb Report’s “Best of the Best,” and named “Top Tequila” in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. According to their website they claim to have developed the proprietary recipe of AsomBroso tequila using 100% estate grown, blue weber agave matured for an average of 8 years, which they produce and bottle at their 45year old, state of the art distillery in Jalisco, Mexico. It is available at Total Wine & More as well as BevMo.

SAN PEDRO BREWING COMPANY

A micro brewery and American grill, SPBC features handcrafted award-winning ales and lagers served with creative pastas, BBQ, sandwiches, salads and burgers. Order your growlers, house drafts and cocktails to go (with food purchase)! Open daily 12 to 8 p.m. for indoor or al fresco dining, takeout and delivery.. San Pedro Brewing Company, 331 W. 6th St., San Pedro, 310-831-5663, www.sanpedrobrewing.com

WEST COAST PHILLY’S

Welcome to West Coast Philly’s Cheesesteak and Hoagies where authentic Philly cheesesteaks meet the waterfront in San Pedro. Along with serving the classic cheesesteak, West Coast Philly’s puts its unique twist on its cheesesteaks and hoagies. Also on the menu are subs, burgers, wings and salads. Happy hour from 2 to 6 p.m., Mon.-Thurs. Indoor dining or order online or call for pickup. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. West Coast Philly’s, 1902 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro, 424-264-5322, www.westcoastphillys.com

Support Independent Restaurants • Dining Guide online: www.randomlengthsnews.com/dining-guide


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nown for their food and hefty drinks, the Green Onion restaurant has been in operation since 1983 with two locations, one in San Pedro and the other in Moreno Valley. Being one of the first restaurants of the redevelopment era in the 1970s, Green Onion brought us a taste of authentic Sonoran-style Mexican food. Their chicken enchiladas are one of the locals’ and my personal favorites, as well as their generous pours on their very well-known double margaritas. But as our town continues to grow and expand, there have been several changes within the past two years and with new developments underway their existence has been threatened. Saturday nights being their busiest, I walked in on a much quieter Monday afternoon and sipped on one of their delicious mango margaritas while Tony Avelar, a server at Green Onion who has worked there for five years and I discussed the recent news of them closing. He said to me, “I keep getting questions about when we are going to close, everyone is so sad so I just tell them within a year or two but up until now everything is still up in the air.” Last August, Holland Partner Group got the green light to make way and now has concrete plans to build a second development that will demolish three existing buildings, including Green Onion. It will include the construction of a 334,950 square feet mixed-use building that will house 281 units and 2,316 square feet of commercial or restaurant space. The company has already developed Harbor Front on the block of Palos Verdes and 6th streets. It’s a

The Green Onion’s Uncertain Future

our best drinks and best margaritas, you can never go wrong with them here so I hope it isn’t soon.” With employees who have worked there for almost 30 years, to regulars who have been coming here since they were little, to all of the longshoremen, and new tourists that get off their cruise ships, this restaurant has been and always will be a staple of our town. Whether they may or may not move across the street into the existing building is still a rumor but until then, we don’t know what the future holds for the Green Onion.

With new developments underway, what will become of San Pedro’s Staple Restaurants? By Vera Magana, Reporter

Green Onion 145 W. 6th St., San Pedro 310-519-0631 Monday-Sunday 11am-9pm

Hollander Group rendering of proposed development behind the 6th street city hall building. Courtesy of the Hollander Group

seven-story building, which the company began planning back in 2020. A representative of Holland Partners Group, the owner of the new development, said via email, “this project is still underway with Demolition and Construction slated to start in the third quarter of 2023. This starting time

Dark Totem Exhibition Comes to Hellada Gallery

period will be after all leases of the current tenants have expired and have vacated the property. This will be in the Summer of 2023.” But from local information the date of when their lease is over is still unknown and a mystery. With no official news from owner Bob Sanjabi, their employees are left guessing when exactly that day will be. “Locals and employees have been speculating anywhere between one week to six months to two years,” said Tony Avelar. “With

By Melina Paris, Assistant Editor

Esta

blished 1965

LECTRIC AMILY E GLASSF issued on re BAND, inyl in v double rrently in u 2015. C ressing. p its thrid on lly Origna B cords, W Arts Re Bros./7 e psychedelic r e rn a W th INVISIB .” cludes LE 1776. In House of Glass vinyl ga WORLD, ava ,“ ic ss ilable o tefold LP la c n stream ing serv , CD and all ices.

About the Glass Family Electric Band: Daniel Kathalynas, TOTEM Who are you willing to become?, mixed media sculptural wall hanging inHellada Gallery’s exhibition, Dark Totem.

beauty of national landmarks and local culture with live painting on his YouTube channel. The first Totem exhibition took place in Albuquerque at Factory on 5th in September 2019. It was such a success, Jana and Daniel decided to bring a newly adapted (and darker) exhibition to Long Beach.

— Neil Young to Jim/Ralph, Topanga Canyon, 1969

The Glass Family Electric Band Plus a ‘60s psychedelic light show

Saturday, May 21, 2022 • 7:15 pm

at the Warner Grand Theatre, San Pedro Purchase tickets online:

Promo code: Glassfamily

Followed by Rumours, the ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band

Or purchase tickets at

RECORD STORE

447 W. 6th St., San Pedro

May 12 - 25, 2022

Dark Totem will be on view 2 to 7 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday until May 28. Time: Cosing reception 5 to 9 p.m., May 28 Cost: Free Details: 562-435-5232; www.hellada.us Venue: Hellada Gallery, 117 Linden Ave., Long Beach

“I really like your album. Susan (Neil’s wife at the time) plays it around the house all the time.”

