SOUTH BAY ERs SEE SURGE IN “SCROMITING”:
THE NEW SIDE EFFECT OF CHRONIC CANNABIS USE
Emergency rooms are reporting a disturbing rise in cases of “scromiting” – a harrowing blend of screaming and vomiting – linked to chronic cannabis use. The condition, formally known as cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), has increasingly sent marijuana users to ERs over the past decade. For many, the familiar “munchies” have been replaced by sudden, violent bouts of nausea, severe stomach pain, and vomiting episodes. Symptoms typically emerge within 24 hours of cannabis use and can last for days, leading some sufferers to visit the ER multiple times a year. Doctors and nurses say the syndrome is still under-recognized, often mistaken for food poisoning or the stomach flu – costing patients thousands and leaving clinicians scrambling for answers.
STEP INTO KINDNESS:
Urban Plates & MB Weekly
Launch Annual Shoe Drive
For The Homeless
Urban Plates and MB Weekly are once again teaming up to turn compassion into action with their Annual Shoe Drive for the Homeless, benefiting the L.A. Mission. The community-wide effort runs from January 15 through January 31 and invites South Bay residents to make a simple gesture that can change a life. Participants are encouraged to bring one or more pairs of gently used shoes to the Urban Plates location in Manhattan Beach. As a thank-you, donors will receive a $5 gift card from Urban Plates – proof that giving back can feel good in more ways than one. All donated shoes will be delivered directly to the L.A. Mission, providing essential footwear to men, women, and families experiencing homelessness across Los Angeles. The impact is real. Last year’s drive collected more than 500 pairs of shoes, each one offering comfort, dignity, and hope.
For details, visit www.UrbanPlates.com and www.MBWeekly.net.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
On December 26, an MBPD patrol officer stopped a couple for a traffic violation. The husband was driving and found to be on parole for armed robbery, according to police, and he had some fentanyl in his pocket and some meth in the backseat. The wife (also a convicted felon) was in the passenger seat and had a loaded gun in her jacket pocket Both were safely arrested and booked into the MBPD Jail.
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
Table For One Billion! Musk Wins ‘Most Intriguing Dinner Guest’
If MB Weekly readers could host a fantasy dinner party, Elon Musk would be sitting at the head of the table – and it wouldn’t be close. In a new MB Weekly Reader Poll, the Tesla and SpaceX founder was voted the most intriguing dinner guest, overwhelming all other choices. Readers cited Musk’s outsized influence on technology, transportation, artificial intelligence, and free speech as reasons they’d want him across the table – preferably with no time limit and plenty of wine. Respondents described Musk as “unpredictable,” “brilliant,” and “occasionally unfiltered,” a combination many said would make for an unforgettable evening. Several readers said they’d want to ask him about the future of AI, space travel, and whether innovation is moving faster than society can handle. Others admitted the appeal was simpler: “You never know what he’ll say next.” Love him or loathe him, MB Weekly readers made one thing clear – when it comes to dinner conversation, Musk beats boring every time.
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Tin Roof Bistro:
Lunch Times Are Back
Now Open for Lunch on Fridays from 11am-3pm
3500 N Sepulveda Blvd | (310) 939-0900
www.TinRoofBistro.com
SHOULD MANHATTAN BEACH ALLOW SHORT-TERM RENTALS DURING THE WORLDWIDE SPORTING EVENTS THAT ARE COMING TO LOS ANGELES? THAT WAS THE QUESTION BEFORE THE MANHATTAN BEACH CITY COUNCIL AS THE COUNCIL DEBATED WHETHER TO TEMPORARILY LIFT THE CITY’S LONG-STANDING PROHIBITION ON SHORT-TERM RENTALS (STRS). IN THE END, THE COUNCIL DIRECTED STAFF TO DRAFT AN ORDINANCE FOCUSED ONLY ON THE WORLD CUP, LEAVING THE OLYMPICS FOR LATER CONSIDERATION. COUNCILMEMBERS WILL VOTE ON THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE IN JANUARY. THE MOTION PASSED ON A VOTE OF 3-2, WITH MAYOR PRO TEM JOE FRANKLIN AND COUNCILMEMBER STEVE CHARELIAN VOTING NO.
** Bob Holmes (Former MB Mayor): Extending short term rentals beyond the areas controlled by the authoritarian Coast Commission is not a good idea at all. Certainly some short term renters are nice folks who are sensitive to their neighbors and the neighborhood. Others come to party (loudly and late). There is no compelling reason for Manhattan Beach to sacrifice quality of life by adding more short term rentals.
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video of the Bliss Nail Lounge Grand Opening.
