MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
77% SAY COYOTE PROBLEM WORSENING – GROWING FRUSTRATION WITH SOUTH BAY RESPONSE
According to a recent MB Weekly reader poll, a decisive 77% of respondents believe the coyote problem in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities has grown worse over the past year. Even more troubling, many residents feel the city’s current response is falling far short of the urgency the situation demands. “I am tired of the endless talking,” said Pierce O., a longtime Hermosa Beach homeowner and business operator. “The problem is both real and growing, and my neighbors are damn very frustrated!” In recent months, multiple reports of coyotes stalking pets, roaming neighborhoods in broad daylight, and even approaching young children have intensified concerns. While city officials have held community forums and discussed various deterrent measures, the public sentiment expressed in the poll suggests residents are losing patience with what they see as a slow-moving bureaucracy. As coyote sightings and confrontations rise, pressure is mounting on local governments to move beyond talk and implement real, practical solutions before the situation escalates further.
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David Lesser Takes The Helm As Manhattan Beach’s New Mayor:
In a lighthearted yet symbolic moment, outgoing Mayor Amy Howorth concluded her third term by handing over her trademark pink gavel to incoming Mayor David Lesser. The two veteran councilmembers, who both served from 2011 to 2019 before returning together in 2022, have shared a common mission: to restore civility to a local public discourse. Lesser, a longtime public servant and former councilmember, pledged to lead with transparency, collaboration, and a focus on preserving the city’s small-town charm while addressing modern challenges.
https://www.manhattanbeach.gov/government/city-council
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Amanda Gale
(Zislis Group Director of Operations)
FROM WAITRESS TO DIRECTOR:
A: My journey started at a mom-and-pop restaurant called Mama D’s in Manhattan Beach, where I learned the value of genuine hospitality and hard work. From there, I became a hostess at Sea Level at the Shade Hotel Redondo Beach, one of the Zislis Group’s properties. That opportunity opened the door to management, and I eventually became the General Manager of Rock’N Fish, where I stayed for nearly a decade. Each step taught me something new, how to manage people, run a business, and drive performance. But the real turning point came when I realized I wasn’t just solving problems – I was building teams, creating culture, and helping others grow. That’s when I knew: I’m not just managing this – I can lead it.
THE MANHATTAN BEACH EDGE:
A: Growing up in Manhattan Beach gave me a deep appreciation for community and consistency. There’s a pride here in doing things the right way, in showing up and being part of something bigger than yourself. That mindset shaped how I lead, by being present, by caring about the details, and by understanding that every guest interaction matters. This town taught me to work hard, stay grounded, and never lose sight of why hospitality matters: it’s about connection.
LEADERSHIP IN ACTION:
A: I lead by example, staying involved in all aspects of the business. I focus on communication, accountability, and recognition. Building a strong team is about consistency and support, creating a culture where everyone feels valued and motivated.
ADVICE TO ASPIRING LEADERS:
A: Say yes to every opportunity, even the tough ones. Ask questions and learn from every experience. To lead big, start small and own the details. Never forget what it’s like to be at the bottom.
VISION FOR THE FUTURE:
A: Manhattan Beach is growing, and there’s room for more sustainable practices and tech-enhanced guest experiences. I also see an opportunity to mentor young people, creating clear paths for them to grow in the hospitality industry. I am looking forward to continuing to enhance our beautiful beach city that we are lucky enough to call home!
www.ZislisGroup.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
National Night Out was a massive success at Neptunian Woman’s Club in Manhattan Beach.
WHAT IS MAP YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD:
By John Braitman (Director of MB Neighborhood Watch)
Map Your Neighborhood is a community disaster preparedness & response program for residents and their immediate neighbors. It is a collaborative effort between Manhattan Beach Neighborhood Watch and the Manhattan Beach Community Emergency Response Team Association (CERTA) and is managed under the Manhattan Beach Fire Department. Disasters, which include earthquakes, fires, floods, and windstorms can overwhelm the capacity of 9-1-1 first responders – fire, police, medical, & utility workers – who may be unavailable for hours to days. The people living nearby are our most immediate source of help in a disaster. Research shows that people tend not to panic after a disaster but may not be able to think clearly or rationally. Having a guideline helps us to know exactly what to do to save lives, reduce injuries, & reduce property damage. MYN’s guideline, known as the 9 Steps to take immediately after a disaster, include being prepared at home, knowing how to shut off gas & water, having fire extinguishers on hand, designating a neighborhood gathering site, & identifying a neighborhood care center for the elderly, disabled, & children home alone. The ultimate goal of training is to create a map of the neighborhood showing gas & water shutoffs and knowing which neighbors have special skills and needed supplies and tools. Trained instructors are available to go to neighborhood gatherings to teach residents. Sessions typically are scheduled in the evening and last about 90 minutes. The call-to-action website is info@mbcerta.org.
