HERMOSA BEACH CITY COUNCIL TAPS FIVE-TERM MANHATTAN BEACH COUNCILMEMBER / MAYOR STEVE NAPOLITANO AS INTERIM CITY MANAGER:
The Hermosa Beach City Council has appointed former five-term Manhattan Beach Councilmember, Mayor and resident Steve Napolitano as Interim City Manager. Napolitano brings three decades of local government and legal experience to the role. Napolitano will replace Public Works Director Joe SanClemente, who was serving as temporary interim city manager following former City Manager Suja Lowenthal’s departure. “I’ve lived in the South Bay my whole life and know Hermosa Beach well – from its coastal character to its unique challenges,” said Napolitano. “I’m honored by the Council’s confidence and look forward to collaborating with staff, City leadership and the community to strengthen City services, support Council’s priorities and preserve what makes Hermosa unique.” According to Hermosa Beach Mayor Rob Saemann, “His life history, strong local ties and commitment to public service provide him with a deep understanding of both the South Bay and governmental operations, ensuring that the City of Hermosa Beach continues to deliver excellent services to our community.”
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
** Mark Burton: Manhattan Beach has so many great restaurants! In some respects, they are all my favorites! For special occasions, The Strand House with it’s view of our Iconic Pier stands out. Also, David Slay, Michael Simms and Michael Zislis restaurants serve such delicious food!
** Dan Stern: I live at the North end of M.B., so my favorites are Fishbar, Sloopy’s, North End, and OB’s. When I’m downtown it’s The Kettle, Shade, Brewco Social, Nick’s, Mangiamo’s El Sombrero and Ercoles. It’s hard to go wrong on Manhattan Beach restaurants. There’s something for every taste and wallet.
** Russ Lesser: Mangiamo, The Kettle, Nick’s and Tin Roof.
** Bob Holmes: Rock ’N Fish, Uncle Bill’s, Mangiamo, Lido di Manhattan and Shellback Tavern.
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
Results Are In – The Arthur J Sizzles As Best Steakhouse In Town
In MB Weekly’s latest Reader Poll, The Arthur J has officially claimed the title of Best Steakhouse – and it’s no surprise why. A local favorite on Manhattan Beach Boulevard, The Arthur J is the ultimate neighborhood steakhouse, blending classic steakhouse charm with the creative, wood-fired brilliance of Chef-owner David LeFevre. Readers raved about the perfectly seared cuts and inventive side dishes inspired by LeFevre’s travels and culinary roots, as well as the warm and attentive hospitality. Several voters singled out General Manager Aaron for his exceptional leadership and personal touch that keeps loyal customers returning. “It’s not just the food – it’s the feeling,” wrote one respondent. With its massive grill, top-tier ingredients, and unmistakable vibe, The Arthur J continues to raise the bar for what a steakhouse experience should be.
www.TheArthurJ.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by (Name Withheld by Request), Manhattan Beach
Has anyone seen this guy? He was creeping and taking pictures. In light of the recent several home invasion robberies, I wanted to check.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Eggs, toast and the amazing sweet potato tots at The Rockefeller in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Harry Knapp
(Walstory Art Gallery)
Q: YOU JUST OPENED A NEW ART GALLERY IN MANHATTAN BEACH. CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE CONCEPT?
A: The heart of our gallery is rooted in a simple yet profound belief: Art Is Love. We believe that art holds the power to transform – not just individuals, but entire communities and the world around us. Our space in Manhattan Beach was created with a clear purpose: to plant a seed of creativity, connection, and cultural growth in this beautiful coastal community. We’re here to invite others – artists, collectors, educators, families, and neighbors – to grow the art scene with us. This isn’t just about displaying beautiful pieces; it’s about nurturing a movement. Art is food for the soul. It opens minds, especially young ones, and offers new perspectives. It challenges, inspires, heals, and unites. And we believe it’s essential to the well-being and vibrancy of any community. Our gallery isn’t just a space – it’s a starting point. A conversation. A catalyst. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or someone who’s just beginning to explore, we welcome you to join us in celebrating the transformative power of art. Let’s grow something beautiful together.
Q: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: The South Bay has always felt like home, and Manhattan Beach was the perfect fit for Walstory – a seaside gem with a unique charm and a vibrant mix of locals and visitors from around the world. It’s a place where community and culture thrive, with some of the best restaurants, shops, and surf the South Bay has to offer. I’m a water guy at heart – the ocean is my refuge, my therapy, and my healing. Landing a space just a block from the beach felt like fate. I’m incredibly grateful to be rooted in such a beautiful location that reflects the spirit of Walstory and everything we stand for.
Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING AN ART GALLERY IN TODAY’S MODERN WORLD?
