EXCLUSIVE:
MANHATTAN BEACH POLICE CHIEF RACHEL JOHNSON RESPONDS TO THE SHELLBACK VANDALISM
The Manhattan Beach Police Department is aware of recent social media posts regarding vandalism incidents in the downtown area and alleged criminal activity in oceanfront parking lots. The safety of our residents and businesses remains our top priority. These are the facts that we have gathered regarding the situation.
We are actively investigating the recent vandalism incident involving the Shellback Tavern. At this time, our investigation has found no evidence connecting this incident to gang activity. We take all property crimes seriously and are working diligently to identify those responsible.
Our officers regularly patrol the oceanfront parking areas and downtown district. While we understand community concerns about late-night activity, our current assessment does not support claims of organized gang presence or nightly criminal gatherings in these locations. We encourage residents to report specific incidents with dates, times, and descriptions so we can investigate appropriately and deploy resources effectively.
In response to community concerns, we have increased patrols in the downtown area and oceanfront parking lots. Our officers are empowered to take enforcement action when they observe illegal activity, including violations related to noise, public intoxication, vandalism, or any criminal behavior.
We encourage residents and business owners to contact the Police Department immediately when they observe suspicious or illegal activity. Timely reporting with specific details enables us to respond quickly and effectively. Reports should be made to our non-emergency line at (310) 545-4566 or 911 for incidents in progress.
The Manhattan Beach Police Department remains committed to maintaining public safety and working collaboratively with our community to address legitimate concerns through evidence-based approaches.
Burgers, Shakes, And Memories:
Johnny Rockets To Bid Farewell After 33 Years In Manhattan Beach
After more than three decades as a beloved community gathering spot, Johnny Rockets in Manhattan Beach has announced it will close its doors on August 31, 2025. The news arrives in the form of a heartfelt open letter from longtime owner Chris Khaleghian, who describes the decision as one of the most difficult of his life. Since opening, the retro-themed diner has served not only burgers and milkshakes but also memories for generations of South Bay families. Khaleghian reflected on Johnny Rockets’ extensive community involvement, which includes supporting schools in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, as well as sponsoring AYSO soccer, Little League baseball, and numerous local fundraisers. The restaurant’s role extended beyond sports, with special ties to Young at Arts and the Friendship Foundation, which Khaleghian highlighted as particularly meaningful. Teachers like Mrs. Haslop of Manhattan Beach Middle School made Johnny Rockets a tradition by hosting post-concert gatherings for students and families. Khaleghian noted that many customers became close friends, with multiple generations now frequenting the restaurant. “This chapter is closing,” he wrote, “but the friendships and memories we’ve built together will last forever.” For Manhattan Beach, Johnny Rockets’ farewell marks not just the end of an eatery, but the closing of a community cornerstone.
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE VIDEO QUESTION:
MB Weekly presents Exclusive Video Question of the Week by former MB Mayor Mark Burton.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Maria Sharapova in Manhattan Beach on August 16, 2025. She prepares to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Chef Chris Park
(The Strand House)
Q: YOUR MENU MASTERFULLY BLENDS COASTAL ELEGANCE WITH BOLD, SEASONAL FLAVORS – WHAT’S YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS FOR DESIGNING A DISH THAT REFLECTS THE SPIRIT OF MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: We like to take a look at what’s in season and try to use those ingredients to fill a spot in the menu that we feel may be lacking. Sometimes we taste a particular item and want to design a dish around it, other times we have a specific target we want to hit. No matter what, we have every chef and manager available try in order to make sure we don’t fall victim to opinion bias and take any input as critical feedback. We don’t like overly heavy dishes so we try to stick with things you can eat and be satisfied and still be able to walk back up the hill.
Q: IN A CITY FILLED WITH CULINARY COMPETITION, HOW DO YOU ENSURE THE STRAND HOUSE CONSISTENTLY STANDS OUT AS A MUST-VISIT DINING DESTINATION FOR LOCALS AND TOURISTS ALIKE?