Click Link To Watch:
https://youtu.be/rXZrU42FO3k
MB WEEKLY – REPORTS:
Drunk, Delayed & Deadly – DUI Suspect Finally Hit With Murder Charge In Teen Tennis Star’s Death
A 33-year-old Los Angeles woman accused of driving drunk and killing an 18-year-old Manhattan Beach teen has finally been charged with murder – more than seven months after the deadly crash that shook the South Bay. Authorities say Jenia Resha Belt was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and driving on a suspended license in connection with the May 4 death of Braun Levi, a nationally ranked Loyola High School tennis star. Levi was crossing Sepulveda Boulevard just south of Second Street around 12:45 a.m. with friends when police say Belt’s SUV struck him. Levi later died at the hospital. According to investigators, Belt had a blood-alcohol content of 0.19% – more than twice the legal limit – and failed field sobriety tests. She told police she had consumed a Moscow mule at a Hermosa Beach bar before driving. Court records show she was driving on a suspended license tied to a 2023 hit-and-run case. Levi, a four-time league doubles champion, planned to attend the University of Virginia. His family lost their home in the Palisades fire, and they moved to the South Bay. In November, Levi’s parents filed a $200 million wrongful-death lawsuit, with proceeds intended to fund the Live Like Braun Foundation to combat impaired driving. Belt is being held on $2 million bail, with an arraignment scheduled for January 13.
***
MB MOM DEMANDS TOUGHER DUI LAWS AFTER SON KILLED:
Braun Levi’s mother speaks about the charges filed in his death.
A grieving Manhattan Beach mother is turning anguish into action. Jennifer Levi, whose 18-year-old son Braun was allegedly killed by a drunk driver in May, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with prosecutors and politicians demanding California crack down on DUI offenders. “Our family has been shattered, ripped apart, and left to pick up the pieces and keep on living without Braun, who we all loved with every cell in our body,” Levi said during a press event. “California’s current DUI laws are broken and weak and fail to protect families like ours, and it’s devastating,” Levi said, pleading with Gov. Gavin Newsom and lawmakers.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mark Burton (Former MB Mayor)
In 2026, I would like to see our City Council adopt several changes that would benefit our City this coming year and for years to come. In that regard, here are three such changes. First, we should explore adopting a City Charter that would give our City maximum local control of its municipal affairs. In essence, a City Charter is a city’s constitution. With a well-educated and sophisticated electorate, I believe that a City Charter would be welcomed by our residents. Second, we should explore hiring a financial consultant to audit all City department budgets to identify savings. For far too long, our Council has been remiss when it comes to being fiscally responsible. Clearly, the analysis and numbers provided by Paul Wafer clearly show there is significant waste in several City departments, not to mention the exorbitant salaries. Third, we should explore more transparency in our city government with more resident based decision making, not just pleasing City staff. Of course, there are more improvements needed but these three would be a great start. Mind you, our City Council cares, we just need them to care enough to be proactive and to manage the City’s staff.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Santa Sleigh Ride in Manhattan Village.
MB WEEKLY – MANHATTAN BEACH HISTORY QUIZ:
TAKE THE QUIZ – IF YOU’VE GOT THE GUTS
Here is a sharp, engaging 5-question quiz on the history of Manhattan Beach, California – perfect for MB Weekly readers, local leaders, or anyone who thinks they know the South Bay’s crown jewel.
1. THE ORIGINAL MANHATTAN BEACH PIER, ONE OF THE OLDEST CONCRETE PIERS ON THE WEST COAST, OPENED IN?
A) 1914 B) 1920 C) 1927 D) 1938
2. WHAT WAS THE NAME OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN-OWNED BEACHFRONT RESORT SEIZED BY THE CITY IN THE 1920S THROUGH EMINENT DOMAIN?
A) Freedom Cove B) Bruce’s Beach C) Bayview Pavilion D) The Strand Club
3. PRIOR TO BEING KNOWN AS MANHATTAN BEACH, ONE SECTION OF THE CITY WAS ORIGINALLY CALLED?
A) Peck’s Beach B) Shore Acres C) Ocean Park D) South Manhattan
4. MANHATTAN BEACH IS WIDELY CREDITED AS ONE OF THE BIRTHPLACES OF WHICH SPORT?
A) Beach football B) Skateboarding C) Beach volleyball D) Surf lifesaving competition
5. WHICH MAJOR PIECE OF ICONIC ARCHITECTURE WAS COMPLETED IN 1962 AND REMAINS ONE OF THE CITY’S MOST RECOGNIZABLE BUILDINGS?
