EXCLUSIVE
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Paul Wafer
As part of my ongoing reporting on the excessive compensation levels paid to staff of Manhattan Beach, I list the following compensation levels in Manhattan Beach from 2023:
The State data from 2023 (the latest available) has the best breakdown of the compensation elements for city employees. In 2023, about 10% of all employees had compensation of over $300,000 per year, ranging from a high of $445,984 down to $303,605. A full 69% of the compensation was for salaries (48%) ($5,716,099) and overtime (21%) ($2,411,467), and another 11% went to a lump sum, deferred compensation, and “other pay.” The pension contribution was about 12% of the total, and the health, vision, and dental contributions, averaging about $24,000 per employee, were about 8%.
MB Weekly Readers Crown David Slay “Manhattan Beach’s Most Popular Chef”:
In a sizzling victory, MB Weekly readers throughout the South Bay have named David Slay the Most Popular Chef in Manhattan Beach. Known for his signature blend of sophistication and comfort, Chef Slay has become a culinary force in the downtown area. “Chef Slay has been a thunderbolt for the downtown area,” said Ann S., a longtime resident and frequent diner at Slay’s celebrated restaurants. From his perfectly seared steaks to his inventive seasonal menus, Slay’s influence extends beyond the kitchen – helping energize the entire local dining scene. Patrons consistently praise his attention to detail, warm hospitality, and commitment to sourcing top-quality ingredients. Slay’s impact is measured in rave reviews and the buzzing vibrancy of Manhattan Beach’s restaurant culture. As one reader said, “Every meal at Slay is a masterpiece – and a reason to return to downtown.”
Downtown MB Water Looks Discolored – But It’s Still Safe:
“Some customers in the downtown area may experience discolored water due to ongoing construction work at Lot 3. The construction team is using large amounts of water to control dust, which is stirring up natural minerals in our pipes. If your water looks brown or cloudy:
- Avoid doing laundry
- Run cold water for 5-10 minutes
- Try again after an hour if needed
The water remains safe to drink. We’ve already reduced water flow at the construction site to help minimize this issue.” The city issued this notice on April 22.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Lissette Heffernan, owner of Bohemian Coco in Torrance, loves MB Weekly gear!
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Russ Lesser
(President, Dive N’ Surf)
Q: HOW DID DIVE N’ SURF START?
A: Identical twin brothers Bill and Bob Meistrell graduated from El Segundo High School in the late 1940s. They went to work as lifeguards and when they got cold in the water they decided to do something about it. They read an article from a professor who proposed using neoprene to help stay warm in the water which no one had tried. They purchased some neoprene and started making wetsuits. A couple of friends had started a shop called Dive N’ Surf in Redondo Beach and the brothers bought into it, and then eventually bought their partners out. While there have been arguments about who made the first ones it has been proven that the Meistrells made the first commercially viable wetsuits. However back then you had to go to Dive N’ Surf and get measured up as most of the suits were custom made.
Q: HOW DID YOU FIRST BECOME INVOLVED WITH DIVE N’ SURF?
A: In 1962 I was at Cal State Long Beach studying to be a CPA. I met the Meistrells one day to get an outboard motor repaired. We became friends, my brother and l took dive lessons and the Meistrells told me that when I graduated and became a CPA they would give me their accounting work. I graduated, joined the army and then became a CPA. I started doing their accounting work in 1966. One day we sat around talking about how to grow the business. The two options were 1) build a chain of Dive shops or 2) start selling wetsuits on a wholesale basis. We chose #2, purchased a little factory, some sewing machines, and started selling wetsuits to the local surf shops. We would silkscreen the name of the shop on the wetsuit. However we needed to develop our own brand and so as Bill Meistrell said, “my wetsuits fit like a glove” we started the brand Body Glove. The company grew rapidly and in 1990 I was offered the job as president of Dive N’ Surf and Body Glove. We had started licensing the name Body Glove for other products such as apparel, snorkeling gear, body boards, etc. and now Body Glove is worldwide, has sales of close to a billion dollars annually, and employs thousands of people because two guys got cold in the water.
Q: WHAT “SECRET SAUCE” EXPLAINS THE LONG-TIME SUCCESS OF DIVE N’ SURF?
