Monthly Archives: May 2023

MB Weekly 05/25/2023

MB WEEKLY:
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
WITH MB POLICE CHIEF
RACHEL JOHNSON

Q: WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST SURPRISE IN YOUR JOB AS CHIEF OF POLICE SINCE YOU ARRIVED?
A: While there is certainly a lot involved in becoming a police chief in a new city, I don’t know if I would describe myself as surprised by anything. I’ve worked in three municipalities at this point in my career and they’ve all had very different personalities, if you will. At the heart of each city, though, has been a love for the community and a desire to keep the things that give each city its charm. I make a joke about people never leaving the South Bay because they can’t find the 405! In reality, I think people stay here and choose to raise their families here because of the excellent schools and overall quality of life.

Q: HOW FRUSTRATING IS IT FOR YOU AS A CHIEF OF POLICE TO WATCH A DISTRICT ATTORNEY LET CRIMINALS OUT FAR TOO QUICKLY AND EASILY?
A: I keep my focus on the things I can control. I don’t think you’re going to find a person who thinks that people who commit crimes should not be held accountable. We all want there to be appropriate consequences when crimes are committed and I am no different in that regard. Our role in the police department is to investigate crimes fully and professionally and submit cases to the District Attorney for prosecution. We will continue to do our level best each day to prevent crimes and to apprehend those who commit crimes in our City through data driven and proactive police work. My focus is on ensuring we are there when you call and that the level of service we provide is unmatched. We will continue to make arrests, conduct investigations, and take action to deter crime in our City.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR BEST ADVICE TO THE MANHATTAN BEACH CITIZENS ON STAYING SAFE DURING THESE DIFFICULT TIMES?
A: Three pieces of advice: If you see something, say something, join Neighborhood Watch, and Lock it or Lose it. We rely on everyone to help us when they see things that are out of place or are suspicious. I encourage anyone who witnesses suspicious behavior to call the Police Department and report it as soon as possible with as many details as they can remember. Joining Neighborhood Watch is one way to ensure you know your neighbors and are apprised of any crime trends affecting the area. Finally, locking your vehicles, retaining your car keys when exiting your vehicle, and removing visible property are ways to reduce the likelihood you will become the victim of a crime. Last year, half of the vehicles that were stolen in Manhattan Beach had the keys inside the vehicle at the time of the theft. The simple act of retaining the keys when you exit your vehicle can make such a difference!

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: My favorite movie!?!? That is like picking my favorite child – very hard to do! I really find “heist” style movies entertaining, so Ocean’s Eleven and The Italian Job are two of my favorites.


Student Film From Mira Costa Attracts Attention:

A Japanese-American who was deported to an internment camp in 1942 formerly operated a 120-acre commercial flower farm that now houses Mira Costa High School. Owner Francis Uyematsu started selling off portions of Star Nurseries two years after being forcibly relocated to the Manzanar Japanese Relocation Camp in Independence, California, while a white manager and staff took care of the nursery. After the war, in 1947, the last 40 acres were sold when Uyematsu’s son began to take over the company. A recent student movie depicts the tale. Mary Uyematsu Kao, his granddaughter, appears in the film. Senior at Mira Costa Maddox Chen started working on a seven-minute documentary on the topic last summer as a part of a six-week USC Nonfiction Filmmaking course. It was inspired by a plaque that will be unveiled at MCHS in 2021. He says interviewing retired Mira Costa teacher Chuck Currier, who advocated for the plaque to memorialize Uyematsu, took Chen more than 100 hours.


MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Ed Kaminsky

President & CEO Of Kaminsky Real Estate Group

Q: WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE MANHATTAN BEACH AS THE CENTER OF YOUR BUSINESS?
A: I live in Manhattan Beach and have discovered that the Beach Cities is one of the few places in Greater Los Angeles that has the following benefits for our clients. A) Improved cooler weather pattern in the summer. B) Highest rated public school system. C) The sense of community like I grew up in the Midwest. D) Beautiful beaches. E) Great restaurants. F) Options for housing in everyone’s price range from affordable to luxury.

Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE REAL ESTATE BUSINESS?
A: 35 years

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF RUNNING YOUR REAL ESTATE FIRM?
A: I always have sky high goals for our company and team and when I reach them, it’s easier to set them higher and they get harder to reach, however focusing on stellar customer service has always been attainable.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR PREDICTION FOR THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IN MANHATTAN BEACH IN THE NEXT YEAR?
A: Inventory will remain tight and prices will remain strong. I see prices rising slightly but not a lot until interest rates start to tick down which will likely be late summer, early fall.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Top Gun

Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: I love all of the David Slay restaurants, MB Post, The Aurther J, Nando, and Ryla in Hermosa Beach.

www.ITZsold.com


The Rotary Club Recognizes The Best Teachers:

The Manhattan Beach Unified and American Martyr’s educators received special recognition at the Manhattan Beach Rotary meeting on Monday. Teachers of the Year have been recognized by Manhattan Beach Rotary for the past 73 years with a unique awards ceremony. Gerry Morton, president of the Rotary Club, emphasized the organization’s long-standing dedication to recognizing and honoring the community’s top teachers through the annual Teacher of the Year Awards. The Rotary Club of Manhattan Beach has consistently honored the priceless contributions of our educators ever since it was founded in 1950, according to Morton. The MBUSD Teacher of the Year Selection Committee, which monitors and interviews the nominees from each school site, chose the MBUSD teachers who were recognized at the Rotary celebration. One teacher is chosen by the District as the District Teacher of the Year and advances to the Los Angeles County Office of Education Teachers of the Year competition after a rigorous selection process. Administrators from Mira Costa, Manhattan Beach Middle School (MBMS), Grand View Elementary, Meadows Elementary, Pacific Elementary, Pennekamp Elementary, Robinson Elementary, and Manhattan Beach Preschool presented arguments for the Teacher of the Year.


