Category Archives: Uncategorized

MB Weekly Bonus Edition 01/21/2024

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

City Councilmember and former recent MB Mayor Richard Motgomery with with two hostesses at Esperanza restaurant in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Tiffany Barbara, Senior Vice President at Bank of America, El Segundo.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Prominent Manhattan Beach realtor Cindy Carvel and her husband at Esperanza restaurant.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Happy team member from Esperanza restaurant in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

New Manhattan Beach Mayor Joe Franklin.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Manhattan Beach City Councilmember David Lesser.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Happy bartender at Esperanza restaurant in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Mayor Pro Tem Amy Howorth and real estate entrepreneur Larry Kosmont.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Former Manhattan Beach Mayor Suzanne Hadley.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Greg Newman, owner of Esperanza, and his son.

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

SAFETY • CITY • CRIME • WOKE

** Honest to God, I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. Now, the leaders of L.A. County are trying to sell us the utter bull-s–t that their zero bail policy has been a success. Let me see if I understand this. A person commits a crime and then is released with no bail. The leaders of L.A. County think this is a good, sensible, sane idea for reducing crime in the South Bay. Tell you what, why don’t we ask the crime victims or law enforcement if they agree? —- Sara Garcia (El Segundo)

** The aversion of Democratic elites towards charter schools is paradoxical, rooted in the success of these institutions. Charter schools consistently outperform traditional public schools and provide disadvantaged children with a chance at better education. The resistance seems to arise from a conflict between educational efficacy and political affiliations, as some elites maintain slavish allegiance to teachers’ unions and fear resource diversion. This tension raises questions about prioritizing ideology over the tangible benefits charter schools offer to underprivileged students, revealing a complex intersection of politics and education within the democratic framework. —- Clay Tobias (MB Weekly Co-Editor)

** I’m voting Yes on M.B.! In contrast to the City’s sham election for a second stormwater tax held by mail ballot during our Holiday Season, the M.B. Schools extending the parcel tax will be held during a general election, and it’s the right amount for the right amount of time without any inflation escalator. That’s respectful. —- Mark Burton (Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)

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

Valentine’s Day At BALEENkitchen:

February 14, 2024
The Portofino Hotel & Marina
260 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
$145 ++ per couple
Wine pairing: $60 per couple ($30 per person)

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a luxurious experience at BALEENkitchen, where you can indulge in a decadent 5-course dinner while enjoying picturesque views of the marina. Let our expert culinary team impress you with artfully prepared dishes, including warm rainbow beets and burrata, vegan Thai red curry, pan-seared local halibut, warm fondue au chocolate and more.

https://www.hotelportofino.com/redondo-beach-baleen-restaurant/

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

A MOTHERS PLEA FOR HELP

** My son was gunned down on the 1st hour of the new year of 2024. He was hit in the head, and the bullet pierced his right eye. Manhattan Beach Police Department is handling the case. Please help me where I can seek help in making sure that my son’s killer is brought to justice. I’m at a loss at the moment. Please help me. This is so painful for us. —- Francisco Gianan (Torrance)

https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-nico-andrei-gianan

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Love in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

BUYING HOME AND AUTO INSURANCE IS BECOMING A DO-OR-DIE ORDEAL?

** Over the last few years in Real Estate, more and more Buyers are looking into the cost of homeowners insurance prior to writing an offer on a property. Just recently, I had a Buyer from Colorado who was shocked by the prices of homeowners insurance in California v. Colorado. Some of my clients have seen a significant increase in their insurance rates across the board! —- Tara Klein, Realtor

MB WEEKLY:

“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”

South Bay’s Largest Digital Publication

Join your neighbors, friends and associates in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
Sign up for free:

www.MBWeekly.net

MB WEEKLY AND URBAN PLATES
JOIN HANDS TO SPONSOR
SHOE DRIVE:

GIVE SHOES, GET A GIFT CARD

MB Weekly, in collaboration with Urban Plates, is proud to announce its partnership in hosting a shoe drive to support the community and positively impact the lives of those in need. The initiative encourages residents to contribute to the cause by donating a pair of used shoes, with the added incentive of receiving a $5 Urban Plates gift card in return. To participate in this charitable endeavor, interested individuals can bring gently worn or new shoes to Urban Plates Manhattan Beach between January 15th and January 31st. This limited-time opportunity provides an opportunity to declutter, give back, and reward donors with a token of appreciation through a $5 Urban Plates gift card. The collected shoes will be donated to the Los Angeles Mission, a reputable organization that serves the homeless community. The collaboration between MB Weekly and Urban Plates aims to impact those facing homelessness by providing them with essential footwear.

www.UrbanPlates.com

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Citizens shouldn’t have to worry about their safety because some crackpot civil libertarians believe dangerous people should be free to live anywhere they wish. Completely absurd! —- Nancy P., Manhattan Beach

2. ** Manhattan Beach’s longtime bakery establishment abruptly closed, starting the New Year on a sad note for sweet-toothed Angelenos. After 35 years, celebrity favorite Sweet Lady Jane closed all its Los Angeles County outlets on New Year’s Day. The sudden shutdown was announced on its website and via email, shocking consumers and employees. Sweet Lady Jane closed because of low sales and California’s high cost of living. —- Hector R., Manhattan Beach

3. ** Beverly Hills, 90210’ star Ian Ziering gets dragged out of his car in front of his little girl and then beaten by a team of thugs. Under Gavin Newsom and the L.A. district attorney, nothing will happen to these thugs. It’s chaos in L.A., with the Democrats running the state into the ground. —- Don M., Manhattan Beach

