Category Archives: Uncategorized

MB Weekly 02/16/2023

MB Council Requests Begg Pool Replacement Proposals:

The neighborhood wants a new, bigger, and better Begg Pool, according to a survey. Recently, Manhattan Beach City Council ordered staff to request proposals for a new Begg Pool. TrueNorth Research’s October study, presented at Tuesday’s Council meeting, found 35.4% of locals “extremely interested” in a new aquatics center and 20.7% “somewhat interested.”

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Mira Costa senior Will Householter led the way in the win over Brentwood. Feel free to share your photographs. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Jefferson Graham

Writer-Photographer, “PhotowalksTV” host

Q: HOW DID YOU DISCOVER MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: Uncle Jed. I interviewed Buddy Ebsen about a “Beverly Hillbillies” TV special when I was at USA TODAY and we met in Redondo Beach. I drove here from Culver City down Vista del Mar and fell in love. Three months later we were living here.

Q: FAVORITE MB RESTAURANT?
A: Sweetgreens at Manhattan Village.

Q: BEST PHOTO SPOT?
A: I say every year I’ll never take another picture of the Pier again, but then I break my resolution. I can’t help it. It’s too gorgeous.

Q: THREE HIDDEN PHOTO SPOTS THAT PEOPLE DON’T APPLAUD ENOUGH?
A: The murals outside Baskin-Robbins, El Tarasco on Rosecrans and the sun painting on the Manhattan Avenue garage.

Q: IF YOU COULD LIVE ANYWHERE ELSE, WHERE WOULD IT BE?
A: I wouldn’t leave Manhattan Beach, but if they ran me out of town, I’d pick Carmel by the Sea.

Q: WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLUG PHOTOWALKSTV?
A: Thanks for asking. New episodes of the travel series post every Saturday on YouTube. I’ve brought people on virtual photowalks and shown iPhone camera tricks all over the South Bay, France, New Mexico, Oregon and Spain. We’re going to Japan in March.

www.photowalkstv.com

By MB Police Chief Rachel Johnson

“… this additional staff would allow us to meet some of our community requests for more engagement. I’d like to see more officers on bicycles. I would like to see more officers on foot … We need additional staffing to arrest career criminals and to conduct surveillance and other means to provide a shorter path from investigation to arrest. We are certainly able to do that now, but this would increase our bandwidth and our capacity to do that more efficiently. … The addition of a full-time bicycle patrol consisting of four officers would allow us to have the consistent, focused engagement of our community,” [MBPD Chief Rachel Johnson] told the Council. “ …This bicycle patrol will provide high visibility in residential and commercial areas while also patrolling areas that are difficult to patrol on vehicles, such as the bike path, high-density traffic locations, and small streets and alleys. They’d have essentially the same function as patrol officers – they’ll just be on bicycles. It allows them to slow down and see more things than you can take in in a car. It allows them to get off their bikes and walk a little bit here and there to see what things are going on in our community. So you will see more people in the field through our bicycle patrol.”

Agree? Disagree? Send your comment (maximum 100 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
As first seen in Easy Reader News

Slay Steak & Fish House:

Steaks served with a twice baked potato & vegetable of the day.

www.slaysteakandfishhouse.com

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Lisa Hirsch-Solomon

Founder & CEO of The Studio (MDR)

Q: WHAT IS THE STUDIO (MDR)?
A: The Studio (MDR) is a vibrant, boutique fitness studio. We are a class-based studio that practices the Lagree Method. Lagree is a full body workout similar to Pilates but with a more athletic approach on a machine called a Megaformer. We have 4 locations on the westside of L.A. and a brand-new studio in Manhattan Beach.

Q: WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO OPEN ONE IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: I live in Manhattan Beach plus I feel that the community is a perfect location for The Studio (MDR) because of its healthy, active community thirsty for a great workout with exceptional client service.

Q: WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THIS STUDIO?
A: The Studio (MDR) is a non-judgmental community where people can be vulnerable, motivated, and honest. Whether you are a busy professional keeping in shape, a mom squeezing in a workout between carpools, a finely tuned pro-athlete, a fitness fanatic, or a cancer survivor trying to find strength and confidence in recovery, our studios provide a warm, safe, and fun place to workout and be part of a great community. This moving meditation helps to improve overall health by pushing people past perceived limits to achieve their ultimate potential.

Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: New York City at NYU Hospital.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: That’s hard to choose just one … Life is Beautiful, Good Will Hunting, Pretty in Pink.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS?
A: Labor. It is essential that we have enough instructors to teach classes and great front desk staff to greet and serve our clients. Without them, we cannot add more classes to the schedule and service our clients.

www.thestudiomdr.com

MB WEEKLY:

“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”

Intriguing people. Intriguing City.
Sign up for free at:
www.MBWeekly.net

MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:

71% SUPPORT COYOTE TRAPPING IN MANHATTAN BEACH

According to a random sampling of thousands and thousands of our readers, 71% of MB Weekly readers support a decision to begin trapping coyotes that are causing fear to residents of the city of late. “It’s a matter of common sense and safety,” said one long-time Manhattan Beach homeowner. “People and their pets are infinitely more valuable than wild animals that prey on both.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Send your comments to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

Readers Respond To Dario Vullo:

On Verdict To Close Outdoor Dining In Our City

** I agree completely with Dario. I am in shock that MB would close down outdoor dining. Both myself and my friends still insist that we can only eat at restaurants if we can eat outdoors. I have a risk factor of asthma if I were to get COVID. I have worked very hard meeting with friends and family outdoors as much as possible and I have yet to get COVID because of these precautions. I am a psychologist, and I continue to see my clients frequently getting COVID and some continue to have very severe long-term COVID effects. Many cities I know are making outdoor dining a permanent part of the city, which is how it should be. I will not be going to any indoor dining restaurants in Manhattan Beach in the future. —- Dr. Melissa Robertson

** I am also very disappointed with the decision to stop the outdoor dining. Over the last two years or so, it has delighted me to see all the outdoor seating arrangements. People love sitting outside. It added something to our small town. We had a European vibe. And the major reason is that our local restaurants were able to survive, in some cases just barely. To take that away, we lose some of the charm of downtown Manhattan Beach. —- Dominique “Nikki” Ridley, Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Spinning vinyl in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photographs. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Riley

Feel free to share your photographs with your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY LIST:
People From Manhattan Beach

Athletes – Hockey

Rob Blake: former defenseman and current executive for the Los Angeles Kings
Dustin Brown: right winger for the Los Angeles Kings; given key to the city by Mayor Wayne Powell
Marc Crawford: former head coach for the Los Angeles Kings
Pavol Demitra: forward for the Minnesota Wild
Jason Doig: former NHL defenseman
Nelson Emerson: former NHL right winger; head of development for the Los Angeles Kings
Alexander Frolov: hockey player for the Los Angeles Kings
Marián Gáborík: former forward for the Los Angeles Kings
Tim Gleason: defenseman for the Carolina Hurricanes
Ron Hextall: former goaltender for the Philadelphia Flyers; former GM for the Flyers
Anže Kopitar: captain, center and Western Conference all-star for the Los Angeles Kings
Dean Lombardi: President and CEO of Los Angeles Kings
Glen Murray: former right winger for the Boston Bruins
Jonathan Quick: goaltender for the Los Angeles Kings
Mike Richards: center for the Los Angeles Kings
Luc Robitaille: President and CEO, Los Angeles Kings, former hockey star
Mathieu Schneider: former NHL hockey player
John Stevens: head coach of the Los Angeles Kings
Darryl Sutter: former head coach of the Los Angeles Kings
Ľubomír Višňovský: former defenseman for the Los Angeles Kings

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Sara Garcia

Truth be told, Manhattan Beach is geographically connected to the once-great city of Los Angeles. Tragically, however, over the past few years, Los Angeles has descended into an atmosphere of violence, chaos, and severe decline. The main reason is that progressives think that influencing law enforcement agendas can and should be done to fulfill social justice concerns. The urge to redress unfavorable outcomes in economics, politics, education, race, sex, and even healthcare drives social justice zealots. However, it is simpler to prevent crime, maintain public order, and defend law-abiding citizens than they realize. They naively fail to appreciate the objective of criminal law – to prevent crime and protect innocent people.

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

MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:

Frankly, it is refreshing to read a weekly publication that is independent and without bias. Congratulations MB Weekly. —- Marion H., Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

HAVE YOU BEEN LIED TO ON AN ONLINE DATE?

