MIDDLE SCHOOL GUN SCARE SPARKS PARENT UPROAR:
MBUSD VOWS FASTER, SMARTER RESPONSE
Manhattan Beach school officials admitted they could have acted faster and communicated better after an unloaded gun was found in a student’s backpack at Manhattan Beach Middle School on March 19. At a tense town hall on Monday, April 7, Superintendent John Bowes acknowledged parent frustration over the delayed notification and lack of a lockdown.
“… We’re bringing in a crisis communication expert to help us methodically go through our protocols and using this as a case study to help us understand how to improve for the future,” Bowes said during the Q&A session. “We’re not doing it by ourselves. We’re bringing in an expert to assist because we want to get this all dialed in right so that next time, we have the best possible outcomes with regard to communication that is timely and informative, with the right tone, and provides the information that parents and staff want…”
“I agree with you that more timely communication could have and should have occurred …” MBMS Principal Luke Olesiuk said in response to a participant question.
Parents can weigh in at the next MBUSD board meeting on May 7, where an updated safety plan will also be reviewed. Though the student was quickly detained without incident, many in the community say the more significant issue was the communication breakdown – something the district now says it’s determined to fix.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtDJEAGQzJ4
Manhattan Beach’s Guardian Angel Retires After 45 Years Of Service:
Charlotte Lesser, the beloved founder of Manhattan Beach’s Neighborhood Watch, received a standing ovation as she announced her retirement on April 2, at the Joslyn Community Center. Lesser dedicated 45 years to keeping the community safe, fostering a culture of vigilance and unity. Introduced by Manhattan Beach Mayor pro-teem David Lesser (no relation), Charlotte’s unwavering commitment was celebrated by a room filled with gratitude and admiration. Residents praised her tireless efforts in building a safer, more connected community. Lesser leaves behind a legacy of care and a safer Manhattan Beach as she steps down.
EXCLUSIVE – ED KAMINSKY:
South Bay Real Estate’s Resilient Charm Amid National Shifts
South Bay real estate leader Ed Kaminsky sheds light on the unique dynamics of the South Bay market, emphasizing its status as a micro-market compared to sprawling cities like Los Angeles, Miami, or Hong Kong. Despite lacking the volume of these global hubs, the South Bay continues to maintain impressive super-prime sales, thanks to its distinctive charm and strategic location. According to Ed, the South Bay witnessed a significant rebound in 2023, with MLS data indicating a 142% increase in home sales exceeding $10 million compared to 2022. This return to 2021 levels – 17 sales – highlights the area’s resilience despite national downturns. Notably, 2024 recorded 16 super-prime transactions, just one fewer than the previous year. Manhattan Beach remains the epicenter, accounting for around 60% of these high-value sales. Ed points out that MLS data overlooks the unique local trend of land sales, where older homes are purchased and replaced with luxury properties worth over $10 million. As such, the actual volume of premium real estate activity is even higher. Looking ahead, Ed identifies three key influences on the market: Pacific Palisades residents potentially relocating to the South Bay, economic shifts driven by the Trump administration, and state-mandated housing density changes. Through it all, Manhattan Beach’s allure – top schools, coastal ambiance, and community feel – continues to sustain demand, making the South Bay an enduring real estate hotspot.
www.ItzSold.com
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Lee Phillips
(Community Activist)
Q: ARE YOU A MORNING PERSON?
A: Yes
Q: DO YOU LIKE TO PLAY CHESS?
A: I don’t play chess, but I do enjoy Scrabble, one of my favorite words is verso. There’s just something about words and their hidden layers that fascinates me.
Q: IS FASHION IMPORTANT TO YOU?
A: I wear a lot of green and yellow. However I like to use bold colors, textures, and patterns in my art.
Q: DO YOU LIKE TO READ?
A: I love to read! I’m addicted to mysteries – there’s something about solving a puzzle or uncovering a hidden secret that makes them irresistible.
Q: ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SPORTS?
A: Yes, I love cycling because it’s such a powerful example of teamwork, riders go faster and further when they work together.
Q: DO YOU LIKE TO LEARN NEW THINGS?
A: I do like learning new things. Lately, I’ve been into mosaic art, there’s no real way to fail. Every little piece finds its place somehow.
