MB WEEKLY READER POLL – LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!
Currently, at Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach, a biological boy (transgender youth) is on the Mira Costa girls varsity tennis team – complete with full locker room privileges.
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MB WEEKLY – INVESTIGATES:
How License Plate Readers Can Help Manhattan Beach Police Prevent Crime
License plate readers (LPRs) can be a valuable tool for law enforcement agencies to prevent and solve crimes. Here are several ways in which license plate readers can help police stop crime:
- Real-time Data: LPR systems can scan and capture license plate information in real time as vehicles pass by. This information is instantly compared against databases of stolen vehicles, vehicles linked to outstanding warrants, or vehicles associated with known criminals. If a match is found, law enforcement can be alerted immediately, allowing for a quick response to potential threats.
- Amber Alerts and Missing Persons: LPRs can be programmed to automatically scan for license plates associated with Amber Alerts or missing person cases. This can help locate and recover abducted children or missing individuals more quickly, potentially saving lives.
- Traffic Violations and Wanted Suspects: LPRs can identify vehicles linked to individuals with outstanding arrest warrants. For example, suppose someone with a warrant for their arrest is driving a vehicle registered in their name. In that case, the LPR can alert law enforcement, prompting the suspect’s apprehension during a routine traffic stop.
- Locating Stolen Vehicles: LPRs are highly effective at finding stolen vehicles. When a stolen vehicle’s license plate is scanned, the system can immediately alert law enforcement, increasing the chances of recovering the stolen property and potentially apprehending the thief.
- Pattern Analysis: By collecting data on the movement of vehicles over time, law enforcement can use LPRs to identify patterns of criminal activity, such as frequent visits to known drug houses or other suspicious locations. This data can help in planning targeted interventions and investigations.
- Interagency Communication: LPR data can be shared among law enforcement agencies, allowing for greater coordination in tracking down suspects or locating vehicles involved in criminal activity that may cross jurisdictional boundaries.
- Crime Solving: LPR data can be invaluable in solving crimes after they have occurred. Investigators can use historical LPR data to trace suspects’ movements or gather evidence related to a crime, such as identifying the vehicles involved in a robbery or hit-and-run.
- Deterrence: The mere presence of LPRs can deter potential criminals. Knowing that their movements may be tracked and their vehicles identified can discourage individuals from engaging in criminal activity, including stolen vehicle operations.
MB Mayor Urges Opposition To Cycling On Sidewalk Bill:
In a bold move to protect his constituent’s and visitors’ safety, Mayor Richard Montgomery of Manhattan Beach has taken a firm stand against AB 825, a proposed bill allowing cyclists on sidewalks throughout the state. Mayor Montgomery recently penned a strongly-worded letter to Senator Allen and Assemblymember Al Marasutchi, expressing the city’s vehement opposition to the bill and its potential ramifications.
The letter, titled “Cycling on Sidewalk Bill Puts Pedestrians at Risk,” highlights Manhattan Beach’s unique challenges due to its narrow sidewalks. If passed, the mayor argues that AB 825 would pose a significant threat to the safety of residents, visitors, and local businesses. The bill not only “strips enforcement powers from all California cities but will allow e-bikes to ride on sidewalks as well,” he added in an email to MB Weekly.
His words underscored the pressing need for legislators to consider the city’s specific circumstances when evaluating the proposed bill’s impact. “Can you imagine bicycles and E-bikes on sidewalks in the downtown areas of cities such as Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Santa Barbara, Carmel, Carlsbad or Monterey? … Please call your State Elected officials NOW! In the South Bay Area of Southern California please call: Senator Ben Allen (310) 318-6994 / Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (310) 375-0691.”