JOEY Manhattan Beach:
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE
Your New Favourite: Lobster Spaghetti
Fresh and buttery with a hint of parsley and lemon,
this dish tastes like summer.
BOGO available on Uber Eats now through August 17.
www.JoeyRestaurants.com
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Stella Shirman
(Estell Boutique)
Q: YOUR BOUTIQUE HAS SUCH A DISTINCTIVE AESTHETIC – WHAT INSPIRED THE OVERALL DESIGN AND BRAND IDENTITY BEHIND ESTELL, AND HOW DO YOU WANT CUSTOMERS TO FEEL THE MOMENT THEY STEP INSIDE?
A: Estell’s aesthetic is inspired by my love for timeless European style – pieces that feel effortlessly elegant yet comfortable. I hand-select all the merchandise to create a collection that’s casual yet elevated, with novelty details that make each piece special. My clothing collections are great quality, classic with a modern twist – sassy but classy. The boutique reflects the relaxed elegance of the South of France or Amalfi Coast, but most importantly, I want everyone who walks in to feel like family. We spend time with each customer, helping style outfits and build wardrobes that truly work for their lives. Over the 15 years, many of my Santa Monica customers have become dear friends, and I’m excited to build those same relationships in Manhattan Beach with my 2nd location.
Q: MANHATTAN BEACH IS KNOWN FOR ITS LAID-BACK LUXURY – HOW DOES ESTELL BOUTIQUE REFLECT OR CHALLENGE THE TYPICAL FASHION VIBE OF THE SOUTH BAY?
A: Estell embraces the South Bay’s effortless, coastal ease but adds a European twist – think classic silhouettes in beautiful fabrics that transition seamlessly from the beach to a dinner party. Having had a business on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica, I’ve found the demographic and lifestyle to be similar – both are vibrant beach communities that appreciate quality and individuality. Estell’s pieces reflect that blend of comfort and sophistication, encouraging customers to elevate their everyday style without losing that laid-back spirit.
“Estell’s aesthetic is inspired by my love for timeless European style”—- Stella Shirman
Q: IN A WORLD INCREASINGLY DOMINATED BY FAST FASHION AND ONLINE SHOPPING, WHAT MADE YOU BELIEVE NOW WAS THE RIGHT TIME TO OPEN A PHYSICAL BOUTIQUE, AND IN THIS PARTICULAR COMMUNITY?
A: I’ve been in the fashion industry for more than 15 years as both a retailer and a manufacturer, and I’ve seen firsthand that people crave experiences, not just transactions. A boutique offers the chance to see, touch, and try on clothing while building genuine connections with customers. Manhattan Beach felt like the perfect place because the community values quality, personal service, and supporting local businesses – it’s exactly the environment where Estell can thrive. In addition to running Estell Boutique, I’ve always been deeply involved in the Santa Monica community. I actively support local events and charities, and when the war in Ukraine began, I donated a percentage of sales to relief efforts. When wildfires in the Palisades devastated our community, I organized a donation drive with my vendors, who generously provided new samples and clothing from their warehouses to help those in need. As a Montana Avenue Merchant Association board member, I’ve created many events – such as concierge tours – to help drive foot traffic and support fellow local businesses.
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I was born in Ukraine, which at the time was part of the Soviet Union. In 1991, my family immigrated to Columbus, Ohio, where I grew up before moving to Los Angeles in 2008.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: Cancer.
Q: WHO WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE DINNER WITH, CALVIN KLEIN OR PEE WEE HERMAN?
A: Calvin Klein – for the fashion conversation and the opportunity to learn from his mentorship. But I’d hope Pee Wee might drop by for dessert to keep things interesting.
