Category Archives: Uncategorized

MB Weekly 02/02/2023

SEVEN MONTHS TO THE DAY – MORE CRIME IN DOWNTOWN MANHATTAN BEACH IN BROAD DAYLIGHT:

Exactly seven months to the day of the audacious smash and grab (June 26, 2022) in downtown Manhattan Beach (a few blocks from the police station), last Thursday afternoon (January 26, 2023) in broad daylight, saw MB Police officers respond to a possible robbery that had just occurred at Vons in downtown. One suspect was detained immediately, and a second fled in a vehicle. Officers pursued the car through Hermosa and Redondo, where the suspect eventually crashed and fled on foot. The suspect was ultimately found hiding in a trash can and made the smart choice to give up at the request of a barking police dog. Officers recovered a large amount of stolen alcohol and arrested the suspects for organized retail theft (among many other things). Seven months later, no arrests have been made in the organized smash-and-grab at Pasha Jewelry involving twelve men and a gun, again in broad daylight on a crowded downtown Manhattan Beach street.

Readers Comment:

** “With crime continuing to spike, and criminals getting more and more brazen, the need for more police officers and a City Prosecutor becomes pronounced. Doing nothing will only exacerbate the problem.” —- Mark Burton, former Mayor of Manhattan Beach

** I was sitting on my patio reading yesterday around 3:30 ish. I look up and a car is hauling ass down Ocean Ave. (the alley between Manhattan Ave. and The Strand). I’m thinking to myself, “This guy is an idiot and I expect to hear a crash in the next few seconds.” Instead of a crash, I start hearing police sirens. Sure enough, 3 cop cars are chasing the idiot plus one unmarked car with a siren. I start wondering what the idiot did to have so many cops chasing him. Turns out it was the Vons perp. Never seen that before so close to the water. Crime must be up noticeably in MB. But, the cops were definitely on it. —- Phillip Cook, longtime resident and business owner

** Gascon is Killing LA County. There are no consequences for Robbery, Car Jacking, Home invasion, even Murder. Why do these people even wear masks. A sitting Judge told me all of these decisions are coming from Sacramento. This State and City are turning to shit. Manhattan Beach used to be a wonderful safe place to live. Ever since Obama got elected we have been on a downward spiral. Trump brought prosperity because he was not a politician and the Establishment, Media and Deep State destroyed him. Liberal and Weak City Council and Woke School Board. Gender Identity more important character. So Sad. I do believe if the Liberals continue to lie and cheat their way into winning elections, at some point there will be some type of Civil War. Both Coast against the Middle of the Country. Florida is the only exception. America will destroy itself from Within. —- John Altamura, longtime resident and business owner

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

The Gallery 208 ribbon cutting. Left to right: MB Councilmember David Lesser, David Diaz (Artist), Chip Herwegh (Business Partner), Dennis Jarvis (Gallery 208 Co-Owner), Crystal Jarvis (Gallery 208 Co-Owner), David Archer (MB Chamber of Commerce President/CEO), Steve Napolitano (MB Mayor), Joe Franklin (MB Councilmember) and Wayne Powell (former MB Mayor/Councilmember).

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mike Michalski

All of Los Angeles is now firmly in control of the far left, from the Los Angeles city mayor’s office to the L.A. County District Attorney and Board of Supervisors. Our new supervisor for the South Bay, Holly Mitchell, has even expressed open animosity toward police and prosecutor’s unions, stating they are “clearly white supremacist organizations.” Of even greater significance, in terms of our local crime problem, is the radical soft-on-crime agenda of County DA George Gascon, who was elected in 2020. After two years, his agenda has certainly taken hold throughout Los Angeles with a predictable county-wide increase in crime, much like his previous tenure as San Francisco’s DA. Needless to say, Gascon’s criminal-emboldening policies have impacted Manhattan Beach, which falls within his jurisdiction and which has experienced two years of rising crime as well, especially property crimes, a trend that shows no sign of abating in 2023.

www.realestateedge.com

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

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

The girls of Mira Costa High School. Feel free to send in your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

Set The Table:

Vegan Raspberry Cheesecake Bars. Need someone to come in and cook meals for your family and clean up for you? Then @SetTheTableLA is definitely the choice for you. Spend more time with your family while we make magic in the kitchen.

www.setthetablela.com

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Jill Lamkin

Jill Lamkin is executive director of Manhattan Beach Downtown Business and Professional Association.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-lamkin-4b30852b

MB WEEKLY:

“Once A Week But Never Weakly”

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

Bruce Family Sells Returned Land, Sparks Social Responsibility Discussion:

Some thought the family had a duty to keep Bruce’s Beach, but others claimed they could do what was best for them: The community support and easy legislative process seemed to indicate that everyone wanted the Bruce family to become the first known benefactors of property-based reparations. The Bruce family received two plots of coastal land in Manhattan Beach last year, more than nine decades after the original Black owners, their ancestors, had the property legally taken for racial reasons. Some are sad that the family sold the seaside property, which Willa and Charles Bruce ran as an African American coastal resort in the early 20th century. Monday, January 30, marks the $20 million sale to Los Angeles County. “I never envisioned it would be sold back to the county,” said community activist Kavon Ward, who led the drive to return the land to the Bruce family. I imagined Charles and Willa’s idea would come true. She said, “For it to remain what it is already is simply horrible.” The choice to sell the land so soon after gaining it back has divided restitution watchers. Ward believes the family should have maintained the property and redeveloped it into a permanent source of income to honor Willa and Charles Bruce. They think selling the property hurts the equity struggle.