Q: DO YOU LIKE TO SING?
A: Yes
Q: DID YOU SEE THE AUSTIN POWERS MOVIE?
A: Yeah baby!
Slay Steak + Fish House:
SLAY offers cast-iron cooked grass-fed beef, chops, and sustainable seafood. Rotating ingredients on our menu are locally sourced from our farm, SLAY Estate & Vineyard in the iconic Sta. Rita Hills, AVA.
www.SlaySteakAndFishHouse.com
MB WEEKLY – HISTORY:
It’s the most famous alumnus standing in front of the second and most prominent location of Video Archives in Manhattan Beach. It had moved two doors down into the corner space after the sporting goods shop closed, staying there until they moved to Hermosa Beach.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Steve Napolitano
(Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)
Charlotte Lesser is a Manhattan Beach icon who has devoted years of service to making Manhattan Beach a better, safer place to live. It’s now up to the rest of us to step up and follow her example of getting involved to help keep Manhattan Beach special. Charlotte is always the first one to say it isn’t about her, it’s about everyone else. The best we can do for Charlotte is continue putting others first, the worst we can do is think it’s anyone else’s job but ours.
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COAST LAUNDRY:
Wash + Fold
THE SOUTH BAY’S CLEANEST, LARGEST
AND ONLY “FREE OZONE” LAUNDRY!
Coast Laundry provides a full-service wash/dry/fold, as well. This is perfect for customers who are too busy, or simply don’t want to waste time doing their own laundry.
5041 W. El Segundo Blvd., Hawthorne
www.Coast-Laundry.com
Rock’N Fish Celebrates 25 Years:
A South Bay Seafood & Steakhouse Staple
Michael Zislis
Rock’N Fish has been a cherished fixture in Manhattan Beach since its inception. Founded by Michael Zislis, the restaurant set out to create a classic seafood and steakhouse where everyone feels welcome, portions are hearty, and drinks pack a punch. Now celebrating its 25th anniversary, Rock’N Fish remains a beloved South Bay institution. The team expresses heartfelt gratitude to the community for decades of support, vowing to continue serving with the same passion and commitment.
https://mb.rocknfish.com/
MB WEEKLY – CHARTS:
Adult smokers in Beach Cities.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Journey Manzo
This dude named George Lugo has been creeping around Hermosa Pier, harassing women, and posting it all over his Instagram @// georgealugo. Cops haven’t done anything so far, to my knowledge, but if you see this guy, please report it or call him out for being a creep. My family has ties in Hermosa, and we have for years; it’s where we all hung out and grew up. It’s sickening that someone like this is ruining the fun and magic of the pier for other people. I want to make this public knowledge as best I can.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Last week, Chief Johnson swore in our newest lateral Police Officer, Officer Chris Vargas. He completed his orientation week and will begin the Field Training program. Officer Vargas joins us as a lateral Officer from Orange County. The name may sound familiar; he’s the son of recently retired Sergeant Chris Vargas.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Bob Holmes
(Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)
Chairing Manhattan Beach Neighborhood Watch is a very important task, but comes with no glory, no pay, no perks, and lots of hard work and dedication. To do so for 45 years is almost unbelievable. For Charlotte Lesser, Co-founder and 45 year Chair, it has been a labor of love. But make no mistake about it, it is a labor. Our city is better, happier, and definitely safer because of Charlotte. Thank you Charlotte.
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Lido Bakery:
Home of the Most Extraordinary Wedding Cakes
Inspired by a sense of commitment to our community, Lido Bakery offers a full range of baked goods – each carefully crafted with the finest natural ingredients. “We also bake in a little bit of love with every bite!”
www.LidoBakery.com
Lights, Camera, Empowerment: Soroptimist Film Festival Spotlights Women’s Plights
Cinephiles can experience five influential films shedding light on the challenges women face globally at the Soroptimist International of Manhattan Beach Film Festival this month. For over 15 years, the nonprofit has been showcasing films created by women, for women, in the South Bay. This year’s event, in partnership with Women’s Voices Now, will occur at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. Proceeds will support local and global programs focused on women’s education and career development. Tickets are $30, with a student rate of $10, available at simanhattanbeach.org.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Andy Abreu
(Police Sergeant)
Charlotte dedicated 45 years to the Neighborhood Watch Program and the city of Manhattan Beach, and we thank her for that. We wish her well.