A: We keep the menu diverse in terms of styles of cooking, cultural cuisine and seasonality. At the same time we keep favorites as genuine as possible to keep our regulars happy. People trust us to deliver what they expect. We can’t ensure that 100% of the time we will satisfy everyone on the first go. For the small number we miss, we have a policy to immediately address issues to find something we can make the guest happy with. It’s not just about the food we serve here, but the service that comes along with it and a willingness to satisfy everyone as best we can.
“People trust us to deliver what they expect.” —- Chef Chris Park
Q: CAN YOU SHARE A MOMENT IN THE KITCHEN THAT CHALLENGED YOU AS A CHEF BUT ULTIMATELY RESHAPED YOUR APPROACH TO HOSPITALITY OR CUISINE?
A: I think for most chefs it’s when you’re promoted to a higher position. Not only do your former peers become your subordinate and playing the game of giving respect while demanding it, but the sense of responsibility eventually weighs on your shoulders. As a line cook, your objective is to make the orders disappear from your board in a timely fashion while executing on a high level. As a chef, you have to make sure you’re doing everything you can to make sure the customer is happy.
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: Chicago, IL
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: Rock’n Fish, brewco social
Q: WHO WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE DINNER WITH: MICHAEL JORDAN OR TAYLOR SWIFT?
A: Michael Jordan (I’m from Chicago)
A Whiff Of Elegance – MB Weekly & Atelier Rebul Host Exclusive Manhattan Beach Soirée:
MB Weekly, in partnership with the legendary fragrance house Atelier Rebul, invites you to “An Evening of Sophistication and Scent” – a night destined to delight the senses. Founded in Istanbul in 1895, Atelier Rebul brings its century-old mastery to the stunning Bella Beach at 225 Manhattan Beach Blvd on Monday, September 30, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Guests will enjoy curated cocktails, exquisite hors d’oeuvres, and an immersive scent experience that embodies timeless elegance. Adding heart to the evening, a $1,000 donation will be made to the Neptunian Woman’s Club in support of its mission. With limited spaces available, early RSVP is encouraged. Bring family, friends, and an appetite for beauty. To reserve, call (213) 293-8282, and prepare for an unforgettable autumn evening by the sea.
JOEY Manhattan Beach:
HAPPY HOUR
#1 Truffle fries and a mini martini
#2 Roasted Corn Guacamole and a margarita
#3 JOEY Cheeseburger and a choice of wine or beer
Lounge, Bar & Patio Only
MB WEEKLY – HISTORY:
The first Patterson Cleaners on Manhattan Ave, 1923.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Kelly Stroman (Executive Director Downtown MB)
It’s always a great day when the Metlox escalators are rolling – when they act like stairs, one can utilize the nearby elevator or add to their step count for the day. It’s also helpful when the public report malfunctions on the ReachMB app. Download it and have it ready on your phone. It’s free, easy to use, and notifies the city immediately. It even geo- locates the picture that you can attach before sending.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MANHATTAN BEACH FOOD & WINE:
The 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Returns
Friday, September 12th & Saturday, September 13th, 2025!
TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE!
www.ManhattanBeachFoodAndWine.com
Friendship In Motion – Skechers Pier To Pier Walk Rallies The South Bay:
The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk isn’t just another event – it’s a movement of compassion, community, and connection. As school kicks back into gear, participants are stepping up with enthusiasm and heart. The early leaderboard already shows fierce dedication: Hermosa View School Administration and Staff lead with 38 members, closely followed by Hermosa Valley School Administration and Staff at 27. The Friendship Foundation Walk Team, with 17 strong, continues to embody the event’s spirit of inclusion. This annual walk builds more than miles – it builds friendships and creates opportunities for every child to feel welcome. Families, friends, and coworkers are encouraged to rally their teams and join the cause, knowing their steps truly make a difference. Mark your calendars: Sunday, October 19, 2025. Check-in begins at 8:00 AM, with the walk starting at 9:00 AM from the Manhattan Beach Pier.