Lido Bakery:

www.LidoBakery.com


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Amy Howorth

MB City Councilwoman

I did make a financial contribution to George Gascon’s campaign. At the time, I had concerns about Jackie Lacey. I absolutely regret supporting him. And would not support him for re-election.


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Teresa Micco

This is Oso. He was attacked by a coyote in his yard in Manhattan Beach the other day. He had puncture wounds on his rump but successfully chased off the coyote, as witnessed by the owner. Thankfully, there was not a group of coyotes, or this might not have been a happy ending. **UPDATE** Oso is recovering well and taking his meds and treatment like a CHAMP!


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A car drove up an embankment at Manhattan Village. What next? Photo by Dennis K., Manhattan Beach


Have You Ever Taken A Custom Cooking Class?

What better way to learn how to cook your favorite dishes than with the guidance of a master chef? “But,” you say, “I don’t know the first thing about cooking.” That’s okay. Set the Table has customized classes for each learner’s needs and skill levels.

  • From grandma’s recipe, you grew up loving…
  • From Biscuits to Bisque…
  • From Zeppole to Ziti…

Set the Table can show you how to make the best you’ve ever had. Learn how by emailing Set the Table here: Eat@setthetablela.com

www.SetTheTableLA.com


RANDOM QUESTIONS FOR
MB WEEKLY:

by Betty Lousararian of Manhattan Beach

If re-elected, will President Biden live to finish his second term?
–NO
Do you tip the baristas at Starbucks?
–YES
Would you rather have dinner with George Clooney or Barack Obama?
–CLOONEY
Do you want outdoor dining to return to Manhattan Beach?
–YES
Did you ever smoke cigarettes?
–NO


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Last Friday afternoon, an MBPD Officer was patrolling the Manhattan Village Mall. A quick check of the license plate on a Honda CRV revealed the vehicle had been stolen the day prior in Beverly Hills. When the officer attempted to stop the car, it took off, and a pursuit was on. The pursuit traveled through El Segundo, Los Angeles, and ended in Inglewood when the stolen vehicle was involved in a traffic collision and rolled over. The suspect didn’t give up, though, and tried his luck on two feet. Unfortunately for him, we had a four-legged friend with us, and four is always better than two. The suspect was quickly apprehended by a police canine before he reached the residential neighborhood and a nearby school. He went to the hospital for some medical care and is now spending the weekend in jail till he can talk about his poor decisions with a judge.


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Sarah Garcia

El Segundo

Three years after a national reckoning on policing sparked a large wave of officer retirements and resignations, law enforcement agencies around Southern California are still frantically trying to restore their rank-and-file staffs. Officials from all over the region insist that an influx of new officers is required to combat forced overtime, stress, burnout, work-related absences, and safety concerns among current sworn officers working on low staff. However, in the wake of the deaths of George Floyd and others, calls for racial justice and police accountability along with demoralizing “Defund the Police” cries have made it very difficult for police departments around the county to retain the officers they now have while also recruiting new ones to increase their ranks. The personnel shortage has severely hurt the largest agencies in the area. Still, smaller and midsize police departments from Torrance to Riverside and Huntington Beach to Pomona are all working to close substantial staffing deficits.

Send your comment to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)


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MB WEEKLY – Neighborhoods Of Manhattan Beach:

A View Of The Ocean In Manhattan Beach

The city has several distinct neighborhoods, including the “Strand,” “Sand Section,” “Hill Section,” “Tree Section,” “Gas Lamp Section,” “Manhattan Village,” “Manhattan Heights,” “East Manhattan Beach” (Manhattan Village, Manhattan Heights, Liberty Village), The Poet’s Section” (Shelley, Tennyson, Longfellow, Keats), and “El Porto” (North Manhattan Beach). The Roth Tract, between Herrin and Peck, is sometimes referred to as the “Bird Section.” The “Hill Section” is known for its high-priced homes; many of the residences are remodeled or newly constructed. The steep hills allow panoramic ocean and city views. The “Sand Section” has quiet walk-street neighborhoods adjacent to the ocean. Oceanfront homes stretch along the bike path and walking lane of “The Strand.” “The Strand” section of Manhattan Beach includes some of the most expensive real estate per square foot in the United States. Since 2010, new property developments in Manhattan Beach cannot exceed two lot parcels. Size and appearance restrictions were enacted by the Manhattan Beach City Council to preserve the appearance of the beachfront community after three lots were joined to create a 16,000-square-foot (1,500 m2) oceanside home in 2008.

