Monthly Archives: June 2023

MB Weekly Bonus Edition 06/18/2023

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Two happy guests at the recent Rotary Club Annual Fundraiser.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Torie Lee, Ellah Seno and Richard McQuillan at a Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce Mixer.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Addison Evans, the general manager at Rockefeller Restaurant in Manhattan Beach.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

George and Zoey, two happy servers at Mercado in Manhattan Village.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Isabela from Brazil, a new team member from Urban Plates in Manhattan Village.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Marilyn Alcantar, general manager, and Ryan Whalen, server, at Fete Bistro Manhattan Beach.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Aaron Garisek, the popular general manager at Tin Roof in Manhattan Village.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Eddy, a chef, and Hector, a cashier, at Urban Plates Manhattan Beach.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Über Chef David Slay doing an interview in his restaurant Fête Bistro, in Manhattan Beach.


** Sometimes I feel like I’m driving in a third-world country while driving the streets of Manhattan Beach. When is our Public Works Dept going to do something about it? My road on the 14th between Pacific School and American Martyrs Church is so ridiculously torn up. We’ve emailed the Public Works dept several times to no avail. Where does all our tax money go? Other streets are just as bad, and I hope all these streets can be repaired. —- Liz Stromath, Manhattan Beach

** A woman was attacked with a sword by a mentally unstable homeless man. When will LA County address the homeless population along Dockweiler and Grand Beach near Tower 60? —- Tamara Kcehowski, El Segundo

** My seven-year-old son was hit by a car yesterday on Lenore St between Grant and Kent around 5 pm May 5th next to an ice cream truck. Thank God he is ok and only came out of the ER with a couple of broken bones in his leg. I am reaching out here hoping that someone may have video surveillance footage of the ice cream truck in the neighborhood anytime between 4:30 and 5:30 on May 5th. I have knocked on a few Neighbour’s doors hoping there is a video of the accident, but I have been unsuccessful so far. Any help is greatly appreciated! Thank you! For the record, the driver did stop but won’t respond to get me his insurance information. (Email: JessicaStark302@gmail.com) —- Jessica Stark, Torrance

** I can understand the Pasha armed robbers getting bonded out, even though I would instead prefer they be stuck in jail for years. However, that does not mean they will not have to go to trial. Please keep on this story because I bet there is a good chance we will never see them again. The big question is how they came up with all the money needed for the bond. —- Russ Lesser, Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach

** WARNING… A friend was walking her dog at 8:30 am on the bark trail near Manhattan Village Mall. A tall, mentally unstable man jumped out of the bushes and screamed at her. She ran to safety and called the police. Another neighbor also saw this man and said he was aggressive/unstable. Please be aware of your surroundings. Call the police if you see someone that appears to be a danger to themselves or others. —- C.H., Manhattan Beach

** I went to the Strand in Manhattan Beach yesterday but only had time for about four miles. In that time, seven people on e-bikes zipped past at well above the 8 MPH limit. Well above. Two zipped through the walk-only zone at the Hermosa Pier. That was on a relatively tranquil Thursday afternoon. Is there anything tangible that can be done to enforce the speed limit? I mean, before someone gets seriously hurt? I have a secondary concern as someone who relies heavily on an e-bike for work commuting and other transportation (due mainly to finances). I am concerned that if (when?) someone does get hit by a bike and seriously injured, restrictions or bans may follow. However, my primary concern is for the many people who walk, jog, and bike responsibly on the Strand. —- Len Kinzel, Manhattan Beach

** In the evening, around 10:00 PM, I was walking my dogs and saw a young man leaning against a neighbor’s trash can. I got home. I asked him if he was a family friend, and he said yes (my dogs were barking at him). A few minutes later, I looked outside, and he was gone. He looked to be around 20 or so, maybe 5’10”, blonde, baseball hat on backward, and light-colored sunglasses. Has anyone else seen him lurking about? This was on 32nd Place, 400 block, Manhattan Beach. —- Debbie D., Manhattan Beach

** I walked on the Strand at 8 am from El Porto to Manhattan Beach Pier; I always take this walk with no problems and always people around. However, when I stopped at the Pier, a 20-something Hispanic man approached me, asked if I was there yesterday, which I wasn’t, and then told me his S. $ got jacked. He had a long ponytail and tat on his left hand SOS; from his mannerisms and demeanor he was in fight mode and clinching his fists, and I watched his every move. As I started to walk on, he was walking with me, and I kept feeling he was about to take a swing but never did. I called MBPD and left a report; he ended his conversation if that’s what it was with him just getting out of jail. So if you’re on the Strand, just be aware. Always be ready. —- Corey Lubak, El Segundo

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MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Walking with my 88-year-old grandmother, who took the train from NY with four little kids in 1954 and landed in the South Bay, and has been here ever since. She is an amazing woman and an inspiration. —- Melissa Charlton


MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENTS: COVID

** The American government took unprecedented action in the early, terrified days of the outbreak. Within a few weeks, it changed into something resembling a welfare state in the mold of Europe. The social safety net was quickly strengthened by Congress, making it far stronger than it had ever been. It increased the generosity of programs like Medicaid and food stamps. It established new federal benefits like free school lunches and paid sick and caregiver leave. Also, it nearly universalized some pandemic benefits like stimulus checks and kid allowances. Since March 2020, it is anticipated that the government has spent $5 trillion assisting citizens and companies. —- Steve Revel