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

For artists Jana Opincariu and Daniel Kathalynas, a totem is not just a symbol of a power animal but an interconnection of power imagery that may take on the guise of an animal, plant, element, a dream-state or higher consciousness. Dark Totem artwork will flood the Hellada Gallery in Long Beach with paintings, sculptural wall-hangings and short films. “Who are you willing to become?” is a fitting subtitle for the show that exemplifies the ancient aspect of tribal members becoming power animals to enhance characteristics that are needed. This exhibition by Opincariu and Kathalynas will penetrate the barriers of standard imagery to ignite unseen themes and dark becomings to move primal emotions. Jana Opincariu is an award-winning artist with paintings recognized across the southwest and paintings that have found their home around the globe. She creates surreal and fantastical images of human bodies, objects and animals. As a painter, she strives to exemplify what it means to become vulnerable and romanticize it. She does this by creating hyper-realistic portraits of people, creatures and bodies, illustrating lucid dreams and making delicate surreal images that demonstrate the lust and chaos we face in day-to-day life. Daniel Kathalynas is an award-winning international artist. He works in painting, sculptural wall-hangings, filmmaking and stop motion animation. Currently, Daniel is traveling across the country and filming short videos called The Roaming Artist – American Odyssey where he discusses his inspirational process, the

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MUSIC May 13

Late Night With Windy Barnes Collage is giving night owls who enjoy soulful jazz and R&B a place to hang. Famed singer Windy Barnes, who has toured internationally with Stevie Wonder and others, will sing and host the evening. Confirmed guest performers include Sunny Daye and Moni Estelle. Time: 8:30 p.m. May 13 Cost: $20 Details: www.eventbrite.com/e/ flyday-friday-at-collage-withwindy-barnes-friends Venue: Collage, 731 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro Pete Muller and the Kindred Souls Enjoy a night of live music at Grand Annex with Pete Muller and the Kindred Souls. Time: 8 p.m., May 13 Cost: $23 and up Details: grandvision.secure.force. com/pete-muller-and-the-kindredsouls Venue: Grand Annex, 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro

May 20

The Carpenters Legacy The definitive tribute to the music of the famed brother-sister Carpenter duo. Starring Sally Olson and Ned Mills, the show is a recreation of the 1976 U.K. tour, featuring hits including We’ve Only Just Begun, Yesterday Once More and Superstar. Time: 8 p.m., May 20 Cost: $28 Details: https://grandvision.org/ event/the-carpenters-legacy/ Venue: Grand Annex, 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro

May 21

May 12 - 25, 2022

Real People, Real News, Totally Relevant

Rumours Grab your bell bottoms and relive the rock and roll magic of Fleetwood Mac with Rumours. Rumours takes you back to a time when music was an unbridled cultural experience and show in one. Opening is psychedelic rock band, The Glass Family Electric Band, plus a cool ‘60s light show. Time: 7:15 p.m., May 21 Cost: $25 and up Details: https://tinyurl.com/Rumours-Grand-Vision Venue: Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St. San Pedro

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Naya Baaz Drawing on influences from Indian, jazz, and western classical traditions, Naya Baaz is a ground-breaking new collaboration featuring 2021 Guggenheim Fellow Rez Abbasi and trail-blazing sitar virtuoso Josh Feinberg. Time: 8 p.m., May 21 Cost: $25 Details: alvasshowroom. com/event/naya-baaz-featrez-abbasi-guitar-josh-feinberg-sitar Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro Seduction: Classic Burlesque This is a modern cabaret fused with classic burlesque and circus elements. A collection of characters move their way through the audience, on top of the bar and in the air. Time: 9 p.m., May 21 Cost: $15 and up Details: 310-426 8205; https://longbeach.harvelles. com/events Venue: Harvelle’s Long Beach, 201 E. Broadway, Long Beach

ect will be performing this sensual duet in a limited engagement. Time: 2 p.m., May 15 Cost: $18 Details: www.alvasshowroom. com/event/kenneth-walker-danceproject Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro

May 22

Evening of Song, LB Camerata Singers Join an evening featuring selections from the Great American Songbook. Enjoy a performance of solos, small group ensembles, and choruses at the annual Evening of Song concert and fundraiser. Time: 5:30 p.m., May 22 Cost: $40 to $65 Details: www.longbeachcameratasingers.org/evening-of-song Venue: Long Beach Convention Center, 300 W. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach Jimmy Branly Trio Jimmy Branly brings a trio with a combination of jazz styles and Cuban syncopation. Genres include jazz, Latin and world music. Performers are Will Brahm on guitar , Ahmet Sezin on bass, with special guest Aaron Janik on trumpet. Time: 8 p.m., May 27 Cost: $30 Details: www.alvasshowroom. com/events Venue: Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro

June 5

Peter Yates UCLA faculty guitarist Peter Yates will compare music by 17thcentury singer-songwriters Carlo Gesualdo and John Dowland with his own compositions in the medium. With guest artist Alexandra Grabarchuk. Seating is limited. Time: 4 p.m., June 5 Cost: Free Details: pyates@ucla.edu Venue: UCLA Organ Studio, 445 Charles E. Young Dr. East, 2868 Schoenberg Music Building, Los Angeles