Blood Drive & Free Vaccination Clinic:

On Tuesday, February 14th (Valentine’s Day), the Manhattan Beach Farmers Market will be hosting a Blood Drive and a Free Vaccination Clinic.

SHOULD PEOPLE BE ALLOWED TO BUY GUN ASSEMBLY KITS WITHOUT A BACKGROUND CHECK?

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)

*****Hermosa Beach businesses, in yet another sign of the pandemic’s waning influence on policy, may soon have to pay more for outdoor dining decks – potentially doubling the city’s revenue from encroachment fees. *****A 13-year-old boy died and a man was injured when they were struck by a vehicle in a Hawthorne intersection, authorities said Monday. The crash occurred about 8:35 p.m. last Sunday at El Segundo Boulevard and Truro Avenue, according to Hawthorne Police Investigator A. Barlin. The boy, the man and a girl were crossing El Segundo Boulevard when the boy and the man were hit by a westbound vehicle on El Segundo, Barlin said. Information on their relationship to one another was not immediately available. *****Several elementary schools in L.A. County’s Beach Cities have already earned state honors this year. Pacific, Pennekamp and Meadows elementary schools – all part of the Manhattan Beach Unified School District – were among more than 350 campuses statewide to be named 2023 California Distinguished Schools this week. Other local schools to receive the distinction, from the California Department of Education, are Hermosa View Elementary, part of the Hermosa Beach City School District; Jefferson and Birney elementary schools, in Redondo Beach Unified; and Richmond Street Elementary, in El Segundo Unified. *****Redondo Beach Councilmember Christian Horvath only has two months left in office – but a local development watchdog group is trying to get him out of his seat sooner. That group, Rescue Our Waterfront, demanded Horvath’s resignation or removal from office in a Sunday, January 8, post on its website, accusing the councilmember of living in Torrance since October, citing voter registration records sent to them. Horvath has denied the allegations and said he has no intention of resigning. *****Jim Lowrey has a family of lifesavers. “I’m the luckiest person who could have this happen to them,” said the Hermosa Beach resident. “It couldn’t have gotten any better.” Brothers James and Jackson Lowrey’s CPR training swiftly kicked in last September, when their father, Jim, went into cardiac arrest and fell unconscious at his home while on the phone with his wife. James, 15, launched into the process that he and his brother learned as Junior Lifeguards through the Los Angeles County Fire Department. After briefly talking with his mom, Nicola, on the phone, Jackson, 13, called 911 while she dashed home.

WHO READS MB WEEKLY?

Our readers are astute, generally young, and affluent. 60% of our readers are under 50 years of age with an extraordinary income of $118,000 annually.

www.MBWeekly.net

MB WEEKLY LIST:
People From Manhattan Beach

Athletes – Basketball

Matt Barnes: Los Angeles Clippers player
Jeanie Buss: Executive Vice President and co-owner, L.A. Lakers
Brian Cook: forward for the Los Angeles Clippers
Mike D’Antoni: Head coach of the Houston Rockets
Robbie Davis: Lakers team trainer
Andy Enfield: head basketball coach for USC
Devean George: former NBA player
Blake Griffin: forward for the Los Angeles Clippers
Shaun Livingston: point guard for the Golden State Warriors
Slava Medvedenko: basketball player, former power forward for the Los Angeles Lakers
Chris Mihm: former center for the Los Angeles Lakers
Steve Nash: former NBA superstar player
Michael Olowokandi: former NBA player
Kurt Rambis: NBA player and coach
Željko Rebrača: former center for the Los Angeles Clippers
Brian Shaw: former NBA player and coach of the Denver Nuggets
Diana Taurasi: basketball player, three-time Olympic gold medalist, three-time NCCA champion, and three-time WNBA champion
Sasha Vujačić: shooting guard for the Brooklyn Nets
Luke Walton: Head Coach of the L.A. Lakers

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Bread pudding dessert at Mercado restaurant in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Justin Randolph

Owner of Yoga Loft

We are disappointed to write this – as I’m sure you’re aware, there has been an uptick in crime in Manhattan Beach over the past several months. To keep our yoga family – both teachers and practitioners safe, we want to remind you of some important policies we have in place and will be fully enforcing moving forward. The doors to both locations will open no earlier than 15 minutes before class and will close either at the scheduled class time if all registered students have arrived or 5 minutes after the start of class if someone has registered but has not arrived yet. Please sign up in advance for the class. Due to safety and security, we must adhere to our 5-minute late arrival grace period. Also please remember not to leave any valuables in your car. Our studio door downtown will lock once we begin class, and in El Porto, you can secure your belongings in one of the lockers in the locker room. Namaste.

www.yogaloftmanhattanbeach.com

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

MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:

“But Ronald, I never want to leave Manhattan Beach!”