** According to a recent analysis from the U.S. Census Bureau, Los Angeles County, our County, suffered the greatest loss of life from COVID-19 at the height of the pandemic than any other major county in the nation. A regional population collapse last seen in Southern California during the aerospace crisis of the early 1990s was caused by the significant fall in the country’s most populous county, even though other nearby areas fared better. Over the course of a 27-month period, the population of Los Angeles County decreased by 2.9%, going from little over 10 million people on April 1, 2020, around the time the first COVID-19 deaths were making headlines, to just over 9.7 million people on July 1, 2022, when the pandemic was less severe. Much her for our Manhattan Beach City Council and city leaders to think about. —- Clay Tobias

** It all began with government-mandated school closings and student masks during the coronavirus pandemic. In the current culture war between conservatives and liberals, school board meetings in the South Bay and across the country have become a key battleground. Anatomy teacher in Placentia was suspended for bringing up gay sex while discussing the reproductive system. Outside of a school board meeting, protestors and counter protesters got into a fight over how the district teaches about gender identity, and Glendale police had to break it up. In the past, school board meetings in Southern California were unassuming, with little attendance. Now they can more resemble a WWF broadcast. —- Darby Winston


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Manhattan Beach Sunset by former MB Mayor, Wayne Powell.


MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:
DO YOU BELIEVE MANSON FAMILY KILLER SHOULD BE RELEASED FROM JAIL?

** Are you kidding? The murders were very horrific, shocking and unheard of at the time. The Manson Family lunatics took away 5 lives and the future of an 8 ½ month fetus. They killed a total of 9 people plus the fetus over a two-month period. Their lives, in terms of freedom, should be taken away from them for as long as they live. They were sentenced to death but CA’s soft on crime abolition of the death sentence got them life in prison. That sentence, life in prison, should mean just that. As a society, we should have more compassion for the victims and less concern for the perpetrators. Manson died in prison and the others should be in prison when they die. —- Phil C., Manhattan Beach


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MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Last week, a jack-ass teen riding an e-bike through Metlox Center Plaza almost hit us. I would be mortified if my children behaved like today’s youngsters, who are disrespectful and obnoxious. The e-bikes are unsafe, and someone will be gravely wounded soon. The police station across the street lets minors ride dangerously in the nighttime plaza. Disgraceful. —- Hillary C., Manhattan Beach

2. ** Our family loves Tin Roof! They have fantastic meals, a great wine list, and fast service. Tin Roof is great for dinner and socializing. —- Erin G., Manhattan Beach

3. ** Manhattan Village – WTF? Gun-wielding police are swarming Mercado and Tommy Bahama stores! —- Alison J., Manhattan Beach

4. ** Before wasting time and money on college, ask yourself if you genuinely need to go. —- Tony O., Hermosa Beach

5. ** I can’t believe Bob Dylan is 82. —- Alvin L., Manhattan Beach

6. ** I am impressed with Councilwoman Howorth’s apology for donating money to that disaster D.A. George Gascon. —- Lois P., Manhattan Beach

7. ** Who the Hell does the hiring at Randy’s Donuts in El Segundo? Disaster. —- Jess M., El Segundo

8. ** At High School Debates throughout the country, debate Is No Longer Allowed. At national tournaments, judges are making their stances clear: students who argue ‘capitalism can reduce poverty’ or ‘Israel has a right to defend itself’ will lose – no questions asked. —- Dr. Howell R., Manhattan Beach

9. ** Spires Restaurant is closing after 46 years in Torrance. The building that houses the restaurant will be demolished, and two 2,479-square-foot restaurants, each with 495-square-foot outdoor dining areas. —- Editor’s Note

10. ** Shoot the coyotes…on sight! They bring no value to populated areas. The risk of losing one child….well, do you want that responsibility hanging around your neck? The other wild critters they feed on can be handled separately. —- Tom T., 35-year resident, “Keep Manhattan Beach Safe”….kill the coyotes!

11. ** M.B. Weekly is AMAZING! WE ARE DYING OVER IT. I LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT. IT REALLY IS PERFECT! I will be seeing a group of Southbay girlfriends tomorrow night and will ensure they are all signed up for this newsletter if they aren’t already! —- Betty H., Manhattan Beach

12. ** Drywallers must be incredible at putting cream cheese on bagels. —- Adam C., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Running out of fuel will become a much bigger problem when we have flying cars. —- Barb T., Manhattan Beach

14. ** I’ve seen coyotes in Manhattan Beach four separate times in the past few months. Since coyotes are entering backyards, will the city reconsider its options? —- Harvey D., Manhattan Beach

15. ** We love Andrew at Mercado! —- Sandy and Marla P., Manhattan Beach

16. ** Nikki Haley is the real deal! —- Gwen A., Manhattan Beach

17. ** Frenemies can wreak more havoc on your well-being than enemies. —- Adam K., Manhattan Beach