www.EstellBoutiques.com
Live Music @ Lido:
Don’t miss J & B On the Rocks
AUGUST 14H & SEPTEMBER 4TH
6PM-9PM
LIDO DI MANHATTAN
www.LidoDiManhattan.com
Skechers Outpaces Expectations As It Steps Toward Going Private:
Manhattan Beach-based Skechers slipped its second-quarter earnings release into the after-hours news cycle on Friday, as the footwear giant quietly advances plans to go private. For fiscal Q2 2025, Skechers reported net sales of $2.44 billion – a 13.1 percent jump from $2.16 billion in the same quarter last year. The performance comfortably topped analyst forecasts, which had projected sales between $2.3 billion and $2.38 billion, according to Yahoo Finance. The strong results signal momentum for the brand as it navigates a high-stakes transition away from public markets.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
Lee Phillips (Manhattan Beach Community Activist)
Is the Cost of Living the Primary Cause of Homelessness in the U.S.? I say: look around – what do you see? Here’s what I see: many of the men and women living on our streets, struggling with mental illness, substance addiction, or both. These are not isolated cases – they’re recurring patterns that dominate the landscape of visible homelessness across the country. The question is not whether cost of living contributes to some homelessness – it does. However, when we only focus on economics, we miss the root cause of homelessness. This point of view is beginning to shift national policy. On July 24, an Executive Order on Homelessness marked a significant pivot. It called for defunding Housing First and harm reduction programs, and instead proposed prioritizing grants that address serious mental illness, addiction, and public safety – including civil commitment and assisted outpatient treatment for individuals who are unable to care for themselves. The debate is no longer just about housing costs, It’s about how we define responsibility, autonomy, and compassion – and whether we can balance them in a way that brings meaningful, lasting change to people who desperately need help.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
BELLA BUILDERS:
A Local Residential Builder
ADU’s and New Homes
Manhattan Beach and The Palisades
Full Service From Concept To Completion
www.BeautifulBuilder.com
www.FirewiseHomes.com
Vinny@beautifulbuilder.com | 310 809 4999
South Bay’s Rebecca Zung Launches SLAY AI™ For Survivors Of Narcissistic Abuse:
Internationally recognized negotiation expert Rebecca Zung has unveiled SLAY AI™, an AI-powered platform designed to help survivors of narcissistic abuse fight back in legal battles. Built on her proprietary SLAY Method®, the tool offers 24/7 support against manipulation, false allegations, and emotional warfare. “SLAY AI is like having a legal strategist, therapist, and documentation wizard in your corner,” said Zung. Far from a generic chatbot, it’s trained on the most common manipulative tactics used in litigation. Its bold message: “They counted on your fear. But you showed up with facts. SLAY AI™ – Data, Not Drama.”
www.MBWeekly.net
Manhattan Beach Market Defies The Stats – Real Growth Outpaces Assessor’s Report:
Ed Kaminsky
According to prominent South Bay realtor Ed Kaminsky, the Los Angeles County Assessor’s figures don’t tell the real story of Manhattan Beach’s property market. While official reports suggest explosive appreciation, much of that is skewed by older homes being replaced with multimillion-dollar new builds – a $500,000 teardown becoming a $6 million property, for example – distorting year-over-year growth. In truth, Manhattan Beach has enjoyed a solid 3–4% price increase over the past year, outperforming many U.S. cities. Kaminsky attributes this strength to deep-pocketed buyers, including families from Pacific Palisades displaced by this year’s wildfires, and high-profile athletes and executives. With the LA Chargers moving to the area and stars from the LA Kings and Lakers calling the South Bay home, demand remains fierce. Limited inventory and the City’s unbeatable schools, climate, and lifestyle keep Manhattan Beach among LA’s most coveted addresses, noted Kaminsky.
Dive N’ Surf:
BACK TO SCHOOL
From Lockers to Lineups
Whether you’re hitting the Books or the Waves
We’ve got all the Gear to Keep You Stoked
Score 20% OFF STOREWIDE
August 1–17
👕 Wetsuits • 🕶️ Shades • 🏄 Surfboards • 🎒 Backpacks & more!
www.DiveNSurf.com
Crime Casts A Shadow In Manhattan Beach – From Brazen Burglaries to Vandalism:
Four residential burglaries topped the list last week, including a masked thief who stole a 2025 Genesis from an unlocked garage – later recovered in a neighboring city. On August 5th, a hooded suspect triggered a burglary alarm on N. Meadows Avenue at 3:40 a.m., fleeing when the system blared. Hours later, another suspect failed to break into a construction site on N. Rowell Avenue. Vandalism also marred the week: scratches were deliberately inflicted on a Lexus and a Toyota in separate incidents.
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MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
HOW DO YOU EXPECT YOUR JOB TO BE IMPACTED BY AUTOMATION WITHIN THE NEXT 10 YEARS?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
Send your reply, anonymously if you choose, to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
1. ** Thrift lovers rejoice! A massive new 20,000-sq-ft Goodwill just opened at 20901 Hawthorne Blvd. in Torrance. Crowds gathered on July 24 to celebrate its grand opening with Goodwill SOLAC staff, local officials, and happy bargain hunters. It’s a big win for second-hand shopping in the South Bay. —- Editor’s Note
2. ** WTF? L.A. County is bleeding money – $2B for a union deal, $2B for wildfires, $4B for a sex abuse settlement – and now we’re slicing budgets again? Public health is on the chopping block and no one’s accountable. This isn’t belt-tightening – it’s a fiscal dumpster fire with no extinguisher in sight. —- S.B.