A: There are many things. Bill and Bob were very customer oriented. They would do anything to make a customer happy. For example, years ago when they were selling boats, Bob sold a boat to a customer and said if he didn’t like it after 90 days he could bring it back and get his money back. He brought it back and it was pretty beat up and said he wanted his money back. Bob said, OK, that was the deal. The man laughed and said, “just kidding, I actually want to buy another boat, just checking to see if you would keep your word and you did.” He became a lifetime customer and this is one of many examples. Our entire staff is trained to carry on Bill and Bob’s philosophy. We also carry a large inventory of high quality products for surfing, diving and going to the beach, and we are very active supporting many community organizations.
Q: IF A YOUNG PERSON WANTS TO WORK THERE, WHAT SHOULD THEY DO?
A: We hire people of all ages including young people and in their case often it is their first job. Many of them are in school and we schedule their hours around their school schedule. We instill in them a solid work ethic and the importance of high quality customer service. We teach them skills that no matter what they do later in their life these skills will help them be successful. Right now we are fully staffed but if someone is interested come to the store and fill out an application. If you are interested in working in the scuba field you need to be scuba certified. We start scuba classes each week.
Q: HOW CAN PEOPLE LEARN MORE ABOUT THE STORE AND ITS SPECIAL HISTORY?
A: There is a book titled “Fits like a glove, the Bill and Bob Meistrell story” that is on Amazon but almost all sold out. It is also available at Dive N’ Surf, or if you come to the store a staff member can give you a tour of the store and its history.
Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING DIVE N’ SURF IN A POST-COVID WORLD?
A: It is challenging because of all the purchases people can make by going online. Luckily the South Bay is loyal and shopping local has stayed strong. Also we teach a lot of scuba classes and you can’t learn to dive online. We have a large customer base that likes to actually try a wetsuit or type of apparel on in person. So far our sales have stayed steady after COVID. I believe this is due to our customer oriented staff, our marketing, quality inventory and good store management. The Dive N’ Surf and Body Glove story is a classic example of how our economic system of capitalism is supposed to work. Two guys get cold in the water and provide a product people need, give great customer service and seventy years later the company is worldwide and employs thousands of people.
www.DiveNSurf.com
JOEY Manhattan Beach:
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Offer valid through May 11, 2025.
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www.JoeyRestaurants.com
MB Weekly – Reader Poll:
1 In 11 Identify As LGBTQ+ – Reflecting The Times In Manhattan Beach
In the latest MB Weekly reader poll, 9.3% of respondents considered themselves part of the LGBTQ+ community. This figure reflects national shifts and a growing culture of openness in South Bay. While the percentage may be surprising to some, it underscores a broader trend of increased visibility and self-identification among younger South Bay populations. MB Weekly invites readers to weigh in and share their thoughts and experiences on this subject. Please send comments or perspectives to MBWeekly@TimeWire.net. Your voice matters – and so does your neighbor’s.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Manhattan Beach new art gallery Walstory. The grand opening was held on April 24.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Name Withheld by Request (Manhattan Beach)
My mind is blown by the idea that ANYONE would support Hamas. 23% is high, and the fact that people are empathetic to these terrorists is a clear indicator that we’ve failed as a society on so many levels. The atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7th seem to have been forgotten and/or denied by these uneducated or poorly informed folks in the same way that the Holocaust is being denied and minimized in our educational system. At Coachella this past week Green Day and another Irish band decided to post on their screen, “Free Palestine and Israel Sucks.” The victims of the Nova festival are being blamed for being there. Wondering what would happen if a gang would openly murder, dismember, rape, mutilate, and all the other horrific things which Hamas did at Nova would happen at Coachella. Would we be having a different conversation?? Or is it just that it’s happening to Jews that makes it tolerable? Please help me understand!
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Mercado in Manhattan Village:
The lovely patio at Mercado
Celebrate Cinco with Mercado on Monday, May 5
We’ll have crispy shrimp and lobster tacos, choriqueso fries with al pastor, and $12 Cazcabel House Margaritas all day. Bring your friends, bring your appetite and join us for a fiesta!
Reservations Recommended
Happy hour menu not available; Time limit of 1.75 hours;
Groups are limited to a maximum of 8 people.
www.cocinasycalaveras.com/Mercado
Coast Music Launches Private School For Budding Young Musicians:
Manhattan Beach’s Beth Rohde, owner of Coast Music, is striking a new chord in education with the launch of Coast Music Conservatory – a full-time private school for grades 6 through 12 that blends accredited academics with daily in-person music training. The hybrid model aims to give passionate young musicians the freedom to learn at their own pace while immersing in their art. Classes begin this fall alongside Coast Music’s existing programs.