Downtown: “Downtown” Manhattan Beach is considered the heart of the city. The area runs along Manhattan Beach Boulevard and the streets perpendicular to the Manhattan Beach Pier and Valley Drive. There are Zagat-rated casual fine-dining restaurants, specialty boutiques and retailers that create a pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use downtown center. The Metlox site, where the pottery factory once stood for decades, was closed in the early 1990s and redeveloped into a mixed-use center. The Metlox site includes a luxury boutique hotel, spa, restaurants, shops and underground parking.

North Manhattan Beach District: North Manhattan Beach business district is located near the intersection of Rosecrans and Highland and has restaurants and shops. The district is defined as covering “32nd Street to 45th Street and consist[s] of over 80 businesses.”

Rosecrans Corridor: The Rosecrans corridor is located on the south side of Rosecrans Avenue, east of Sepulveda, and west of Aviation. The Manhattan Beach Country Club, the westdrift Manhattan Beach Hotel and Golf Course, retail stores, restaurants, supermarkets, multi-story office buildings, and shopping centers border the Rosecrans corridor between Sepulveda and Aviation Boulevards. The Rosecrans corridor is adjacent to The Point and Plaza El Segundo off Sepulveda Blvd, which features additional retailers, including Whole Foods Market.

Sepulveda Corridor: The Sepulveda Corridor occupies the commercial zone, and is the city’s main north – south highway. The area includes the Manhattan Village Mall, which is located east of Sepulveda Boulevard between Marine and Rosecrans Avenues. The mall, built in the early 1980s, was remodeled in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The mall is anchored by Macy’s on both ends and tenants include Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Williams Sonoma, and the Apple Store. Many restaurants such as Islands, Chili’s, Olive Garden, and the Tin Roof are co-located with the mall. The Manhattan Village Mall is executing a multimillion-dollar redevelopment which adds both outdoor and enclosed retail and restaurant space. There are several medium-size hotels, large automobile dealerships, automotive repair shops, restaurants, multi-story office buildings, medical buildings, pharmacies, banks, small shopping centers and a Target store along this corridor. Kaiser Permanente’s medical offices include a laboratory and pharmacy.

Aviation Corridor: The Aviation Corridor is located along Aviation Boulevard (the city’s eastern boundary), south of Rosecrans Avenue, and north of Marine Avenue. Aviation High School was located at the intersection of Manhattan Beach Blvd. and Aviation until it closed in the early 1980s. The zone includes several major entertainment and aerospace complexes, including Manhattan Beach Studios and the Northrop Grumman Space Park Complex. Manhattan Beach Media Campus has production for movies and entertainment including the Marvel motion pictures Thor and Iron Man 2 and both sequels to James Cameron’s Avatar movie. The studio complex has large photovoltaic solar panel rooftop installations in the area which generates approximately 1 megawatt of power.


MB Weekly – R.I.P.:

Matriarch Bettelu Beverly of Manhattan Beach Dies

At the time of her quiet passing on April 11, Bettelu Beverly was a week away from turning 98. Aside from her family, most people who knew her and what she had meant to Manhattan Beach had already passed away at that age. Councilman Steve Napolitano called the council meeting to order in her honor. He said Elizabeth Louise “Bettelu” Beverly and her husband Robert Beverly were the kind-hearted titans of Manhattan Beach. She was a true matriarch in Manhattan Beach, Napolitano said, and her influence extended far beyond the Beverly family.


** MB City Councilman Steve Napolitano having dinner at Fete in Manhattan Beach.

** Rock legend Keith Richards having dinner at Slay Hermosa recently.

** City Councilman David Lesser having dinner at The Kettle in Manhattan Beach.

** Manhattan Beach mayor Pro Tem Joe Franklin having coffee at Good Boy Bobs in downtown Manhattan Beach.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

The Manhattan Beach Library. Feel free to send your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


More Bike Paths In South Bay:

South Bay residents will soon have an easy open path to travel between Torrance and the Beach Cities via a brand new bike path that will be built in Redondo Beach, according to the Beach Cities Health District. The Diamond Street & Flagler Lane Bike and Pedestrian Path Project will add a bike path, pedestrian infrastructure and improved lighting and safety enhancements to improve accessibility, promote active transportation and enhance multi-modal mobility options. Work for the path is expected to start in early July and should take approximately 90 days to finish. “This project will create an important connection for the cycling community,” said Jim Hannon, President of the South Bay Bicycle Coalition Plus, a nonprofit focused on making city streets safer for all road users. “During a series of outreach meetings to develop the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan, this particular route was identified by the residents of Redondo Beach and Torrance to be vital for the safety of children trying to get to school, families going to the beach and other local popular destinations in the Beach Cities.”


MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

SINCE THE MANHATTAN BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN UNDERSTAFFED FOR SOME TIME, SHOULD THE CITY HIRE PRIVATE SECURITY GUARDS TO HELP PATROL THE DOWNTOWN AREA DURING THE BUSY SUMMER MONTHS?

Please share your thoughts with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.

