San Pedro community leader June Burlingame Smith tells the story of how her late husband did not understand why she talked differently about her Italian side and English side of her family until he met them. The Italian side all talked at once and spoke passionately and fought about everything — but all from a place of love and care.
July 16, 2020
Stories of L.A. Harbor Area: For Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow (SOLAHA)
Vol. II, No. 17 June (Burlingame) Smith talks about the Italian and English sides of her family, passionate, outspoken, caring and even in disagreement spoke with respect and love.
Great story this week from June (Burlingame) Smith speaking to the immigrant ethic and experience with gusto! Reminds of “old fashioned” decorum, and times like family reunions and picnics with great food, conversation, and civility!
More about June: She arrived in San Pedro as a young wife, soon became a mother, and maintained her professional career with Los Angeles Unified School District and eventually Professor Emeritus of English at Los Angeles Harbor College since 2011, and spent 20 years on campus working in various capacities: English instructor, Sexual Harassment Officer, Staff Development Officer and President of the Academic Senate and full English Professor for 12 years.
Among her civic connected efforts has been as a member or chair on many San Pedro organization boards including Toberman Settlement House, Harbor Interfaith Services, YWCA, San Pedro Coastal Neighborhood Council (past president), and the Los Angeles Port Community Advisory Committee (PCAC). She is also a Polar Bear (and past Queen) taking the annual New Year’s Day plunge at Cabrillo Beach!
To re-iterate our previous message co-producer Jack Baric and I are grateful for the on-going support of Los Angeles County (LAC) Supervisor Janice Hahn, District 4 authorizing grant funding. It’s more important than ever to continue our mission to preserve local history and encourage you to make your own effort for your families and community.