4. ** Peter Boghossian taught at Portland State University until he saw how DEI turned our education system into social justice factories where grievance and division are the only outputs. —- Toby B., Manhattan Beach

5. ** Big tech giants, including Google and Facebook, drastically cut their diversity, equity, and inclusion programs this year, sometimes slashing DEI budgets by as much as 90%, CNBC reported. Amen! —- Gloria M., Manhattan Beach (A former South Bay teacher)

6. ** The driver of a hit-and-run near Los Angeles International Airport was sought after killing a pedestrian early Thursday, Jan. 4. Officers responded to Sepulveda Boulevard south of Century Boulevard around 12:05 a.m. —- Editor’s Note

7. ** Yes, unfortunately, I have a niece who is an excellent liar. She hasn’t worked in over a year and needs to. Her latest lie is that a company has created a position just for her. I know this is not true and I have difficulty believing anything she says. I know she has some psychiatric issues she needs to confront and a miserable childhood. When I send her money, this gives her a chance not to work for a little while longer. Finally, I have stopped enabling her. Very sad. —- Ed M., Manhattan Beach

8. ** I disagree with Rita Crabtree and the increase amount. Way too high and I don’t believe there is a cap on raising it. —- Janet B., Manhattan Beach

9. ** It is the poisoned pool in which Harvard now swims. The intellectual rot is pervasive and won’t stop spreading until universities return to the idea that their central purpose is to identify, nurture and liberate the best minds, not to engineer social utopias. —- Roger L., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Government was never meant to be all things to all people. It’s bloated, and it needs to go on a diet, damn it. —- Tim B., Manhattan Beach

11. ** The Kettle is a treasure to Manhattan Beach. —- Ava E., Manhattan Beach

12. ** What must you do to fail at Harvard? It used to be pretty straightforward. You had to be caught cheating. Or doing something so outrageous that it’d get you chucked off campus. Not anymore. Today, Harvard is an institution that thinks that antisemitism is OK and believes that plagiarism is acceptable. —- Liam C., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Does anyone know about the CVS robbery on Manhattan Beach Blvd and Hawthorne Blvd? Our acquaintance saw two suspects rush over the counter and abuse the clerk. Be careful. —- Isabella F., Manhattan Beach

14. ** HERE ARE 2 RULES OF LIFE: 1 – The less you feel entitled to, the more gratitude you will feel for whatever you get and the happier you will be. 2 – The more you feel entitled to, the less happy you will be. —- Anthony B., Manhattan Beach

15. ** Joe Franklin as our Mayor – Yeah! —- Ava E., Manhattan Beach

16. ** Last night, I saw a rerun of Kitchen Nightmares featuring Lido Di Manhattan Beach. Dear God. The owner is a total dingbat. What a disaster. —- Oliva G., Manhattan Beach

17. ** I wonder what the real reason that Sweet Lady Jane bakery unexpectedly closed after 35 years. —- Lucas L., Manhattan Beach

18. ** Asked how he went bankrupt, one of Ernest Hemingway’s characters famously said: “Two ways. Gradually and then suddenly.” Judging by the parlous state of our country’s public finances, we have to wonder whether something similar might be said of the United States government: On Tuesday, the Treasury Department reported that our public debt has now topped $34 trillion. —- Dr. Howard L., Manhattan Beach

19. ** I love Tanya Harding. —- Mateo S., Manhattan Beach

20. ** Maria Ure is a great Spanish teacher. —- Henry E., Manhattan Beach

21. ** The problem isn’t just Biden. Democrat policy destroys lives. Whether it be Newsom or any other Dem politician. Nobody gets punished for anything. Unless they are Republican. —- Kay D., Manhattan Beach

22. ** As a del Amo mall employee, I want to thank the polite men directing traffic from the Nordstrom parking garage. They made traffic safe and smooth. They are probably lovely Samaritans, not mall personnel. —- Sophia E., Hermosa Beach

23. ** Nearly half of voters now call themselves independent. I am one of those politically homeless. —- Drake E., Manhattan Beach

24. ** Researchers are finding that nanoplastics in bottled water are much higher than previously thought, raising concerns about their health risks and prevalence. The researchers detected 10 to 100 times more such particles than expected. —- Dr. Grace N., Manhattan Beach

25. ** Month after month, global temperatures didn’t just break records; they smashed them. This year could be even warmer. Wake up. —- Candy R., 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.

MB Weekly 01/18/2024

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE NEW MAYOR, JOE FRANKLIN, FROM FIVE DOWNTOWN MANHATTAN BEACH MERCHANTS:

Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding E-Bike Chaos in Downtown – A Plea for Action

Dear Mayor Joe Franklin,

We hope this letter finds you well as you assume your responsibilities as the esteemed Mayor of our beloved city. On the afternoon of December 28th, as five downtown merchants, we observed a very concerning and potentially dangerous situation in our vibrant downtown area – a chaotic spree of teenage e-bike mayhem unfolding without any police presence. The streets were filled with kids on e-bikes, some without helmets, engaging in reckless behavior like pulling wheelies. This incident coincided with the time of year when we welcomed numerous visitors to the Rose Bowl, putting both residents and tourists at risk. It’s disheartening that such incidents have become recurrent, posing a threat to public safety. As proud downtown community members, we seek your attention, Mayor Franklin. We implore you to address this pressing issue promptly and effectively. The absence of any law enforcement during such events raises concerns about the potential for severe injuries or worse. Why, Mayor? We sincerely request you share your plans to rectify this issue publicly and ensure the safety of our residents and visitors. Under your leadership, we hope necessary measures will be implemented to mitigate the risks associated with e-bike chaos in our downtown area. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we look forward to witnessing positive changes under your administration.