Send your reply (anonymous, if you prefer) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)


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MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** According to MBPD, criminals have continued to target Toyota Prius’ – three catalytic converters were taken from those vehicles during the week. —- Kevin T., Manhattan Beach

2. ** The books we read when we’re young help shape the adults we become in ways we don’t always grasp. —- Suzanne H., Manhattan Beach

3. ** Janet, the manager at Fleming’s in El Segundo, is a magnificent hospitality ambassador. —- Donald P., Manhattan Beach

4. ** The old MBPD cars look better than the new ones. —- Betty Lousararian, Manhattan Beach

5. ** Lax enforcement concerning petty crimes inevitably leads to significant criminality. The consequence of supposedly “victimless” crimes like shoplifting and even e-bike nonsense has created a palpable sense of disorder and anxiety. All conducive to an anything-goes atmosphere in which crime inevitably flourishes. —- Pat P., Manhattan Beach

6. ** What happened with Chevron today in El Segundo? Due to a refinery issue, PCH was shut down. Wow, the smell was very strong. —- Dani M., El Segundo

7. ** Mimi was my personal Yoda of dieting wisdom. Thank you. —- Howard Z., Manhattan Beach

8. ** Hawthorne’s SpaceX, And Vast Space, Will Launch The World’s 1st Commercial Space Station. Vast Space and SpaceX have a new partnership and plan to launch the world’s first commercial space station – dubbed Haven-1 – into low-Earth orbit by 2025, the two local companies have announced. —- Editor’s note

9. ** What’s the hardest part of being human – suffering? Loss? Fishing the littlest pieces from the bottom of a chip bag? —- Alvin L., Manhattan Beach

10. ** South Bay housing appears to be in a bear market.

11. ** Did you know Hermosa Police deploy drones to locate missing kids? —- Oren H., Manhattan Beach

12. ** More hassling regulations for restaurant owners. On May 1, restaurants and food facilities in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County must provide only recyclable or compostable food ware such as containers, cups, dishes, and cutlery under a new ordinance aimed at reducing waste and fossil fuels. —- Kevin K., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Disneyland is a total rip-off. Try Knott’s. —- Lois H., Manhattan Beach

14. ** Screaming message to dog owners. Clean up your dog poop! —- Tina M., Manhattan Beach

15. ** Endlessly thanks to Councilman Joe Franklin for his tireless work on e-bike safety. —- Ashley P., Manhattan Beach

16. ** The food portions at Tin Roof in the Manhattan Village are huge! —- Madison H., Manhattan Beach

17. ** Thank God! Nextdoor is launching a new AI assistant to help people write nicer posts about that one neighbor who won’t pick up after their dog (you know who you are). —- Jeremy B., Manhattan Beach

18. ** I (still) never see any police presence in the downtown area of Manhattan Beach. Day. Night. Weekend. Never. Even after all of the problems. Why? —- Thomas V., Manhattan Beach

19. ** I have personally witnessed the collapse of modern medicine up close. I am concerned about how the DEI agenda is hurting healthcare for all patients, regardless of their position, as it favors people and policies based on color, ethnicity, gender, religion, and sexual orientation rather than merit. —- Dr. Albert C., Manhattan Beach

20. ** Prince Harry is one very troubled guy. —- Missy C., Manhattan Beach

Comment / Hire / Share / Promote / Barter / Discuss
The MB Weekly Free Bulletin Board is your place to communicate for free with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach. Send your message (maximum 50 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


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MB Weekly 05/18/2023

MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
HUGE MAJORITY FAVOR TRAPPING OF COYOTES IN MANHATTAN BEACH

Over 71% of MB Weekly readers strongly favor selective trapping of coyotes in Manhattan Beach due to strong feelings of concern for the safety of their pets and children. “I refuse to let coyotes destroy our feeling of safety in our homes in Manhattan Beach,” said Arthur L, a longtime Manhattan Beach homeowner. “Trapping is definitely part of the solution to a growing problem.” Many in the poll expressed feelings that the City has been too slow to act as the problem continued to grow.

Agree? Disagree? Send your Answer to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


Four-Story Mansion On Manhattan Beach Strand With Views Of Coast Asking $28.5 Million:

For $28.5 million, a mansion on the Manhattan Beach Strand offers vistas of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and Malibu. The seaside home measures 7,454 square feet across four stories, has five bedrooms, and seven bathrooms. It was built for its current owners to grow above the 3,494 square foot lot in 2013. According to Redfin, the house is the most expensive listing in a city where the median price was $2.7 million in March. The interior of the house, which has 10-foot ceilings and glass walls, is flooded with natural light. The third-floor entry level is connected to the upper-level common room via a circular staircase covered in mahogany. It has an outdoor living and dining space that has bi-folding louvered panels that manage light and provide weather protection. The great room and kitchen are both extended into that outside space.


ASK YOUR QUESTIONS:

TO THE MAYOR, CITY MANAGER AND POLICE CHIEF

The Mayor, the City Manager and the Police Chief of Manhattan Beach have generously agreed to answer MB Weekly reader questions directly and exclusively. Send your questions: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


Stay Tuned:

Next Week: Exclusive Interview with Manhattan Beach Police Chief Rachel Johnson


Fisker CEO In Manhattan Beach Talks About Price Cuts And Competition In The EV Sector:

On the company’s first-quarter results call, Henrik Fisker, the CEO of Manhattan Beach-based Fisker, addressed the topic of price reductions. He underlined that Fisker hasn’t raised its rates in two years and is remains less expensive than its rivals. Fisker also discussed the ongoing price wars in the EV market, pointing out that some brands who announced price cuts also saw stunning price rises six months, a year, or 1.5 years earlier. Despite these “price cuts,” the cost of the automobiles has not changed in the past two years. A well-known designer of different automobile types, Fisker is also the CEO of Fisker Inc., an EV firm that plans to introduce the Fisker PEAR, a smaller EV with a competitive starting price of $29,900. He thinks that the EV market needs long-range choices and inexpensive prices. Fisker Inc. concentrates on design, engineering, and customer service while outsourcing production to independent manufacturers across the globe. The business asserts that it can sell products for comparatively low rates because it runs a “extremely lean” business and provides more advanced technology than its rivals.


