SHATTERED GLASS & STOLEN GOODS:
MBPD LOGS 937 CALLS IN WEEK OF SUMMER CRIME SPIKE
The Manhattan Beach Police Department responded to 937 service calls between July 3 and July 9, reflecting a slight uptick from the previous month in activity during the busy holiday week. The department reported 12 arrests and 56 formal reports, including 18 traffic collisions and several property-related crimes, which are now flagged as top concerns. Theft and vehicle burglary each accounted for seven incidents concentrated in Patrol Areas 2, 3, and 4. On July 6, a particularly brazen burglary occurred on the 1600 block of 1st Street. A homeowner returned after the holiday to find the rear door glass shattered and the primary bedroom ransacked, with jewelry reported stolen. Multiple thefts from motor vehicles – some involving smashed windows or tampered ignition systems – underscore the need for residents to lock their cars and remove any valuables. Police continue to urge vigilance amid this summer’s surge in opportunistic crimes.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Tom Bakaly
(CEO of Beach Cities Health District)
Q: WHEN AND HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH BEACH CITIES HEALTH DISTRICT?
A: I first got involved with Beach Cities Health District when I was City Manager of Hermosa Beach, starting in 2012. I got here and learned about the Health District and met with the CEO at the time (Susan Burden) and some of the staff. They were offering free interns to help with some health issues we had in the City, and I remember thinking, “Hmmm, this is a great asset, what a great partner to have.” About that time, some of the first results from Blue Zones started to come out (in 2012) and being sort of a “data geek” and having studied performance measurements my whole life, I remember looking at the information from Gallup and saying “oh my gosh, you can measure this,” and by using that data you can put in place programs that are responsive to what you’re seeing in the community. Those were my first impressions of the Health District as a partner. Then, when Susan (Burden) left her job as CEO, I was in a place where I had worked in local government for decades, and I thought that focusing on community health might be an interesting opportunity, and the Board hired me as CEO in 2016.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR ORGANIZATION’S DIVINE MISSION?
A: That’s an interesting question. I can quote you the Mission Statement, which deals with optimizing health, partnerships and a healthy beach community, but adding the word “divine” changes my answer. We recently discussed what our purpose is as an organization, and I believe our divine mission is to help people. That’s what we do here at BCHD, and many times we help people who aren’t being helped by others, something we call filling the gap. When residents couldn’t get a COVID-19 test anywhere locally, we helped people. When our students and teachers couldn’t get a vaccine, we helped people. When older adults can’t pay for certain equipment or services, we help people. When youth can’t get mental health services – even with means, even with insurance, even with a wealthier family, we help people through allcove Beach Cities. So, that’s our divine mission, and if it’s not us, we put people in touch with how to get help.
Q: WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF YOUR JOB IN A POST-COVID WORLD?
A: I think the temperature’s turned up post-COVID, mental health-wise. I think mental health is the biggest challenge we face here in the South Bay, and many of the Gallup numbers would confirm that, and it’s something I think has been amplified after COVID. I think a lot of people’s worst fears came true – for example, I have a father who’s in his 90s, and it never crossed my mind before COVID that I could get him sick and he could perhaps die – that’s a very real thing now. Looking at my own mental health, that perspective has changed, and I know a lot of people are going through that. We’re certainly seeing similar findings clinically with youth mental health at allcove, where we’re seeing more assessments, we’re seeing higher acuity rates, we’re seeing more screenings for suicide risk than we saw before the pandemic. There are impacts on mental health as a result of COVID that we’re really just now seeing.
“WE RECENTLY DISCUSSED WHAT OUR PURPOSE IS AS AN ORGANIZATION, AND I BELIEVE OUR DIVINE MISSION IS TO HELP PEOPLE.” —- Tom Bakaly
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I was born in Pasadena, California.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGICAL SIGN?
A: My sign is Cancer.
Q: HOW CAN READERS OF MB WEEKLY GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BEACH CITIES HEALTH DISTRICT?
