I didn't know the history involved in this memorial, so it was nice to show my kids. It's very…read moresmall, but I'm glad it's there. I kept driving and ended up in the parking lot of a federal prison. Did a u-turn.

The Japanese Fishermans Memorial,located on Terminal Island,Los Angeles,California,is a scenic…read moreportside memorial dedicated to The Japanese fishing village and the community that lived and worked there and made it their "furasato"-or "Home Sweet Home".These were the first Japanese families forcibly relocated after the bombing of Pearl Harbor,Hawaii.A few years later these same Japanese individuals and families were given $25.00 and a bus ticket back to furasato only to find their village had been bulldozed and leveled to nothing. . . . . #japanesefishermansmemorial #japan #fishing #losangeleshistory #ilovefishing #japanesefisherman #ilovelosangeles #californiadreaming #californiadreamin #sculptures #hawaii #issei #nisei #sansei #pearlharbor #terminalislandersclub #issei #nisei #sensai #furasato #internment #terminalislandtreasures #terminalisland #southseasideavenue

On Juneteenth I attended a celebration at the Korean Bell of Friendship to celebrate freedom by…read morehelping ring the bell. It was a wonderful day, and one I recommend for others to attend, not only to feel the vibrations of the bell when it is hit with a large hanging tree trunk, but also to celebrate the liberation that was given to a criminally oppressed people. And to also understand that liberation, although won at battles, still has not full embraced and enveloped all. So that bell has not fully been rung, and thus we must continue, until we hear the greatest knell in history the one that indicates that all humans have an unfettered chance to reach their best future with confidence. The celebration was sponsored by local political players. Suitably, there were a lot of speeches. But I never hate a speech just because its long. I genuinely hear speeches because they might contain words that move me into action or new perspective, and thus I always try to hear them to understand their value. One of the most memorable speeches of the day, was a person who explained that freedom and liberty has not reached all modern day people (duh!) because freedom, true freedom, means that all have a fair and equitable chance to attain economic prosperity. And from my limited perspective, what she said made sense, a whole lot of it. A person might have the freedom to wear what they chose, to eat what they crave, to dance in their style and funk, to offer their devotion to their deity. However, if all these freedoms do not include a chance to build wealth, without external interruption that is driven by who a person is, then freedom is superficial. Yes, money is the root of all evil, but money is also the foundation for legacy, protection and choice, and, well, freedom. And thus, she reminded all present that we must continue to fight against injustice and thus the bell rang and made each of us an instrument of peace. Beyond speeches from political leaders there was also songs performed by vocalists- a mother and daughter. A lot was happening fast, and sometimes the sound system gave up, so I am afraid I did not get their names. But I do remember them singing a song, right before the bell rung that had the following lyrics: "What would you do, if you had nothing to fight for and nothing to die for?" What would a person do in a world marked by substantial peace? Would we be happy or would we miss the fight? Meaning is the gift of the battle the persistence needed to continue even when all seems at rest? Injustice has created warriors that understand that a white flag will never be planted. The day was meant to celebrate freedom and deliver of message of positive togetherness as the moment celebrated Juneteenth using Korean spirt. But the speeches brought the seemingly opposing concepts together using the thread of a universal recognition that freedom is a wonderful thing. This link was greatly conveyed but fell short in the Mexican sweetbreads that had small Juneteeth flags planted on them. I know I am being petty because Mexican bread can be used to celebrate Juneteenth, for sure I get that. But I would have rather had celebratory bites from the Black/African American community. I know I am being petty, but, hey, that is my freedom. That choice seemed more convenient rather than being connected to the greater purpose of freedom. The last activity of the celebration was ringing the actual bell. Like 7 people, grabbed the wooden log. And we gently slammed it into the bell. The bell rung with vibrations that my skin could feel. We could slightly hug the bell to have ur bodies feel the vibrations. And the experience was memorable. I do not know how many people have the opportunity to hug a bell as it sends off vibration after being hit. But if you have the opportunity seize it, I think you will be a better person for it, or at least, know what ringing feels like on the skin not just the ear drums. As I walked back to the car, I enjoyed the blue views and ocean breeze. I also saw a kite flying high. Yes, it had a string to it, but it was flying free.