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
L-R Charlotte Fan and Wyatt Newbill, 8th graders at Manhattan Beach Middle School, won 2nd place in the 6th through 8th-grade category in the Invention Convention Worldwide for inventing Terreus, an utterly biodegradable substitute for Styrofoam. Feel free to send your photos: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
Fête By Slay:
www.FeteBySlay.com
Increased Stormwater Fees Being Considered For Manhattan Beach:
The Manhattan Beach City Council agreed to begin a mail-in ballot procedure to raise the amount of stormwater fees residents must pay. The average annual cost for single-family homes would rise from $19 to $129 if the stormwater fees were approved by more than 50% of voters. The cost of running the City’s stormwater system, which is mandated by state law and prevents overflow from reaching the ocean, has significantly increased while the resident fee has not increased since 1996. The system has required more than $1 million in annual subsidies from the City’s General Fund over the past six years, including $1.6 million this year.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Petra Alfred (Redondo Beach)
This morning at 7:49 a.m., a kid on an e-bike was hit by a car at the intersection of Rindge and Ripley. (He was still conscious but unable to sit or stand when the paramedics took him away on the gurney). The driver was out of his car assisting the kid until police and paramedics arrived. I don’t know the answer, but we need to do something. So many on e-bikes are speeding down the hills and not even stopping at the stop signs. It’s only a matter of time before someone dies or is permanently disabled.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
The El Segundo Little League team returns home on August 28, 2023, after defeating the Willemstad, Curacao, team 6-5 in the Little League World Series final at Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Drew Berry General Manager
The Portofino Hotel & Marina
Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN THE GENERAL MANAGER AT PORTOFINO HOTEL?
A: Just a little over a year. I started on July 1st, 2022.
Q: TELL US ABOUT YOUR EL REY CATAMARAN?
A: The Portofino Hotel recently debuted our new luxe, on-the-water amenity: the El Rey Catamaran. This 62-foot vessel includes a fully equipped kitchen, versatile indoor-outdoor spaces, multiple levels with viewing decks, and the capacity to host up to 50 guests. The hotel’s award-winning culinary team provides seasonal cuisine to enjoy on deck (from canapes to full-course dinners), champagne/wine, cocktails, or refreshments of choice, making it ideal for everything from romantic sunset rides for two to bachelorette/bachelor getaways, holiday parties, and more. Locals, visitors and hotel guests alike can book the El Rey.
Q: ARE MOST OF YOUR GUESTS AT THE PORTOFINO HOTEL FROM THE SOUTH BAY?
A: Hotel guests are from all over the world. Most specifically guests come from San Diego, Orange County, Central Coast, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and the surrounding Palm Springs area. Almost all of our Food and beverage guests are from the South Bay indeed! But we want more ;-)!
Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: As a huge movie lover, this is tough, but without a doubt, it’s CINDERELLA MAN!
Q: WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF YOUR JOB?
A: This has evolved so much over the years. However, I have to say, it’s managing people. So many personalities across different cultures, age groups, upbringings, values, etc.
Q: HOW CAN READERS GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR CATAMARAN?
A: Additional details and pricing can be found on our website here: https://www.hotelportofino.com/redondo-beach-catamaran/
www.HotelPortofino.com
2 People In Manhattan Beach Arrested For Illegal Gun Possession:
According to department officials, on Labor Day, Manhattan Beach police made two separate arrests for illegally possessing weapons. Police allegedly stopped two unrelated vehicles for traffic violations after spotting their bogus temporary license plates. The first stop’s suspect had a past felony conviction, according to MBPD. Police claimed to have discovered a loaded weapon under the driver’s seat during the traffic encounter. Convicted felons are not permitted to possess or control firearms under California law. Officers said that the second stop involved a Jeep. Police claimed to have discovered a full-auto Glock handgun, a bag of marijuana, and a stack of cash during the search.
DUNKIN’:
Dunkin’ Opens In Manhattan Beach
1100 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD • 562-756-8725
www.DunkinDonuts.com
MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW: BOA (FOR LUNCH) by Darby Winston
I must say my first visit to Boa in the Manhattan Village for lunch was a winner. All of the noise and ultra-darkness during the evening presentation is gone during the daylight; bright and pretty with a staff that seems happy to be there as opposed to most restaurants in contemporary life. The food was nicely done, and the atmosphere was lovely. The music is not too loud so you could have a conversation during lunch. I also found the prices to be quite reasonable given the atmosphere. I can comfortably say that I’ll be back without hesitation.