Fête … Bistro by Slay:

www.FeteBySlay.com


MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Lisa Hemmat

Restaurateur

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING THING ABOUT RUNNING A RESTAURANT POST-COVID?
A: The most challenging part post COVID was the unknown – after the rug had been pulled out from us over and over again it was hard to stay balanced but we did land on our feet. Luckily employee retention was not a problem for Lido, as I was able to keep all of our key staff members working with help from the PPP and good morale! The other challenging part for Lido was the shift in the way people work, we used to have an amazing business lunch crowd with all the offices around, but now most of our lunch customers are working from home at least part-time so that business was lost. We do offer catering and are open for private parties, larger lunch groups, and other events so that helps get back some of that lost business.

Q: WHAT DO YOU FIND UNIQUE ABOUT OWNING YOUR BUSINESS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: I love the true community Manhattan Beach offers, there is a lot of pride in the Southbay and our long-term customers are like family. I have owned and operated Lido since 2004 right after I graduated from USC’s Business Entrepreneurship Program. I have gotten to know so many amazing families who have become friends over the years, watch their kids grow up then host their bridal showers, baby showers, and other big celebrations. Manhattan Beach is unique in how they support the businesses they love, and we appreciate it.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: One of my favorite movies is “Pretty Woman” – I also love “Father of the Bride” and “The Bodyguard.” It’s hard to say which one is my favorite, I have never gotten sick of any of them! I love romantic feel-good happy ending movies:-)

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IF A STRANGER ASKED YOU FOR ADVICE ABOUT OPENING A RESTAURANT TODAY?
A: I would be happy to help, it is a business that is non-stop and hard to make money in, but fun and rewarding when things go right. You have to really love what you do to stick it out in the restaurant business, most people in the business are very passionate which is pretty much mandatory for long-term success.

Q: WHAT RESTAURANTS DO YOU LIKE IN MANHATTAN BEACH AND SURROUNDING SOUTH BAY COMMUNITIES?
A: I have always loved The Strand House, I have been going since they opened and met my husband there, they have the best view, great staff, and good food too! Playa Hermosa Fish & Oyster is my other favorite go-to obviously lol. For those who don’t know my husband and I own but he operates it. The restaurant has an awesome vibe with great cocktails and fresh seafood. It’s right next to the beach on Hermosa Pier where you can watch our phenomenal sunsets.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING TO EAT AT YOUR RESTAURANT?
A: My favorites are always changing, right now: Appetizers: Lido Summer Rolls (Organic mixed greens, avocado, mango, mint wrapped in rice paper served with my favorite Cilantro vinaigrette for dipping). Salad: Heirloom Burrata Caprese add Avocado, Pasta: Mushroom Pappardelle, Entree: Eggplant Parmesan, Dessert: Lido Homemade Tiramisu.

Another thing to note is that being involved with Manhattan Beach Rotary has been an important part of my life, our Manhattan Beach Rotary Club has so many amazing, dynamic, and interesting people I may have never met, except for the common goal of helping and being involved in the community where our motto is “Service above Self.” I am excited to be the upcoming Rotary President and look forward to all the adventures ahead.

www.LidoDiManhattan.com


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

MB police officers responded to a shoplifting call at a local grocery store. Three females left the store with bags full of stolen merchandise. After a short vehicle pursuit and foot chase, one adult and two juveniles were arrested for felony organized retail theft. Over $2,000 worth of over-the-counter medication was recovered.


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Darby Winston

Walking on the beach in Manhattan Beach is a healthy activity with numerous benefits. The soft sand offers a low-impact workout that is ideal for those with joint pain. The sound of waves crashing and the feeling of sand beneath your feet provides a relaxing and stress-reducing experience, which is great for your mental health. Sun exposure is an added advantage of walking on the beach, as it helps regulate your body clock and boosts vitamin D levels. Walking on the beach is also a social activity that can be enjoyed with family and friends, improving overall wellbeing. Lastly, exploring the coastline and discovering new places can be a fun and enjoyable experience. So, next time you’re at the coast, take a walk on the sand and enjoy the many benefits it offers.

Agree? Disagree? Send your comment to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)


Have You Ever Taken A Custom Cooking Class?

What better way to learn how to cook your favorite dishes than with the guidance of a master chef? “But,” you say, “I don’t know the first thing about cooking.” That’s okay. Set the Table has customized classes for each learner’s needs and skill levels.