A: Well, we have a great new website that we unveiled earlier this month, so BCHD.org is the best way. Another great way would be to ask some people how they’ve been in contact with our services. We’ve been around since 1955 (South Bay Hospital opened in 1960) and we’ve been focusing on preventive health for more than 25 years. Even being around that long, I think some people don’t exactly know what we do, but when you ask, “What about the Blue Zones Project?” Yeah, I know about Blue Zones. What about school gardens? Yeah, I know about that. Do you know about AdventurePlex in Manhattan Beach? How about the Center for Health & Fitness? What about allcove? Yeah, I heard about that. What about errand volunteers, or the Walking School Bus, or Yoga on the Beach? People are coming into contact with our services, and they may not know that it’s us, and that’s fine, as long as people are accessing the services. So, in addition to going to the website, I would suggest talking to some people and asking, “Have you ever done Yoga on the Beach or Zumba in the Park?” We provide services to more than 400 older adults in the Beach Cities with volunteers who come in and run errands for them or just come and be companions. We also provide medical supplies, or we come up with plans for people post-surgery. I think a lot of people don’t know that but ask your neighbor or if you see someone wearing a Blue Zones t-shirt, just ask them about it.
Q: WHO WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE DINNER WITH, AUSTIN POWERS OR PEE WEE HERMAN?
A: Interesting question. They both make me laugh, which is good. I think we all need to laugh a little more. I think post-COVID, we’re not laughing as much, certainly the numbers would show that. Gallup continues to show, when we survey, that mental health and stress, anger and worry are still big issues for us. Our physical health in the South Bay is strong but we still have a lot of stress, anger and worry, so perhaps Austin Powers or Pee Wee could help us out with that.
www.BCHD.org
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE LENS VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video featuring Mercado in Manhattan Beach.
https://youtu.be/M4Miy5p2J_w
Fête Bistro by Slay:
Produce from our farms, wine from our vineyards, and lots of yummy new dishes on the menu! Our Pan Seared Double Bone Kurobuta Pork Chop, with Lebanese mujadara, labneh, grilled lemon is as delicious as it looks.
www.FeteBySlay.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Miriam P. (Manhattan Beach)
In Manhattan Beach, parenting has evolved into a competitive Olympic sport of helicoptering. Little Brayden and Skylar can’t sneeze without a committee meeting and organic eucalyptus tissues flown in from Oregon. Playdates are scheduled like G7 summits, and God forbid a teen ride a bike without a helmet, elbow pads, and a GPS tracker. No wonder our teenagers melt at the first hint of adversity – they’ve been bubble-wrapped since birth and praised for breathing. The result? Emotionally fragile, decision-phobic snowflakes with anxiety over gluten. We’re not raising adults; we’re nurturing future therapy bills in Lululemon.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Inside of a busy Handel’s ice cream store in Manhattan Beach.
COYOTE CLASS IS IN SESSION: South Bay Warned As Pup Season Brings Spike In Sightings
South Bay residents, beware: it’s coyote rearing season, and young pups are hitting the streets to learn survival skills. The El Segundo Police Department issued a public warning this week, highlighting increased activity in the dunes between Maple and Palm Avenues through October. Locals may spot coyotes “escorting” walkers away from dens – a natural, non-aggressive behavior to protect pups. Contrary to popular belief, daytime sightings don’t signal rabies; adult coyotes are simply hustling for food to feed their families. Officials urge pet owners to leash their animals, avoid den areas, and never approach pups. Direct threats should be reported to the police by calling 911. Coyotes, typically found in wildlands, adapt well to urban areas, driven by factors such as drought, overpopulation, and development. Redondo Beach recently rolled out a new Coyote Management Plan promoting coexistence.