A: Honestly? It’s people trying to match art to their couch! That may sound cheeky, but it captures a deeper truth about the tension at the heart of running a gallery today. We live in a world where aesthetics are often driven by decor trends and Instagram algorithms, rather than by emotional or intellectual engagement. Helping people move beyond surface-level choices to connect with art on a visceral level is a constant challenge – and a necessary one. More broadly, the modern art world is shifting rapidly. Online platforms have expanded visibility, but they’ve also commodified the experience. It’s nearly impossible to fully engage with a piece of art through a screen; the scale, texture, and energy just don’t translate. In-person viewing remains essential, but convincing people to step away from their phones and into a gallery space can be an uphill battle. From an artist’s perspective, creation is deeply personal – it’s about offering something authentic from within, without concern for how it will be received. Running a gallery, however, flips that dynamic completely. It requires making curatorial decisions based not just on artistic merit, but on what might sell. Most artists would never (and should never) create with commercial viability in mind, but gallery owners have to consider it constantly. That’s where listening to your audience becomes critical – not to pander, but to understand. The role of a gallerist today is part curator, part educator, and part translator. You’re connecting artists’ inner worlds with a public that may not yet have the language to articulate why a piece moves them. And that, despite all the challenges, is what makes it deeply rewarding.
Q: WHO ARE THE PERFECT CUSTOMERS FOR YOUR ART GALLERY?
A: The perfect customers for our art gallery are the curious – those who come not just to buy, but to experience. We believe art is more than a transaction; it’s an invitation to feel, question, and connect. While we welcome collectors who fall in love with a piece and want to live with it, we equally value the wide-eyed first graders who visit after school, asking brilliant questions and seeing things most adults miss. Their wonder reminds us why we do this work. Our ideal customers are people who engage with art on a personal level – who see it as a mirror, a doorway, or even a conversation. Whether they’re seasoned collectors or first-time visitors, what matters most is that they’re open: to discovery, to dialogue, and to the joy of seeing the world through a different lens. To us, art is a wall exhaling – it elevates us beyond words, offering something new every time we encounter it. The perfect customers are those who show up ready to breathe it in.
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I grew up in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.
Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: As a filmmaker with four decades of experience, choosing a single favorite movie of all time is nearly impossible. Great storytelling comes from every corner of the world, and I’ve been fortunate to be inspired by so many unique voices throughout my career. That said, some of the filmmakers whose work has consistently resonated with me include Pedro Almodóvar, Quentin Tarantino, Wes Anderson, Alexander Payne, and the Coen Brothers. Each brings a distinct perspective and style to their storytelling that I deeply admire. If I had to point to one film that made a lasting impression early in my career, it would be True Romance. Its raw energy, unforgettable characters, and bold narrative choices really opened my eyes to the kind of emotional and stylistic risks a film could take. It was one of those rare movies that made me excited – not just to watch, but to create.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: David Slay was the first person to stop by the gallery and give me a warm welcome. I am a big fan of his work. I often find myself at the Arthur J’s bar next door to Walstory.
www.WalStory.com
Tin Roof Bistro:
Craving something fresh and flavorful? Our Spicy Tuna Spring Rolls are the perfect bite!
www.TinRoofBistro.com
Larry Kosmont Honored With CALED’s Top Career Achievement Award:
The California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) has awarded its prestigious Golden Bear Award to Larry J. Kosmont of Manhattan Beach, honoring his decades of statewide leadership in economic development. Kosmont, described as “relentless and resilient” by CALED President Gurbax Sahota, was surprised with the honor during a moving tribute that included his daughter, Morgan. Kosmont’s innovative work and board leadership have significantly shaped local economies across California. The emotional presentation celebrated both a lifetime of professional excellence and a family legacy of dedication to economic progress. Kosmont’s enduring impact continues to uplift communities statewide.
Late-Night Assault Ends In Juvenile Arrests After MBPD Tracks Getaway Car:
In the early hours of May 2, Manhattan Beach Police arrested two juveniles for assault with significant bodily injury following a violent incident near the 900 block of Manhattan Avenue. Initially reported as a robbery at 1:14 a.m., responding officers quickly identified the suspect’s vehicle with help from witness accounts. The car was found in a neighboring city. Although no items were stolen, authorities confirmed that the juveniles severely injured the victim. Both suspects were booked into Juvenile Hall. The victim declined immediate transport, stating they would seek medical attention independently.
A young woman soliciting for money in front of Ralphs in MB Village.
MB Weekly Bulletin Board Bursts At The Seams With Reader Comments:
The wildly popular MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board is experiencing a tidal wave of engagement, with as many as 100 comments submitted each week – far exceeding its 30-comment capacity. The digital publication, based at www.MBWeekly.net, has become a must-read for authentic voices across Manhattan Beach and the South Bay. “Wow!” exclaimed Darby Winston, co-editor of MB Weekly. “We never imagined this level of passion.” With topics ranging from parking outrage to random acts of kindness, the Bulletin Board has become a civic megaphone – and editors are scrambling to keep up with the growing demand for space.
MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (50 words)
MB Council Makes Waves With Funding Boost For Marine Mammal Rescue:
The Manhattan Beach City Council voted unanimously to provide funds to the nonprofit Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) in San Pedro, a crucial rescue and rehab hub for sea lions and other marine wildlife. Facing a surge in strandings caused by toxic algal blooms, entanglements, and disease, MMCC sought city partnerships to supplement its donor-based funding model. “We’re seeing more strandings … male nourished pups … all of those things will come to us…” said MMCC’s Chief Operations Officer Dave Bader, who also noted this year saw the worst stranding event in L.A. County history. The South Bay sees about 45% of the need for these services. Manhattan Beach joins other cities from Long Beach to Malibu in stepping up to continue saving marine life.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Ken, manager at The Rockefeller.
The Studio (MDR) Joins MB Weekly’s Powerhouse Sponsor Roster:
MB Weekly (www.MBWeekly.net), the South Bay’s largest digital publication, proudly welcomes The Studio (MDR) to its growing list of high-performance sponsors. The Studio (MDR) brings the legendary intensity of Sebastien Lagree’s fitness method to Manhattan Beach, offering a total-body, cardio-fueled, strength-building workout unlike anything else. With music pumping and muscles shaking, each class delivers a boutique fitness experience as transformative as addictive. As MB Weekly continues highlighting local excellence, The Studio (MDR) stands out as a bold new partner in health, sweat, and South Bay strength.
MB WEEKLY – VIDEO:
MB Weekly presents Bruxie, waffles and their happy team in El Segundo.
https://youtu.be/vycBILsF2dM
Death At Local Homeless Encampment By Freeway:
Authorities are investigating the death of a man found early Tuesday morning at a homeless encampment near Manhattan Beach. California Highway Patrol responded around 3:53 a.m. to the area near the 405 Freeway, just north of Manhattan Beach Boulevard, where the man was discovered dead. The case adds to growing concerns about safety and living conditions in encampments across Los Angeles County. An investigation is ongoing, pending further forensic findings.
Kaminsky Real Estate Group:
Selling Your South Bay Home Shouldn’t Leave You Guessing
Most sellers dread the uncertainty – will your home sit too long, fetch less than it’s worth, or miss the right buyer? As a leader in the Manhattan Beach community, the Kaminsky Real Estate Group at eXp Luxury, we’ve spent nearly 40 years perfecting the art of the sale across Southern California’s coastline. As the South Bay’s #1 producing team, with over $2 billion sold, we turn your equity into a win, not a worry.
Ready To Sell Smarter?
Contact Us Today – Your Home Deserves This
(310) 427-2414 | ek@itzsold.com
www.ItzSold.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
New MB Neighborhood Watch president, Jon Braitman.
IT’S TIME TO WAKE UP AND READ MB WEEKLY:
“Once A Week, But Never Weakly!”
www.MBWeekly.net
MBPD Arrests Adult After Altercation With Kids On The Strand:
An early morning scuffle on The Strand led to the arrest of an adult male after he allegedly confronted and physically escalated a dispute with juveniles riding bikes on the pedestrian path. Manhattan Beach Police responded to the 2500 block of The Strand at 6:40 a.m. on April 25. Witnesses said the adult yelled at the kids, knocked over a bicycle, and kicked it. When a bystander intervened, the suspect pushed him. Cell phone footage corroborated the story, and officers arrested the man at the scene. No serious injuries were reported.
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“Can’t we just wait a few years and let the ocean come to us?”
GOT PHOTOS… SEND THEM IN:
Yes, send in your fun and creative photos to MB Weekly and share them with all of your South Bay neighbors. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
1. ** Former Manhattan Beach Mayor Bob Holmes is a local treasure! —- G.M., Manhattan Beach
2. ** Caught red-handed! Over 50% of Kroger stores overcharged customers on sale items, says Consumer Reports. That’s not a glitch – that’s a betrayal. Imagine trusting the tag and getting robbed at checkout. Kroger owes shoppers more than apologies – they owe refunds and accountability. This isn’t a pricing error. It’s a systemic slap in the face. —- Silvia A., Manhattan Beach
3. ** Diddy is done. —- Hank Y.
4. ** I work in a local Manhattan Beach restaurant, and God almighty, I can’t believe how rude many DoorDash drivers are! —- Gloria N.
5. ** A politician telling the truth? That’s rarer than a unicorn. Instead, we’re spoon-fed fantasy – perfect outcomes, zero downsides, “trust me.” Nonsense. Every policy has a cost. There’s no free lunch, no magic wand. Stop selling utopia. Start admitting reality. We deserve honest adults, not snake oil. —- T.C.