18. ** Award-winning P.R. / Branding firm seeking an entry-level part-time, 10-15 hours a week (flexible hours) special project coordinator. You must be smart, hungry to learn, reliable, tech-savvy, and resourceful. Excellent knowledge and opportunity for the right person. www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com. Email resume to: AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com

19. ** Last Saturday at about 4 p.m., Hermosa Beach Police, L.A. County Firefighters, and Lifeguards responded to a stabbing on the upper level of the downtown parking lot. Fire and lifeguard paramedics treated a 20-something male with an abdominal stab wound. Harbor General received the victim. —- Leslie K., Hermosa Beach

20. ** As a liberal, I often don’t agree with Mike Michalski but honestly often find his writing thought-provoking and difficult to challenge. —- Michelle A., Manhattan Beach

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MB Weekly 06/15/2023

MB WEEKLY:
EXCLUSIVE READER QUESTIONS
TO MB MAYOR
RICHARD MONTGOMERY

Dear Mayor: ARE YOU PERSONALLY SATISFIED WITH THE POLICE PRESENCE DOWNTOWN, ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT?
A: Yes. After we started foot patrols downtown during COVID, we realized the benefits of a consistent and increased police presence Downtown. One of the benefits of hiring seven (7) additional police officers is it provides the Chief “flexibility” for both foot patrols and bike patrols.

Dear Mayor: DID YOU VOTE IN FAVOR OF THE $400,000 CONSULTING FEE FOR OUTDOOR DINING?
A: Yes I did for it. City staff does not have the expertise or time to perform the specific and detailed analysis.

Dear Mayor: WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED SINCE BECOMING MAYOR RECENTLY?
A: It is my fourth term as Mayor. My first term began prior to the Great Recession in 2008. My third began less than two weeks to the COVID lockdown in 2020. Months There is not one “biggest lesson.” Each term as Mayor is unique and has its own challenges. My most difficult term was 2020 as nothing can prepare a mayor for a worldwide pandemic.

Dear Mayor: ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE FINANCIAL FUTURE OF MANHATTAN BEACH FIVE YEARS FROM NOW?
A: My concern is unless we support an increase in our storm water fund property assessment (last raised over 20 years ago) we will be reaching into our reserve accounts in the next five years. The city is paying over $1.5 million out of its General Fund to subsidize this item currently.

Dear Mayor: DO YOU PLAN TO RUN FOR HIGHER POLITICAL OFFICE IN THE FUTURE?
A: No

Send Your Questions To
The Mayor Of Manhattan Beach

The Mayor of Manhattan Beach, Richard Montgomery, has generously agreed to write an “Ask the Mayor” monthly column exclusively for MB Weekly. Please send your questions to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Christy Taylor Barnes

Today, while driving my 7th grader home from school, we reviewed his day and what he learned. He mentioned that he almost fell asleep during science because they were talking about sex ed! I had forgotten about the sex ed talk. Back at the beginning of April (8 weeks ago), we received an introductory letter stating our children would be receiving sex education. However, the title of the email was “California Healthy Youth Act Notification,” not Sex Ed. Only when you click on the hyperlinked email, do you get into more detail. Furthermore, NO curriculum is presented, and to review any curriculum, you were required to go to the district office and physically look at items without any recording tools, cameras, etc. No additional emails or communication has been sent regarding the education of CHYA. Today’s California healthy youth act topic included Anal Sex. 7th graders are 12 years old. My 7th grader is 12 years old. Anal Sex was discussed under the guise that to avoid getting a sexually transmitted disease (infection) during Anal Sex, one should wear a condom. I believe this is going too far for our 12-year-old children. I think our district hiring a consulting firm that is not transparent about the curriculum, what will be presented, and when it will be presented is wrong. I find it irresponsible that the parents never received an email encouraging them to discuss further what their 12-year-olds are learning in school or what topic was taught that day so that the children have a parent to consult with, especially when they have additional questions. Thankfully, I was present to answer the many follow-up questions that my 12-year-old had regarding Anal Sex and sexually transmitted diseases. I wonder how many children came home and told their parents about Anal Sex. I believe the school district is trying to hide what is being taught to our children. The school district does not want to encourage open dialogue between the parents and children regarding sexual education.

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


MB WEEKLY – David Slay Exclusive Video Part Two:

DAVID SLAY / PART TWO

https://youtu.be/nBUKTfU2btI


COULD IT HAPPEN AGAIN?

Next week marks the one-year anniversary of the astonishingly brazen armed robbery at Pasha Fine Jewelry in downtown Manhattan Beach blocks from the police station in broad daylight on a crowded street. What has changed? Could it happen again? Why aren’t there any arrests of an outrageous crime caught on video? MB Weekly updates readers in next week’s edition.


MB Weekly Reveals Overwhelming Support For Selective Trapping Of Coyotes In Manhattan Beach:

A MB Weekly poll reveals that a significant majority of MB Weekly readers, over 71%, strongly favor selective trapping of coyotes in Manhattan Beach, citing concerns for the safety of their beloved pets and children. The poll results also shed light on the growing frustration among residents with the perceived lack of action from the City in addressing the issue. Many respondents expressed disappointment in the City’s slow response as the problem escalated. Concerns over the potential threats coyotes pose to their pets and children have intensified, leading to an overwhelming demand for more proactive measures.