ONGOING

Off the 405 The Getty’s free concert series Off the 405 is back, kicking off May 21 and running through Aug. 27. Featured artists include Zsela, Bartees Strange, Los Retros, Hand Habits, and Standing on the Corner. Zsela, who will play May 21, will play idiosyncratic pop that blends intimate virtuosity with an aesthetic edge. Time: 6 to 9 p.m., May 21 Cost: Free. Reservations are required. Parking is $10 to $20 Details: 310-440-7300; www. getty.edu/visit Venue: Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles

THEATER May 12

Disney’s Moana Jr. Fantasia Family Music presents this 60-minute adaptation of the acclaimed 2016 Disney film, bringing the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life onstage. Time: 6:30 p.m., May 12, 7 p.m., May 13, 1 and 7:30 p.m. May 14 Cost: $15 to $25 Details: fantasiafamilymusic.org Venue: Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St. San Pedro

May 13

Everybody Everybody, by Obie award winner Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, is an immersive, metaphysical experiment about the journey to death. Everybody provides a playful, satirical retelling of the morality play, Everyman. Death informs everybody that they are going to die and face divine judgment but can bring someone along with them on their terrifying journey. But who will go? This performance features adult content and strong language for a mature audience. Time: 8 p.m. May 13, 14, 20 and 21 and 3 p.m. May 15

COMMUNITY May 12

Cost: $10 to $15 Details: 310-329-5345; artstickets@elcamino.edu Venue: El Camino College Center for the Arts, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance

p.m., May 28 Cost: Free Details: 562-435-5232; www.hellada.us Venue: Hellada Gallery, 117 Linden Ave., Long Beach

Coppélia and Icons and Legends San Pedro Ballet School and the Dance Factory Elite Team present their spring 2022 recital featuring the classical ballet Coppélia in the first act. The second act will celebrate the music of history’s most memorable artists in Icons and Legends. Time: 1 and 6 p.m., June 4 Cost: $25 to $35 Details: https://www.sanpedroballetschool.com/upcoming-events/ spring-recital Venue: Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St., San Pedro

Blues-Birds at soundpedro2022 This new exhibit at Angels Gate Cultural Center features the work of Steven Speciale and his Loyola High School students. The exhibit consists of fabric birds that pay homage to Black artists while also acknowledging cultural appropriation and Black erasure. Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursdays to Saturdays Cost: Free Details: https://www.soundpedro. org/gallery-show-2022 Venue: Angels Gate Cultural Center, 3601 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro

June 4

ARTS

May 19

The Corita Influence The next Armchair ArtWalk Tour will feature five San Pedro leaders, influenced by the teachings of Sister Corita Kent when they attended Immaculate Heart college in the 1960s. Armchair ArtWalk will show a video about her inspiring teachings, followed by a panel discussion with Annette Ciketic, Camilla Townsend, Laurine Di Rocco, Judith Blahnik and Connie McOsker, with musical accompaniment by Dustin Case. Time: 5:30 p.m., May 19 Cost: Free Details: https://tinyurl.com/armchair-artwalk Venue: Zoom

May 24

Abstract Art Beyond the Frame All of the works in this exhibition are geometric abstractions. They make no reference to particular cultural values, symbols, stories or personal feelings. Going beyond the frame, therefore, is an exciting journey. In a special event, enjoy a conversation with Patrick Frank, PH.D. co-curator of the exhibition. Time: 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. May 24. MOLAA hours 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday Cost: Free Details: 562-437-1689; www.molaa.org/events/abstractart-curator-talk Venue: Museum of Latin American Art, 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach

May 28

Dark Totem Dark Totem artwork will flood the Hellada Gallery in Long Beach with paintings, sculptural wallhangings and short films. This exhibition by Opincariu and Kathalynas will penetrate the barriers of standard imagery to ignite unseen themes and dark becomings to move primal emotions. Dark Totem will be on view 2 to 7 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, until May 28. Time: Closing reception 5 to 9

Ongoing

Here Hear, 2022 in Proximity, in Real Time This is a series of sound-sensitive, site-interactive activities that will take place in and around Angels Gate Cultural Center through June 4. Betsy Lohrer Hall and several collaborators will consider the physical experience of sound perception, experiment with sound making, and respond creatively. Time: 7 to 10 p.m., June 4 Cost: Free Details: angelsgateart.org Venue: Angels Gate Cultural Center, 3601 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro Sotto Voce: Lowering the Volume Yong Sin’s handmade patterned artworks recall hundreds of years of tradition in textile design and the therapeutic traditions of repetition, meditation and mantra. Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday by appointment, through June 27 Cost: Free Details: 310-732-2150 or 310600-4873 Venue: TransVagrant and Gallery 478, 478 W. 7th St., San Pedro Mural Art in Focus The J. Paul Getty Museum presents two new exhibitions, The Lost Murals of Renaissance Rome and Judy Baca: Hitting the Wall. The exhibitions highlight the long history of mural art across the globe, from Renaissance Rome to downtown Los Angeles. Time: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., May 31 to Sept. 4 Cost: Free Details: 310-440-7300; www.getty.edu/visit Venue: The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles

DANCE May 15

Kenneth Walker Dance Project The Kenneth Walker Dance Project will perform the pas de deux from Light Rain. Staged by Cameron Basden, former Joffrey dancer and current regisseur with The Gerald Arpino Foundation, the Kenneth Walker Dance Proj-