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Manhattan Beach Crime Summary
March 27 to April 2, 2025
- 909 CALLS FOR SERVICE
- 15 ARRESTS
- 18 TRAFFIC COLLISIONS
- 40 CRIME REPORTS FILED
Notable Events:
** On 3/27/25 at approximately 8:25 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 200 block of 18th Street regarding a burglary report. The victim reported that they discovered their garage door openers were not working correctly and found pry marks on the weather strip at the bottom of their garage door. The victim also discovered that their garage track appeared to have been broken or stripped. At this time, the victim did not report a loss.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Paul Wafer
Have you ever seen a child in Manhattan Beach wearing a plastic ear cup? Chances are they are a patient of Dr. Sheryl Lewin, a board-certified Craniofacial Plastic surgeon specializing in ear reconstruction, otoplasty, and non-surgical infant ear molding. Thousands of children worldwide are born with Microtia (small ear) and Atresia (no ear canal). Most patients are only affected on one ear, but some are affected on both. With a closed ear canal, these patients have hearing loss and wear a special bone anchored hearing aid. Dr. Lewin developed a surgical procedure that gives these children a “hearing ear” in just one surgery, using 3D technology to create a mirror image of the unaffected side while simultaneously implanting hearing technology. Families travel from all over the world to receive this life changing surgery and stay nearby Manhattan Beach because it provides a kid friendly post-operative environment. Very few surgeons across the country limit their practice to gain this expertise. Some inexperienced surgeons attempt this procedure with devastating results. Dr. Lewin’s non-profit, Earicles, provides free surgery to children with prior failed ear reconstruction. To learn about Dr. Lewin or donate to her foundation please visit: https://lewinear.com/earicles
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Lincoln Stars forward Hunter Anderson has committed to Minnesota Duluth, announced late last week. A native of Manhattan Beach, CA, Anderson has 33 points (12 goals, 21 assists) in 41 regular season games between the Stars and Sioux Falls Stampede.
READ WHAT PEOPLE ARE REALLY THINKING…
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MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
HAVE YOU HAD A BAD EXPERIENCE WITH BOTOX?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
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1. ** Spectrum in Manhattan Beach might have the WORST customer service ever! Bold claim? Maybe. But it’s painfully true. Their staff – utterly powerless in this huge company – make the DMV look efficient! Long waits, zero accountability, and frustration galore. Disgraceful! —- Ali B.
2. ** Hermosa Beach is pushing back – but they can’t do it alone! California’s communities are under siege, and if we don’t fight now, we lose everything. Crime, homelessness, and endless (and I do mean endlessly) bad policies are destroying our neighborhoods. Every resident must wake up, speak out, and push back before it’s too late. —- Wally A.
3. ** Interested in a police records job, but can only work part-time? Well look what we have here! No better time to come join our team. Hourly Pay: $29.22 to $37.29 —- Visit manhattanbeach.gov/jobs for more information
4. ** As a gay male, I’m no Covid zealot; I never was. I had faith – in science, the NIH, even Tony Fauci. I remembered his AIDS-era leadership. But after watching the chaos, spin, and shifting goalposts, my trust cracked. I get that plagues are messy. But now? I don’t trust Fauci. Not even a little. —- Andrew L.
5. ** When NCAA President Charlie Baker (incorrectly) claims there are only 10 men in women’s NCAA sports, people think it’s no big deal. But if he’d said only 10 men are doping in men’s NCAA sports and they’re not drug testing going into March Madness, people would be losing their shi*t. —- Alison S., Manhattan Beach
6. ** The mid-year budget review showed that the city is already close to $2 million over budget in salaries. Some of that is due to mutual aid for the fires, but in the private sector, you would look for ways to adjust your budget to make up for the shortfall by limiting overtime, a hiring freeze, and perhaps layoffs. In our city, they just allocate more money to the salary budget. It drives me crazy! —- Paul W.
7. ** Graffiti chaos. The walls and park were tagged overnight, and the retaliatory tags were placed today. Police documented it, and Redondo Beach City’s crew is already erasing it. I was impressed by the swift response and hard work. Saturday cleanup in action. —- Angie S.