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** AWARD-WINNING SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Linkedin —- www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

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

3. ** The shepherd always tries to persuade the sheep that their interests and his own are the same. —- Stephen S., Hermosa Beach

4. ** Individuals can support people and families affected by the Monterey Park shooting on Saturday, January 21, by donating directly to verified fundraisers on GoFundMe. —- Eric C., Manhattan Beach

5. ** The stakes have never been higher. If we lose America, the whole world will be lost. There is no other country with as much liberty as the United States of America. If we lose our freedoms here – there will be no one left to fight. —- www.PragerU.com

6. ** Larry Page and Sergey Brin wrote a landmark paper explicitly warning that advertising-led search engines would be biased against the true needs of consumers. —- Joan R., Manhattan Beach

7. ** George Gascon supports the criminal, not the law-abiding citizens and the surviving and mourning families. He should be recalled. Let’s try again. He’s evil. —- David Denitz

8. ** You know you’re getting older when headlines no longer blame your generation for all of the problems going on. —- Lois C., Manhattan Beach

9. ** You may have noticed that the Academy Award nominations were announced this week. It is also notable that few cared. —- Henry O., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Incredibly grateful for every MBPD officer & law enforcement everywhere … those who serve us daily & risk their lives doing so are the true heroes in our society. We are living in a criminal’s paradise thanks to Gascon, his special directives, reclassification of crime resulting in the normalization of crime in L.A.: all of which makes a career in law enforcement 1000x more dangerous. Thank you MBPD. —- Heidi R.

11. ** From 2019-21, 3,700+ stock trades by Members of Congress posed potential conflicts of interest. – too many in both parties care more about lining their own pockets than serving the people. —- Tara G., Hermosa Beach

12. ** One does not need to be a genius to figure out L.A. is losing the battle against mental illness among its homeless. —- Lynn H., Manhattan Beach

13. ** More Woke crap! A Disneyland tradition for more than half a century that brought the sounds of trumpets, saxophones and drums marching down Main Street U.S.A. has come to a sudden end with the abrupt cancellation of a beloved college music program. —- Harvey and Harriett W., Manhattan Beach

14. ** I like Councilman David Less because he is frugal with our money! Thank God someone is. —- Kim B., Manhattan Beach

15. ** I was driving out of the Manhattan Village today, along the fairway, and noticed a man I did not recognize. I looked at him, and he took off towards the golf course; he either ran into someone’s yard or hopped the fence. Please lock your doors and garages and be careful. —- Lee P., Manhattan Beach


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MB Weekly 01/26/2023

NEW MANHATTAN BEACH GALLERY REVIVES SOUTH BAY FINE ARTS:

On Saturday, January 21, Dennis Jarvis, whose Spyder Surfboards store opened 40 years ago, and carpenter Chip Herwegh established Gallery 208, an 800-square-foot art space in what was a women’s boutique for more than four decades. The gallery held a grand opening party with many Manhattan Beach leaders in attendance. The founders’ work will be displayed at 208 Manhattan Beach Blvd., but they also want to attract guest artists like Kelly “Risk” Graval, who painted the gallery’s mural and will have a solo show in March.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Phil Cook

(Mr. Cook is a prominent financial planner and longtime business owner and homeowner in Manhattan Beach.)

One more to add to our growing MB crime list. A few Sundays ago, around 5 p.m. (no one likely to be in the building), the security cameras at my office building at 818 Manhattan Beach Blvd., filmed two girls wearing masks (worried about COVID, right?) defeated my entry security or were given the code by someone (janitor, FedEx, etc.). Once inside the lobby area, they went up and down the stairs looking for a way into the offices. All the doors that would give them entry were locked, so they walked away empty-handed.

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Gabrielle Herendeen

Broker Associate & RE/MAX Estate Properties

“YES or NO” INTERVIEW

Are you a Harry Potter fan?
–NO
Have you known any of your friends since childhood?
–YES
Have you ever lived in another country?
–NO
Do you speak more than one language?
–NO
Do you know how to code?
–NO
Do you own Bitcoin?
–NO
Do you bake?
–YES
Have you ever taken a road trip?
–YES
Have you ever gotten a speeding ticket?
–YES, they don’t call me Go Gabby for nothing!
Have you smoked at least one cigarette in the last year?
–NO, never.

www.GoGabby.com

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting at Studio MR.