Historical Society of Long Beach Free Webinar Series Join four free webinars, presented and moderated by Black Student Union elders and hosted by the Historical Society of Long Beach, honoring the EOP legacy and those who have maintained this program. The series is inspired by the BSUEA collection, ‘Legacy, Celebration and Remembrance,’ a stunning visual display of minority faculty and student activism during the mid-1960s into the 1970s. Webinar #1: The Game Changer Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m., May 12 Details: Register, www.us02web. zoom.us/webinar/register/gamechanger

May 14

Japan and Black LA Initiative Join California State University Dominguez Hills and the Consulate General of Japan, discussing the extraordinary relationship built between the Japanese and Black communities in Los Angeles throughout LA’s history. The event will feature a panel discussion with CSUDH president, Dr. Thomas Parham, consul general of Japan, Hon. Akira Muto, and chair of Africana Studies at CSUDH, Dr. Donna Nicol, followed by a question and answer portion at the end. Time: 1 to 3 p.m., May 14 Cost: Free Details: Register, https://japanblackla-sen-bradford.eventbrite. com Venue: Cal State Dominguez Hills, Innovation and Instruction Building Auditorium, 100 E. Victoria St., Carson

May 20

Spring and Summer Planting in Southern California Join to learn about edibles and ornamentals to plant and enjoy during the warm seasons with garden consultant Yvonne Savio. To join the presentation on Zoom, please send an email for the invitation link by May 18. Time: 10 a.m., May 20 Cost: Free Details: SBuehler@TorranceCA. gov Venue: Zoom

May 21

Family Art Workshop Artist-Teacher Rebekah Neel leads a collage workshop. She will go through the process of collecting images and words, connecting what is found to form narratives and creating a collage. COVID-19 safety protocols (mask wearing and contact tracing) will be enforced. Workshop begins at 1 p.m. in Angels Gate Building G classroom. Supplies will be provided. Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m., May 21 Cost: Free Details: www.eventbrite.com/e/ family-art-workshop-may Venue: Angels Gate Cultural Center, 3601 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro Pride Night at The Aquarium In partnership with The LGBTQ Center Long Beach, join the Aquarium of the Pacific in celebrating the local LGBTQ+ community. Enjoy an evening with animals and colorful fishes. This event for all ages will also include drag queen storytelling and rainbow enrichments with the animals. Time: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., May 21

Cost: $19.95 to $24.95 Details: www.aquariumofpacific. org/events/info/pride_night Venue: Aquarium of the Pacific,100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach Endangered Species Day Learn about marine animals that are designated by the United States as endangered and how they are faring today. Explore lifesized inflatable whales including an endangered 100-foot long blue whale and an endangered humpback whale that you can see from the inside and outside. Time: 12 to 4 p.m., May 21 Cost: Free Details: https://tinyurl.com/endangered-Cabrillo Venue: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro

May 27

Babies! Meet the newest members of the aquarium family in a new exhibit opening this summer, in a nearly year-long exhibit. Experience the heartwarming joy and of baby animals like sea otters, cuttlefish and miniature sea jellies. Learn how different ocean habitats like coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds serve as nurseries and see baby animals that live in these environments. Learn about the threatened and endangered animals in California, their behaviors and biology and how the aquarium cares for them. Time: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., May 27 through April 30, 2023. Cost: $26.95 to $36.95 Details: 562-590-3100; www.aquariumofthepacific.org Venue: Aquarium of The Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach LA Fleet Week 2022 Memorial Day Weekend LA Fleet Week is the annual, multiday celebration of United States’ sea services held on the LA Waterfront at the Port of Los Angeles over the extended Memorial Day Weekend. Live entertainment will happen throughout the public days at the expo footprint. Enjoy the music in a festival-like experience while enjoying the numerous displays and exhibits. Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., May 27 to 30 Cost: Free Details: www.lafleetweek.com Venue: Battleship USS Iowa Museum, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro

May 30

Wilmington Historical Cemetery Memorial Day Event Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, Wilmington Historical Cemetery board of trustees and Veteran of Foregin Wars Post 2967 Wilmington cordially invite you to Wilmington Historical Cemetery Memorial Day Event on Memorial Day, Time: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., May 30 Cost: Free Details: www.wilmingtoncemtery. com Venue: Wilmington Historical Cemetery, 605 E. O St., Wilmington

June 18

Docent Guided Public Walk Join a tour of the Point Vicente Interpretive Center museum, its native plant garden and walk along the bluff top at the Vicente Bluff Reserve. Learn about natural and cultural history of the area. Time: 10 a.m., June 18 Cost: Free Details: www.losserenos.org; 310-544-5260 Venue: Point Vicente Interpretive Center, 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West, Rancho Palos Verdes


[Illegitimate, from p. 1]