A) The Manhattan Heights Community Center B) The Polliwog Park Amphitheater C) The Manhattan Beach Library (original modernist design) D) The Civic Center Fire Station
(ANSWERS BELOW)
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Darby Winston (Manhattan Beach)
One can only hope that the recent sale of California Pizza Kitchen arrives not a moment too soon for its Manhattan Village outpost, which currently offers all the warmth and hospitality of a DMV in a bad neighborhood. Five years after Chapter 11, CPK has been sold to an investor group led by Consortium Brand Partners for a reported sum below $300 million, a valuation that feels more like a mercy than a triumph. The appointment of Convive Brands CEO Jon Weber to run restaurant operations, while President Michael Beacham retreats to the safer terrain of packaged goods, suggests a tacit acknowledgment: the problem was never the frozen pizza aisle, but the dining room itself. With 120 locations and nearly $1 billion in annual revenue, CPK is not dying – but it is unmistakably wheezing. Franchising may expand footprints, but unless these new stewards revive service, spirit, and pride, Californians will continue to wonder how a pizza chain in the Golden State forgot how to be pleasant.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Manhattan Beach community activist Fred Taylor wearing his prized MB Weekly cap in downtown Manhattan Beach.
The Man Behind The Magic – How One Quiet Leader Keeps Santa Rolling In Manhattan Beach:
Each December, as twilight settles over Manhattan Beach, a familiar miracle glides through the neighborhoods: Santa Claus waving from the Kiwanis Santa Sleigh, laughter echoing, candy canes delighting children, and a treasured tradition coming alive. Behind that magic stands Steven Carvel – the unseen force who makes it all happen. Each December, after long days at his law practice, Steven dedicates six or more hours every night to ensuring the sleigh runs flawlessly. He plans routes, coordinates volunteers, schedules Santa, works with city officials and police, tows the sleigh, and personally prepares and repairs it after each run. A longtime Kiwanis member and past president, Steven embodies service and quiet leadership. His commitment comes at a real cost – time away from his wife and two daughters, who make possible the joy that reaches thousands of families. When the sleigh rolls by this season, remember: magic doesn’t happen by accident. Sometimes, it’s built – night after night – by a true local hero.
From Johnny Rockets to Toner Society:
After 33 years serving Manhattan Beach at Johnny Rockets
Chris Khaleghian now brings the same commitment to service and value through Toner Society. We’ve been in business for 12 years, providing everything Office Depot and Staples offer – but at better prices and with better service.
- Lower Prices: OEM toner cheaper than Office Depot & Staples, remanufactured cartridges up to 50% less.
- Better Service: Fast, reliable, and trusted locally.
- Flexible Terms: Net 30 available (they don’t).
- Nationwide Coverage: From Manhattan Beach to across the U.S., we’ve got you covered.
Trusted by schools, car dealerships, doctors’ offices, shipping companies, Domino’s, Papa John’s, and food companies nationwide.
www.TonerSociety.com
From Sneakers To Square Footage – Skechers’ Greenberg Steps Up Hermosa Beach Play:
Michael Greenberg, president and co-founder of Skechers, is expanding his footprint in Hermosa Beach – this time in concrete, not sneakers. At its December 16 meeting, the Hermosa Beach Planning Commission unanimously approved a Precise Development Plan for 1054 Aviation Boulevard, clearing the way for Greenberg to demolish an aging commercial structure and replace it with a modern, multi-tenant building. The move follows a blockbuster moment for Skechers: last May, Brazilian private equity firm 3G Capital agreed to acquire the company for $9.4 billion, the largest footwear buyout in history. The Aviation Boulevard project adds to the family’s growing Beach Cities real estate portfolio, which includes Skechers’ massive nearby headquarters expansion and multiple high-value residential properties.
MB WEEKLY – FACE TIME:
Cedric Tuck-Sherman, president Manhattan Beach Rotary.
MB WEEKLY – R.I.P.:
Bob White (1927–2025)
“We’re sad to report that Ercole’s stalwart Bob White passed away yesterday at the age of 98. Bob was legendary in every sense of the word,” according to the restaurant’s social media. “Born on St. Patrick’s Day 1927, Bob made his mark on Manhattan Beach through his music, his smile and his friendship. He was a founding member of The Hyperion Outfall Serenaders, with whom he played the trumpet up until a few years ago. He and the band have been immortalized in a mural at Shellback Tavern and in a photo at Ercole’s, where they posed with their groupies, boosters and band mothers before the Doo Dah Parade in 1981. The band was formally declared the ‘Official Band of Manhattan Beach’ and in March 2025, they were commended for their 50 years of service. Bob was a fixture at Ercole’s where he courted his wife Connie and amassed countless friends over the past 75-ish years.”
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“Wow, Sarah, you must read the MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board. It’s a trip!”
BELLA BUILDERS:
A Local Residential Builder
ADU’s and New Homes
Manhattan Beach and The Palisades
Full Service From Concept To Completion
www.BeautifulBuilder.com | www.FirewiseHomes.com
Vinny@beautifulbuilder.com | 310 809 4999
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
WHAT IS YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
Send your reply, anonymously if you choose, to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Manhattan Beach History Quiz – Answer Key:
- A) 1914
- B) Bruce’s Beach
- B) Shore Acres
- C) Beach volleyball
- D) The Civic Center Fire Station (completed in 1962 and a classic example of mid-century civic architecture)
1. ** High-rise housing mandates threaten Manhattan Beach’s schools, backyard privacy, emergency response, traffic, and parking. A new local group is organizing to reduce these impacts and push for smart, community-focused solutions. Complaints aren’t enough – action matters. —- Carly Y.
