Longtime San Pedran, Rick Pielago tells the colorful story of being sent by his dad, Peppy, on a clandestine mission to a local bowling alley to deliver an envelope to a guy named Frenchy. If you think this sound like the opening scene from a Tarantino film, you would not be far off. A great story of an era when the San Pedro waterfront was filled with throw back characters who had nicknames like Peppy and Frenchy.
September 29, 2022
SOLAHA Vol. III, No. 15 Rick Pielago & French (the bookie!)
Native San Pedran, Rick Pielago tells the curious story of being sent by his dad, Peppy (he restaurateur), on a clandestine mission to the local bowling alley to deliver an envelope to a guy named Frenchy. (per Jack Baric: “If you think this sound like the opening scene from a Tarantino film, you would not be far off. A great story of an era when the San Pedro waterfront was filled with throwback characters who had nicknames like Peppy and Frenchy; and per SM: it’s like a Damon Runyon tale (“Guys & Dolls”).
Rick is a true “local” who attended 7th Street Elementary School, Mary Star of the Sea Middle & High Schools, then on to Loyola Marymount for undergrad degree and Golden State University for further studies and earned bachelor of science in “taxation” currently has his very active C.P.A. business in town. He’s avid sports fan and part of the SP Sports Walk committee. Married to full fledged Croatian Kris (Ursich) they are proud parents of two sons.
This story reveals more than the “punch line” with memories of Newberry’s and burgers.
More fascinating memories in store in weeks to come – you can bet on it!