Sincerely,
Five Merchants of Downtown Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Michael Zislis

Owner Of Zislis Group

Q: HOW DID THE CONCEPT FOR THE ZISLIS GROUP GET FORMED?
A: When we made the leap from 2 properties to 3…and then 4…we realized it made financial and operational sense to centralize accounting, Payroll, Marketing, HR, etc. A more cost effective way to facilitate Payroll, HR, Marketing and training.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF RUNNING RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS IN THE POST-COVID ERA?
A: Given that we had to shut down all our properties (aside from the hotels), we had to literally re-open every property at once, with a very small amount of staff. It was like starting over. The concept of hospitality as we knew it Pre-COVID went away. During a Pandemic, providing good hospitality means keeping people safe – more distance, less talking, less smiling (masks). When the world opened up, we all had to remember how to be friendly again. Combine that with massive staffing shortages and supply chain issues, it’s taken a long time to get back to where we were pre-COVID, but I think we are finally there. I’m very grateful to my entire team for working their tails off to return to Pre-COVID standards.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT QUALITY YOU SEEK WHEN YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A TEAM MEMBER?
A: We look for people who have the natural ability and desire to take care of others. It’s a personality type, and it’s hard to teach, so you have to hire for it. We look for this quality not just in front of house team members, but back of house as well. We seek people who truly care about what we’re doing and are excited to be a part of it. We have a large percentage of team members who have been with us for 10+ years. When it’s a right fit, people end up staying with us for their entire careers. You must be downright charming and love the hospitality business.

Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY BUSINESS REGRETS?
A: Doing business at a venue like an arena that has crazy busy nights and slow nights. It’s almost impossible to feed 350 people before a game and concert in 1 hour!

Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: Compton and adopted by Rose and George Zislis of Rolling Hills Estates.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR GROWTH PLAN FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS?
A: Remodeling our current properties and expanding Rock and Brews nationwide.

Q: WHAT RESTAURANTS DO YOU LIKE IN THE MANHATTAN BEACH AREA BESIDES YOUR OWN?
A: I love Sugarfish, Arthur J’s and Slay’s.

Q: THE BEATLES OR THE ROLLING STONES?
A: Neither, Rush

www.ZislisGroup.com

MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
73% APPROVE OF REMOVING HARVARD’S PRESIDENT CLAUDINE GAY

In a recent MB Weekly Reader Poll, a significant majority of readers expressed approval for the resignation of Harvard University’s president, Claudine Gay. The poll revealed that 73% of respondents supported Gay’s departure from the prestigious institution, signaling a notable sentiment among the publication’s audience. Claudine Gay, who assumed the role of Harvard’s president in 2018, faced intense criticism during her six-month tenure for various reasons, including handling administrative challenges, addressing concerns raised by students and faculty, and her disastrous appearance before Congress and multiple cases of plagiarism. 61% of readers felt it was time for the entire Harvard Corporation board to resign.

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

Fête By Slay:

Savoring The Perfect Blend Of Flavors
In A Setting That’s As Delightful As The Cuisine

www.FeteBySlay.com

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Suzanne Hadley
(Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)

The City should not vote for or against this tax despite owning 80 MB parcels. Only taxpaying residents and citizens should vote. (Cities don’t pay taxes; they collect them.) If the City of MB casts 80 “votes” in favor of this tax, our government is putting its big thumb on the scale. If the tax passes by 80 votes or fewer, I will consider the results tainted.

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

A “Senseless” Shooting In Manhattan Beach Leaves A Family In Search Of Clarification:

According to reports, the family of a 24-year-old was shot in the head early on New Year’s Day and died as a result is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying his killer. In a GoFundMe page, Andrei “Nico” Gianan’s family stated: “This was a total, senseless act of violence and he was just at the wrong place at the wrong time. The pain that this has left us is unimaginable.” According to authorities, the attack happened in the 1400 block of 11th Street in Manhattan Beach at around 1:30 a.m. on January 1, and Gianan was rushed to Harbor General Hospital with potentially fatal injuries, where he later passed as a result of those injuries. Following the shooting, police stated that they did not think the gunshot was random.

Charlie Fuerbringer Of Mira Costa Wins Gatorade State Girls Volleyball Player Of The Year Award:

Charlie Fuerbringer, a senior setter from Mira Costa High School, has been named the Gatorade California Player of the Year for 2023–2024. According to Gatorade’s announcement, the award “celebrates the nation’s top high school athletes for excellence on the court, in the classroom, and in the community.” “The 6-foot senior setter amassed 1,134 assists and 240 digs this past season, leading the Mustangs (39-4) to the Open State Tournament quarterfinals this past season. … Fuerbringer is director of a local Feed2Succeed chapter, supporting people in need in the Philippines with food, clothing and medical supplies.”

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Meadows Elementary Kindergarten teacher Shari Jones works with a pupil during STEM tub time.

Manhattan Beach Studios:

News, Sports and Broadcast Desk

Capture a wide variety of looks in our television station, news and broadcast area, including remotes, interviews and shows.