By-The-Wind Sailors Invade Manhattan Beach – Beautiful, Bizarre, And Slightly Stinging:
Visitors to Manhattan Beach have spotted striking blue sea creatures washing ashore – meet Velella velella, or “by-the-wind sailors.” Though jellyfish-like in appearance, they’re a different species entirely. Driven by wind and ocean currents, their translucent sails glide them across the water’s surface. Marine experts caution: while beautiful, they can still sting – don’t touch it.
Walgreens bathroom in Manhattan Beach.
Bread Head Rising – Sandwich Shop Heads To Manhattan Beach:
Bread Head, Santa Monica’s popular sandwich shop, brings its crave-worthy creations to Manhattan Beach. Slated to open in May 2025, the new outpost marks a significant expansion for the brand that began as a pop-up in 2024. Founded by Trois Mec veterans Alex Williams and Jordan Snyder, Bread Head is famous for its signature bread – a glorious hybrid between focaccia and ciabatta. The venture, part of the Bread Head Restaurant Group alongside Michael Pasternak and Venice Brands founder Greg Willsey, promises to deliver its cult-favorite sandwiches – and a lot of buzz – to the South Bay.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
The famous Parker rolls at The Arthur J in Manhattan Beach.
MBMS Principal Luke Olesiuk Announces Departure At End Of School Year:
“I would like to share that Mr. Olesiuk, Principal of Manhattan Beach Middle School, has announced that he will be resigning at the end of the 2024-2025 school year, with his last day being June 30, 2025,” Dr. John Bowes, MBUSD Superintendent, announced in the April 25 newsletter. “We thank Mr. Olesiuk for his three years of service to MBMS and appreciate his continued commitment and support as we finish out the school year. Throughout his time at MBMS, Mr. Olesiuk has worked closely with staff to support the development of strong student programs, advance academic achievement, and improve/prioritize the well-being of all students. We are grateful for his dedication and wish him the best as he pursues new opportunities in the field of education. As we begin our search to identify the next principal for MBMS, we are committed to a thoughtful and inclusive hiring process. Input from staff and parents will be an essential part of our selection process. …”
WHO READS MB WEEKLY?
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** Prominent Los Angeles radio broadcaster Charles Feldman having Easter lunch at Tin Roof Bistro.
** MB Food and Wine festival creator Shelby Russell having dinner at Slay Steak + Fish in downtown Manhattan Beach.
MBPD Battles Crime With Drones And Determination:
The Manhattan Beach Police Department deployed high-tech tools and old-fashioned footwork in a busy mid-April week of crime fighting. On April 15, a drone was launched after a burglar entered an unlocked sliding door at 1300 Park View while the resident slept. The startled victim yelled, causing the intruder to flee. Despite the aerial search, the suspect was not found. That same day, officers responded to a theft on the 2700 block of Sepulveda Boulevard. The suspect was located near Rosecrans and Redondo but fled on foot. Following a quarter-mile chase, MBPD arrested the suspect without incident in El Segundo. Just two days earlier, on April 13, MBPD intercepted a stolen vehicle entering the city at 4:52 p.m. A high-risk traffic stop on the 300 block of Rosecrans led to another arrest.
Bertha Mae’s Brownies:
www.BerthaMaesBrownies.com
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Manhattan Beach Buys Key Downtown Site To Shape Future On Its Terms:
In a strategic $13 million move, the City of Manhattan Beach has purchased the former U.S. Bank property at 400 Manhattan Beach Boulevard – right in the heart of downtown next to Von’s. The sale, approved by the City Council on April 1 and closed on April 15, gives the city complete control over the 16,570-square-foot site across three parcels. “We are not just purchasing land; we are investing in the future of Manhattan Beach, creating a public benefit and opportunities that will serve our community for generations to come,” said Mayor Amy Thomas Howorth.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Ceramic horse in front of Tin Roof Bistro.
Manhattan Beach Crime Summary
April 17 to April 23, 2025
- 836 CALLS FOR SERVICE
- 18 ARRESTS
- 11 TRAFFIC COLLISIONS
- 47 CRIME REPORTS FILED
Notable Events:
** On 4/17/25 at approximately 3:49 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Manhattan Beach Boulevard regarding a commercial burglary. The suspect vehicle (unreported stolen vehicle out of another city) backed into the business to make entry. Four masked subjects exited the store with a safe and baskets containing merchandise. The suspects ran across the street where a white, SUV was waiting. The suspects fled eastbound on Manhattan Beach Blvd.