Please share your reply 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)

WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** The Effects of Poor Customer Service on Loyalty —- www.BrokenWindowsBook.com

2. ** Have others heard about Sand Dune park graffiti? —- Lindy H., Manhattan Beach

3. ** I love popcorn. —- Davy J., El Segundo

4. ** Outdoor Dining Task Force application … We’re seeking residents and businesses to assist the City in envisioning the future of long-term outdoor dining. Get involved and make a difference in the Manhattan Beach dining experience. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 24, 2023, at 5 p.m. Visit our website for more information and to apply, click here. —- Downtown Manhattan Beach

5. ** Cool books —- www.BeverlyPalmBooks.com

6. ** I loathe my neighbor’s dog’s loud early barking! —- Amy L., Manhattan Beach

7. ** Los Angeles, I can’t wait to perform for you all at the iconic Greek Theatre this Fall on September 17th & 19th. Tickets now on sale. —- The Office of Van Morrison

8. ** I can’t stand big-mouth LeBron James. —- Kevin P., Manhattan Beach

9. ** Our local gas companies cannot incompetently or greedily raise prices like way. Illegal monopolistic price gouging. —- Randi J., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Interesting that the request and approval of new police officers mirror what city council candidate, Mark Burton, was advocating for during last November’s election. I know he is too nice to say it, but if I were him, I would say, “I told you so!” —- Paul Wafer

11. ** The long overdue decision to hire more police in Manhattan Beach by the City Council, City Manager, and Police Chief is a good day for our community and a bad day for criminals. —- Victoria A., Manhattan Beach

12. ** We recorded a package thief. Someone searched around our neighbor’s mailbox, then walked past our gate, down our alleyway, and removed my item. He opened it and flung his unwanted clothes in our neighbor’s yard. Criminals know they can get away with this, so they do it. Again and again and again! —- Lois S., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Can someone please explain why it took so incredibly long for the city to hire the seven extra police officers that were needed for a long time? Are the city leaders blind? —- Martin J., Manhattan Beach

14. ** There are more than 100 pediatric gender clinics across the U.S. I worked at one. What’s happening to children is morally and medically appalling. —- Lance H., Manhattan Beach

15. ** I hate the smell of pot! —- Sissy M., Manhattan Beach

16. ** Crime Car Flippers. It’s standard now. Lock your doors, neighbors! Three hooded men examined our entire street! —- Lauren Z., Manhattan Beach

17. ** OMG I love the “stop and stare” at 6th and Valley. If I’m not mistaken, I think this was put there (finally) because of the guy on next door who lives adjacent to the corner and has been posting videos of people brazenly running this stop sign ALL THE TIME, even with the publicity on Nextdoor and other venues. I can’t wait to see how people desensitize to this huge sign and simply keep blowing through the stop sign (hope the guy posts follow-up videos). We’ll see. I do hope it works though! People. It’s just a thin yellow line that keeps society survivable. We assume people will not cross over that line and hit us head on. Somehow this has been lost with stop signs … someone’s gonna die. —- Susan Boettner, Manhattan Beach

18. ** Sneezing can be used as sonar to find polite people. —- Janice H., Manhattan Beach

19. ** George Foreman made millions by telling people that it’s okay to cook steak on a panini press. —- Lawrence K., Manhattan Beach

20. ** The Manhattan Beach City Council voted 5-0 to hire seven police officers and three staff employees on February 7; 72 police officers will serve. It’s good to see the City Council approve a safety measure. Long overdue. —- Dr. Gary B., Manhattan Beach

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

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

MB Weekly Bonus Edition 02/12/2023

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Southern California Gas Co. said in late December that customers can expect to see their bills almost triple this winter compared to last year, warning in no uncertain terms that: “There’s no easy way to put this. January bills are likely to be shockingly high.”

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Owner at Tapizôn restaurant’s one-year anniversary party in El Segundo.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Wild bike in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photographs. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Retired professional boxer Cedric Jones was one of the panelists at the Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce’s 3rd annual virtual UNITY in the Community event recently.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Desk and bed in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photographs. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Lisa Solomon owner of The Studio (mdr).

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Crazy woodwork in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photographs. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

Do Thank-You Notes Still Matter?