Mercado Manhattan Beach:

Classic and contemporary cuisine inspired by fresh, local ingredients and Chef Jose’s Mexican roots – Manhattan Beach is the fifth outpost of the popular Mercado by Cocinas y Calaveras restaurant group. Enjoy popular favorites like tacos, carnitas, mole enchiladas, and fresh guacamole and chips. Don’t forget the best flan in the universe! Open for takeout, pick up or delivery, with beer, wine and tequila options as well as margaritas to go.

www.cocinasycalaveras.com/mercado-mb-menu

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Dr. John Bowes

Dr. John Bowes is the superintendent of the Manhattan Beach Unified School District.

https://www.mbusd.org/

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Dario Vullo

(Owner of Nando Trattoria)

I am writing to express my extreme disappointment and frustration about the recent verdict to close outdoor dining in our city. This decision shows a complete lack of understanding and empathy for the struggles that local businesses are facing during these difficult times. As a resident of Manhattan Beach and proprietor of Nando Trattoria, I believe that the closure of outdoor dining is not only detrimental to the local restaurant industry but also limits the ability of residents and visitors to enjoy a a meal in a safe and socially-distanced setting. Outdoor dining has been a lifeline for many restaurants and small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has allowed them to continue to serve customers and generate revenue while providing a safe and socially-distant option for diners. Additionally, Nando and many other restaurants have invested in heaters and other equipment to make outdoor dining comfortable during the colder months. The closure of outdoor dining will not only hurt the restaurant industry, but also on the overall economy of our city. Restaurants are a vital part of our community and employ many of our citizens. Closing outdoor dining will result in job losses and financial hardship for many families.

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

Slay Steak & Fish House:

Healthy Options Beet Salad.

www.slaysteakandfishhouse.com

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

1967 Classic Ford Mustang in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photographs. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

SHOULD THE U.S. BAR FUTURE RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS FROM INCLUDING GAS STOVES?

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 David Lesser

One of the two new City Council members in Manhattan Beach.

www.davidlesser4mb.com

*****Christmas in El Segundo stunk. At least according to residents. It wasn’t because people there weren’t celebrating the holiday, but they did have to try to prevent a rotten egg smell from wafting in their doors and windows while trying to feast and have fun with their families. The odor, from hydrogen sulfide, has been a continual problem in the city since a July 2021 sewage spill at the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant, residents say. Residents have complained about headaches, nausea, mental distress and other symptoms that they’ve attributed to breathing the El Segundo air. *****Award-winning King Harbor Brewing Co. quietly closed down on New Year’s Eve after eight years in Redondo Beach, according to its Instagram page. The craft brewery announced its “last days” in a December 26 post, offering guests the chance to come in for a “proper goodbye.” Craft Beer & Brewing magazine included King Harbor Choco-Latte, a Mexican-style mole stout, on its Best of 2022 list. The brewery also won a gold ribbon at the 2022 San Diego International Beer Competition for Flightless Pilot, an American-style Indian Pale Ale, and a silver ribbon for Topside Pilsner. *****Saint Rocke was to shut its doors one final time on January 5, or so it seemed. Whether hosting a local band or a performer with legend credentials, Saint Rocke in Hermosa Beach has been an intimate venue for music lovers since it opened in 2008. But on Friday, the day following what was billed as the venue’s closing night party, Saint Rocke founder Allen Sanford announced the music spot has a new owner. Sanford said Saint Rocke is going into escrow, but he will stay involved as an investor.

Presented By The Manhattan Beach Chamber Of Commerce:

Unity In The Community

The Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce Inclusion Committee in coordination with the South Bay Community Coalition Against Hate (SBCCAH) and LAvsHate.org, brings you the Third Annual Unity in the CommUNITY Event.

FREE VIRTUAL/ZOOM EVENT
FEBRUARY 2, 2023
1:00 PM TO 2:30 PM


https://business.manhattanbeachchamber.com/events/details/unity-in-the-community-2023-11613

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A small bar in Manhattan Beach. 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 – Football

Tim Brown: 1987 Heisman Trophy winner and NFL Hall of Famer
Pete Carroll: head coach of the Seattle Seahawks
Norm Chow: former University of Hawaii head football coach
Jeff Garcia: former NFL quarterback
Tony Gonzalez: former tight end for the Atlanta Falcons
Matt Leinart: Heisman Trophy winner, former USC and NFL quarterback, broadcaster
Jim Mora: former UCLA head football coach
Don Mosebar: played for the Los Angeles Raiders for 13 years
Rick Neuheisel: former Colorado, Washington, and UCLA head football coach; PAC-12 network broadcaster
Ken O’Brien: former quarterback for the NY Jets
Josh Rosen: quarterback for Arizona Cardinals
Michael Strahan: television personality, former defensive end for the New York Giants

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Manhattan Beach’s Mira Costa Girls Volleyball.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Sara Garcia

George Gascon continues to show his twisted priorities. A new Gascon policy orders prosecutors to consider a criminal’s immigration status when charging them “with the goal of avoiding or mitigating the adverse immigration consequences of a decision.” In other words, in George Gascon’s Los Angeles, criminals come before law-abiding citizens and residents. What’s new?