3. ** Sydney Sweeney reminds me that LA is obsessed with looks. I know a homeless guy who has only one tooth, and he just had it whitened. —- Wally A.
4. ** I used to oppose the death penalty. Then I took a closer look and realized that though it is imperfect, it’s also necessary. —- Allison J., Hermosa Beach
5. ** Hands down, if you want the best of the best plumbers, check out 3TEN Plumbing, Torrance – https://3tenplumbing.com/. We had an emergency water leak in the MB 400 POV parking lot common area recently. John and his team did it all ASAP. —- J.A., Manhattan Beach
6. ** Dear MB Weekly – Can I be honest? I love your free Bulletin Board, but some of the people who write are super-weird! —- Tammi B., Manhattan Beach
7. ** Just curious: Why do RBPD and other police departments leave their vehicles idling with no one inside? Wasting gas, polluting the air, and inviting theft – all on the taxpayer’s dime. In an era of climate awareness and tight budgets, it’s not just lazy – it’s dopey. Turn them off, please. —- Alana T., Redondo Beach
8. ** Why do police officers in Manhattan Beach work 3 days a week when criminals are working 7? —- Name Withheld by Request
9. ** At midnight, a deafening high-performance Charger with an illegal muffler did donuts at Ardmore & 15th – right in front of the fire station! Burning rubber, screaming tires – like a full-on street takeover. Entitled punk behavior. Where are the cops when you need them? This is NOT a f—king racetrack. —- Clyde A.
10. ** The happy hour at Tin Roof is exceptional. —- Tim T.
11. ** Your kitchen is probably the room in your house with the most clocks. —- Harris T.
12. ** My wife and I now carry Mace on our evening walk with our dog due to numerous coyote sightings. Very frustrating. I don’t see the City doing much of anything except talk-talk-talk. —- V.G., Manhattan Beach
13. ** Another year of growth for Manhattan Beach! The 2025 Assessor’s Roll reports a 5.3% increase in our City’s property values, totaling $27.6B. —- City of Manhattan Beach
14. ** Regarding Fred Taylor’s commentary, I contacted Joe Franklin regarding the same issue; I haven’t heard a word either. —- Joe Ferrell, Manhattan Beach
15. ** Just returned to Manhattan Beach from a military funeral in Detroit. Returning the rental car, I stopped to fill up the gas tank. $2.99 per gallon for regular. Check our California prices. There is an election next year for our local Assembly and State Senate seats, as well as the Governor. Think about common sense and economics, not just party labels, when you vote. —- Bob Holmes, Manhattan Beach
16. ** Big changes are coming to Downtown MB, and we want your voice in the conversation. Join us for the Project Pulse Study Session on Tuesday, August 26, at 5 PM at City Hall. We’ll discuss the future of the Lot 3 site (Morningside Drive and 12th Street) and 400 MB Blvd, and gather your ideas on how these spaces can best serve our community. Questions? planning@manhattanbeach.gov
17. ** Paul Wafer’s financial exposé of our city staff and salaries is earth-shaking….and deeply troubling. Our Parks & Rec Director makes just shy of $300,000. Yet we still have bird crap all over Polliwog sidewalks. #Geez. Will the CC ever put the salary issue on their agenda? —- Fred Taylor, Manhattan Beach
18. ** Restaurants are sooooooooooooo expensive today. Could it be attached to a $20 minimum wage? —- Ezra T.
19. ** A coyote attacked a child in Carson! WTF is it going to take for ALL South Bay cities to act finally? These predators are roaming neighborhoods like they own them. Enough with the hand-wringing – protect our kids, pets, and streets before someone else gets hurt. —- Lucy C., El Segundo
20. ** Ever wonder why California taxes keep climbing? Unions spend millions ($145M in 2021-22) on politics. One guy – AG Rob Bonta – got $1.3M from them. And who pays for all these sweetheart deals and bloated budgets? You. The taxpayer. The ATM, they can’t stop tapping. —- W.A., Manhattan Beach
21. ** The Hermosa Beach Museum, once a school wood shop and locker room, now showcases the city’s jazz, punk, and surf history. Don’t miss the 9th annual beach-themed Gala, Saturday, Aug. 16, at St. Cross Church, the museum’s biggest fundraiser of the year. —- Editor’s Note
22. ** I love your MB Weekly reader polls. Very fascinating. —- Jess C.
23. ** Great interview with Umut Cicek – a name I hadn’t heard before today. His story is intriguing, always a pleasure to discover new voices in town with compelling journeys worth sharing. Someone I’ll be keeping an eye on in the future. —- Tate O.
24. ** More dog photos in MB Weekly, PLEASE! —- Suzanne H.
25. ** Not every closed door is locked. Push. —- Ami H.
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