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The Manhattan Beach Police Department Has Started E-Bike Enforcement:

This SUR-RON bike is not legal to be driven on a public roadway. The juvenile was issued a citation, and the bike was impounded. The MBPD informed parents to ensure their children are using a legal e-bike and following all the laws. “Giving a 13-year-old an electric bike that exceeds 30 mph, that lacks required safety equipment, and a driver without any sort of understanding of the rules of the road is just a recipe for disaster,” said a police spokesperson.


Fête … BISTRO BY SLAY:

www.FeteBySlay.com


MB WEEKLY – MBX HONORS WAYLAND:

The MBX Foundation’s 20th-anniversary party, held on the Shade Hotel terrace last month, drew about 100 guests. Clothing was informal. There were passed appetizers but no meals. The bartender instructed the customers, “Open bar ’til the tab runs out.” Gary Wayland, the creator of MBX, was the evening’s honoree, even though his name was absent from the invitation. Ed McKeegan, the outgoing president of MBX, gave a brief overview of the foundation’s support for the Manhattan Beach Unified School District as he welcomed the attendees in casual clothes and sitting on folding chairs.


MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Connor Wohl

Cars & Coffee

Q: PLEASE EXPLAIN THE CONCEPT BEHIND CARS & COFFEE?
A: The concept of the Cars & Coffee is to create a community wide event that brings everyone together whether they love cars or appreciate them. Seeing all walks of life, especially parents who appreciate cars show their kids, is the coolest thing as the car passion truly does start young. Typically you’re born with that car bug.

Q: HOW DID THE CONCEPT GET CREATED?
A: Connor and I created this show in high school as a car club to raise money for our schools. We wanted to also see if others with the same passion could bring it alive. We started with the Manhattan Beach Concours which was an annual judged show by (us) to award a best in show and class winner. It was a massive hit. We decided people wanted more so we had to be quick and introduce an extension of that with our monthly meets. We are so proud to be the premier South Bay Car meet that has evolved to great growth amongst the car enthusiasts.

Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: We have lived in Manhattan Beach for our whole life and the community of Manhattan Beach is unmatched and undeniably the best Beach town! Seeing our show and community grow has been so special to us.

Q: HOW DOES SOMEONE ATTEND A CARS & COFFEE EVENT?
A: Its free! The beauty is any car is able to come with any following or presence. You bring any car, class, model and it is accepted. All are welcome to bring and share their passions!

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: I love modern classics, a new terminology stemmed from the end of Naturally aspirated vehicles! Everything is EV nowadays. 2013 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse.

Q: WHAT ASTROLOGY SIGN ARE YOU?
A: LEO, a natural born Leader.

www.ManhattanBeachCarsAndCoffee.com


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Twelve seniors received awards for finishing Mira Costa High School’s distinctive Biotech elective course. Ernesto Nodado and Rebecca Fox, two of the graduating class’s teachers who have various backgrounds in science, hosted a unique ceremony for them. Since 2017, Nodado, a science instructor for the past 14 years, has worked with the Biotech program.


Redoing Manhattan Beach Pier Railings This Winter:

Manhattan Beach will get new pier rails. The city released a prototype of the pier’s new railings, which look similar to the ones that were last updated more than 30 years ago. The City Council accepted the final design, and the rails might be in by year’s end. The pier was designated a landmark in 1995 to preserve its historical aspects. The current rails were safe but corroded and needed a makeover. Project Manager Gilbert Gamboa claimed the aluminum railings will last longer in the sea environment than the iron ones. He estimated construction at $1.8 million.


MB WEEKLY – LENS:

NBA basketball star Steve Nash is married to Lilla Frederick; the couple got engaged in Spain in 2016, and later had an intimate wedding in Manhattan Beach, in September of the same year.


MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Maureen McBride

Tabula Rasa Essential

“Random Questions”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TV SHOW OF ALL TIME?
–Cheers.

HAVE YOU EVER EATEN AT THE OLIVE GARDEN?
–Once with my 89-year-old neighbor. Early lunch. They all knew her. She had a special booth.

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU GOT A SPEEDING TICKET?
–Never.

DO YOU REMEMBER THE NAME OF YOUR KINDERGARTEN TEACHER?
–Unfortunately I don’t but I went to a great school, Thomas Jefferson Elementary.

DO YOU SNORE?
–No.

www.TabulaRasaEssentials.com


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Ravae Quonce

My boyfriend’s car’s window was broken last night, and the vehicle was stolen. 2022 blue Charger Hell Cat with tinted windows and Florida plates, which I’m sure are gone. Across the street from Two Guns Espresso on Manhattan Beach Blvd. 850-860 Manhattan Beach Boulevard.

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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Clay Tobias

You may have questioned how to comfort a friend, lover, family member, or coworker. Let them vent? Chocolate bar? Give them room to cry? Experts think the best method varies by individual and context. However, a small but growing body of studies reveals that talking is one of the best methods to calm someone down. Because humans are social, words influence emotions. Razia Sahi, a doctoral candidate in psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles, studies how social interactions affect people’s emotions. She said people’s brains “constantly use it as feedback to change their behaviors and responses.” Our opinions matter to others. However, some verbal encouragement is more effective than others. In a short research published on December 8, Ms. Sahi and her colleagues discovered that validation – phrases like “I understand why you feel that way” or “That sounds very hard” – is particularly reassuring.