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

** Prominent financial investment counselor, Phil Cook, having dinner at Mercado in Manhattan Beach.

** Political Columnist, Michael Michalski, having dinner at SLAY Italian Kitchen.

** Real Estate Executive, Larry Kosmont, having dinner at Mercado in Manhattan Beach.

** Veteran Realtor, John Altamura, having New Years Eve dinner at SLAY Steak and Fish.

** Prominent software developer, Dan Humbert, having lunch at Urban Plates in Manhattan Beach.

** Prominent personal injury attorney Paymon Khatibi having dinner at Nando’s Restaurant in Manhattan Beach.

** Veteran realtor and political columnist, Michael Michalski, working out at the Bay Club in El Segundo.

MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

DO YOU APPROVE OF THE HIGHROSE PROJECT? 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 – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** St. Rocke’s new owner, who lives in Colorado, says existing staff will oversee the facility when it reopens in April. —- Gabbi R., Manhattan Beach

2. ** Dario, the owner of Nando, is quite a charmer. —- Lilly T., Manhattan Beach

3. ** L.O.L. is the most used lie in history. —- Clarence C., Manhattan Beach

4. ** A 4.7-star rating on a product looks much better than a 5-star rating. —- Jacklyn D., Manhattan Beach

5. ** Seeing someone consume multiple beers at a Chili’s at 9 a.m. is suspect. Move that Chili’s inside an airport and suddenly it’s totally normal. —- Blair S., El Segundo

6. ** The closest most of us will ever get to hunting our own food is by tracking our food delivery order status. —- Deborah H., Manhattan Beach

7. ** I was returning from visiting my daughter at the Orlando airport with three heavy bags. I rented a cart to take me to ground transportation. It was a long way and involved an elevator ride. At 81 years old, I was having trouble navigating the extremely heavy cart. A couple with a baby in a stroller and a large roll-on suitcase approached me. The young mother said, “Here. You push the stroller and I will push the cart.” What a lifesaver for me! They had flown from Manchester, England, and went out of their way by four floors to see that I had arrived at my shuttle. —- A.A., Manhattan Beach

8. ** Celebrate our first anniversary with us on January 28th! Get a free caipirinha with your dinner! —- Tapizon restaurant, El Segundo

9. ** Our southern neighbor hurts this country daily by exporting violence, narcotics, and millions of poor migrants. Mexico has absolutely no interest in helping. Comprende? —- Dr. Dabney C., Hermosa Beach

10. ** The new Plate Pass deal at Urban Plates is a no-brainer. Great deal! —- Cindy C., Manhattan Beach

11. ** Our 2006 Silver Honda Odyssey minivan was stolen. —- Hans D., Hermosa Beach

12. ** More virtue signaling! The last: “Unhoused neighbor.” So P.C. —- Reggie J., El Segundo

13. ** Colombian and Bogotá cuisine reflect its international population. Encanto restaurant in Hermosa Beach has worldwide style. —- Terri A., Manhattan Beach

14. ** I cannot stand Prince Harry. What a whiny, self-involved, ingratiate! And do even get me started on that wife. —- Carla H., Manhattan Beach

15. ** Dining critic Merrill Shindler says the Soul Food Shack in Gardenia serves up a perfect combination of feel-good food and happy people. I am going to try. —- Kennedy L., Manhattan Beach

16. ** The Manhattan Beach Police Dept is actively hiring Police Recruits as well as Police Laterals to join our family. —- MBPD

17. ** George is a great waiter at Mercado restaurant. Fun! —- Sally P., Manhattan Beach

18. ** Why did Super-Wokester Jason Boxer resign from the Manhattan Beach Unified School District Board of Trustees? —- Angela P., Manhattan Beach

19. ** We unwittingly amplify commonalities with friends, dissimilarities with strangers, and contrast with enemies. —- Jonathan S., Manhattan Beach

20. ** Nextdoor is a sanctuary to many bitter folks with lots and lots of free time on their hands. —- Gloria 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 01/19/2023

PUBLIC SAFETY COMMENTARY BY
MB MAYOR STEVE NAPOLITANO:

Public safety is the first and highest priority for your City Council, City Manager, and Police Chief. Everything flows from how safe we are and how safe we feel – from the quality of life for our residents, to the success of our business community, to being a world class destination for visitors. Everyone in City government is dedicated to the safety of our community, and every member of our community has a role in keeping us safe.