Dive N’ Surf:
Join us in Paradise!
We’re heading to Playa del Carmen this November!
Divers & Non-Divers welcome for an all-inclusive tropical getaway filled with reef dives, cenotes, and chill beach vibes. Nov 15–22, 2025 / $2,600 Divers | $2,100 Non-Divers. Only a few spots available–secure yours now!
www.DiveNSurf.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Paul Wafer (Manhattan Beach)
While MB Weekly’s recent interview was a nice reintroduction of Mayor Lesser, I would like to see some more hard-hitting questions, like:
- Why has the number of city employees increased by 15% in just 2 years?
- Why does Manhattan Beach have more city employees per capita than any other city with our population in the state of California?
- What is the city going to do about a pension liability that continues to grow and will double in just a few more years at its current rate of growth?
- Where has the city attempted to reduce costs versus increase fees and taxes over the last 4 years?
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Coyotes In The Spotlight – Manhattan Beach Issues Safety Tips:
After weeks of mounting concern over rising coyote sightings, the City of Manhattan Beach has released an official set of safety guidelines for residents. Reports of aggressive behavior, pet attacks, and escalating encounters have rattled neighborhoods from Manhattan Village to the Estates, prompting calls for action. City officials urge residents to remain vigilant, especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active. The guidance stresses the importance of never feeding coyotes, keeping pets indoors at night, securing trash bins, and using motion-activated lights to deter wildlife. If confronted, residents are advised to appear larger, make loud noises, and keep children close. The city is revising its Coyote Management Plan, increasing education and outreach, and tracking sightings via the “Reach Manhattan Beach” app. Animal Control can be reached at (310) 802-5160; for imminent threats, please report them to 911 immediately. Coyotes, officials note, are here to stay – coexistence now demands caution.
** Rick Grenell, Special Presidential Envoy for Special Missions of United States, having dinner at Slay Steak + Fish.
** Community activists Lee Phillips, Susan Boettner, Lisa Hemet, and John Braitman having lunch at Fishing with Dynamite in Manhattan Beach.
Lido Bakery:
Home of the Most Extraordinary Wedding Cakes
Inspired by a sense of commitment to our community, Lido Bakery offers a full range of baked goods – each carefully crafted with the finest natural ingredients. “We also bake in a little bit of love with every bite!”
www.LidoBakery.com
Blowing In The Wrong Direction – Leaf Blowers Still Banned In Manhattan Beach:
Manhattan Beach is reminding residents that leaf blowers – whether gas, battery, or electric – remain prohibited under Municipal Code M.B.M.C. 5.48.330. The city stresses that enforcement of this ordinance is about more than noise; it’s about protecting air quality, public health, and neighborhood peace. Leaf blowers stir up dangerous pollutants, including pesticides, pollen, mold spores, and even heavy metals like lead and mercury. By keeping them out, the city aims to reduce airborne hazards and maintain a cleaner and healthier community. Instead of using leaf blowers, residents are encouraged to rake, sweep, or adopt natural yard care by allowing leaves to mulch into the soil. Mulched leaves not only suppress weeds and retain moisture but also enrich the soil and provide habitat for pollinators. Violations can be reported to Code Enforcement at (310) 802-5518.
Ready Or Not – Manhattan Beach Gearing Up For Emergency Preparedness Fair:
The City of Manhattan Beach invites the community to participate in its upcoming Emergency Preparedness Fair on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Fire Station 1, located at 400 15th Street. Admission is free, and all residents are encouraged to attend. The event aims to help families and individuals take proactive steps toward preparing for emergencies. Attendees will find live demonstrations, including hands-on CPR training, as well as information booths on earthquake, tsunami, and hazard preparedness. Children will have the chance to learn about safety through engaging, family-friendly activities, while giveaways will be available while supplies last. City officials emphasize that preparedness is a shared responsibility and that informed residents create stronger, safer neighborhoods. “Emergency preparedness affects everyone,” organizers said. “Together, we can build a more resilient community.”