** Thank you notes matter more than ever today. In a world that is all about the tap back’ and fast digital dopamine hits, the written word, on an excellent hand-delivered paper stock, means more than ever before. It was expected when it was the only way (only a decade ago) to send a note, but today it’s a true delight when you receive one. These notes convey the emotion and human touch we are missing in 2023. —- Erik Logan Toppenberg, Chief Executive Officer, World Surf League (WSL)

** Thank you notes matter more than ever. AI has taken over our lives so much it’s hard to feel relevant. We have all been trained to be on hold or stand in line to move forward. Did you know that until the 70s, putting someone on hold at all was considered rude behavior? Thank you notes are the only proof someone was really thinking of you. —- Stewart Fournier, realtor

** As a society, we have become lax in our communication skills. It has become easy to hide behind a keyboard and comment on social media, bang out a quick quip of a remark that may sting so that we feel clever. Thank you notes matter. Handwritten notes are best. We as a society have recently been dismayed at the attitudes of people driving selfishly as if STOP signs and speed limits were a suggestion. We are aghast when people stare at their phones rather than chat with table mates at dinner. Thank you notes matter. Handwritten notes are best. I don’t know anyone who has ever been disappointed in the personal connection made by someone jotting down a follow-up note of appreciation acknowledging a person’s time, experience, or advice. Thank you notes allow both the writer and recipient to reflect and appreciate one another. —- Rita Crabtree-Kampe, philanthropist

** Manners have meaning. People feel good when they know what they did was appreciated. Being too busy means you are less likely to have repeat business or be offered more than one kindness. It takes little time or money, so why wouldn’t you say thank you? Did manners suddenly become passe because we’re too busy, too important, or have too much ego? If the world isn’t kind, a thank-you note makes it less so. —- Phil Cook, business owner

Mercado Manhattan Beach:

JOIN US ON VALENTINE’S DAY! Mercado locations will be offering a special prix fixe dinner on Tuesday, February 14. Regular dinner menu not available at Manhattan Beach.

www.cocinasycalaveras.com/mercado

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

Would You Prefer Streaming Services Be Paid
Without Ads Or Free With Ads?

** I’m OK with a tiered offering that gives users a choice of either. While I might be willing to pay a little extra to eliminate ads, someone else might tolerate seeing a few ads if they came with a discounted subscription price. —- Kate Danaj, entrepreneur

** Ads are a complete waste of time. I will pay for the streaming service if it has compelling content. —- Phillip Cook, business owner

** I’d like to be given the option… if I knew the cost I’d be able to make a more informed decision. —- Ed Kushins, entrepreneur

** Free with ads. —- Patricia Jones, philanthropist

MB WEEKLY:

“Once a week, but never weakly”

Enjoy the most intriguing people, places, and things in Manhattan Beach. Join thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach. Sign up for FREE.

www.MBWeekly.net

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** DO YOU KNOW? Understanding people’s needs can teach you about potential buyers. —- www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

2. ** Congratulations to MB Weekly. I just started reading in the last month or two and find your weekly digital publication extraordinary. —- Holly W., Manhattan Beach

3. ** At the Manhattan Village in Manhattan Beach, another wild coyote roaming at 6:50 a.m. in the morning. I’m unsure what the city has done to deal with this growing menace. —- Ryan P., Manhattan Beach

4. ** I am sick and tired of irresponsible dog owners picking up their dog poop for them. —- Jim B., Manhattan Beach

5. ** My daughter lives three hours from our Manhattan Beach home. After her boyfriend of three years and she broke up, I decided to arrange for a care package to be delivered from her local grocery store and began online ordering. —- Edna G., Manhattan Beach

6. ** Quick question who would you rather have dinner with, Mike Lindell or George Santos? —- Harriet S., Manhattan Beach

7. ** Tyre Nichols’ tragedy is heartbreaking. Poor young man has a 4-year-old baby. Police behaved like thugs. They deserve the utmost punishment. It’s a shame they couldn’t act like men in charge. —- Kelly K., Hermosa Beach

8. ** It all begins with you. We customize all our menus to meet your culinary and dietary needs. Whether it’s meal prep or a special event, we’ve got you covered. – Winner – “Best of Los Angeles Award” – Owner operated right here in the South Bay —- www.setthetablela.com

9. ** Join the party. Invite your friends, neighbors, and associates to sign up to receive MB Weekly for free. —- www.MBWeekly.net

10. ** I think my neighbor poisoned my cat, who vomits three times a day. She’s still vomiting, so I won’t let her out. —- Virginia G., El Segundo

11. ** Let’s be honest; any pet owner that calls their dog or cat a “fur baby” needs a psychiatrist. —- Arlene F., Manhattan Beach