Over the past couple of years, the City has ramped up our efforts to get more boots on the ground as far as personnel goes. These efforts include an expanded contract for more community service ambassadors in our commercial areas who act as crowd control and added eyes and ears for MBPD; hiring more police officers in a highly competitive job market; and adding license plate readers to catch the crooks as they come and go in our city. We’re also looking at the placement of cameras in a number of our public parks and gathering spots.

Since Chief Johnson joined the City of Manhattan Beach in early August, the Council has approved the over-hiring of five additional police officers and has increased foot, bike, and motor patrols throughout the city. Chief Johnson is currently reviewing MBPD’s staffing levels and I’m confident that she will make recommendations to the City Council to increase staffing should she feel it necessary. But we can never just rely on our officers alone. As I said, every member of our community has a role in keeping us safe, from joining their Neighborhood Watch, to “hardening the target” by keeping doors and windows locked and valuables out of sight in our vehicles, to reporting all incidents regardless of size to our police department. Cameras and alarms help too, especially alarms.

Safety is something none of us can take for granted. No, we actually don’t live in a bubble and the people that want to take things from us or do us harm use the idea that we’re a small town where “that kind of stuff doesn’t happen here” to do exactly that kind of stuff here. The best way to stop them is for all of us to work together – our City government, our Police Department, our residents and businesses – this is how we’ll stop and reduce crime in Manhattan Beach. As the Chief says, “If you see something, say something!”

https://www.manhattanbeach.gov/government/city-council

Vacancy On MBUSD School Board:

Trustee Jason Boxer has resigned from the Board of Trustees of the Manhattan Beach Unified School District, effective January 12, 2023. Trustee Boxer intends to pursue higher educational studies. “I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to have served on the MBUSD Board of Education. I will miss my fellow Board colleagues and the important discussions and decisions that have paved the way to support our students and staff,” said Boxer. “I look forward to continuing to be part of this community.” The District thanks Trustee Boxer for two years of service at MBUSD. A lifelong Manhattan Beach resident and alum of Manhattan Beach USD schools, Boxer was elected as an MBUSD Trustee in November 2020. The Board of Trustees will share more information on how they plan to fill the vacancy at their next regular meeting.

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Dennis Jarvis

Owner & Creator of Spyder Surfboards

Q: HOW DID YOU CHOOSE MANHATTAN BEACH AS YOUR HOME AND HEADQUARTERS?
A: I have traveled the world several times over as a professional surfer. Through my travels I have never encountered anywhere like the South Bay. I have lived in the South Bay for most of my life and grew a great connection with the ocean because of that. I started a company called Spyder Surfboards in July of 1983 (yes been 40 years this year!). Our original location is on PCH in Hermosa Beach but my love for Manhattan goes deep. I was retiring as a pro and one of the last covers on Surfer magazine was taken from the north side of the Manhattan Beach Pier. Through the years I had always looked to be a part of the Manhattan culture and 6 years ago we opened a shop on Manhattan Avenue. The city was so welcoming that a few months ago, I decided to open an Art Gallery – Gallery 208 – on Manhattan Beach Blvd., just up from the Pier. Manhattan has been so welcoming to us as a brand that it only made sense to be here.

Q: WHEN DID YOU FIRST BEGIN YOUR LOVE OF SURFING?
A: I started surfing in the 7th Grade. I went to Adams Jr. High in Redondo Beach, I connected with a few really cool 8th graders that took me under their wing and it just became an addiction of sorts. I would stay at the beach all day long and my mom would have to come and tear me off the beach. I started to get better than the kids I was hanging out with pretty quick and they didn’t like that too much as the new kid was doing better than them. So I kinda got pushed out of the “gang” and became a solo-surfer. I honed my skills surfing the rights off Manhattan Beach Pier and learned how to respect the ocean. …

Q: WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO OPEN AN ART GALLERY IN MANHATTAN BEACH:
A: I have been making art for most of my life. Most of the latest work has been on a commission basis. I have worked as a creative consultant on TV and feature film. I have even won several awards as a film maker. I have had some great mentors in my art career through this whole process, Phil Roberts and Rolland Berry, to name a few, but my talent is crafted from thousands and thousands of hours honing my skill set and bringing them into existence. I have not ever had a place that I could control how my art is received. Gallery 208 is that place. …

Q: WHAT IS THE GREATEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE IN RUNNING YOUR NEW BUSINESS?
A: We had a very soft open mid-December to check flow through and ensure our space was designed properly before our GRAND opening January 20-21. However, if I were to guess what our biggest obstacle will be it is getting the word out about our Gallery. My slogan is “Gallery 208, revitalizing fine art in the South Bay” and we need to stick very close to that credo.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Of course, Point Break (the first one, obviously). I was a big part of that film. I would have pushed for a producer title if I knew how hard I was going to work on it. For nine months I had Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, Anthony Keidis and the rest of the cast come to my house and I taught them how to act like they were surfers and how to actually surf. I also stepped in as a creative consultant as neither Kathryn Bigelow nor James Cameron had ever surfed! I was hired to design/create all but one surfboard in the film. Funny story is, I went in as an actor, I got one line (but that was later re-shot). … Just a quick note, in the film the surf shop is called SPYDER SURF and we used the end of Manhattan Pier as the location! Gallery 208 will be hosting a POINT BREAK weekend right before summer. I will have memorabilia and some behind the scene footage as well as the writer, Peter IIliff and some of the actors do a question answer and tell some great stories.