  • From grandma’s recipe, you grew up loving…
  • From Biscuits to Bisque…
  • From Zeppole to Ziti…

Set the Table can show you how to make the best you’ve ever had. Learn how by emailing Set the Table here: Eat@setthetablela.com

www.SetTheTableLA.com


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Mr. Carlson – MCHS Band Director. Feel free to share your photos with your neighbors in Manhattan Beach. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by David Hu

El Segundo

Rude Uber Eats delivery driver. – This delivery driver illegally parked his car on the driveway curb of the apartment, blocking parked cars while he went around trying to find and deliver. There is plenty of legal parking on the street. When I enquire why he parks that way as he returns. He brushed me off, cursing me under his breath, and drove off. I want to find out where one can file a complaint about this driver. I don’t mind people making a living doing their job, but when they are not following the rules of the road and have no regard of others. That cannot be tolerated.

Agree? Disagree? Send your comment to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)


MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet David Denitz

Gateway Business Properties

Q: WHAT PROBLEMS HAVE YOU WITNESSED WITH YOUNG E-BIKE RIDERS?
A: The problems I see are that the kids are going to get killed (no helmets) or a life changing injury. The responsibility relies on the riders. If they obey the basic traffic laws it should be fine. That is not happening.

Q: WOULD YOU FAVOR THE POLICE GIVING TICKETS TO E-BIKE RIDERS WHO VIOLATE THE LAW?
A: I would not like to see the police give out tickets. I need our police to protect us citizens. The e-bike riders will take care of themselves. (See above)

Q: DO YOU PERSONALLY OWN AN E-BIKE?
A: Yes! I personally own an e-bike. I love it. Surfboard rack attached.

www.GatewayBP.com


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Located in downtown Manhattan Beach, the Roundhouse has been revitalized through a $4 million capital project spearheaded by the Harrison Greenberg Foundation. The new Roundhouse Aquarium educates and inspires more than 300,000 visitors every year.


Dive N’ Surf:

Come shop for your new warm weather looks!

www.DiveNSurf.com


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Lauren Bruksch

Manhattan Beach

Hit & Run Friday, 5/5, 9:30 p.m. – please help ID. Friday night, this pickup truck idled in front of a nearby house for a while and then made a quick three-point turn into a driveway across from my parked car and then reversed and demolished/T-barred the driver’s side of my car. Neighbors heard a huge crash. The driver fled the scene, and no car or ring cameras could discern a license plate just yet. Most believe it to be a Ram or Chevy/GMC (?) The color is white or light silver, based on the paint left on my vehicle. There was definitely damage to their car as there were parts/plastic on the street near my car. Any leads very welcome. – 720-730 12th Street, Manhattan Beach.

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NEW COMMISSIONS IN MANHATTAN BEACH:

The City Council Made The following Board And Commission Appointments On May 2

Planning Commission:
Seat No. 3 (Member-At-Large): Joseph Ungoco / Seat No. 4 (Member-At-Large): Robert Tokashiki / Seat No. 5 (Member-At-Large): Rachel Croessman

Parking and Public Improvements Commission:
Seat No. 1 (Member-At-Large): Allen Kirschenbaum / Seat No. 2 (Business Community): Kit Becker / Seat No. 3 (Member-At-Large): Joe Marcy

Parks and Recreation Commission:
Seat No. 2 (MBUSD Nominee): Karen Komatinsky / Seat No. 3 (Member-At-Large): Larry Zimbalist / Seat No. 7 (Student Representative): Daniel Greenberg

Library Commission:
Seat No. 4 (Member-At-Large): Dina Doll / Seat No. 6 (Student Representative): Katherine Jester

Cultural Arts Commission:
Seat No. 1 (Art Experience): Carol Patterson / Seat No. 5 (Member-At-Large): Jen Dohner / Seat No. 6 (Student Representative): Samantha Erlich-Fein

Board of Building Appeals:
Seat No. 1 (Member-At-Large): Michael Kling / Seat No. 2 (Member-At-Large): Cyrous Adami / Seat No. 3 (Member-At-Large): Robert Tokashiki / Seat No. 4 (Member-At-Large): Thomas Freitag / Seat No. 5 (Member-At-Large): Jim Yang

Los Angeles County West Vector Control Board:
Member-At-Large: Wayne Powell


MB WEEKLY – READER ROUNDTABLE QUESTION:

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MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:

I love reading MB Weekly each Thursday. It sure fits its slogan “Once A Week, But Never Weakly.” —- Ashely P., Manhattan Beach


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MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Without Tucker Carlson, I no longer watch Fox News. —- William K., Manhattan Beach

2. ** Someone at Trader Joe’s on PCH near Crenshaw stole my wallet, even though I was vigilant. Please protect your belongings, neighbors. —- Rachel Z., El Segundo

3. ** I have been dating a wonderful man from the South Bay for two years. He has two grown children, 27 and 21. Both have good jobs and work full-time. I have a son who is 12. The issue is family vacations and paying for things while on vacation. I wonder if he will ever let his “kids” grow up. —- Carly V., Hermosa Beach

4. ** Let’s be honest. The L.A. Times is pathetic. —- Dr. Christopher T., Manhattan Beach

5. ** Great-grandpa Joe Biden is running for re-election. You’ve got to be kidding! —- Melanie M., Manhattan Beach

6. ** L.A. County wants to build a library in Polliwog Park, our lovely pedestrian park, next to a children’s playground. Say “No” to a second L.A. County Library to preserve Polliwog Park and our treasured open space! —- Rory M., Manhattan Beach

7. ** No Bud Light beer ever again. —- Terrace P., Manhattan Beach

8. ** Swell. At the Manhattan Beach Art Center, 1560 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach. Through July 2. Hours, Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. —- Call (310) 802-5440