12. ** CVS pharmacy in Manhattan Village is now closed for lunch. Urrgh! Annoying. —- Howie S., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Something to think about. My friend Robin dropped out of both Twitter and Nextdoor, saying, “I don’t have to be complicit in the culture of bitterness, anger, and time-wasting.” —- Glenn S., Manhattan Beach

14. ** Our house was burglarized as we slept. A window allowed the intruder. Ring captured it all. I am sick and tired of listening to the denial crowd that naively says we don’t have a crime problem! —- Lucy Z., Hermosa Beach

15. ** The House of Representatives voted recently to remove Representative Ilhan Omar from the Foreign Affairs Committee over her long history of making antisemitic remarks. Amen! Why this took so long is dispiriting. —- Lawrence S., Manhattan Beach

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

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

MB Weekly 02/09/2023

HELP IS ON THE WAY! – MANHATTAN BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT ADDS SEVEN POLICE OFFICERS:

CRIME PREVENTION ENHANCED WITH NEW OFFICERS AND THREE SUPPORT STAFF

At its meeting on Tuesday, City Council unanimously approved changes to the Police Department staffing levels that will increase sworn and civilian positions to further enhance public safety. City Council also approved an increase to the bonus structure as part of the recruitment incentive program to recruit lateral officers and trainee candidates. “The safety of our community is our first and highest priority and these changes to the Police Department will help the City achieve our goal in keeping our residents, visitors, and businesses safe,” said Mayor Steve Napolitano. “Council shares the concerns of our community regarding rising crime and we’re adding the resources to address it – more officers, more patrols, and more support. I’m confident that the Police Chief’s proactive strategies to increase staffing levels will have a positive impact on the community.”

With the approval of seven additional Police Officers, one Background Investigator, one Police Support Supervisor, and one Administrative Assistant, the Manhattan Beach Police Department will be equipped with the resources to address the community’s current law enforcement and quality of life concerns. Hiring the additional seven Police Officers will bring the total number of sworn positions to 72 from 65. The additional staffing will be devoted to crime prevention, active response, and investigative follow-up. In addition, the new positions will enable the Department to create a Crime Impact Group to support investigative efforts in the Detective Bureau through conducting surveillance, following leads, identifying suspects, composing warrants, and making arrests as appropriate. Additionally, a year-round full-time bike patrol will enhance engagement within the community, providing highly visible patrols in both the residential and commercial areas, while also patrolling areas difficult to patrol in vehicles, such as the bike path, high-density traffic locations, and small streets/alleys. Further, the addition of administrative support will free up Detectives time to focus on investigative work, and will ensure the crime data is up-to-date and provided to the community in a timely manner.

“I want to assure the community that my number one goal is to keep Manhattan Beach a safe community so residents and visitors can enjoy all that our small beach town has to offer,” said Chief Johnson. “With the increase in staffing levels along with community support, collectively we can deter criminal activity. While the additional officers will increase the safety and security of the city and provide continuity and oversight in programs that impact quality of life, I would still like to ask residents to be part of the solution by being aware of their surroundings and taking the ‘If you see something, Say something’ approach.”

Yikes! Another Attempt To Break Into Pasha Jewelry:

In the early hours of Wednesday, January 18, robbers again targeted Pasha Fine Jewelry, the victim of a high-profile armed heist last June. But this time, a burglar alarm stopped the attempted burglary. At 5:20 in the morning, the Manhattan Beach Police Department received a tip about a possible break-in. That morning, the store was situated in the 200 block of Manhattan Beach Boulevard. When police arrived on the scene, they discovered that the office above the jewelry store had been broken into, apparently in an effort to break through the ceiling and inside Pasha.

“They tried to cut through the floor. But they weren’t successful,” said Sgt. Andy Abreu, MBPD community affairs officer. “They were able to cut a little hole into the Pasha ceiling, but they weren’t able to gain entry. There was no property loss.” Pasha was the target of a “smash and grab” robbery last June 24 when 11 men, some armed, entered the store early on a Friday evening and left with thousands of dollars worth of merchandise to waiting getaway cars. The incident attracted worldwide attention and punctured the community’s sense of safety.