All-in-One Broadcast/Podcast Facility

Whether you dream of your own special podcast, to a full sports or news show, we are the perfect location for your project. Our custom-built area is designed to capture a wide variety of looks and colors instantly, so you are able to go from concept to market in just minutes.

www.ManhattanBeachStudios.net

MB WEEKLY ACHIEVES HUGE MILESTONE WITH OVER 105,000 NEW VISITORS TO WEBSITE IN 2023:

“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”

MB Weekly, the go-to online destination for South Bay enthusiasts, proudly announces a significant milestone in its digital journey. In 2023, MB Weekly surpassed 105,000 unique new visitors, solidifying its position as a leading source for engaging and insightful content. MB Weekly’s tagline, “Once a week, but never weakly,” perfectly encapsulates the platform’s commitment to delivering high-quality content regularly. This ethos has resonated strongly with its audience, resulting in a remarkable surge in web traffic throughout the year. “We are thrilled to share the news of surpassing 105,000 new visitors in 2023. It is a testament to our team’s dedication and our audience’s loyalty,” said Darby Winston, Co-Editor at MB Weekly. “Our mission is to provide valuable and thought-provoking content, and we are excited to see such a positive response from our growing community.”

www.MBWeekly.net

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Stewart Fournier
(Manhattan Beach)

Fred Taylor’s thoughtful link to Mr. G.’s article that brilliantly tells the story about his daughter illuminated a concept that made me feel ignorant. How do hormone blockers disable, disengage, or play into our idea of developed male masculinity? His daughter took drugs to inhibit her genetic development from normal male hormones since age 12. So, are individuals who take “blockers” different from their predetermined physical development? This rhetorical question conflicts with the notion that they are determined to force their predisposed masculinity to cause chaos and trauma. Their self-imposed gamble to shred their genetic code and thereby lessen their developing physical strength is by need and choice. Not by threat or malice. Therefore, is it a fact that regardless of the “blockers” effectiveness, we should not accept that if someone is born of one sex, they can never shed enough masculinity to make the sports playing fields equal? I honestly don’t know. I would assume the answer is it depends on the individual. Therefore, I thank Mr. G. for making the point that respecting each individual’s choice is paramount to sitting in judgment rather than just assuming harm or inequality is the intent. A lesson all of our children can grow from no matter their religious beliefs. Nobody thought when he was a young boy, he traumatized the girls he played with. With the option of having her separate locker facilities, which Mira Costa provided, I seriously doubt a high degree of trauma experienced by the other girls. Many may have grown up with her.

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

** Former MB Mayor Bob Holmes having lunch with Former MB Rotary Club President Gerry Morton at Fishing with Dynamite in Manhattan Beach.

** Mayor of Manhattan Beach Joe Franklin shakes hands with customers at the Un Caffè Altamura in Downtown Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY AND URBAN PLATES
JOIN HANDS TO SPONSOR
SHOE DRIVE:

GIVE SHOES, GET A GIFT CARD

MB Weekly, in collaboration with Urban Plates, is proud to announce its partnership in hosting a shoe drive to support the community and positively impact the lives of those in need. The initiative encourages residents to contribute to the cause by donating a pair of used shoes, with the added incentive of receiving a $5 Urban Plates gift card in return. To participate in this charitable endeavor, interested individuals can bring gently worn or new shoes to Urban Plates Manhattan Beach between January 15th and January 31st. This limited-time opportunity provides an opportunity to declutter, give back, and reward donors with a token of appreciation through a $5 Urban Plates gift card. The collected shoes will be donated to the Los Angeles Mission, a reputable organization that serves the homeless community. The collaboration between MB Weekly and Urban Plates aims to impact those facing homelessness by providing them with essential footwear.

www.UrbanPlates.com

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mark Burton
(Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)

You can’t make this stuff up! With the last day to cast a ballot in the City’s sham stormwater tax election being Wednesday, January 17, the City just added Agenda Item No. 10 this Saturday to allow the City Manager to cast a ballot to Vote YES. Worse yet, he gets to Vote YES for each parcel the City owns. Let’s be clear here. The day before this sham stormwater tax election is over, the City will consider allowing their City Manager to cast ballots numerous times to Vote YES. These last-minute shenanigans should be an affront to every property owner in our community. Sneaky? Disrespectful? Undoubtedly, the City cannot “tax” itself, and this election was for residential and commercial property owners who will pay this exorbitant second stormwater tax – just another example of why this City election is such a sham. Please email our Council citycouncil@manhattanbeach.gov and tell them to “cut it out”! The City cannot, and should not, allow the City Manager to cast YES ballots in this City election.

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

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Mindy

She has been working in Manhattan Beach since 2023

EITHER / OR INTERVIEW

Naughty or Nice? BOTH
Pot or Cigarettes? NEITHER
Beer or Gin? BEER
Eggs or Pancakes? PANCAKES
Men or Women? MEN, DEFINITELY
Early or Late? ON-TIME
Books or Movies? MOVIES
Baths or Showers? BATHS
Drive or Uber? DRIVE

MB WEEKLY – A DIFFERENT VIEW:

Dancin’ in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Abigail B.
(Manhattan Beach)

I STRONGLY agree with Fred Taylor’s commentary. As a mother of a young daughter, I find it extraordinarily concerning that biological males can now compete as females simply because they identify more with being female. If I identify as being male, will I get the same salary as ‘Dick Johnson’ in the office? Highly doubtful. The biological/physical advantages of a male vs. a female are scientifically proven facts. This is not a discriminatory statement; it is science. That is precisely why the separation of genders in athletic sports was created in the first place. Whenever the topic comes up at work, in a social setting, or in an impromptu casual environment such as the grocery store, nobody I have talked with believes it is fair. People think the antithesis. Women have had to fight for equality on many different fronts throughout history. Once again, women and mothers are going to have to go to bat for their rights and, most importantly, the rights of our daughters, their future daughters, and our future granddaughters, and we will win.

Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)

MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:

“MB Weekly is intelligent, independent, sassy, intriguing, fun, impactful, thought-provoking, unbiased, cool and indispensable for understanding Manhattan Beach and the surrounding South Bay communities.” —- Taylor R., Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:

“Yeah, it’s fun, but I still wish we hadn’t picked up that hitchhiker in Manhattan Beach.”

HOW THE TOP 1% OF
ENTREPRENEURS ARE BECOMING
THE “GO-TO EXPERT” IN THEIR NICHE:

www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

For Information, Contact Amanda Kent:
AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com

1. ** A six-hour standoff and fire in Hermosa Beach on Christmas Eve ended when a SWAT team entered the house and found a dead person inside the garage, authorities said. The discovery was made when Hermosa Beach police officers and a sheriff’s SWAT team entered the house in the 600 block of 11th Street around 9:30 p.m. Sunday, according to a Hermosa Beach Police Department statement. —- Editor’s Note

2. ** You don’t need a college degree to know that men can’t get pregnant. —- Kate O., Manhattan Beach

3. ** As federal debt has risen to nearly $34T, here’s what the government has been wasting your taxpayer money on: – $6M for tourism in Egypt, – $8K for a lobster tank for the DoD, – $770K for a lab in Russia to put cats on treadmills, – $38M in COVID relief payments for dead people. —- Oscar R., Manhattan Beach

4. ** With a heavy heart, I reach out to our family, friends, and community to support the Zimmermann Family during this grievous time. Never in a million years could I imagine such a tragedy unfolding. On Christmas Eve, my sister and her family lost everything. Her family home is up in flames. Years of precious memories are gone. But above all, she lost her life partner, her husband, and the father of her three children. Support my GoFundMe here: https://gofund.me/2cbce3d5

5. ** Experts advise spending gift cards promptly even though they expire years later. Unused cards may incur inactivity fines after a year. —- Omar D., Manhattan Beach

6. ** As holidays are upon us, we at PS I Love You Foundation would like to express our sincere gratitude for you, our volunteers, sponsors, and community supporters. —- Patricia J., Redondo Beach

7. ** Authorities arrested 35 pro-Palestinian protesters on Wednesday, December 27, for obstructing a Los Angeles International Airport entry. The L.A.P.D. said that at least one demonstrator was arrested for violence on a police officer and rioting. Wow! They sure sound like a wonderful group of people! It makes me really wanna support their cause. Not! —- Howard A., Manhattan Beach

8. ** Porterhouse Bourbon & Bones in El Segundo is a pleasantly stylish, relaxing special-occasion restaurant with a substantial upstairs dining room that makes it twice as big. —- Oliver E., El Segundo

9. ** It seems that roughly fifty looters just raided Target in Manhattan Beach, taking anything they could lay their hands on! Is it just me, or did the Chief of Police and the City Council of Manhattan Beach boast about how safe the city is? —- Sophia T., Manhattan Beach

10. ** What kind of B.S. is going on at Equinox gym? A young lady’s legs were differently “toned.” A California influencer ripped at the gym for wearing body paint on her legs blamed society for double standards. A 32-million-view Twitter video of the gym fight. —- Elijah H., Manhattan Beah

11. ** If you need a New Year’s resolution, boycott woke Disney! —- Lambert G., Manhattan Beach

12. ** Police and school officials found no evidence that the two Redondo Union High School students who brought loaded firearms planned campus violence. —- Editor’s Note

13. ** Downtown, Manhattan Beach. Repeated chaos with kids on e-bikes. Zero police presence! Someone is going to get killed. —- Tony L., Manhattan Beach

14. ** Beach Pizza, pasta is amazing. —- Ed M., Manhattan Beach

15. ** I completely agree with the MB Weekly reader poll. As a HLS alumna, I am pretty ashamed. —- Lucia L., Manhattan Beach

16. ** Becca, Stop texting during therapy. —- Roman R., Manhattan Beach

17. ** We are living in war-like times: https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/torrance-man-beaten-during-robbery-at-del-amo-mall/3298395/ —- Graham J., Hermosa Beach

18. ** Lido Bakery is the best in Manhattan Beach! —- Claudine E., Manhattan Beach

19. ** Did you know that Matt Bershadher, the C.E.O. of the ASPCA, makes over $1,000,000 a year? He’s made over $7 million since taking the job. Do you still want to donate your hard-earned money to them? —- Howard F., Manhattan Beach

20. ** December 28th, 2023. Busy holiday downtown Manhattan Beach. No police presence. None. —- Suzanne K., Manhattan Beach

21. ** We have bred a generation of people who will endlessly complain in perpetuity. No accommodations will ever be sufficient. —- Grant S., Manhattan Beach

22. ** The Del Amo Fashion Center mall in Torrance closed early Saturday evening, December 30th, after a group of young thugs became unruly, prompting a significant police response, authorities said. The Torrance Police Department responded to the shopping center at around 5 p.m. Saturday. According to its website, the mall was scheduled to close at 9 p.m. Unfortunately, these are very unsafe times, and we must all keep our guard up. —- Marilyn R., Hermosa Beach

23. ** Southern California added 21,700 real estate workers in the past year, a hiring pace faster than the overall job market. My experience with real estate agents is that 95% of them are morons and couldn’t correctly work as a cashier at Denny’s in a poor neighborhood. —- Clarence C., Hermosa Beach

24. ** I was shocked to discover that companies, universities, and EVEN the U.S. military spend millions of dollars on this D.E.I. drivel! It has now become the D.E.I. Industrial Complex —- Holly W., Manhattan Beach

25. ** Welcome to our new world – Another Del Amo takeover. Over a dozen armed police shutting the promenade. —- Ezra F., 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.