9. ** Sports Betting Is the ‘New Oxycontin’ —- Gil G., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Teenage drug use around Perry Park at 2:15 p.m. 3 teenagers (2 riding skateboards and one on a fat tire mountain bike) stopped in front of my house across from Perry Park to light up. When confronted by my neighbor, they acted hostile and started mouthing off. It all goes back to “bad parenting.” —- Sylvia A., Redondo Beach

11. ** Southbay HOME celebrated its spring issue with a private art showing at Gallery 208 in Manhattan Beach. Guests enjoyed food by Esperanza, wine from Barsha, and works by Dennis Jarvis, Harry Knapp, Chip Herwegh, and other local artists. —- Southbay Magazine

12. ** I love Fishing with Dynamite for lunch. —- Stella G., Manhattan Beach

13. ** The old Police logo is better, making Manhattan units more easily identifiable from a greater distance. —- Sylvia Simmons, Manhattan Beach

14. ** I totally agree that the logo should prominently say POLICE. It makes it easier to identify if you need assistance and lets the “ne’re do wells” easily know who is watching. —- Susi Farrell

15. ** Think people are exaggerating about how bad the metro trains have become. Well, a man bit off a chunk of an Los Angeles police officer’s finger at a Metro Red Line station on Thursday, April 27, authorities said. Officers assigned to the subway were patrolling the station at Santa Monica Boulevard and Vermont Avenue at around 10 a.m. when they say they came across a man aboard the train who seemed to have illegal drugs. Sounds great, huh? —- Selma A., Manhattan Beach

16. ** People are impressed by the uniqueness of snowflakes, but potatoes are equally unique and no one cares. —- Patty L., Manhattan Beach

17. ** Look at the expressions on people’s faces when you say, “Looks like it’ll be Biden and Trump.” The slight flinch, head shake, and sigh on those faces speak volumes. Those serve as the campaign’s current logos for 2024. —- Dana B., Manhattan Beach

18. ** I agree. The old Police cars look better. —- Don Sisson/Condor Realty, Manhattan Beach

19. ** Un-f—king believable!:
https://www.nationalreview.com/news/l-a-councilwoman-blames-toyota-for-catalytic-converter-theft-opposes-motion-targeting-thieves/

20. ** Biological men who self-identify as females (also referred to as “transgender women”) are invading women’s sports, robbing female athletes of opportunities, and infringing upon their rights. Young women are being deprived of scholarships, championships, and even personal safety all in the name of creating a “safe and inclusive” space for transgender women. This insanity must end. —- Tina M., Manhattan Beach, mother of two daughters

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MB Weekly Bonus Edition 05/14/2023

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

The main auctioneer at the Rotary Club Annual Fundraiser.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A happy bartender at the Rockefeller Restaurant in Manhattan Beach.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Lido Bakery chocolate rugalah.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A happy team member from the Rockefeller Restaurant in Manhattan Beach.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A cool darkroom in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Former Manhattan Beach Mayor, Mark Burton, and Rotary Club President Gerry Morton.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Financial Planner, Dave Harris, at the recent Rotary Club Fundraiser.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A ultra-modern bathroom in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send you photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


** Downtown MB is the crown jewel of our City. With the increase in crime in Downtown MB, I suggest the City Council consider funding foot beat officers Downtown from May 1 through September 30. As you know, it will take some time for MBPD to become fully staffed, but I don’t think we can wait to have foot beat officers. So, you should request that Chief Johnson report to the City Council with a plan of foot beat officers in Downtown MB for May 1 through September 30. The Council likely may need to provide overtime funds for such a plan. When I served with the Honorable City Councilmembers Howorth and Lesser, our Council asked the Chief for a plan for overtime for foot beat officers in Downtown MB. For three months, we funded the Chief’s plan with overtime. The Downtown MB merchants and residents loved the foot beat officers. Of course, we didn’t have enough officers or overtime funds to continue having foot beat officers. Since the presence of a police officer is the most effective way to deter and prevent crime, Downtown MB foot beat officers are a great investment in keeping the crown jewel of our City safe. —- Mark Burton, Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach

** Torrance’s crime rate decreased by 24% between 2022 and 2023, according to Torrance Police Chief Jeremiah Hart, who gave a community report on April 27. He attributed the decrease to a significant number of guns removed from the streets and the neighborhood’s greater awareness of suspicious activity. I sure hope the Manhattan Beach chief can deliver a similar optimistic report soon. —- Clay Tobias, Manhattan Beach

** My car was stolen Friday night! 1:06 a.m. (Saturday morning), these guys ran down our street checking car doors. Unfortunately, I had forgotten my purse in the car… so they could start it and go! A neighbor down the road also had their car gone through (same guys, same night) If anyone else has footage, I would love to see it! Lock up, neighbors. MB has gotten scary! —- Tiffany S., Manhattan Beach

** Last Friday morning, our silver Subaru Outback was hit by a teen on an e-bike while parked near Mira Costa (on Meadows near the southern entrance to Journey of Faith). This was a significant crash, with repairs estimated at over 4K. The teen jumped back on their bike, so we are hoping they didn’t have a significant injury. We have some fuzzy video of the incident, so we are sure it was an e-bike. —- Cathy C., Manhattan Beach

** Hi, Everyone in South Bay! So, today we were the victims of the Catalytic converter theft. The bad guys arrived in RB and surrounding cities, and we need to be aware of our properties (vehicles and residences, yes, they are house burglars, too). This incident happened today, 5/4, at 4 a.m. They took 90 seconds for the theft, targeting Toyota Prius. The criminals seem to be driving a white Mercedes sedan with custom silver wheels in a group of 3 individuals. (not official description). —- Jevan Araujo, Redondo Beach

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MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

Three Favorite Restaurants?