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
Rhythm And Rosé – BeachLife & MB Food & Wine Merge For A Coastal Luxury Weekend:
The South Bay is set for a sensory overload as two premier events join forces this September. The BeachLife Festival, a staple of Southern California’s music scene, is teaming up with the 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine festival for a weekend of coastal luxury. For the first time, BeachLife will bring its signature turntables and coastal vibes to Manhattan Beach, debuting a dedicated DJ Music Stage. This unprecedented partnership will see 46 all-star chefs crafting world-class cuisine and cocktails, all set to the backdrop of pulse-raising beats. “Partnering with Manhattan Beach Food & Wine lets us extend that spirit in a fresh, elevated way,” said Sam Meyers, Festival Director of BeachLife. Shelby Russell, Founder of the food and wine festival, called the collaboration “a dream.” This weekend promises an unforgettable blend of music and flavor, celebrating the unique spirit of the South Bay.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
New Orleans native Kristen Nuss and partner Taryn Kloth, both former LSU beach volleyball standouts, defended their Manhattan Beach Open crown with a thrilling three-set victory.
From Sun, Sand, And Sea To Shield And Serve – Manhattan Beach Police Now Hiring:
Manhattan Beach, long celebrated as the city of “Sun, Sand, and Sea,” is more than just a postcard-perfect coastal community. With its vibrant population of 35,000, the town boasts two miles of sparkling shoreline, world-class events like the Manhattan Beach Open Volleyball Tournament and Grand Prix Bike Race, and a thriving mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment. The Manhattan Beach Police Department is now seeking recruits to join its ranks. With opportunities in Beach Patrol, K-9, Detective, and C.S.I., the department promises an exciting and meaningful career protecting one of California’s most iconic communities. Successful candidates will receive compensation to train through the California P.O.S.T. Certified Basic Academy, gaining expertise in criminal law, firearms, community relations, and other relevant areas of law enforcement. After graduation, recruits will be sworn in as full-fledged police officers with complete authority. Applications are open until positions are filled.
SPEAK UP…:
In MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board
“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”
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1. ** GET INVOLVED & HAVE SOME FUN – Want to stay connected at Mira Costa? Volunteer! Opportunities are available before, during, and after school all year long. Meet other parents, support the community, and make a difference – while having fun. Questions? Contact VP of Volunteers, Patrice Radden.
2. ** A man was fatally stabbed in Hawthorne over the weekend, officials confirmed. Los Angeles County sheriff’s investigators were called to the 14000 block of Cerise Avenue on Saturday afternoon. The victim, taken to a hospital, later died. A suspect is now in custody, authorities announced Tuesday, Sept. 2. —- Editor’s Note
3. ** Political Incontinence: The Stupidest $h@t Your Politicians Said: https://www.amazon.com/Political-Incontinence-Stupidest-Your-Politicians/dp/B0FN9ZSK1G
4. ** Watch out for that new car wash at Artesia & Prospect in Hermosa! The machine WILL damage your car – and guess what? They’ve got a giant sign saying they’re “not responsible” for any damage. —- Harvey T., Hermosa Beach
5. ** Expecting cheap coastal housing is like demanding the Lakers sell NBA Finals floor seats for $10, you moron. Scarcity and desirability drive value – it’s basic economics. California’s coast isn’t overpriced; it’s prized. Pretending otherwise creates policy gimmicks and distortions instead of real solutions. Markets don’t bend to wishful thinking. —- Arnold D., Hermosa Beach
6. ** Being a kid is the free trial, while adulthood is the overpriced subscription. —- Hailey G.
7. ** Once coyotes learn that you have a pet, your home is marked. They will circle, stalk, and wait – day or night. This isn’t random; it’s a strategy. Coyotes are clever opportunists, and once you’re on their radar, your pet is on the menu. Stay alert, or pay dearly. —- Joseph C.