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** Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce President, David Archer, having lunch at Fishing with Dynamite in Manhattan Beach.

** Realtor Michael Michalski having dinner at Nando’s in Manhattan Beach.

** Vince Altamura having lunch at Nick’s in downtown Manhattan Beach.

** Rabbi Yossi having lunch at Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach.


MB WEEKLY – R.I.P.:

Jay Berman Dies at 83

Newsman Jay Berman passed away at 83. He started a lifelong career when he entered the Daily Breeze at age 21. He graduated from USC’s journalism program. He is survived by his wife Irene Machuca, and Dennis, a son from a previous marriage.


MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

SHOULD MANHATTAN BEACH AND SURROUNDING SOUTH BAY COMMUNITIES ALLOW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LIBRARIES TO CARRY THE BIBLE?

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

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Make Tonight A Night To Remember
Mix, Mingle, Network:

June Mixer:
June 21, 2023 at 5:30 pm-7:30 pm

DOWNSTAIRS BAR
900 Manhattan Ave

Drinks/Appetizers will be provided
Members $10
Prospective Members $20


MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Last Saturday I was walking my dog on a sidewalk near my home, when I fell on my hip and, unbeknownst to me, fractured my pelvis in two places. Almost immediately, a young couple stopped their car and tried for a long time to help me to stand up. That failing, the gentleman carried me to his car, and they drove my dog and I to my home. —- Alexandrea S., Manhattan Beach

2. ** In general, communities either develop and flourish or droop and deteriorate to the same degree as their leaders uphold or disregard the fundamental responsibility of humility. —- Jonathan B., Manhattan Beach

3. ** A homeowner in the Manhattan Village recently lost their Kitty outside their front door to a Coyote. Animal Control’s number is 310-802-5159. —- N.P., Manhattan Beach

4. ** I love Nando’s Trattoria. Best authentic Italian restaurant in the South Bay! —- Isabella C., Manhattan Beach

5. ** American psychologists – once trained to listen without judgment – are using sessions to proselytize their politics. —- Roland V., Manhattan Beach

6. ** I’m with Riley Gaines! —- Lawrence B., Manhattan Beach

7. ** Our family – my wife, three kids, and I – moved to Israel from Manhattan Beach 25 years ago. Why? We simply wanted to be part of the story of a young country that was going to write the future of the Jewish people. Life here has been wondrous at times but frightening and overwhelmingly sad at others.

8. ** Saint Rocke in Hermosa Beach celebrates grand reopening. An iconic music venue in Hermosa Beach – where myriad legendary punk bands have performed – reopened this week. —- Editor’s note

9. ** I agree with coyote trapping. —- Susan D., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Sports Illustrated is officially a parody of itself. They just put Martha Stewart on one of the covers of their annual swimsuit issue. Another cover features Kim Petras who is a man pretending to be a woman. —- John A., Manhattan Beach

11. ** Graphic Designer (onsite Los Angeles, CA area): A graphic designer with at least 1-2 years of experience who is familiar with the Adobe Creative suite (mainly Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, and Premiere) and able to research and develop creative design solutions to assist PragerU’s social media, fundraising, and marketing needs.

12. ** I never see any police presence in the downtown area of Manhattan Beach. —- George P., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Illegal migrants bring fentanyl through our southern border which now kills 200 American children every day. —- Emma S., Manhattan Beach

14. ** Hermosa Beach has launched a digital app that lets drivers pay for and add time to parking meters using their mobile phones. The app, called, ParkMobile, went live earlier this week for downtown lots A, B, and C, according to a Hermosa Beach city spokesperson. On-street spaces will eventually follow, though existing metered payment options, including bank cards and coins, will continue. —- Editor’s note

15. ** Insurances are a form of gambling where you bet against yourself. —- Christopher H., Manhattan Beach

16. ** 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. —- Catherine K., Manhattan Beach

17. ** STABBING (Near Del Amo Mall-Carson St & Madrona) Just saw this on Neighbors: https://neighbors.ring.com/n/V45rK6MIGz

18. ** I’d vote “in favor” of M.B. trapping coyotes. —- Michael C., Manhattan Beach

19. ** A motorcyclist who was injured in a crash Wednesday in Torrance died at a hospital. The crash occurred about 3:30 p.m. near Sepulveda Boulevard and Anza Avenue, according to the Torrance Police Department. —- Editor’s note

20. ** MBMS folks: Ask your 7th grader what they learned in “sex” ed today… It starts with an A and involves your booty hole. —- Christy Barnes

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MB Weekly 06/08/2023

MB WEEKLY:
EXCLUSIVE COMMENTARY
by Suzanne Hadley

Former MB Mayor

When did our MB teachers’ union (MBUTA) get so political? In 2020-2021 it was bad enough: the union and its president Shawn Chen kept MB schools closed during COVID long after it was safe and legal to reopen. But union politics have flared up again this school year; once more the behavior seems more Teamster than teacher. Just this spring:

  • Union president Shawn Chen was pictured in the Easy Reader picketing outside of the high school.
  • The union has not yet approved an academic calendar for the upcoming school year–that starts in two months!
  • Some union teachers announced that no letters of recommendation for HS seniors will be written until a new contract is negotiated. And union-active classrooms have been closed to students during lunch and clubs. These tactics aim to hold our students hostage to the union’s demands.