Illegitimate

hearings, giving false assurances to respect Roe as precedent—or at worst not to already oppose it. Alito himself called Roe “a very important precedent.” Neil Gorsuch noted, “It was reaffirmed in Casey in 1992 and in several other cases. So a good judge will consider it as precedent.” Brett Kavanaugh called Casey “precedent on precedent,” saying, “One of the important things to keep in mind about Roe v. Wade is that it has been reaffirmed many times over the past 45 years.” “I don’t have any agenda, I have no agenda to try to overrule Casey,” Amy Coney Barrett said. “I have an agenda to stick to the rule of law and decide cases as they come.” “I believe the Constitution protects the right to privacy,” Clarence Thomas said, “And I have no reason or agenda to prejudge the issue, or predisposed to rule one way or the other on the issue of abortion.” All this was directly contradicted by the draft decision, which calls Roe “egregiously wrong ... on a collision course with the Constitution from the day it was decided.” “Caught on tape. All five of them oath breakers,” University of Maryland historian Holly Brewer tweeted the next day. “It’s really outrageous that no one seems to care that these people lied,” Nation columnist Joan Walsh said on MSNBC five days later. “Especially the people who fooled [Maine GOP Senator] Susan Collins. I think they should be held to account.” Another piece of gaslighting was the decision’s claim to only address abortion, even though its logic would erase all rights not explicitly written into the Constitution or ““deeply [Sheriff, from p. 3]

Sheriff

Alex Villanueva

sheriff Jim McDonnell in 2018. Villanueva holds a doctorate in public administration from the University of La Verne and has worked in the department for roughly 35 years. Rather than dig into this, the best way to learn what he would do as sheriff is to see how he is currently handling the position. While he has banned deputy gangs on the surface level, they still fester below the surface, with whistleblowers and reformers often unable to safely report and remove involved officers. He has stuck to his promise of removing ICE agents from county jails, however his department still works quite closely with the enforcement agency, and transfers of inmates into ICE custody still occur. He advocates for declaring a state of emergency regarding unhoused people, and has seemed to only offer pushing them from one location to another as a solution. For instance 100 unhoused folks were swept from Echo Park by his officers and now the park remains closed to visitors. Going to Villanueva’s website and looking for his plan takes you to a page that simply has the text “Coming Soon.” The consistent thread of Sheriff Villanueva seems to be large words of reform with no or contradictory action following up such grand words.

birth control within days of the leak. The gaslighting attack on public sanity and democratic self-governance was no accident, according to New York Times columnist Max Fisher. “The erosion of abortion rights is extremely rare in the world, and almost exclusively occurs in backsliding democracies,” Fisher tweeted shortly after the draft was leaked. “Only 30% of Americans support overturning Roe, with 69% opposed, according to the most recent polling,” he added. “Our national political institutions are

[See Court, p. 15]

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Likely needing no introduction is the incumbent and current sheriff Alex Villanueva. Villanueva was elected on the idea that he would be a reformist. Largely department doctrine, funding allocation and culture within the department have remained unchanged since he took the reins from former

rooted in this nation’s history and tradition” and “implicit in the concept of ordered liberty.” That’s “Not just abortion rights,” Rep. Nanette Barragán said on MSNBC on May 8. “Anything that the court has ruled on since the founding days is at stake under the Alito decision, which, I think, is what is so dangerous — whether you’re talking about same sex marriage, whether you’re talking about voting rights, there is so much on the line beyond just abortion rights.” In fact, multiple states saw proposals to ban

Real People, Real News, Really Effective

Management. He acknowledges the issue that deputy gangs are having and vows to do something about this, yet paradoxically says he will not ban them as this will simply drive them underground. He states he will create a blue ribbon commission to draft solutions to the issue, despite the Sheriff’s Citizens Advisory Committee already existing and having already drafted recommendations. Restoration of public trust is a recurring theme that the candidates emphasize and Vera as well promises to work with the Civilian Oversight Commission so that the public will be able to hold his office to account. One interesting break from some of his opponents is the ending of the sheriff as a politicized office. The county sheriff, being an elected position, is innately a political job but Vera specifically speaks to ending the behavior of investigating those groups, publications, and individuals who are critical of the sheriff.

Above: On May 3, a pro-choice activist protesting the Supreme Court’s leaked decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in Downtown Long Beach dressed as a character from The Handmaid’s Tale. Prochoice activists of all ages gathered on the steps of the Long Beach courthouse. Photos by Brandon Richardson, courtesy of LBPost. com.

simply not engineered to reflect popular will.” Fisher provided precise statistics in a column last September: Since 2000, 31 countries — including heavily Catholic countries like Ireland and Mexico — have expanded access to abortion. Just three have rolled it back: Nicaragua, Poland and the United States. Zeroing in on the last two, he wrote, “The only two developed countries to roll back abortion rights, the United States and Poland, share a revealingly similar trajectory. In both, high courts rolled back abortion rights that were favored by national majorities.” What’s more, this is part of a larger pattern: Curbs on women’s rights tend to accelerate in backsliding democracies, a category that includes the United States, according to virtually every independent metric and watchdog. In more degraded democracies, the effect is more extreme. Around the globe, the rise of right-wing populism has been followed by extraordinary reductions in women’s rights, according to a 2019 report by Freedom House. America’s dismal place in this worldwide pattern echoes what was going on when Dred Scott was decided: Northern population growth threatened Southern political dominance, which the Supreme Court acted to preserve, with the help of false history. Similarly today, the GOP has only won the popular presidential vote one time since 1988, but has appointed six of nine SCOTUS justices, all of whom have lied about Roe to some degree, after Robert Bork testified honestly in 1987, and was soundly rejected. The leaked Dobbs decision says that Roe was wrong, and the decision belongs to the people. But the people say that Roe is what they want, by roughly 2-1 or more. That alone makes the Dobbs decision gaslighting on an epic scale. What makes the gaslighting even worse is