8. ** Last year (2024), the Marina Del Rey harbor entrance was dredged to remove sand – about 500,000 cu. Yds. of sediment were loaded on a bottom dump vessel and deposited offshore Dockweiler Beach. It appears that the natural southward littoral drift has deposited much of this sediment on Manhattan Beach since our beach has again widened to well over 400 ft. with a gentle slope. For a detailed history of Manhattan Beach, see: https://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=6&clip_id=3118&meta_id=151400 —- George Reppucci
9. ** It’s 4 am in the Tree Section: A Sergeant spots a shady guy near a VW SUV with plates from a Toyota. Inside his backpack? Not just an ID – but an illegal handgun with scratched serials. Add shrooms + priors = arrested, no bail, MBPD Jail. —- Editor’s Note
10. ** I just tried to take my small dog out for a quick walk and was warned that three coyotes were just outside our courtyard. A kind woman was driving around warning neighbors. This is terrifying – pets and people are at risk. Something must be done! —- Layla S.
11. ** The L.A. Times is yet another woke disaster. —- Tia C.
12. ** The South Bay Galleria is a total disaster. Went into foreclosure and was sold to yet another developer. Back in 2020, we were promised 300 apartments off Hawthorne, a hotel east of Nordstrom’s, the demolition of part of the mall, and a shiny new open-air concept. Years later? Nothing but broken promises! —- Alice H.
13. ** Redondo Beach and the South Bay Parkland Conservancy broke ground on long-awaited lower pond improvements at Hopkins Wilderness Park on Aug. 25. A new sign was unveiled at the event. Construction is expected to finish by Thanksgiving, restoring habitat for species to return, said Mayor Jim Light. —- Editor’s Note
14. ** MB Weekly is strong, bold, and – best of all – not boring. It delivers energy and relevance every week. The South Bay community appreciates its unbiased voice, fresh perspective, and engaging stories. Once a week, but never weakly – MB Weekly continues to prove why it matters. —- Tate P., Hermosa Beach
15. ** United States Congressmen don’t manage coyotes. This is a local function, not a federal one. You should exercise some editorial judgment not to make such obvious mistakes. —- Michael Jenkins
16. ** Please explain this to me. Why do some people sound so perpetually angry? —- Hal E., Hermosa Beach
17. ** I love the new price-fixed lunch at Mercado in Manhattan Beach. A great value! —- Stella H.
18. ** In the last edition of MB Weekly, there was a Memo to Jewish voters saying that he isn’t standing with them. Congressman Lieu is the Co-Chair of the bipartisan House task force to combat Jewish anti semitism. He has always been a big supporter of his Jewish constituency and will continue to do so. —- Ed M.
19. ** Carpet Cleaning Is Our Business! No job is too big. We clean residential and commercial locations. Winner Best of Los Angeles Award: Bobcat Carpet Care –Call 310-478-4438 or 310-914-3342
20. ** Please be careful of the Bank of America ATM in Manhattan Village – scam time. Incident reported.
21. ** I get the distinct feeling that Santa Monica’s divine mission is to become a mini San Francisco. —- Karl K., El Segundo
22. ** I strongly agree with Bob from Shellback – downtown Manhattan Beach needs a more visible police presence, especially during the summer months. Vandals and late-night chaos are tarnishing our city’s charm. —- D.L., Manhattan Beach
23. ** What happened to the MB trapper for coyotes? City Council still dithers. Do you see any progress? —- E.T., Manhattan Beach
24. ** We had a great Pioneers meeting back on December 7, 2024! I apologize for the delay in sending this email, as I experienced some technical difficulties with the videos. They are divided into Part I and Part II. Ann & Eileen Clary presented on their family’s “ideal childhood 1947-1965” in Manhattan Beach. You can see those videos here: Part I: https://youtu.be/jHe9AAep0yw / Part II: https://youtu.be/PEZYAU3T_uc —- James Gill
25. ** In response to Stacey Gottlieb’s inquiry, I have indeed taken an IQ test. Although it was decades ago, I’m wise enough to discern and understand that the Creator made us either male or female, and He does not make mistakes. I also know that he loves Stacey. —- Fred Taylor, Manhattan Beach
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