MB Weekly 01/11/2024

MB WEEKLY AND URBAN PLATES
JOIN HANDS TO SPONSOR
SHOE DRIVE:

GIVE SHOES, GET A GIFT CARD

MB Weekly, in collaboration with Urban Plates, is proud to announce its partnership in hosting a shoe drive to support the community and positively impact the lives of those in need. The initiative encourages residents to contribute to the cause by donating a pair of used shoes, with the added incentive of receiving a $5 Urban Plates gift card in return. To participate in this charitable endeavor, interested individuals can bring gently worn or new shoes to Urban Plates Manhattan Beach between January 15th and January 31st. This limited-time opportunity provides an opportunity to declutter, give back, and reward donors with a token of appreciation through a $5 Urban Plates gift card. The collected shoes will be donated to the Los Angeles Mission, a reputable organization that serves the homeless community. The collaboration between MB Weekly and Urban Plates aims to impact those facing homelessness by providing them with essential footwear.

www.UrbanPlates.com

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Four individuals were riding in a stolen car down Sepulveda Boulevard in Manhattan Beach attempting to mask their thievery by putting two different unreported stolen plates on their already stolen car. Despite their attempts to go unnoticed, driving down Sepulveda at 10 p.m. with no headlights attracted unwanted attention. The driver tried to get away from officers in the Manhattan Village parking lot but headed the wrong way straight toward other officers and was blocked in. Four suspects + stolen credit cards, stolen I.D. cards, stolen license plates, and some drug paraphernalia were all found in the car.

www.ManhattanBeach.gov/Departments/Police-Department

MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
74% FEEL “THINKING LIKE A VICTIM” LEADS TO POVERTY

In a recent MB Weekly Reader poll, 74% of respondents believed that adopting a “Think Like A Victim” mindset leads individuals down the path to poverty. The concept suggests that viewing oneself as a victim hinders personal growth and success, which has sparked heated debates across various social and professional circles. Proponents argue that cultivating a victim mentality may foster dependency and hinder proactive problem-solving. As society grapples with the implications of this ideology, the MB Weekly Reader poll results underscore the importance of ongoing conversations surrounding resilience, mindset, and their profound impact on economic well-being.

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

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Fred Taylor
(Manhattan Beach)

I am writing in response to Stacy G.’s commentary in this week’s [1/4/2024] edition of “MB Weekly.” First, I have nothing but compassion for the G. family. I cannot imagine how to handle an announcement of an 11-year-old offspring of mine announcing they were the wrong gender. My heart goes out to the family. Those are extremely turbulent parental waters. I harbor no hate for them or any trans people. In fact, it’s just the opposite. My heart goes out to them. What I do hate is the notion that our community is required to pay the price for their offspring’s emotional and mental challenges. Fourteen of our equally precious daughters on the Mira Costa tennis team had their sexual dignity violated this Fall. And, surely, one of our girls didn’t make the team to make the way for M’s biological advantage. While I’ve advocated this position publicly, I’ve never mentioned the G.’s name out of respect for their privacy. M’s dad said in a “Daily Beast” article of 2020 [https://www.thedailybeast.com/my-transgender-daughter-loves-tennis-let-her-play-it-in-peace] “Just let our daughter play in peace.” My response is, let our daughters also play in peace. Ironically, as a Jew, Stacy’s own scriptures in the Torah say, “God made them male and female” [Genesis 1:27]. And if we agree to look at the science, M still has and will always have an “X and a Y” chromosome, never 2 Xs. That’s the Creator’s mark of His handiwork. Gender dysphoria has always been a mental health issue until recent years with the hard-left, anti-Judeo-Christian, progressive political movement. I invite Stacy G. to meet me for coffee at any time to discuss our differences. I’m available at ‘dadlovessailing@gmail.com’.

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

The Rockefeller:

Burger Tuesdays – Tuesdays at 3p.m.

Join us for burger Tuesday, gourmet burgers for two bucks at all locations starting at 3pm (until we run out!) Our chef rotates the burger recipe each month, using only the highest quality ingredients. See you every Tuesday for the best deal in the South Bay!

*with purchase of a beverage $6 or more
*no takeout, not available on Holidays

www.EatRockefeller.com

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Dr. Amanda G.
(Manhattan Beach)

In our 11-year marriage in Manhattan Beach, my husband and I stumbled upon an unexpected secret to marital bliss: sleep divorce. The adage “absence makes the heart grow fonder” took on new significance, proving that it also enhances the quality of our sleep. Recent research from the University of Michigan supports our unconventional choice, revealing that couples may benefit more from separate sleeping arrangements for an undisturbed eight hours. This trend aligns with a growing movement as couples, inspired by celebrities like Cameron Diaz, challenge the stigma around sleeping in separate rooms. Termed a “sleep divorce,” one in three Americans is prioritizing individual sleeping spaces for improved health and relationship well-being, according to a recent survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. This shift correlates directly with the number of U.S. citizens not achieving adequate sleep, as the Centers for Disease Control reported. Sleep divorce is a practical solution for a healthier and happier marriage in a society where rest is often sacrificed.

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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Mia

“Unofficial Mayor of Hermosa Beach” LaRocca

Realtor Lenny LaRocca’s Mia.

www.LaRoccaRealEstate.com

Manhattan Beach Coworking Becomes Comedy Speakeasy:

Sean Leary and a lineup of stand-up comedians will perform at Unita, a co-working space at 516 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Saturday, February 3 at 8 p.m. for the second year – a twist. Leary said they are rearranging the room and furniture under dim light to recreate an old-fashioned parlor. “It’s not going to be like a comedy club; it will be more like a lounge,” Leary remarked of the 60-person venue. Leary said tailored cocktails may be available.