www.spydersurf.com

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Recently the Manhattan Beach Historical Society Museum closed temporarily. The team from @HistoryAssociates has begun their work to properly preserve, organize and digitize the collection so that it can be more accessible to all now and in the future.

Tapizôn Bar & Kitchen:

JANUARY 28TH, COME CELEBRATE OUR ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH US!

www.tapizon.com

DO YOU HAVE THE GUTS TO TAKE A REALLY CLOSE LOOK AT MANHATTAN BEACH?

Do you? Do you?

Join thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities. Sign up for free at MB Weekly.

www.MBWeekly.net

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Audrie Benjamin

Owner Of Manhattan Denim

“YES or NO” INTERVIEW

Have you ever met anyone famous?
–YES
Have you ever been to a film?
–YES
Have you ever met any famous sports stars?
–YES
Do you procrastinate a lot?
–YES
Do you think there’s such a thing as love at first sight?
–YES
Do you believe that the universe directs us in life?
–NO
Have you ever lost someone close to you?
–YES

www.manhattan-denim.com

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Steve Revel

In July, Zaid Khan, a 20-something engineer, recorded a TikTok of himself chatting over urban settings. Khan: “I recently learned about silent resigning, where you’re not abandoning your work but ceasing to go above and above.” “You still do your job, but you don’t subscribe to the hustle-culture idea that work is your life. Your worth isn’t based on your work.” The #quietquitting hashtag immediately gained traction, with many TikTokers responding. And so may explain why all businesses owners in Manhattan Beach complain about the non-existent work ethic of youth in today’s sad world.

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

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

MBPD Patrol Officers found a stolen car cruising around Manhattan Beach Blvd & Ardmore Ave. Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver had other plans. After a tour of the South Bay, officers safely stopped the pursuit in Redondo Beach with a PIT maneuver. The driver was arrested & booked into the MBPD Jail for felony evading and possession of a stolen car + two felony warrants.

MB WEEKLY – CRIME AND MANHATTAN BEACH:

LA Prosecutor Pens Scathing Exit Letter
To Woke DA George Gascon

“Managerial Dumpster Fire”

A veteran Los Angeles County prosecutor scolded his boss, saying his progressive reforms and management style have alienated his colleagues and turned the nation’s largest district attorney’s office into a “managerial dumpster fire.” In a lengthy letter to District Attorney George Gascon and his top aides, prosecutor Mark Burnley aired a number of grievances on his last day with the office. Burnley said he has been with the DA’s office since 1999 and a prosecutor for 28 years.

Do you approve or disapprove of Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon: Send your comment (maximum 100 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Financial Planner Phillip Cook

“WOULD YOU RATHER” INTERVIEW

WOULD YOU RATHER GO INTO THE PAST AND MEET YOUR ANCESTORS OR GO INTO THE FUTURE AND MEET YOUR GREAT-GREAT-GRANDCHILDREN?
–Neither

WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE MORE TIME OR MORE MONEY?
–Time. I’ve got enough money. The problem is I didn’t have “enough money” until later in life.

WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE A REWIND BUTTON OR A PAUSE BUTTON ON YOUR LIFE?
–Pause

WOULD YOU RATHER BE ABLE TO TALK WITH THE ANIMALS OR SPEAK ALL FOREIGN LANGUAGES?
–All foreign languages although I would like to know what our cat is thinking.

WOULD YOU RATHER WIN THE LOTTERY OR LIVE TWICE AS LONG?
–See 2 above.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Inspired by both Cabo San Lucas’ beautiful coast and Mexico City’s vibrant cosmopolitan neighborhoods, Esperanza’s thoughtful design blurs the lines between art and function. Masterfully designed by internationally renowned Islandic architect Gulla Jónsdóttir, Esperanza’s interiors reflect an elevated coastal ambiance that exaggerates the grandeur of a beach town villa. Chef Ray Alvarez oversees a menu featuring fresh interpretations of Sonoran cuisine while Head Mixologists John Fox and Kevin Williams developed Esperanza’s bar program to not only include delicious and playful cocktails, but the two have also created the largest tequila list and mezcal collection in the South Bay.

