LA Harbor Commissioner Anthony Pirozzi tells the story of how his dad would go on adventures to procure apricots and figs from local Ischia farms in post World War II Italy — and how he later visited the same place with his own kids decades later.
March 31, 2022
Stories of Los Angeles Harbor Area: For Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow
Vol. II, No. 52 Anthony Pirozzi – child of immigrants – recounts story of his father in “old country” stealing apricots & figs.
Retired engineer of Boeing, currently Los Angeles Harbor Commissioner recounts story of how his dad and : paisans”would go on adventures to “procure” apricots and figs from local Ischia farms in post WW II Italy when food was scarce; and to never forget where you come from, make the connection, heritage lives on forever.
Another heart warming story from Anthony Priozzi remembering his father Tony Pirozzi – aka “TV Tony” featured in SOLAHA Vol. I times were tough and food in short supply “purloined” (stole) apricots and figs. Later when accompanied by his dad he made his first trip to Italy (planned around two soccer games) he witnessed the very area where the fruit trees once stood n the shadow of the famous castle of Iscia.
Born and raised in San Pedro, Anthony Pirozzi (Jr.) is a proud SPHS graduate, earned his bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering technology from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and a master’s degree in engineering from Loyola Marymount University. He recently “retired” after a long tenure as director of systems integration, test and launch organization at the Boeing Satellite Development Center.
He currently serves as Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioner appointed by Mayor Eric Garcetti since October 2013.
Anthony has been a dynamic presence supporting Eastview Little League, a co-founder of Scaliwag Productions (no longer active) that produced some great shows featuring young talent at the Warner Grand Theatre in historic downtown San Pedro; and active in SP chamber of commerce.
Other Memories From Anthony Pirozzi
- From Non-Deans List to Boeing Exec — Anthony Pirozzi
- Never forget where you come from — Anthony Pirozzi
- Anthony “Elvis” Pirozzi – all shook up — Anthony Pirozzi
- Grandpa Costa’s Backyard — Anthony Pirozzi
- The Peck Park Giants — Anthony Pirozzi
- Anthony Pirozzi and his dad “TV Tony” Pirozzi – First Father & Son “Duet