8. ** Do you have any “Broken Windows” in your business? —- www.BrokenWindowsBook.com
9. ** Veterans of Hermosa’s oil wars gathered at the Hermosa Beach Museum to mark 10 years since the 2015 Stop Oil victory. Speakers included Barbara Guild, who helped defeat oil drilling efforts in 1958 and 2015, and museum leaders who shared the city’s long history of environmental resistance dating back to the 1930s. —- Editor’s Note
10. ** The food at Smashburger in the Manhattan Village is poor! —- Tate O.
11. ** AttaGirl has taken over the old Dia de Campo spot, transforming it into a sleek, modern space with great vibes and upbeat music. Inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, their innovative menu breaks the mold of generic bar food – bringing fresh, exciting energy to the neighborhood – a bold and welcome change. —- Gary L.
12. ** Congressman Ted Lieu is yet another “go along, to get along” political hack. —- Richard and Laci T.
13. ** MB Weekly certainly has tapped the movers and shakers here. Plus, you have given voice to pent-up demand for an open forum. Thank you. —- Dave H.
14. ** Kids Eat FREE on Mondays at Hook & Plow. From 5 pm to close, treat yourself to a delicious adult entrée, and your little one gets one meal free. It is a perfect family night out in Manhattan Beach. —- Hook & Plow
15. ** As a local restaurant owner, I’d like to throw a pie in the face of parents who let their bratty kids scream and run wild in restaurants. It’s not Chuck E. Cheese, you morons, it’s a dining establishment. Have some decency and teach your kids manners – or eat at home where chaos is your business, not ours. —- Name Withheld by Request
16. ** Just a few years ago, med schools couldn’t stop preaching their ultra-woke antiracism. Now? Suddenly, it’s all about “protecting science” from MAGA. What changed? A $5 billion slap from the NIH capping their gravy train. It turns out virtue-signaling stops quickly when the free money dries up. Hypocrisy meets karma. —- Heather K.
17. ** Shoutout to Jake at Joey in Manhattan Village – a terrific waiter who goes above and beyond! Friendly, attentive, and always on point with service. If you’re dining there soon, ask for Jake – he’ll make your experience even better. Great job, Jake, and thank you. —- Orlando C.
18. ** Why is it that the scum firebombing Teslas are the ones with Coexist stickers on their cars? —- Julianna M.
19. ** SPONSORS & PLAYERS WANTED – JEFF GOODRICH PARENTS’ SOCCER CLASSIC 5/10 – Join the fun and support our schools! Local parents, staff, and faculty face off in a 7-a-side soccer tournament at Mira Costa’s West Field on Saturday, May 10. Want to play or sponsor? —- Email goodrichtourney@gmail.com today
20. ** A couple of days ago, I was in Home Depot when I saw this scrawny redneck trying to return a clearly used chainsaw. Standing a few feet behind him, I didn’t understand why the store clerk wouldn’t take it back. But the guy blew a gasket. “This is really f–ked up,” he shouted, loud enough for everyone within earshot. The poor clerk just stood there and took it. —- Andrew P.
21. ** Antisemitism has its source not in the Jew but in a savage sickness afflicting the antisemite. —- Rhonda T.
22. ** Who are these sick, unhinged, rage-fueled maniacs attacking Tesla? A 42-year-old arsonist calling herself “baby” online allegedly torches cars and defaces property because she doesn’t like Elon Musk. This is not activism – this is criminal insanity. Living with your mom due to “emotional problems” does not excuse this scum throwing Molotov cocktails and spewing hate. If you think vandalism and violence are how to express your views, you don’t need a platform – you need help. —- Emily R.
23. ** The fried chicken special at Tin Roof Bistro is outstanding – crispy, juicy, and flavorful! Don’t miss this mouthwatering treat if you’re in the Manhattan Beach area. It’s comfort food at its finest, served with charm. Get it before it’s gone. —- Kaley M.
24. ** Snow White is such a bomb at the box office that ISIS just took credit for it. —- Lowell T.
25. ** There are women named Summer, Autumn, and even Winter, but you never see someone named Spring. However, you see people named April, May, and June. —- Coco C.
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