The sidewalk at Polliwog Park.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by John Braitman (President, MB Neighborhood Watch)
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent all crimes, but using common sense and a few precautions can really help. For example, locking home & car doors, removing valuables from cars or keeping them out of sight, installing motion sensor lights & home burglar alarms, trimming shrubs to make concealment more difficult for burglars, removing ladders from yards to keep burglars from using them to access second story doors & windows, placing inside lights on timers, not advertising vacation plans on social media, having neighbors pick up mail & put in trash cans when you’re on vacation, & using car alarms & antitheft devices. Residents can request vacation home checks from the MBPD. I would encourage residents to get to know their neighbors & to join Neighborhood Watch where they can work together to make our community safer.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Bruxie in El Segundo:
Gourmet Waffle Sandwiches
2181 Rosecrans Ave B, El Segundo
www.Bruxie.com
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE LENS VIDEO:
What is MB Weekly?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIvEuxAyG9E
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
South Bay Cycle Named Best Bike Store in the South Bay
In a recent MB Weekly Reader Poll, South Bay Cycle has officially been crowned the Best Bike Store in the South Bay – and it’s not hard to see why. Locals praised the store’s genuine passion for cycling and refreshingly low-pressure vibe. “The folk care about bikes and aren’t trying to sell constantly,” said Audrey R., a longtime Manhattan Beach resident and avid weekend cyclist. Located in Manhattan Beach, South Bay Cycle has built a loyal following with its knowledgeable staff, excellent service, and community-first attitude. From casual cruisers to hardcore road warriors, customers say they’re treated with respect and no brutal sales tactics. With this latest honor, South Bay Cycle pedals ahead as not just a store, but a trusted hub for bike lovers who want honest advice and quality service – no spin required.
www.InCycle.com/South-Bay-Cycle
** Former L.A. City Councilmember Dennis Zine having lunch at Mercado in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by John Altamura (Altamura Real Estate Group)
I think everyone should boycott and not spend a dime for Yeastie Boys Bagels. It is a slap in the face to Noah’s and all the restaurants in Downtown MB. They are illegally parked and have been cited for parking violations. If they are successful, what next, more food trucks. Let’s keep MB, MB. Do we really want to be Venice or Santa Monica.
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DO YOU HAVE SILLY CAT PORTRAITS?
Please send in a photo of your cat and share them with all your neighbors in the South Bay. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
FORMA Establishes Boutique In Downtown Manhattan Beach:
Opened just five weeks ago in downtown Manhattan Beach, the boutique known as Forma (in the space formerly occupied by Beehive) offers visitors an eclectic and deeply personal shopping experience. Curated by designer and entrepreneur Honor Topcu, Forma draws its roots from Topcu’s global perspective and decades of experience.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Red velvet cake at Lido Bakery.
Jesse Alexander Named Manhattan Beach Fire Chief:
Manhattan Beach has officially welcomed Jesse Alexander as its new fire chief, the city announced Tuesday, July 8. Alexander replaces longtime Fire Chief Michael Lang, who announced his retirement in December but remained in the role until his successor was found. Alexander brings nearly 25 years of firefighting experience, most recently serving as chief in Yuba City for over five years. “We are thrilled to welcome Chief Alexander to the Manhattan Beach family,” said City Manager Talyn Mirzakhanian. “His genuine commitment to his firefighters and the communities he serves really stood out throughout our process. We are confident he will build strong relationships here while drawing on his experience to support and elevate our already excellent fire services.” In addition to his operational leadership, according to City social media, Alexander has served as an instructor with the California State Fire Marshal and Butte College Fire Academy since 2008, making him the longest-serving instructor at the academy. He officially stepped into the role July 7.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Hummus at AttaGirl in Manhattan Beach.
MANHATTAN BEACH IN TOP 40 U.S. WEALTHIEST SUBURBS:
Sun, sand, and serious wealth. Manhattan Beach has officially landed in the Top 40 of GOBankingRates’ annual ranking of America’s wealthiest suburbs for 2025. The report analyzed data from over 5,000 U.S. suburbs, using metrics such as mean household income and home values, to compile the nation’s most affluent enclaves. Manhattan Beach’s inclusion cements its reputation as one of Southern California’s premier addresses for high-net-worth living. Scarsdale, New York, retained the #1 spot for the second year running, but Manhattan Beach wasn’t far behind, buoyed by skyrocketing home prices and impressive household earnings. Zillow’s May 2025 data shows the South Bay gem remains among the priciest places to own property, while residents enjoy incomes well above the national average.