Why does it take years and moving away to actual experience places that's been there for a while. A…read morenice sunny afternoon driving around and seeing what's there to offer. Plus it's been decades since I was last around this area. There's so many stops along the way during our drive which this was the first along the path. It's a nice decent size park that it part of. A good amount of parking in the lot next to the basketball courts. Right along the bell is a massive grassy knoll where people were enjoying picnics and laying out. Of course today was beautiful but it was quite windy. Didn't help that the park was little higher than the rest so it made the wind a bit more aggressive. The focal point, the massive bell. With a walkway that leads you to the prize possession. Right in the middle looking out to the Pacific Ocean, she sits there on full display. The bright beautiful color of the details painted was a sight to see. Stairs leading up to the bell where you could walk around. It is roped off. Regardless whatever side you're looking at, it's was quite amazing. Something like this on a hill that's part of the city. If you walk down the grassy knoll, the view of the pacific ocean and cliffs were spectacular. Having a seat and just taking it all in was nice. It was windy so it did get cold but on a nice sunny and clear day, you could see miles and miles of the coastline and tide pools. These little hidden spots in the city are cute when you find them. There's also a little playground around the corner from the bell by the exit and entrance.

One of San Pedro's numerous historical treasures, the James H. Dodson Residence became Historical…read moreMonument #147 in the 1970's. The beautiful gingerbread Victorian was built in the 1880's. Dodson's wife was the daughter of Jose Diego Sepulveda, which adds to the historical significance of the house, originally located on Vinegar Hill at 7th & Beacon. Apparently the house was later moved to a 10-acre location on Meyler, where the property had killer views of the harbor. Then the house was moved again to its current location, a big corner lot at 13th & Parker. The "views" at this location are not so good. The house now faces a ball field's bleachers & is bordered on one side by a National Guard facility......good news, I suppose, for those who don't want residential neighbors at close proximity. More good news for the Dodson House: the heavily-damaged (partly a result of all the moves) & deteriorated/neglected structure has recently been restored & tastefully updated, preserving most of the original features including the stained-glass windows, the secret hidden room, the doors/knobs, and the 3-way fireplace. And the property is currently for sale, allowing people an opportunity to see the interior. Unfortunately I missed my chance to get into the house a couple weeks ago. I got my dates mixed up for the realtor open house, so couldn't get in on the day I drove down there.....but I was able to wander around the outside, which is impressive indeed. The property appears to now be in pristine condition, even the landscaping. I'm told there's new electric & plumbing, and even A/C. And I noticed a porch swing, how cool. No, I'm not gonna consider buying the house.....I just appreciate historic/vintage architecture. And still haven't given up hope of seeing the interior of the house, armed with camera. Meanwhile, it warms my heart to see that this proud & charming old residence has finally received the loving attention it deserves.

Beautiful building in the Historic Downtown Arts district of San Pedro. Open atrium with fountain…read more Must see! Across the street from the historic Warner Grand Theater, office suites for rent, also can rent the for special events, e.g. Weddings, parties, filming

From the owner: The magnificent Arcade Building, located in historic old town San Pedro, is a setting of…read moreextraordinary beauty and tranquility. The Italian Renaissance building has been beautifully restored to its' original look and feel. The fountain, skylight and convenient location make it the perfect place for your office, your film shoot or your wedding. As a film location it has striking Italian Renaissance architecture, skylights that admit an abundance of natural light; a central enclosed interior courtyard with fountain; and polished brass, copper and bronze finishes. It is conveniently located at the bottom of the 110 freeway close to the Port of Los Angeles , and the Vincent Thomas Bridge. As an office, clients will be impressed with your company from the minute they walk into the Arcade. All units have individual air conditioning. There is oceans of parking right behind the building.

Walking around after visiting the Korean Friendship Bell, we found this military museum and…read morelearned a lot in a guided tour. The artifacts are very well preserved and our guide did a great job explaining everything with many historical facts in an interesting narrative. Bonus: there's a hidden gift shop in the end of the tour!

We stumbled onto this with our walk around the Bell and the volunteers dressed in World War…read moreuniforms were kind enough to give us a tour of what's underneath the bell. Historical World War military site under the Korean Bell of Friendship. Look for the military jeeps on the left side and check in with the volunteers for a free ten minute tour inside.