13


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ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 22CMCP00039 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles Petition of: ERIKA MUNOZ TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner ERIKA MUNOZ filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: ERIKA MUNOZ to ERIKA MOON The Court orders that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: Date: 06-02-22, Time: 8:30 am, Dept.: A, Room: 904 The address of the court is 200 West Compton Blvd, Compton, CA 90220 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county:

Daily Journal and RLn. Date March 22, 2022 Thomas D. Long Judge of the Superior Court

03/31/2022, 04/14/2022, 04/28/2022, 05/12/2022

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2022052160 The following person is doing business as: GALA GENERAL CONSTRUCTION INC., 332 E. 111th Place, Los Angeles, CA 90061, County of Los Angeles. Articles of Incorporation/ or Organization Number: LLC/AI No C4803819 Registered owners: GALA GENERAL CONSTRUCTION INC., 332 E. 111th Place, Los Angeles, CA 90061. This Business is conducted by an

Individual. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 12/2021. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one-thousand-dollars ($1,000).) GALA GENERAL CONSTRUCTION INC.S/. Norman Komugai This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on 08/25/20. Notice--In accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920. A fictitious name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office

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of the county clerk, except as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920 where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 1411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions code). Original filing: 03/31/2021,

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RLNews is looking for freelance food and music writers who are knowledgeable about San Pedro and Long Beach area restaurants, culture and music scenes. Experienced writers preferred, but will consider aspiring bloggers. We are looking for writers who have a curiosity for a wide range of cuisines or music in the greater LA / Long Beach Harbor Area. Committment to writing to deadline is a must. Having a strong social media following and bi-lingual skills is a plus. Submit inquiries and any links to your writing to editor@ randomlengthsnews.com or call 310-519-1442 weekdays.

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1. “Git ___, little dogies!” 6. Trebuchet trajectory 9. “Paper Moon” Oscar winner O’Neal 14. Furniture hauler 15. Indigo Girls, for example 16. 32 degrees, maybe 17. Did some aviation, but only with way awesome instruction? 20. Comedian/podcaster Maron 21. Seasoned veteran 22. British medical org. honoured by “Clap For Our Carers” early in the pandemic 23. This mo. 25. Soul, in France 27. Jewelry store, but only for fun? 36. Totality 37. Olympic swimmer Ian or track athlete Jim 38. Wrestler in a mawashi 39. Streams 41. Palindromic holiday 42. Took another shot at 43. Greek salad topper 44. Richards of “Starship Troopers” 46. Key near Tab 47. Essential Spanish word for “sun”? 50. “___ death do us part” 51. Tailless primate

52. Touch grass (by shortening it) 55. They may be absolute Legends 59. “___-Nomics” (1988 reggae album) 63. Completely different Bulgarian currency? 66. Red card 67. “Equal” prefix 68. Much, to a musician 69. Opener 70. Bagpiper’s accessory 71. Boxer Fury

DOWN

1. Radio options 2. Kinks title woman 3. Done 4. Game show prize with a smell? 5. “Despicable Me” supervillain 6. Extra, for short 7. Cursed the day 8. “Dream ___ LLC” (Adult Swim show) 9. Microsoft font named for Mount Rainier 10. Pilot with skills 11. Get on another road? 12. Ogden’s state 13. Pharmacy supply 18. “Come Away With Me” singer Jones 19. “Giant Steps” saxophonist, familiarly 24. They’re hopefully housebroken

26. “Who ___ But Quagmire?” (“Family Guy” bit) 27. “Baby Beluga” singer 28. Pulitzer-winning novelist Glasgow 29. Stops streaming 30. Alaskan carving 31. Bedard who voiced Pocahontas 32. Agree to take part 33. “Nicely done!” 34. Acid in proteins 35. Peak performance? 40. Bulb power measurement 42. Swing a scythe 44. “The Daily Show” correspondent Sloan 45. Hoarder’s secret 48. Venetian shopping district 49. Jenkins of “World of Warcraft”-related memes 52. Doubled, a Hawaiian food fish 53. John Irving’s “A Prayer for ___ Meany” 54. “Do you need something?” 56. Bushel, byte, or becquerel 57. “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” character 58. Tiniest bit 60. Pipe bends 61. Low-carb, high-fat diet 62. Shakespeare’s river 64. 1967 NHL Rookie of the Ye


CLASSIFIED ADS, DBAs & LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE INVITING BIDS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Long Beach, California, acting by and through the City’s Board of Harbor Commissioners (“City”) will receive, before the Bid Deadline established below, Bids for the following Work: ON-CALL SERVICES FOR FURNISHING AND OPERATING WATERBORNE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA AS DESCRIBED IN SPECIFICATION NO. HD-S3140 Bid Deadline:

Development Permit Applications and other Port forms are available at www.polb.com/ business/permits. NIB -2 Pre-Bid Questions. All questions, including requests for interpretation or correction, or comments regarding the Contract Documents, must be submitted no later than June 14, 2022, at 5 p.m. Questions received after the pre-Bid question deadline will not be accepted. Questions must be submitted electronically through the PB System. Emails, phone calls, and faxes will not be

Prior to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 21, 2022. Bids shall be submitted electronically via the Port of Long Beach PlanetBids (PB) System prior to 2:00 p.m.

Bid Opening:

Electronic Bid (eBid) results shall be viewable online in the PB System immediately after the Bid Deadline.