MB WEEKLY LIST:
People From Manhattan Beach

Athletes – Soccer

Bruce Arena: former head coach of the L.A. Galaxy
Bob Bradley: former head coach of the US Men’s National Soccer Team
Landon Donovan: former player for the Los Angeles Galaxy, U.S. National Team forward
Omar Gonzalez: former player for the Los Angeles Galaxy
Mia Hamm: former Olympic soccer player
Cobi Jones: former player for the Los Angeles Galaxy

MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:

“What I appreciate about MB Weekly is that it isn’t partisan and angry like some other newsletters in town! At last.” —- Mallory M., Manhattan Beach

Physical Facts

Location: 19 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles on the southerly end of Santa Monica Bay
County: Los Angeles
Airport: 3 miles south of Los Angeles International Airport
City Area: 3.88 square miles
Beach: 2.1 miles of beachfront, 40 acres of recreational beach area in total
Pier: Manhattan Beach has a scenic 928-foot-long pier at the end of Manhattan Beach Boulevard. Fishing is permitted all year
Parks: There are 48 acres of major park land in Manhattan Beach, in addition to the 21 acre Manhattan Beach Parkway
Residential Area: 49.1%, or 1224 acres, of Manhattan Beach’s city wide land area is residential
Paved Streets: There are 120 miles of paved streets
Plumbing: The City has 18 miles of storm drains and 110 miles of sewers
Elevation: 120 feet above sea level
Rainfall: Average annual rainfall of 12.07 inches
Temperature: Average temperature ranges from 70º F in summer to 55º F in winter

MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

DO YOUR NEIGHBORS LEASH THEIR DOGS?

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:

** In last week’s issue, a commentary by Mayor Steve Napolitano was identified as exclusive when it previously had been run a week earlier.

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Broken Windows, Broken Business —- brokenwindowsbook.com

2. ** What do your kids know about American civics? Children are not being taught the basics of U.S. government or America’s founding documents. —- Leah H., Hermosa Beach

3. ** Andrew at Mercado restaurant is a great General Manager. —- Lindsey B., Manhattan Beach

4. ** I am a Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce member, and I feel confused by why they seemed enthused about trying to convince the community that there is not a serious and growing crime problem in the city. —- V.B. (Name withheld by request)

5. ** Reach for your dreams, work hard, and you will achieve them. Believe in a better tomorrow, and make a difference in the lives of others. – Wayne Powell, Former Manhattan Beach Mayor/Councilmember

6. ** I have noticed a pattern. When perpetually angry people disagree with something, they immediately scream, “misinformation!” Poor souls. —- Arnold J., Manhattan Beach

7. ** We all know people who don’t know much about history or anything else for that matter. And don’t care to know. If they cared, they would google. The easiest way to get information on the planet. Because so many folks are apathetic about the world around them, they make bad decisions. Two things drive faulty outcomes: emotion and stupidity. If you don’t know anything, you are stupid. However, emotion can cripple even the most astute person. —- Dr. Jennifer Harrell, Manhattan Beach

8. ** Join us every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Joslyn Center Manhattan Beach to practice public speaking. www.beachcities.toastmasters.com —- A.Z., Manhattan Beach

9. ** Our school system and culture are allowing adults to sexualize children. —- Ronald K., Hermosa Beach

10. ** We love Karen at Ralph’s in Manhattan Village. —- Hailey B., Manhattan Beach

11. ** To see why many of your recent historical statements are inaccurate, please see “Myth-busting Manhattan Beach!” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fizSELf8VJ0&t=742s —- James R Gill, Founder, Manhattan Beach Pioneers

12 ** So terrible our South Bay is full of crimes, and few admit it. Denial? —- Loni A., Hermosa Beach

13 ** The Mediterranean diet has become the bedrock of heart-healthy eating, with well-studied health benefits including lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and a reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes. —- Dr. William H., Manhattan Beach

14 ** Suspicious men in the rain advertising internet services but might be casing homes. —- G. Lansberg, Manhattan Beach

15 ** Do mild cases of COVID warrant treatment with an antiviral medication like Paxlovid? —- R.G., El Segundo

16 ** Mirroring a step taken by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on her first day in office last month, the county Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion proclaiming a local emergency on homelessness. This is only two years or perhaps more overdue! What the Hell took them so long? I know government is pathetically slow, but honest to God. —- Lance H., Manhattan Beach

17 ** Memo to the community: I would say most young people on e-bikes wear no helmets, stop at no stop signs, and frequently risk danger with no legal consequence. Its only a matter of time. —- Claire I., Manhattan Beah

18 ** A computer outage at the Federal Aviation Administration recently brought flights to a standstill across the U.S., with hundreds of delays quickly cascading through the system at airports nationwide. Are we living in a third-world country? —- David M., Manhattan Beach

19 ** YEAH! In-N-Out Burger is expanding to Tennessee, its eighth state. —- Melissa G., Manhattan Beach

20 ** The chicken parmesan at Slay’s Italian kitchen is superb! —- Jane F., Manhattan Beach


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