Abreu said no arrests have been made in either the previous incident or the attempted break-in, but investigations of both are ongoing. He said it remains unclear what caused the burglars to give up the attempted break-in but it is possible they became aware of the alarm system.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

The proposed monument at Bruce’s Beach, which will be pared down to just the plaque and the circle.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Stewart Fournier

When former Councilmember Hildy Stern correctly stated that a vote against Veranda’s permit is an illegal act violating State Law she could not be a part of given her obligation as a “Sworn Public Official,” it should have been a wake-up call. More shocking, when she said it, there was no responsible acknowledgment by the other Councilmembers on the dais that night. What happened to governance wherein a Manhattan Beach Councilmember needed to say such a thing? No one can argue that Verandas did not exceed local ordinance building codes. Regardless the City Planning Department, the City Attorney, and the City Planning Commission followed the law. It has been known for decades by plenty of Manhattan Beach, public officials that conflicts regarding The State’s priorities for housing issues as they apply to our city are significant. There is a plethora of historical and informational facts that are incumbent for any Public Official to understand. That’s the job. All Public Officials connected to this debacle have known the move to be obstinate about ignoring the law is unprecedented in Manhattan Beach. This debacle’s genesis is that the opportunity for real diplomacy to establish a negotiated building design that could have been changed was lost because of an idiosyncratic approach to understanding the issues. The public outcry is justified because authentic leadership, void of strategic, politically motivated agendas, could have prevented this costly outcome. Defying the law to gain popularity rather than revolting based on truth is where the mark was missed. We all owe gratitude to the City staff who remained consistent and lawful.

www.stewartfournier.com

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

Nando Trattoria Valentine’s Day:

Valentine’s Day is next week. Call Nando Trattoria directly (424-237-2236 ) to book dinner for you and your special someone.

www.nandotrattoria.com

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Kelley Misetich

MB Chamber Of Commerce, Assistant

“YES or NO” INTERVIEW

Do you always laugh at your own jokes?
–YES
Have you ever been mad at someone because of a dream you had?
–YES
Do you like to sing loudly when you’re by yourself?
–YES
Are you gullible?
–YES
Have you ever been startled by an inanimate object?
–YES
Can you make yourself burp?
–YES
Have you ever lied to a teacher about why you didn’t finish an assignment?
–YES

www.manhattanbeachchamber.com

MB WEEKLY:

“Once A Week But Never Weakly”

Intriguing people. Intriguing City. Sign up for free at:
www.MBWeekly.net

Your Most Important Friendships:

** It’s been said that if you meet three people in your life that are true friends, you are a lucky person. Only time can determine if that is true or not. I have been lucky even though more than 95% of the people in my life say 30 years ago; I do not have contact. It’s the friends that reach out to you when they have no vested interest in that contact that count. How many of us do that? The world would change overnight if that were the norm. —- Stewart Fournier, former City Council Candidate

** Manhattan Beach is a special place. In many places people don’t even know their neighbors. Here they are your friends. I have been a member of the “4th Street Running Group” (now more of a walking group) for over 30 years. Every Sunday we meet at 7 a.m. on the Strand and walk to 45th Street and back, stopping for coffee at the Metlox center to talk about various things. We have traveled together, including ski trips, barge trips in Europe, etc. It is a true friendship group. Life is better with friends and love of family, friends and Country is what it is all about. —- Russ Lesser, former Mayor of Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Gym body in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photographs. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

SHOULD COMPANIES BE REQUIRED TO SHOW ALL FEES UPFRONT IN THEIR ONLINE BOOKING SYSTEMS?

According to a sample of MB Weekly readers in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities, MB Weekly readers have spoken.

Do you agree or disagree with the results. Please send your reply to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Gigi

The (many) faces of Gigi, who has worked in Manhattan Beach since August 2022.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A new Stop sign promotion from the MBPD. Feel free to send in your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

DO YOU APPROVE OF THE HIGHROSE PROJECT:

VOTE COUNT: New Councilmember Amy Howorth (along with two others) voted in favor of the hotly contested Highrose/Verandas project. Do you agree or disagree with Councilmember Howorth?