Contract Documents Available:

Download Contract Documents from the Port of Long Beach PB System Vendor Portal: www.polb.com/sbe Click on the POLB Vendor Portal 1. Register and Log In 2. Click “Bid Opportunities” 3. Double-click on respective bid Project Title 4. Click on Document/Attachments tab 5. Double-Click on Title of Electronic Attachment 6. Click “Download Now” 7. Repeat for each attachment For assistance in downloading these documents please contact Port of Long Beach Plans and Specs Desk at 562-283-7353. Date/Time: May 24, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. Location: Microsoft TEAMS (virtual) Click Here to Attend Meeting Tel: +1 323-451-1087; Conference ID: 750 753 46#.

Project Contact Person:

Deepen Upadhyay, deepen. upadhyay@polb.com

Please refer to the Port of Long Beach PB System for the most current information. accepted. Questions submitted to City staff will not be addressed and Bidder will be directed to the PB System.

For the link to the Port of Long Beach PB System and for information on this Project and other upcoming Port projects, you may view the Port website at www.polb. com/business/business-opportunities.

Bidders are encouraged to RSVP for the Pre-Bid Meeting through the PB System; located under the “RSVP” tab of the Prospective Bidder Detail. Following the meeting a list of Pre-Bid Meeting signed-in attendees will be available on the PB System.

Copies of all Port insurance endorsement forms, SBE/ VSBE Program forms, Harbor

NIB -3 Non-Mandatory PreBid Meeting. The engineering staff of the City’s Harbor Department will conduct a pre-bid meeting at 10:00 a.m., on May 24, 2022 via Microsoft TEAMS at the link provided above. Attendance is optional.

NIB -4 Summary Description of the Work. The Work

NIB -6 Contractor’s License. The Bidder shall hold a current and valid Class “A”, California Contractor’s License to construct this project. NIB -7 Contractor Performed Work. The Contractor shall perform, with its own employees, Contract Work amounting to at least 30% of the Contract Price, except that any designated “Specialty Items” may be performed by subcontract. The amount of any such “Specialty Items” so performed may be deducted from the Contract Price before computing the amount required to be performed by the Contractor with its own employees. “Specialty Items” will be identified by the City on the Schedule of Bid Items. The bid price of any materials or equipment rental costs from vendors who are solely furnishing materials or rental equipment and are not performing Work as a licensed subcontractor on this project shall also be deducted from the Contract Price before computing the amount required to be performed by the Contractor with its own employees. NIB -8 SBE/VSBE. The Port has established a Small Business Enterprises (SBE)/Very Small Business Enterprises (VSBE) Program to encourage small business participation on construction contracts. Although an SBE/VSBE participation goal was not assigned to this contract, the Port strongly encourages all bidders to include such participation whenever possible, by utilizing small

This Project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations. No Contractor or Subcontractor may be listed on a bid proposal for a public works project unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5 (with limited exceptions from this requirement for bid purposes only under Labor Code Section 1771.1(a)). No Contractor or Subcontractor may be awarded a contract for public work on a public works project unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5. Contractors and Subcontractors must furnish electronic Certified Payroll Records (CPRs) to the Labor Commissioner’s Office, and in addition, hardcopies or electronic copies shall be furnished to the Port of Long Beach. NIB -10 P r o j e c t L a b o r Agreement. This project is not covered by a PLA. NIB -11 Tr a d e N a m e s and Substitution of Equals. With the exception of any sole source determination that may be identified in this paragraph, Bidders wishing to obtain City’s authorization for substitution of equivalent material, product, or equipment, are required to submit a written request for an Or Equal Substitution using the

form included in Appendix A together with data substantiating Bidder’s representation that the non-specified item is of equal quality to the item specified, no later than fourteen (14) calendar days after City’s issuance of Notice to Proceed (NTP). Authorization of a substitution is solely within the discretion of the City. NIB -12 Prequalification of Contractors. NOT USED. NIB -13 B i d S e c u r i t y, Signed Contract, Insurance and Bonds. Each Bid shall be accompanied by a satisfactory Bidder’s Bond or other acceptable Bid Security in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the Base Bid as a guarantee that the Bidder will, if Conditionally Awarded a Contract by the Board, within thirty (30) calendar days after the Contract is conditionally awarded to the Contractor by the City, execute and deliver such Contract to the Chief Harbor Engineer together with all required documents including insurance forms, a Payment Bond for one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, and a Performance Bond for one hundred percent (100%)

of the Contract Price. All Bonds shall be on forms provided by the City. NIB -14 C o n d i t i o n a l Award of Contract and Reservation of Rights. The Board, acting through the Executive Director, reserves the right at any time before the execution of the Contract by the City, to reject any or all Bids, and to waive any informality or irregularity. The Conditional Award of the Contract, if any, will be to the responsible Bidder submitting the lowest responsive and responsible Bid. If the lowest responsive responsible Bidder fails to submit the required documents including insurance forms, bonds and signed Contract within thirty (30) calendar days after Conditional Award of Contract, the Board reserves the right to rescind the Conditional Award and Conditionally Award the Contract to the next lowest responsive and responsible Bidder. NIB -15 Period of Bid Irrevocability. Bids shall remain open and valid and Bidder’s Bonds and other acceptable Bid Security shall be guaranteed and valid for ninety (90) calendar days after

[Court, from p. 13]