** Fox and Farrow, Sausal, Source Cafe —- Phillips Lee, Manhattan Beach

** Our two MB Michaels, Michael Simms and Michael Zislis, have several excellent MB restaurants, as does David Slay… —- Mark Burton, Manhattan Beach

** Strand House, Sugarfish, the Arthur J. —- Zein Obagi, Redondo Beach

** My 3 favorite restaurants are: Urban Plates, Joey’s, Tin Roof. —- Nina Michaels, Manhattan Beach

** The Strand House, Rock’N Fish, Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge. —- Jenna Record, Manhattan Beach

** O’Sho, Urban Plates, and Slay Steak & Fish. —- Dave Harris, Manhattan Beach

** Ercole’s for hamburgers, Slay Steak and Fish for steaks, Mercado for upscale Mexican. —- Phillip Cook, Manhattan Beach


MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

As A Last Resort, Do You Favor Trapping Wild Coyotes In Manhattan Beach?

** Yes, I am —- Nina Michaels, Manhattan Beach


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MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Even though I am happily married, I had a dream last week that I went out on a date with Kathie Lee Gifford. Weird. —- Pat H., Manhattan Beach

2. ** I promised never to drink another Bud Light beer for the rest of my life! —- Hank K., El Segundo

3. ** Following a weekend of street takeovers and “flash mob” burglaries in Compton, sheriff’s deputies reached out to the public for help identifying perpetrators. —- Ashley E., Manhattan Beach

4. ** I love Lido Bakery in Manhattan Beach. —- Nancy C., Manhattan Beach

5. ** Two thoughts while traveling: 1) Why do so many men 25-45 wear baseball caps backward? Do they think it’s cute? 2) Why do many young fathers call their sons ‘Buddy’? —- David M., Manhattan Beach

6. ** Today at the Pier in Manhattan Beach, the breeze is balmy. The sea is turquoise. Heaven! —- Loni A., Manhattan Beach

7. ** Would you rather your taxpayer dollars go to: 1. Hiring more IRS employees? 2. Hiring more border employees. —- Oliver F., Manhattan Beach

8. ** Recently, I saw a group of adult males run three stop signs in succession without slowing or caring about nearby cars or pedestrians – Center lane from Manhattan Ave to Hermosa. —- Devin P., Manhattan Beach

9. ** The Los Angeles-Long Beach metropolitan area was again named the most ozone-polluted region in the nation in an annual air-quality report released by the American Lung Association. —- Carin F., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Oh, the comfort – the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe in my beach city. I am feeling concerned. —- Dallas T., Manhattan Beach

11. ** There are more Panda Expresses than pandas. —- Barbie Y., Manhattan Beach

12. ** Forgive me, but our country seems on a path of doubt, division, and self-destruction. —- Abby W., Manhattan Beach

13. ** “Freedom is a fragile thing and it’s never more than one generation away from extinction. It is not ours by way of inheritance; it must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation.” —- Ronald Reagan

14. ** It may seem a small thing, but a stranger invited me to take the empty seat beside her in the front row at a concert. I’d arrived early, fully expecting to get a good seat, but everyone else in the audience had the same thought. Not three minutes later, a lady approached me and asked if I’d like to use the vacant seat beside her. Front row, center. One of the best seats in the house. It was lovely of her. —- Taylor H., Manhattan Beach

15. ** My neighbor found my cat dead in the middle of the street. The person who bashed her skull in did not even stop to move her to the curb. —- Tina M., Manhattan Beach

16. ** Can we agree that Kars 4 Kids is the most obnoxious, idiotic T.V. commercial ever created? —- Darcy P., Manhattan Beach

17. ** I would estimate 99% of people at Coachella are on drugs. And I might be low. —- Lindsay W., Manhattan Beach

18. ** The 12th Annual Officer Mark Vasquez Memorial Blood Drive takes place on May 22. To make an appointment to give blood, see RedCrossBloodDrive/org and search for Mark Vasquez. —- MBPD

19. ** MB Weekly has been a breath of fresh air – TY for your efforts. —- Jim Burton, Manhattan Beach

20. ** Thank you, MB Weekly. I appreciate the time and effort in producing my interview video. —- Stewart Fournier, Manhattan Beach

Comment / Hire / Share / Promote / Barter / Discuss
The MB Weekly Free Bulletin Board is your place to communicate for free with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach. Send your message (maximum 50 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


MB Weekly Disclaimer: 1.) MB Weekly accepts no liability for the content of this email, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. MB Weekly is not associated with any commercial or political organization and is transmitted via the web for the sole benefit of its subscribers. 2.) Unfortunately, computer viruses can be transmitted via email. The recipient should check this mail and any attachments for the presence of viruses.