Readers Respond

** On February 19th, the city council voted to approve Highrose 3 to 2. Only Joe Franklin was brave enough to vote against the project. Mayor Napolitano cast the last vote (he voted “no”), but by that time, it would pass regardless of how he voted. Would he have voted “no” if he had cast the first vote? I hope he voted for what he thought was right and did not cast a political cover vote, given the project’s unpopularity. —- Phil Cook, longtime Manhattan Beach resident and business owner

** I’m not thrilled by it. But state law clearly requires the city to approve it. To fight it would cost millions and we would lose. —- Steven Nicholson

** No! Reasons: Traffic congestion increase, EIR Incomplete and inaccurate, Property right next to toxic environmental entity, Health and safety implications for those who purchase or rent dwellings. Misstatement or inaccurate information of property intent to house low-income; public dissemination indicating that development is to address state “mandate” for housing when most recent report public has seen suggests that only 4 units out of 79 will be for low income. Apparent unwillingness of City to challenge the legality of state mandate by providing traffic, health, safety, environmental facts associated with housing and residential proximity to refinery. City Council members who, prior to election or reelection, indicated opposition to the development and then voted to support it once elected. What explanation has been provided to the community that justifies their turnaround? —- David Leveille, Manhattan Beach resident since 1969

** At City Council’s meeting on Tuesday, February 7, it might be prudent for our City Council to reconsider their Highrose project decision, once again. Here’s why. In a Memorandum dated September 15, 2020, the State notified City Staff that low-income projects are subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”). Yet, in making its recommendation to City Council to approve the Highrose project, City Staff found that CEQA did not apply, contrary to the State’s guidance. Worse yet, during the hearings, City Staff never provided our City Council with the State’s Memorandum that informed City Staff that the CEQA most certainly did apply to low-income housing projects. Since City Staff failed to notify our City Council of the State’s Memorandum, it may be prudent for our City Council to reconsider Highrose considering the State’s Memorandum. By not following CEQA in the first hearing, the City was sued. Now, by not following CEQA in the second hearing, the City may be sued again. The one unassailable truth is the State intended that CEQA apply to low-income housing projects like Highrose to protect low-income residents. That’s why the State’s low-income housing laws vest cities with the discretion to deny a project if it makes the requisite health and safety CEQA findings. CEQA is the process to identify and mitigate significant health and safety risks, and, if the same cannot be mitigated, then make such findings to deny a project. —- Mark Burton, former Mayor of Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:

“Don’t cry, darling … someday you will be able to live in Manhattan Beach.”

MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN MANHATTAN BEACH, AND WHY?

Please share your reply 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)

MB WEEKLY – CORRECTION:

** Last week we misspelled councilman David Lesser’s name in the bulletin board section.

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** We analyzed billions of Google Search trends to identify emerging needs and behaviors – and to help you respond in 2023. —- www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

2. ** Coyotes on Westdrift Golf Course at 7AM with my 3 yr old on our back patio. —- N.M., Manhattan Beach

3. ** Crime is not down, and the world isn’t flat. —- Davis H., Manhattan Beach

4. ** I am sick and tired of angry one-sided local news. Thank God MB Weekly is independent and nonpartisan. —- Juliette O., Manhattan Beach

5. ** BOA – This Manhattan mall restaurant served us dinner last night. Delicious meal. We enjoyed the service. —- Clarence C., Manhattan Beach

6. ** We agree 100%. Keep outdoor dining OPEN! —- Shelley Drnek, Manhattan Beach

7. ** Light Gate at the Manhattan Beach Library captures Manhattan Beach’s beauty while promoting children’s reading. —- Michael Z., Manhattan Beach

8. ** Artists nationwide say they’re being put to an ideological litmus test. It felt like somebody holding a gun to my head saying: your integrity or your life’s work. —- Rikki L., Hermosa Beach

9. ** I wonder if all those young gals with tattoos all over their body will regret them later in life. —- Tyler C., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Mistakes are the portals of discovery if you will allow them to be. —- Dr. Arthur K., Manhattan Beach

11. ** Yoga Loft, do whatever you think is needed to keep your business alive and customers safe. —- Phil C.

12. ** When you flip a coin and it lands on heads, it actually lands on tails. —- Carl T., Manhattan Beach

13. ** There’s a certain turning point where weighted blankets go from helping with anxiety to giving anxiety. —- Dr. Brock W., Hermosa Beach

14. ** The radical left and mainstream media (same thing) are shocked –shocked! – by education politicization. Progressives overplayed their hand in the last decade, expecting no one to notice the silent revolution and bizarre new ideas, the turn away from skills and reading, and the turn toward a curriculum that is more entertaining for instructors than useful for students. —- Nancy P., Manhattan Beach

15. ** Police at Ralph’s. What happened at Ralph’s at 6 p.m. recently? MBPD had rifles. Why? —- Darcy H., Manhattan Beach

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