We all love rank-and-file teachers, the vast majority of whom don’t engage in union politics. LAUSD and Oakland parents are regularly affected by union teachers who picket, strike, and play politics. But this is MB. That stuff shouldn’t happen here. I hope by press time the board and union have already signed a new 3-year contract. If so, this is moot… for now. If negotiations drag on, I’d urge the teachers’ union not to shoot themselves in the foot. Please stop the politics and picketing; stop using our students as political pawns; approve the 2023-24 calendar; and keep dissension with the board behind closed doors. Would love to see the union live up to its own words on the union website: the MBUTA is motivated “to inspire, enrich and cultivate student potential…”

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


MB WEEKLY READER POLL:
DOWNTOWN RESIDENTS AND BUSINESS OWNERS WANT PRIVATE SECURITY GUARDS

SEE LITTLE POLICE PRESENCE DOWNTOWN

77% of Manhattan Beach downtown residents and business owners desire private security guards to help patrol the downtown area during summer months when tourist traffic soars. A large majority, 82% of those polled, expressed disappointment in the lack of police presence in the downtown area, especially during the evening hours. “I was told that the police were going to begin bike patrols a couple of months ago and thus far has seen none,” said Audrey J., a longtime downtown business owner. “After two brazen armed robberies in the downtown area in under a year, you would think there would be an improved presence.”

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


MB WEEKLY – David Slay Exclusive Video:

DAVID SLAY / PART ONE
Next Week Part Two

https://youtu.be/bseRskWlDdg


Ads For Skechers USA Power Up:

Skechers USA Inc. has recently used athletes and celebrities to promote their products, which resulted in more revenue for the Manhattan Beach footwear producer and distributor. In the first quarter, revenue surpassed $2 billion for the first time in the company’s 31-year history, up 10% over the same time last year. Skechers’ chief operating officer, David Weinberg, attributed the growth to the company’s direct-to-consumer channels built through its e-commerce platform and retail locations and to strong domestic and international sales. “Our record sales expanded gross margins of 48.9%, and meaningfully improved inventory levels indicate the strength of our comfort technology products and impactful marketing worldwide,” Weinberg said in a statement accompanying the company’s April 27 release of its quarterly results. “With plans to reach $10 billion in annual sales by 2026, we couldn’t be more positive about the many meaningful growth opportunities we see ahead.”


MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Rachael Wixom

THE SALTY GROM

Q: WHAT MADE YOU START THE SALTY GROM?
A: I have three boys. They all love the ocean. When my oldest son was as young as 3 years old he would spend all day in the water. He would only get out to change up a surfboard for another board. It was hard to get him to re-apply sunscreen and he would get out with rashes. I looked for something for him to wear under his board shorts and wetsuits to prevent the rashes but all I could find was black swim speedos. Always having a love for prints I designed a printed surf short and we called it The Salty Grom, SHRED guard. Fun fact – The Salty Grom logo is taken from a picture of my son jumping naked off a palm tree in Bora Bora. At the time he was just 4 years old.

Q: HAVE YOU ANY PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN BUSINESS?
A: I graduated [from] The University of Santa Barbara with an Accounting/Economics degree. I tried my hand at a few finance jobs but they weren’t for me and I quickly moved into the analytical side of the fashion world. I worked as a merchandiser for LVMH (Duty Free Stores) Worldwide Boutiques for the brand Hermes, a buyer for Macys West, and eventually moved into design and worked for a variety of fashion companies here in Los Angeles.

Q: WHAT’S BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE IN RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS THUS FAR?
A: The Salty Grom was only a few years old when COVID hit. It was a challenge to sustain the business during that time.

Q: WHO IS YOUR IDEAL CUSTOMER?
A: My ideal customer is a mom. They want to keep their kids protected from the sun and they are conscious of the environment. Our product is UPF50+ and sustainable (78% recycled fabric).

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Sixteen Candles – Molly Ringwald (Sam) was rad and Michael Schoeffling (Jake) was so dreamy. The Thompson Twins – If You Were Here, is still one of my favorite songs.

Q: WHAT ARE THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN THE MANHATTAN BEACH AREA?
A: The Strand house (the view is one of a kind), MB Post (my husband and I met in that same location when it was Towne years ago), and Sugar Fish for take out Sushi.

Q: WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE DINNER WITH ELON MUSK OR PRESIDENT BIDEN?
A: Elon Musk, he intrigues me. I would like to ask him how he envisions the world in a decade and what his thoughts are on life on other planets. I would also ask him [if] he planned to run for president one day.