** On 4/20/25 at approximately 8:21 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1100 block of Manhattan Avenue in response to reports of two individuals seen spray painting the wall of Spyder Surf. Officers searched the area and found two subjects matching the description in the 500 block of Manhattan Avenue. Both subjects had spray paint on their hands and were carrying spray cans. A field identification conducted with the witnesses was positive. The two juvenile subjects were arrested for felony vandalism and for possessing spray cans, which is prohibited for individuals under 18 years old. Officers discovered more vandalism to a residence in the 700 block of Manhattan Avenue and to a construction site in the 500 block of Manhattan Avenue.
** On 4/20/25 at approximately 8:30 p.m., a neighboring police department was dispatched to the 100 block of Valley Drive regarding an assault with a deadly weapon. It was later determined that a suspect tried to rob the victim of their skateboard using a knife. Two suspects fled the scene, one of whom was captured immediately, while the other led officers on a foot pursuit. The suspect jumped over residential fences and hid. A perimeter was established, and outside agency assistance was requested. An MBPD officer responded and deployed the drone. The officer located the suspect hiding in the backyard foliage and led the arrest team to the suspect, where they were taken into custody without incident.
** On 04/21/25 at approximately 3:22 p.m., officers responded to an assault with a deadly weapon call in the 200 block of North Poinsettia Ave. An elderly male was reportedly shot with a BB gun by a juvenile suspect. Officers arrived on scene and checked the area. A male juvenile was detained in the 900 block of Bayview Ave. The juvenile was positively identified by the victim and subsequently arrested. The victim sustained minor injuries and refused medical treatment.
MBMS Yearbook Receives National Honor For Second Consecutive Year:
MBMS Yearbook students and staff received the National Yearbook Program of Excellence Award from Jostens, producer of yearbooks and student-created content, for the second year in a row. “This honor recognizes engaging yearbooks that reflect a broad representation of the student body while helping students to develop 21st century skills such as communication, collaboration, and information and communication technologies (ICT) literacy,” according to the Superintendent’s newsletter.
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1. ** A recent doctor’s visit to Santa Monica tells a tragic, sad story. The City is a filthy, unsafe, homeless disaster! —- Dr. William H.
2. ** Mark Skousen – “America’s Economist” —- www.markskousen.com
3. ** Be vigilant when visiting a hospital (a local big one for this story) as a patient. My BFF passed away last month, not due to what he went in for, in our opinion. Be sure to have an advocate to help you or your loved one going in. One of the hospital case managers told us: “There can be a big risk when you go into a hospital.” It is really comforting when your loved one is trying to recover from exacerbation after entering but doesn’t. Be careful and well out there. —- Name Withheld by Request
4. ** Can we tell YOUR story to the modern world? —- www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com
5. ** This weekend, I had to go to downtown L.A. to meet a relative who was in town for a business trip. I would rather drink a whole bottle of Drano than return. It is a 3rd world disaster. —- Rory S.
6. ** More spending, more taxes. Again and again – when is enough ENOUGH? Now waste management rates are set to rise in July unless WE stop it. Manhattan Beach property owners: over 50% must submit opposition letters by MAY 20 or it’s another hit to our wallets. Speak up before it’s too late. —- Ryan N.
7. ** I’m sure MBUSD has someone ready to step in for Sheri Hynding at MBMS, right? They wouldn’t leave our special ed students – already overlooked – completely unsupported while scrambling to fix their PR mess, right? Surely, this “reassignment” wasn’t rushed without a plan because that would be… grossly irresponsible. —- Name Withheld by Request
8. ** Outrageous! LA’s irresponsible officials now want to plug a $1B budget hole by jacking up trash fees 54% – from $36 to nearly $56 a month! This is what failure looks like. Instead of fixing wasteful spending, they’re punishing hardworking residents for their incompetence. —- Larry M.
9. ** Hi! I’m Mrs. Duffy, a teacher at Towne Avenue Elementary School and a neighbor here. I need bandages and other basic supplies for my classroom. Support my students here: https://www.donorschoose.org/donors/essentials-list.html?teacherId=7956651&utm_source=dc&utm_medium=nextdoor&utm_campaign=essentials_submit&utm_term=teacher_7956651&rf=nextdoor-dc-2025-04-essentials_submit-teacher_7956651&challengeid=21779840 #fundraising
10. ** Abundant kudos to Charlotte Lesser for her incredible contribution to our city. Her vision and oversight have made us a much safer and better place. My candidate for “unsung hero.” —- Fred T.