MB WEEKLY:
Is For …
People With Fancy Nails
www.MBWeekly.net
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
WOULD YOU ALLOW YOUR TEENAGER TO PLAY TACKLE FOOTBALL?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
Send your reply, anonymously if you choose, to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
1. ** Join us for the Opening Reception of the Annual Community Exhibition at the Manhattan Beach Art Center on July 25th from 5–8 PM. Discover local talent and celebrate the creativity that makes our community so special. Free admission. All are welcome.
2. ** Just spent 2 months in Europe. Back to paying $10 at Starbucks for shitty, crappy coffee. —- Linda S., Redondo Beach
3. ** When you wake up to roll over in bed, it’s like changing the channels on the dreams you’re having. —- Angie S., El Segundo
4. ** Good hearing from former mayors about Manhattan Beach City budget issues. Also, would like to hear more from residents on this issue —- Ed M.
5. ** If your life flashed before your eyes, it would look like a strobe light because of how much you sleep. —- Oscar H., El Segundo
6. ** There has to be a more civilized way to say the food at Woodranch in Manhattan Beach is both underwhelming and overpriced. But let’s not sugarcoat it: Dry ribs, bland sides, and a bill that feels like punishment. For those prices, I expected flavor, not disappointment. —- Heidi R., El Segundo
7. ** Memo to MB City Officials: Enforce the leaf blower ban, damn it! —- Shelley H.
8. ** There are no nights in outer space. —- Clyde R.
9. ** Selective enforcement erodes public trust and undermines leadership. Enforce the leaf blower ban! —- T.C.
10. ** A friend of mine in Manhattan Beach has had two e-bike batteries stolen from his family in the past week in Manhattan Beach. —- Name Withheld by Request
11. ** I hate Pickleball. —- Roy T.
12. ** Fred Taylor sounds like a man with a lot of common sense. —- Joyce D.
13. ** The tale of the last two decades of American culture is, in many ways, the story of what happens when the boys who excelled in advanced math and tinkered with gadgets in their parents’ garage become remarkably, ridiculously rich. —- S.W., Redondo Beach
14. ** Shame on the black-clad punks on e-bikes in Hermosa! These reckless cowards terrorize our streets in packs, then flee. Parents, wake up – your entitled, jobless kids are a menace. You are part of the problem. —- Buck W., Hermosa Beach
15. ** There is a world-class Aquarium at the Roundhouse at the end of our MB Pier! Great place to take your kids! —- Mark Burton, Manhattan Beach
16. ** Ghosting is for assholes and cowards! —- L.R., El Segundo
17. ** Does anyone remember Fitz the Cat? —- Simon L., Hermosa Beach
18. ** Warning: Chef Alice Mai of AttaGirl is about to hijack your tastebuds. She’s rolling into Manhattan Beach Food & Wine with flavor bombs, big energy, and the dishes South Bay has been obsessed with. —- MB Food & Wine
19. ** Though L.A. is a billion dollars in debt this year alone, L.A.’s Democrat Mayor Karen Bass has announced that cash cards will soon be available for illegal aliens facing financial problems following ICE operations. You can’t make this stuff up! —- Reese H., El Segundo
20. ** W.T.F.? Culver City just approved $50K of YOUR tax dollars to pay nonprofits to deliver food to illegal aliens too scared to leave their homes during ICE raids. Public-funded DoorDash for fugitives? Absurd. Perhaps ICE should follow the delivery drivers instead. This isn’t compassion – it’s government-sponsored stupidity. —- C.S.
21. ** I’d heard Zankou Chicken was moving into the old Boston Market on Hawthorne Blvd in Redondo Beach. Recently drove by and saw no activity. Does anyone know if Zankou is coming to the South Bay? Also curious – what’s planned to replace the old Boston Market space? —- Grant S., Redondo Beach
22. ** Can’t wait for the MB Food and Wine Festival. I went last year, and it was amazing! —- Tad B., Manhattan Beach
23. ** Bravo to MB Weekly – Great interviews with David Slay and Michael Zislis. —- Vickie H.
24. ** Visit California says 267 million people visited California last year. That numbers gonna go way down in 2025 now that the border’s closed. —- Andrea E.
25. ** If dogs sweated like human beings, they probably would not be popular pets. —- Audrey R., Hermosa Beach
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