Q: WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU DO EVERY DAY?
A: I run every day. It is my yoga. I have only missed a handful of days in the last decade and 1/2. I ran throughout all my pregnancies and when the boys were born, I would run around town with my double stroller. I ran the kids to school, to the grocery store, everywhere. People thought I was crazy. MB locals really thought I didn’t own a car! Follow me on Instagram: thesaltygrom1

www.TheSaltyGrom.com


Tin Roof Bistro:

Peppadew Hummus – this Mediterranean delight is perfectly complemented by crisp cucumber, tangy kalamata olives, juicy tomatoes, zesty red onion, crumbled feta, and a side of toasted flatbread. Get ready to taste the perfect starter dish!

www.TinRoofBistro.com


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mike Michalski

Manhattan Beach Realtor

In viewing the Manhattan Beach City Council meeting on May 16, I was dismayed and disgusted to hear one of the owners of Manhattan Grocery recount their experience with a group of shoplifters the previous day who basically walked out of their store with stolen merchandise after informing the clerk that there wasn’t a damn thing he could do about it. Fortunately, the thieving thugs were wrong as the police were called and were able to locate and arrest the main perpetrator. This incident struck me as a microcosm of what’s become of law and order in Los Angeles County thanks to the likes of pro-criminal L.A. County District Attorney George Gascon, whose policies have emboldened the likes of the Manhattan Grocery thieves. So I was heartened to hear Council member Amy Howorth, who supported Gascon’s election and donated to his campaign, disavow Gascon’s misguided soft-on-crime policies from the dais. Ms. Howorth may also wish to disavow the equally misguided policies and/or statements of a few other local politicians who she has previously endorsed and financially supported, including: County Supervisor Holly Mitchell (the County Supervisor for Manhattan Beach’s district), in 2021, disparaged law enforcement and the District Attorneys’ Association as “clearly such white supremacist organizations.” County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, who last month proposed that all prisoners currently being held in the County jail on bail of $50,000 or less, including many charged with felonies, be released from jail outright with a citation to appear in court at a later date. Meanwhile, serious crimes were up 34% in Manhattan Beach in the past two years, up 36% for property crimes alone. Council member Howorth’s repudiation of the statements and policies of Gascon, Mitchell, and Horvath won’t alter these trends but it would reinforce our City Council’s previously expressed commitment to public safety as priority number one.

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


SEND US YOUR PHOTO!

If you live or work in Manhattan Beach or surrounding South Bay communities, send us your fun photo to share with neighbors, friends, and associates to MB Weekly. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net


Manhattan Beach Resident Wants To Preserve An Old Pine Tree In Community:

More than 40 years have passed since Paul Sterba first moved into his Manhattan Beach house on 27th Street. He claimed that the pine tree in front of the house was one of the primary factors in his decision. According to Sterba, the tree is at least 100 years old and may be as old as 150 years, which means it existed long before Manhattan Beach was even a community. Although city officials claim they are doing all possible to protect it, Sterba claimed that a future roadway fix directly in front of his lifelong residence could harm the ancient tree in the east corner of his land.


MORE COFFEE IN MANHATTAN BEACH:

Manhattan Beach contains five independent and chain roasters within a few blocks. A sixth is coming. Caffe Luxe will open on Manhattan Avenue this summer if all goes well. Santa Monica’s eighth location roasts all its coffee in Gardena.


Dive N’ Surf:

Hey folks! We have kid suits here at the store! Sizes that range from 2-16! Come get your gear for the summer and make sure your kiddos are in style for beach season! We have brands on brands! Come check it out!

www.DiveNSurf.com


MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Ed Kushins

Acclaimed South Bay Entrepreneur

“EITHER / OR” INTERVIEW

WINE OR BEER?
–Wine
GOING OUT OR STAYING IN?
–Both
TRAIN OR PLANE?
–Train
COOK OR DO THE DISHES?
–Dishes
VACATION TO DO LOTS OF THINGS OR A VACATION TO DO NOTHING?
–Both
MOVIE THEATER OR STREAMING SERVICE?
–Streaming
AMUSEMENT PARKS OR REGULAR PARKS?
–National Parks
SPORTING EVENT OR CONCERT?
–Concert
ONLINE SHOPPING OR IN PERSON SHOPPING?
–Online
DOING LAUNDRY OR VACUUMING?
–Both

www.VacationPropertyPartners.com


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mimi Toberman

Manhattan Beach

If you’re the parents of an eight-year-old girl riding around Sand Dune on a motorized bike wearing an aqua blue helmet (with an 11-year-old friend also in an aqua blue helmet riding on the back), please talk to her about safety and STOPPING AT STOP SIGNS. I tried to talk to her. She wasn’t buying it. She told me I was a mean old lady. She said she didn’t see the stop sign. I pointed out every stop sign on Vista at every #’ed street. Hello?

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


SEE YOUR COMMUNITY CLEARLY – READ MB WEEKLY:

“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”

*Intriguing People. *Intriguing Community.
Join Your Neighbors. Sign up for FREE:
www.MBWeekly.net


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Clay Tobias

It is indisputable that our society, including us elites in Manhattan Beach, has a significant loneliness issue. A 2018 research by the Kaiser Family Foundation discovered that about 60 million Americans, or 22% of all adults, reported feeling lonely or socially isolated frequently or constantly. That occurred more than two years before the COVID epidemic. Additionally, Americans seem to be growing more isolated over time: There was a 25 percentage point decline in the proportion of Americans who said they had five or more close friends between 1990 and 2021. Today, more young individuals than older people report feeling lonely. It’s common to compare this pervasive loneliness to a disease or an epidemic. But such a label hides a crucial fact: In today’s world, loneliness is a byproduct of societal systems we’ve chosen – knowingly or unknowingly – to create for ourselves, not just inevitable or abstract forces like technological advancement.