6. ** How can you help protect MB neighborhoods? Email CityCouncil@manhattanbeach.gov and cm@manhattanbeach.gov today, urging: • Stronger standards on harmful density bonus projects. • Relocate the ROD zone to Rosecrans Ave. • Real protections from overdevelopment. Your voice matters – let’s act before it’s too late. —- Walt Z.
7. ** Our Big Kitchen – Los Angeles – https://www.obkla.org/ —- M.M.
8. ** Need help with your Social Media? Our award-winning team can help. We offer moderate rates and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. —- www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com
9. ** I see complaints about inoperative escalators at the Merlot Center fairly regularly. When they run, they operate continuously. Isn’t it about time one of our highly paid city employees realizes that all the escalators in Europe have motion sensors that only turn on the escalator when someone approaches it? Golly gee, we might be able to have them last longer and save energy, too? Bonus points if you understand that many escalators in foreign countries operate in either direction. You only need one escalator and two motion detectors in low-traffic locations. —- Terry W., Manhattan Beach
10. ** Watching people enable the situation they claim to want to fix is infuriating! MB Safe gets it. Throwing cash and food at the homeless is a band-aid, not a solution. It traps them, fuels addiction, and ignores the real problems. They need real help, not fleeting handouts that disappear as quickly as they’re given. Stop the cycle! —- Sandi P.
11. ** Get a Jump Start on College Essays This Summer: Join Mira Costa English teacher Shannon Vaughan’s intensive college essay workshop starting July 7. This 2-week course includes 12 hours of expert instruction to complete brag sheets, personal statements, and UC insight questions. Questions? Email shannonvaughan703@gmail.com.
12. ** While biking home from Riviera Village, my husband and I were ambushed by unexpected joy – three women shouted compliments from their car, boosting my mood, self-esteem, and humanity in general. If you’re reading this, thank you. You’re the kind of lovely the world needs more of. I plan to pay it forward! —- Oliva O., Redondo Beach
13. ** JOIN MIRA COSTA CHOIR NEXT YEAR – Auditions are open to all incoming 9th–12th graders – no experience needed! Be part of our award-winning choirs, earn arts credit, skip homework, and attend an annual performance tour. Visit: miracostachoirs.org/join-choir or email Ms. Crellin at kcrellin@mbusd.org.
14. ** Kamala Harris lost the election, in no small part thanks to the cover-up. But the people who perpetuated the lie that Biden was capable of serving as president until 2029 have gotten off astonishingly lightly. —- Dr. Erwin S., Hermosa Beach
15. ** Enjoy endless flavor pairings when you amp up your plate with our scratch-made sauces. Pick your protein, pick your sauce, and make it yours. —- www.UrbanPlates.com
16. ** Jake Tapper’s new book, “Original Sin” destroys the press for covering for Biden’s mental decline which he himself did. —- Fred T., Manhattan Beach
17. ** One of the most significant barriers to solving homelessness is untreated mental illness and addiction. LA County – not the city – holds the power and the purse. So why haven’t they reopened even one of the many empty hospitals? The crisis isn’t about resources. It’s about cowardice, incompetence, and a lack of political will. —- S.H., Manhattan Beach
18. ** Hermosa Beach City Manager Lowenthal’s reign was a disaster. Costs exploded, and bloated staff was hired, including the city’s first-ever assistant manager, to cover her absenteeism. Every project ran over budget and years late. Her reckless mismanagement will financially cripple the city long after she’s gone – shameful leadership with lasting damage. —- Gus H., Hermosa Beach
19. ** You don’t realize how little you actually know about someone until you have to buy them a birthday present. —- Darin H.
20. ** We Wiseburn neighbors in Hawthorne may soon be “welcoming” a massive pot dispensary to our neighborhood, so I’ve been told by people working in the complex. I genuinely hope this isn’t true. This is not what our community needs. Who’s approving this nonsense, and why weren’t residents consulted first? —- Marvin P.
21. ** Imagine the outrage if a white mayor bragged in church about hiring only whites. But Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson does it with blacks – and it’s applauded? Equality means equal, not selective celebration. You can’t fight racism by flipping the script and calling it progress. Hypocrisy isn’t justice. —- Phillip K.
22. ** You are never too young to be an entrepreneur! —- George W., Manhattan Beach
23. ** The Terranea Resort on the Palos Verdes Peninsula is wildly overrated and absurdly overpriced. Add a staff that radiates arrogance instead of hospitality, and you have a recipe for disappointment. Save your money – and your sanity. There are plenty of better views and vibes just down the coast. —- Lucy D., Hermosa Beach
24. ** “Viewer discretion is advised” likely attracts more people than it dissuades. —- Silvia G., El Segundo
25. ** Lot #3 is coming along. That is semi-permeable cement they are laying down. Maybe a week or two to finish. —- Joe F., Manhattan Beach
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