Point Fermin Marine Life Refuge is probably one of the most scenic areas of San Pedro, California…read more This is a marine refuge area that is bordered by the ocean on one side and the cliffs of San Pedro on the other. The refuge itself has a beautiful set of tight pools as well as some old cement structures from homes and businesses of times gone past. As the warning signs proclaim, they ask you to be careful of falling rocks. This is because of the fact, if you look up, you see that there's not only rocks, but vegetation, and even some homes that are right on the edge of the cliff. This being said, I would imagine you don't have to worry too much about any of those things falling down on you unless there is a rain storm going on or something like that. As would be expected, this is a very beautiful and nature driven environment. Here, you will find seashells, ocean, rocks, crabs, and all one would expect. Overall, this is a very beautiful Southern California location. It's a great place to visit, take a walk around, and explore the nature of the costal environment.

Wasn't aware these tide pools existed. I noticed the walkway first. Very cool. Lots of marine life…read moreand large shells. It's the perfect place to view and learn about ocean life with the kids. The beach is mostly rocks and the side of the hill that has fallen over the years, including succulents from homes that the ground squirrels run and play around. Numerous ground squirrels. Look like they've been eating well. During low tide, you can walk all the way to Sunken City. It's paid parking if you decide to park at the beach. There's plenty of free street parking in the nearby neighborhood.

My childhood friend Billy retired from the US Coast Guard. He lives in San Pedro and took me out on…read morehis boat for my birthday. Part of this gorgeous cruise included visiting this beautiful, cylindrical and uniquely shaped lighthouse that has a remarkable history and record. It was built in 1913 at a cost of $36,000. It withstood a 5 day storm. It was used by our US Navy during World War II. The deep throated two tone fog horn named "Moaning Maggie" was replaced by " Blatting Betty", an annoying high pitched single tone horn in 1959. Everyone hated it. It became automated in 1973. No human worked here thereafter. Currently, the 225,000 candle power light is monitored and maintained by the amazing personnel from the Terminal Island Coast Guard unit. It has faithfully guarded our port's very busy gateway for 112 years. This is an absolutely must see and sail by for all locals and visitors to this beautiful area. It is stunning.

I served here, back when it was still Ft. MacArthur. Since the USAF took over, I've stayed here a…read morenumber of times. The changes seemed strange at first! The lodgings are very nice, and I look forward to returning.

My friend and I were in Los Angeles to attend the Rose Bowl and needed a respectable place to stay…read morein a safe area, so I was pleased when I found out that DOD lodging was available in LA County. Located in San Pedro, Fort MacArthur is a converted Army installation that is a satellite annex for LA Air Station in El Segundo, primarily functioning as a housing complex for active duty service members stationed in the greater Los Angeles area. The lodging complex is operated by Air Force Inns and offers several different rooms that vary in size depending on service member status and length of stay. The buildings that comprise the rooms are of Colonial Spanish design, with stone accents and Spanish tile roofing -- definitely a Southern California look! The room we stayed in was only $70.00 per night, a bargain when compared to the average cost of accommodations in Los Angeles! The room was clean and moderately sized, consisting of a bathroom, fold out sofa, kitchen with pots, pans, and a coffee maker, and a separate bedroom. There were several windows that permitted ample light, although we kept them closed due to the chilly daytime temperatures. All in all, I would highly recommend staying here if you are a military service member (Active, Guard, or Reserve) or a dependent thereof and would like a safe and reasonably priced location to lay your head while in LA. Lastly, there are a variety of good restaurants merely a short drive away, with great burrito joints and several places to eat breakfast, you won't have to venture far to get something to eat!

Plenty of history here as i was walking around the paved sidewalks searching for the restroom…read more Well restrooms for the ladies is in the back left hand side of the bathhouse. Beautiful day to take a stroll a bit windy.

My husband and I got married at the Cabrillo Beach Bath House. The staff, Cindy in particular, was…read morea joy to work with. Unfortunately, we had some issues though. We accidently left a belonging of ours and they confirmed it was there, but when we went there the next day, it couldn't be found and all of a sudden, no one knew where it was at. It's a shame to think that a beautiful place may not have the most honest people working there. So proceed with caution.

This small museum is really nice. Ticket is only for 5 USD…read moreand it takes about one hour tour. You can see many ships and all other staff about fishing.

My family and I came across this museum when we were visiting the fish market. It was so busy, so…read morewe decided to just check out this small museum. Parking was $10 per day, which I thought was a bit steep. As for museum admission, it wasn't too bad. We spent about an hour exploring the place in taking lots of good education about ships, boats, local fishing history, and canning industries. The ship models were the highlight of it all because they were so intriguing to see with lots of details. The staff were friendly from the entrance to the gift shop. Plan about 45 mins to an hour for the visit, since it's not a big museum. I do recommend checking it out if you are in the area.