11. ** In the last edition, there was a comment about Ted Lieu. I have had several instances where I called his office for help. Incredible response and always willing to help. I think we are lucky to have him. —- Ed M.
12. ** Teachers learn of a possible weapon at 10 am – yet the principal isn’t told until the 7th period? And it turns out to be a gun? How is that following any protocol? And how’d they know another student was involved? After all the school shootings, this is unacceptable and reckless! —- A parent (name withheld by request)
13. ** Even Bill Maher thinks NPR is “crazy far-left.” —- Oscar L.
14. ** Federal agencies have spent over $4.6 billion on furniture since 2021, despite employees working from home. —- Lawrence R.
15. ** NEW DAY & TIME: ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE CLASS – Join us Tuesdays, April 22–May 13, 11 AM–12 PM at AdventurePlex! This fun, low-impact class helps those 55+ improve flexibility, strength, and mobility. Led by a certified Arthritis Foundation instructor. Let’s move together toward less pain and more energy. Location: 1701 Marine Avenue.
16. ** You have a limited number of heartbeats in your life. You can literally hear the countdown to your death. —- Angie S.
17. ** Why isn’t the City transparent about ALL the high-density projects creeping into Manhattan Beach under the ROD? Only 2301 has submitted plans, but 2705 (48 units) and 3600 (285 units!) are in motion too. That’s nearly 340 units – and no public alarm? Where’s the leadership? Where’s the outrage? —- Name Withheld by Request (a 30-year resident)
18. ** I find it amazing how often politicians shrug and say, “Nothing can be done.” Nonsense. Every rule can be changed – it just takes the right signature. Didn’t Janice Hahn change the rules to return to Bruce’s Beach? If they want to, they’ll find a way. If they don’t, they’ll hide behind red tape. Have you not heard of the powerful slogan – “Where there is a will, there is a way?” —- A.Z.
19. ** The Hermosa Beach Museum is riding a wave toward national recognition! This beloved hub of surf, skate, and beach culture is preparing for a key site visit in August by the American Alliance of Museums. Accreditation would place it alongside icons like LACMA, the Getty, and the Natural History Museum. —- Editor’s Note
20. ** I love The Kettle and go often. But not a single staff member cracked even a modest smile on a recent Saturday night. Everyone looked rushed, overwhelmed, and, most of all – unhappy. And the place wasn’t even that busy. Great food still, but the vibe? Not so great. I hope that changes. —- Craig V.
21. ** Please join “Our Neighborhood Voices,” a grassroots movement fighting to restore local control. They’re sponsoring a 2026 ballot initiative to amend the California Constitution – empowering cities, not Sacramento, to decide zoning and land use. Your voice matters. Learn more and support the cause at OurNeighborhoodVoices.com. —- V.A.
22. ** Many of the illegal aliens were receiving Medicaid benefits or other taxpayer-funded assistance programs. Are you surprised? —- Mark M.
23. ** Remember, South Bay friends, every movement that burns hot enough will attract opportunists, zealots, and, eventually, destroyers. Even the most righteous cause can be hollowed out from within. —- Hannah W., Hermosa Beach
24. ** Personally, I think Salt & Straw is way over-priced. —- Zoey C.
25. ** If your son is riding his e-bike on Sharynne Lane (a lot), popping wheelies and showing off – slow him down. He’s going to fall, and it won’t be pretty. I tried to warn him, but he flipped me off and screamed, “FU!” Is that really what you’re teaching him? —- Name Withheld by Request
26. ** Another week, another whistleblower – this time, Sarah Wynn-Williams from Meta. Her Senate testimony exposed backroom deals with the CCP, censorship of U.S. voices, and data pipelines feeding foreign powers. Meta lied to Congress, shareholders, and YOU. Do you still think it’s just a social network? Wake up. This should be a five-alarm scandal. —- Andy P.
27. ** Having a shitty memory is excellent for rewatching TV shows, but not much else. —- Alish R., El Segundo
28. ** Dog Owners! Manhattan Beach, please require all dogs to go to the bathroom on their owner’s property or public lands. It’s so rude for owners to think it’s ok to let their pets poop and pee in any neighbor’s yard! —- Kathy A (a dog owner)
29. ** Scam alert at Albertsons in Gardena! A woman asked me for food money – she said she lost her disability. A guy gave her cash, but she didn’t go near food. When I asked, she said she needed more for her giant “grandson” and asked for my credit card. Sorry, no. Too many scams! —- Abby B.
30. ** I love MB Weekly! —- Linda D.
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