2. ** Redondo Beach has a new police chief. The city announced this week that Police Captain Steve Sprengel will take the helm on December 27. A familiar face within the department, Sprengel succeeds retiring Chief Joe Hoffman, bringing continuity, experience, and deep local knowledge to the role. —- Editor’s Note
3. ** I’m facing a painful family dilemma. My brother and his wife refuse to vaccinate their kids unless forced, even after school expulsion over MMR. We’ve tried calm, nonjudgmental conversations and compromises, but every discussion feels like we’re speaking entirely different languages. —- Anita B., Hermosa Blvd.
4. ** Jenia Resha Belt. A repeat drunk driver, allegedly more than twice the legal limit, is now charged with murder after killing teenager Braun Levi. How was she free? This wasn’t fate – it was failure. A system that shrugs at repeat offenders helped make this tragedy possible. Perhaps the moron judge would like to explain this to the grieving parents. —- Clarence C.
5. ** Need a kind, caring, reliable, experienced dog walker? Silvia is the best in the South Bay. Winner – “Best of Los Angeles Award.” Silvia has ten years of experience as the dog walker of choice here in the South Bay. Reasonably priced. Call 310-714-9877 or E-mail: AlohaMyDog@gmail.com
6. ** Does your business have any “Broken Windows”? —- www.BrokenWindowsBook.com
7. ** Six weeks of the World Cup is not an excuse to trash our neighborhoods. We already allow short-term rentals in the Coastal Zone. That’s enough. Don’t turn quiet residential streets into pop-up hotels. Oppose short-term rentals outside the Coastal Zone – now and always. —- Darlene M., Manhattan Beach
8. ** If the California Bullet Train were any more of a scam, the Somalis would have hijacked it at Bakersfield. —- Peter N.
9. ** The fish at The Butchery in Manhattan Beach is simply exceptional. The salmon was rich, pristine, and perfectly fresh, while the halibut was delicate, buttery, and flawless. This is seafood at its absolute best – expertly sourced, beautifully prepared, and utterly unforgettable. —- Carla S., Manhattan Beach
10. ** BLAST OFF IN THE NEW YEAR – A New You – a New Career. – Boundless Media seeks exceptional, hungry learners for an entry-level, part-time, fully remote role – with high standards. Personal mentorship. Real responsibility. Learn elite PR, branding, and storytelling alongside an award-winning team. —- AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com
11. ** The customer service at the Apple Store in Manhattan Village is outstanding – knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely kind. The team listens carefully, explains clearly, and never rushes you. Every interaction feels thoughtful and human. In a world of rushed service, this store sets the gold standard. —- Courtney T., Hermosa Beach
12. ** Funny how outrage suddenly appears. The same voices furious over ICE numbers were silent for four years during the Biden-Harris border chaos – when an estimated 10 to 20 million unvetted illegal immigrants crossed freely. No marches. No headlines. No urgency. Selective indignation isn’t morality; it’s politics. Obviously. —- Sara H., Manhattan Beach
13. ** As a resident, I oppose citywide short-term rentals during the World Cup. We already allow them in the Coastal Zone. Why invade quiet neighborhoods? The City dodged the fundamental question: Do you want a rental next door? The honest answer from most residents is a loud NO – absolutely unacceptable policy. —- Jen B.
14. ** Beach Pizza in El Porto is pure coastal perfection. Crispy crust, generous toppings, and bold, crave-worthy flavor every time. The vibe is relaxed, the service is friendly, and the pizza hits the spot after a beach day or anytime hunger strikes – a true local gem. —- Elliot T., Manhattan Beach
15. ** Are you ready for Coffee Talk? —- https://youtu.be/_hQPDCNCFgU?si=URTIkzjcD7c5mI6t
16. ** Though the food was adequate, the staff at Noah’s Bagels in El Segundo looked like they belonged in a prison gang. —- Roger N., El Segundo
17. ** Here we go again. A little here, a little there – and it never, ever, ever stops. Always more taxes, never less waste. Now, a proposed half-cent sales tax for the LAFD. Where’s the audit, the reform, the accountability? —- Carl D.
18. ** Discover creativity at the Manhattan Beach Art Center, 1560 Manhattan Beach Boulevard. Open Wednesday–Thursday, 10AM–9PM and Friday–Sunday, 10AM–5PM. Questions? infombac@manhattanbeach.gov or (310) 802-5440. – Art, ideas, and inspiration – right in the heart of Manhattan Beach.
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