Manhattan Beach Half-Acre Hilltop Mansion Costs $20 Million:

MLS listing: $19.9 million hilltop ocean-view mansion with Manhattan Beach’s largest lot. A 1998 Mediterranean-style 6,604-square-foot house with five bedrooms and six bathrooms sits on nearly a half-acre on two nearby properties. The property has a large lawn, a lap pool with inlaid fountains, a Jacuzzi, a covered poolside deck, and a full-size sports court. The listing states that the backyard was “grandfathered before SB 330” and “cannot be duplicated in new construction.” In January 2020, the Senate mandated on-site one-to-one replacement of demolished dwelling units. The sellers bought the properties for $3.5 million in July 2003 and $5.25 million in April 2014. The second lot house was demolished to make a yard. “Today’s codes would require that a garage and structure be replaced, it can no longer be open land,” listing agent Jennifer Caskey of Compass noted via email. This makes 808 John Street special. The largest lot on the market in Manhattan Beach lies west of Sepulveda in the hill section, making it even more attractive.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Clay Tobias

Selfishness has a negative reputation, and for the most part, that reputation is well-deserved. No one loves hoggers, possibly because we perceive them as a reflection of our underlying penchant for greed. Although we claim to care about others, we nevertheless take the bread from the middle of the loaf, as the comedian George Carlin used to remark. There are numerous other benefits to not being selfish, in addition to avoiding hypocrisy and public relations problems. According to research, kind and generous people tend to be happier, healthier, more well-liked, and more successful. We must all have some self-interest, though. What one Tibetan Buddhist teacher called “idiot compassion” would be if we were always thinking about others but remaining passive and generally acting like doormats.

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

Bertha Mae’s Brownies:

www.BerthaMaesBrownies.com

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Sharon Z.
(Manhattan Beach)

As a discerning resident of the South Bay community, I feel compelled to express my appreciation for the invaluable contribution of MB Weekly to our local discourse. In an era of biased, partisan information, this digital publication stands out as a beacon, unwavering in its commitment to independence and unbiased reporting. The insightful articles and thought-provoking analyses are a great gift to our community, fostering an informed and engaged citizenry. In an age where truth is often elusive, MB Weekly’s dedication to impartiality is fresh air. Thank you for providing us with a reliable source of impartial truth.

Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)

Recent Crime In Manhattan Beach:

Manhattan Beach Police responded to a shooting, an Apple Store break-in in Manhattan Village, and a domestic burglary in the last week of the holidays. Manhattan Police spotted a guy who was shot in the street on New Year’s Day in the 1400 block of 11th Street around 1:23 a.m. Police have not identified the individual, who was critically ill at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. “This is not believed to be a random attack, although many of the circumstances remain unknown,” MBPD stated in a news release. Call MBPD Detective Seth Hartnell at (310) 802-5127 with any information about the incident. MBPD officers found a damaged window at Manhattan Village Mall’s west entrance, and the Apple Store’s front door at 3 a.m. on Dec. 21. Many iPhones from display tables were stolen. The Gardena Police Department helped MBPD apprehend one suspect. Investigations continue. On Dec. 27, a guy threatened Macy’s Manhattan Village Mall staff with a firearm and stole gold jewelry from display cases. The man ran north through the exit. An investigation continues. An unknown Manhattan Beach business had its front glass smashed and a desk plundered on Dec. 21 and 22 in a third commercial robbery. This case is also under investigation. The MBPD is also investigating a domestic burglary between Dec. 23 and 27. Home garage theft included a package and a car. The MBPD received 45 crime complaints from Dec. 21 – 27. Vehicle burglaries fell after rising earlier in the month. Dec. 21 – 27 saw three vehicle burglaries, down from 15 the week before.

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Gracie

A Manhattan Beach Resident Since 2022

YES OR NO QUESTIONS

Do you own a house in Manhattan Beach? –NO
Do you ever hope to own a house in Manhattan Beach? –YES
Are you vegan? –YES
Have you smoked at least one cigar in the last year? –YES
Have you ever gotten a DUI? –NO

MB WEEKLY – COLUMNIST:
Rita Crabtree-Kampe
(Community Activist)

(Last week we ran this story with unfortunate grammatical errors, we are rerunning it in an effort to improve its clarity.)

When I ran for City Council in 2022, I was shocked to hear that the fee for maintaining our aging storm drain infrastructure had not been increased since my daughter was born in 1996! The annual fees collected plus funds from Measure W, account for 10-20% of costs needed to sustain/repair the aging system and the General Fund (GF) has supplemented the additional costs of operation. Reaching into the GF is not sustainable and comes with hidden costs to homeowners and businesses. The price being cuts in other important services and programs, and depletion of what was once a plentiful GF. Be aware that the MB Storm Drain Measure is not a tax. It is a fee. A fee is charged for specific purposes and may not exceed actual costs. The City Council will consider the budget presented by staff yearly to assess funds needed. Each eligible voter has received a MB Storm Drain Measure ballot with a leaflet that provides facts and contact information to answer questions. There is one question on the ballot: Shall we increase the fee to current day costs to support storm drain improvements, maintenance, and operations? Yes or No

Know the FACTS, and vote by January 17, 2024

  • www.manhattanbeach.gov/StormDrainMeasure
  • (310)802-5550
  • Email: stormdrainmeasure@manhattanbeach.gov

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

MB WEEKLY – A DIFFERENT VIEW:

Dressed in black in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mark Burton
(Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)

If Downtown MB is our “Crown Jewel” commercial district, why is there absolutely no police presence? Ever! Just this past Holiday Season, Downtown MB was swamped with visitors and tourists. Yet, you couldn’t find a police officer at any time of the day, regardless of how large the crowds. That’s outrageous! It’s also dangerous! Let me put it bluntly. We need a regular police presence in Downtown MB before a public safety disaster. With the consistent failure to have a police officer presence in Downtown MB for years and years, we have already had two smash and grab robberies at gunpoint. Yet, our City continues the narrative that they have police patrols in Downtown MB. Why such a narrative when every merchant in Downtown MB knows it to be false? It’s time to make a police presence in Downtown MB a top priority before it’s too late.

Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)

MB WEEKLY:
“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”

www.MBWeekly.net

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Sara Garcia

So when we informed you that a Los Angeles city firefighter made more than $500,000 in overtime alone last year, there was shock and astonishment. Let’s continue our enlightening journey through public wage data by examining the county employees of California. Surprise! More and more data suggests that municipal governments’ public safety oversight is flawed. Which is to say, they spend a ton of money on it, especially for firefighters, and there might be some manipulation going on.

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

MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:

“These ornaments have been in the family since the Great Manhattan Beach Target Clearance Sale of 2012.”

MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

DO YOU HAVE A CLOSE FRIEND OR RELATIVE WITH BAD BREATH?

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

Send Your reply To: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)

SEE YOUR FUTURE…
Join Our Award-Winning Branding & P.R. Team

www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

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1. ** Is David Lesser related to Russ Lesser? —- Quinn V., Manhattan Beach

2. ** On average, children want ten times more attention, toys, freedom, and so on than they actually need. —- Beth M., PhD, Manhattan Beach

3. ** I love Nando Trattoria in Manhattan Beach. —- Seth L., Hermosa Beach

4. ** My mom loved Christmas so much, she would sometimes leave the tree up until April. —- Peggy N., Manhattan Beach

5. ** Mike McAvin, a native of Manhattan Beach and longtime instructor at Mira Costa, passed away earlier this week following a battle with a serious disease. —- Roland E., Manhattan Beach

6. ** Boo! Redondo Beach is setting the stage for the marijuana industry to enter the city. The City Council recently directed staffers to draft a resolution to implement a 5% tax on future cannabis sales and an application process for potential dispensaries to open in Redondo eventually. —- Samatha G., Hermosa Beach

7. ** Traveling lets us imagine all the lives we might have. —- Ken S., Manhattan Beach

8. ** Dear MB Weekly: Your interview with Chef David Slay was great. Inspiring gent. —- Rhonda C., Manhattan Beach

9. ** At about 1:45 am, could anyone in Hermosa near Manhattan Ave @ 28th St. hear 1-2 ladies screaming in danger and laughing? It sounded like a manic episode, not physical distress. —- Ronald E., Manhattan Beach

10. ** If you think America is a mess, don’t think about Canada. It’s way worse. The country feels like a national contest for who can be the most extraordinary victim. Awful. —- Oliva H., Manhattan Beach

11. ** The Simon Wiesenthal Center urges people not to buy Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. —- Ava R., Manhattan Beach

12. ** My Christmas present from my boss, who seems attracted to me, was some fancy underwear. He said it was his assistant’s error and that it was intended for his wife when I voiced my outrage. Do I have to believe him? —- Holly C., Manhattan Beach

13. ** If your kids are fond of Cardi B., I suggest you quickly get them to a psychiatric ward. —- Dr. Bethany M., Manhattan Beach

14. ** Pedro Enriquez — (310) 874-4078 – Pep’s Plumbing. I use him every time and have referred him to several friends. Good guy. —- Roman V., Manhattan Beach

15. ** I had a flakey experience with Ace Handyman. No return calls. —- Alice W., Manhattan Beach

16. ** If you want to go to an unclean, horribly run fast food restaurant, try Carl’s Jr. in Hawthorne. Gross. —- Christopher L., Manhattan Beach

17. ** I agree with Sara Garcia. —- Ed M., Manhattan Beach

18. ** Strangers in parking lots … A similar incident happened to my wife in the Bristol Farms parking lot. My wife was not as fortunate. The stranger got away with one of my wife’s credit cards. Be ALERT at all times. —- Tom A., Manhattan Beach

19. ** After years of atheism, I went searching for the truth. I found Buddhism, then witchcraft, and eventually, Christianity. —- Paul G., Manhattan Beach

20. ** It was my first visit to Bruxie Chicken and Waffles in El Segundo – mediocre and expensive food. I won’t be back. —- Charlene V., Manhattan Beach

21. ** Be wary of low-lives who steal packages. —- Sandra Y., Manhattan Beach

22. ** George Gascón is running for re-election. This sentence sounds like the start of a sick joke. Look around. Gascon is a disaster. Out! Out! Out! —- George W., Manhattan Beach

23. ** Of all the ways the body can go wrong, A.L.S. is one of the most frightening. It begins subtly – a twitching muscle, a cough when you swallow, or a clumsy hand. But then it progresses. Motor neurons degenerate and die. You lose the ability to talk, to eat, and ultimately to breathe. There is no cure. —- Mia L., Manhattan Beach

24. ** If you want to defeat George Gascon and return “sanity” to the D.A.’s office, vote for Nathan Hochman! —- Lindsay K., Manhattan Beach (Gascon crime victim)

25. ** Without an ID, you can’t get into a Costco or Sam’s Club. Maybe they should be running the border. —- Oscar L., 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.