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


AWARD-WINNING HAIRSTYLIST – 2023

“Best of Los Angles Award”

Sean James

Celebrity Hairstylist/Makeup
Mens Groomer LOCAL 706 Union Makeup Artist
Matthew Preece Salon
www.MatthewPreece.com


MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Toby Brenner

Manhattan Beach

Dangerous traffic situation with oncoming traffic. Manhattan Village Mall 30th St. on the south side of Sidecar Donuts heading west toward Sepulveda. Large delivery trucks block the only westbound lane almost daily, forcing people to drive in the oncoming lane, creating a hazardous situation. I’ve seen several near head-ons misses. Sysco is there daily with a giant truck.

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


MB WEEKLY – R.I.P.:

Kevin Sousa, “Heartbeat of the South Bay” Musician
Dies at 52

Kevin Sousa, the South Bay’s Renaissance man, musician and therapist, passed away May 26 at age 52. He was a touring guitar technician for Glenn Frey of the Eagles and performed at the BeachLife Festival with his band. Kevin Sousa performed at BeachLife this year. His passing devastated South Bay musicians. A day after her husband passed, Patti Sousa said on Facebook that he was first diagnosed with cancer in September 2020.


MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:

“Could it really happen in Manhattan Beach?”


MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

WHAT ARE THE LITTLE RITUALS THAT KEEP YOU GOING?

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)


START A DYNAMIC CAREER IN ENTERTAINMENT AND MEDIA:

“A Chance In A Lifetime, In A Lifetime Of Chance.”

Extraordinary entry-level, part-time (flexible hours) opportunity to join an award-winning P.R. and Branding firm. Inspiring knowledge and opportunity for smart, reliable, detail-oriented, organized person hungry to learn and grow in the world of entertainment and media. Approximately 10 part-time (flexible) hours per week. “A chance in a lifetime, in a lifetime of chance.” Contact Amanda Kent, Chief Innovation Officer: AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com

www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com


MBPD HIRING:

LATERAL POLICE OFFICER & POLICE RECRUIT
Annual Officer Salary Up To $170,882
Recruit Academy Pay $38.80 hour

www.ManhattanBeach.gov/departments/police-department


MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** A graveyard officer conducted extra patrols of the downtown area when she conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. That traffic stop led to the recovery of an illegally possessed handgun and a dealer’s choice of drugs. —- MBPD

2. ** The quantity of “road rage” and speeding cars running red lights in Manhattan Beach is a major issue. —- Lauren S., Manhattan Beach

3. ** Does Anyone know what’s happening at the Weed Dispensary on 137TH Street and Inglewood? Numerous Sheriffs & Fire trucks are at the location. —- Roberto T., El Segundo

4. ** Sales of Bud Light are down more than 26% as of last week. This is an optimistic sign for our society.

5. ** I’m sorry to say our neighborhood isn’t that great. My automobile was stolen overnight. —- Howard K., Torrance

6. ** I’m not too fond of Starbucks. —- Tim A., Manhattan Beach

7. ** No one has done more in Manhattan Beach for bike safety than Councilman Joe Franklin. Thank you on behalf of the parents. —- Holly M., Manhattan Beach

8. ** Think of President Joe Biden; peace be upon him. He can barely get a sentence out without a mumble, a slur, or a confused expression. —- Amanda F., Manhattan Beach

9. ** Nando Trattoria in downtown Manhattan Beach is now open for lunch Saturday and Sunday, starting at 11:30 a.m. —- Editor’s Note

10. ** Coyote! I was walking my dog at Pollywog Park around 8 p.m., and a coyote approached us. I grabbed my dog. This coyote was not scared at all of us, and as I tried to speed walk away, it followed us at a close distance! It is just a matter of time! —- Elena R., Manhattan Beach

11. ** Personalized food delivered to your door —- www.SetTheTableLA.com

12. ** The prices of specialty drinks at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf are obscenely high! —- Erica R., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Congratulations to MB Weekly for being nonpartisan and independent! Well done. —- George P., Manhattan Beach

14. ** When people call you intelligent, it’s almost always because they agree with you; otherwise, they just call you arrogant. —- Donald M., Manhattan Beach

15. ** I like Councilwoman Amy Howorth. —- Jennifer M., Manhattan Beach

16. ** My wife and I have been married for 43 years and neither of us has ever called the other “Babe.” —- Paul Wafer, Manhattan Beach

17. ** I appreciate the work you do at the MB Weekly. I love the format and content, and I learn something while reading each issue. —- Tim Hageman, Manhattan Beach

18. ** The New York Times is about as independent as A.O.C.! —- Tammi A., Manhattan Beach

19. ** Every time I leave the house, my wife needs a play-by-play about where I am going, how long I’ll be away, etc. I was a player years ago, but age has caught up with me. —- Arnold Z., Hermosa Beach

20. ** Young Ladies: Here is a clue for you. Tattoos are tacky. Why would you put a bumper sticker on a Ferrari? —- Lawrence K., 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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