Court

that this same court has empowered state legislatures to gerrymander without limit, and choose their own electorates, rather than having electorates choose them. So “returning abortion to the people” actually means returning it to legislative bodies, some of which can virtually never be voted out of office, no matter what the people might think. This is the environment in which some states are talking about total abortion bans, with no exceptions for rape, incest, birth defect, or the health or life of the mother. That’s a position with less than 8% support across five decades of polling by the General Social Survey, considered the gold standard in American public opinion. Anti-abortion activists have long tried to equate Roe with Dred Scott, but Dobbs overturning Roe is a much better fit, according to historian Holly Brewer. “This opinion reminds me of Dred Scott (1857),” she tweeted the day of the leak. “Why? 1) It’s an attempt to create a definitive decision to a very controversial issue 2) it will take away rights and selfdetermination from a group of people 3) it transforms current law & 4) will only deepen political divisions.” But there’s another parallel—the central role of historical lies—which Brewer herself helped elucidate in another thread. Blacks did not enjoy rights throughout all of 1857 America—but they had citizenship rights in Northern free states, including the right to sue, which Dred Scott denied, as in the quote above. But in fact, in 1781, before the Constitution was drafted, Quock Walker sued for and won his freedom un-

the Bid Deadline or until the Executive Director executes a Contract, whichever occurs first. NIB -16 Substitution of Securities. Substitution of Securities for retainage is permitted in accordance with Section 22300 of the Public Contract Code. NIB -17 Iran Contracting Act of 2010. In accordance with Public Contract Code sections 2200-2208, every person who submits a bid or proposal for entering into or renewing contracts with the City for goods or services estimated at $1,000,000 or more are required to complete, sign, and submit the “Iran Contracting Act of 2010 Compliance Affidavit.” Issued at Long Beach, California, this 24th day of March 2022. Mario Cordero, Executive Director of the Harbor Department, City of Long Beach, California Note: For project updates after Bid Opening, please contact plans.specs@ polb.com.

der the Massachusetts Constitution. This was the exact same right that Dred Scott denied. The right to abortion also existed then, however. “Alito reaches back to the 17th c. English Common law to provide a precedent for his decision, but the 17th c. judgments he cites only made abortion a crime if it happened after the child ‘quickens’ or moves,” Brewer wrote. “This 17th-18th century understanding would mean upholding Roe, and disallowing Dobbs. So Alito then says the common law somehow must have made abortion illegal before quickening — without a shred of evidence.” Thus, Tang concludes, “The leaked opinion’s ignorance of the true history of abortion — or worse, its duplicity — suggests that the justices in the conservative majority are not, as they claim in the draft opinion, merely ‘do[ing] our job, which is to interpret the law.’ Instead, as Justice Sonia Sotomayor suggested at oral argument, the opinion’s flawed reasoning creates a ‘stench’ that the court’s reading of the Constitution on abortion is just a ‘political act.’” And that’s precisely how it should be seen: as a naked power-grab that demands an even more powerful response. Saving democracy, reforming the Supreme Court, and protecting reproductive rights are all the same fight—a fight against gaslighting as well. Gaslighting seeks to deceive you about everything—your sense of reality, your own sanity, your fundamental knowledge of who you are. Are we America? Or are we Gilead? The choice is ours. 15 May 12 - 25, 2022

NIB -1 Contract Documents. Contract Documents may be downloaded, at no cost, from the Port of Long Beach PB System Vendor Portal website. Bidders must first register as a vendor on the Port of Long Beach PB System website in order to view and download the Contract Documents, to be added to the prospective bidders list, and to receive addendum notifications when issued.

NIB -5 Contract Time and Liquidated Damages. The Contractor shall achieve Affidavit of Final Completion of the Project within two (2) years as provided in Paragraph SC - 6.1 of the Special Conditions, from a date specified in a written “Notice to Proceed” issued by the City and subject to adjustment as provided in Section 8.2 of the General Conditions. FAILURE OF THE CONTRACTOR TO COMPLETE THE WORK WITHIN THE CONTRACT TIME AND OTHER MILESTONES SET FORTH IN THE SPECIAL CONDITIONS, INCLUDING THE ENGINEER’S APPROVAL OF AFFIDAVIT OF FINAL COMPLETION, WILL RESULT IN ASSESSMENT OF LIQUIDATED DAMAGES IN THE AMOUNTS ESTABLISHED IN THE SPECIAL CONDITIONS.

and very small business subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers. The Port also strongly encourages SBE/VSBE firms to respond to this solicitation as prime contractors. The Port’s SBE Program staff is available to provide information on the program requirements, including SBE certification assistance. Please contact the SBE Office at (562) 2837598 or sbeprogram@polb. com. You may also view the Port’s SBE Program requirements at www.polb.com/sbe. NIB -9 Prevailing Wage Requirements per Department of Industrial Relations. This Project is a public work Contract as defined in Labor Code Section 1720. The Contractor receiving award of the Contract and Subcontractors of any tier shall pay not less than the prevailing wage rates to all workers employed in execution of the Contract. The Director of Industrial Relations of the State of California has determined the general prevailing rates of wages in the locality in which the Work is to be performed. The rate schedules are available on the internet at http://www. dir.ca.gov/dlsr/DPreWageDetermination.htm and on file at the City, available upon request. Bidders are directed to Article 15 of the General Conditions for requirements concerning payment of prevailing wages, payroll records, hours of work and employment of apprentices.

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Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting:

required by this Contract includes, but is not limited to, the following: On an on-call basis, furnishing and operating waterborne construction equipment and performing marine demolition and construction services, including debris removal and disposal, dredging, removal and installation of timber piles, and other related work as required.


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May 12 - 25, 2022

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