Food: B+ • Service: A • Hospitality: A
www.BoaSteak.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
A brawl on Pier Plaza in Hermosa Beach was captured on camera by numerous bystanders early on September 3; the video contains what Hermosa Police characterize as “a loud bang.” The department’s Facebook post about the incident states, “There was a fight on Pier Plaza early Sunday morning.”
Feel free to send your photos: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
SHOULD CONGRESS PASS LEGISLATION TO REGULATE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE?
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 Abby
She has been working in Manhattan Beach since 2021. Feel free to send your photos: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Frank Chiella (Manhattan Beach)
I am happy my tax dollars go to public safety, including fire departments providing paramedic service. Fire departments operate 24/7, 365 days a year. They work with minimum staffing levels required on their emergency vehicles. Every time a firefighter is off duty, that position must be filled with overtime. That means another off-duty firefighter must return to work to cover the open position and be paid overtime. These firefighters who make vast amounts of money in overtime also work massive hours at their expense. Thank them.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
It’s Time To Play … WHO IS DARIO VULLO?
- Author
- Financial Investor
- Professional Ice Skater
- Restaurant Owner
Please send your reply to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
Manhattan Beach Police Arrest Suspect After $1,000+ Goods Stolen:
The Manhattan Beach Police Department detained a lady in connection with a retail crime where more than $1,000 worth of goods were reported stolen. Authorities claim that at around 1 p.m., they received a report of a grand theft at a Manhattan Beach shop. Officers from the MBPD spotted the suspect and tried to arrest her before she sped off, and a brief police pursuit started. According to the MBPD on Facebook, “The 405 on-ramp curb was kind enough to stop the suspect’s vehicle where she was ultimately arrested.” While police caught the culprit, the Rosecrans Avenue 405 on-ramp was briefly closed to traffic for almost an hour.
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“This is where I come to be alone with my podcasts, music, voice memos from friends, audiobooks, and sometimes even my thoughts.”
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Bob W. (Manhattan Beach)
Twenty-five years ago, I went into a recovery program where I met a man who instructed me to do 100 random acts of kindness daily. I thought this was impossible! He explained that it is simple: holding a door for someone, saying hello to a stranger with a smile, and bringing in a shopping cart. His point was that whenever I do something for someone else, I’m not thinking about myself or my situation. This has proved to help both the other person and myself much more than I could have imagined.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Lido Bakery:
Home of the Most Extraordinary Wedding Cakes
www.LidoBakery.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Sara Garcia (El Segundo)
A trip to the drugstore is one of the most private purchasing experiences there is. Your basket’s contents can reveal hemorrhoids, waxy ears, insomnia, constipation, a splotchy rash, or the need to taste every kind of Reese’s candy. People like to enter and exit the drugstore discreetly, hoping the cashier won’t take their time reviewing each item at checkout. To deter shoplifters, drugstores are increasingly locking their inventory behind cabinet doors with push buttons to summon an employee’s attention, making it tougher to maintain privacy. A 14-year-old girl needs to be monitored as she chooses a tampon that suits her cycle, and a pimpled youngster needs to hail a staffer to get his benzoyl peroxide. It can be awkward for adults to have a store staff follow them around the pharmacy like a personal shopper as they choose which type of dental floss to purchase. Retail theft costs consumers in addition to store owners. The issue of shoplifting extends beyond them. Each of us has to pay a price.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
WANTED – MB WEEKLY VIDEO HOST:
MB Weekly is looking for a video host to do videos for our popular weekly publication. Must be good on camera, enthused about the area, and capable with mobile phone video editors. Contact: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
WHAT DO YOU DO TO IMPROVE YOUR SLEEP?
Please share your sleep secrets 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)
FACTS TELL. STORIES SELL:
A Complimentary Visibility Consultation
Contact Amand K. At: AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com
www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com
MB – BULLETIN BOARD:
1. ** Email trash has its place. I was able to recover the August 3rd MB Weekly and study Mayor Montgomery’s responses to the questions posed. Since this wasn’t bar talk or off the record, I feel Mayor Montgomery’s answers were in line from what I would expect from a politician and certainly a quantum leap better from what you might get from Joe or Kamala. On the other hand he is no Reagan. Bottom line, this is a family journal in a small community so, like the infamous Rodney King once said, “Can’t we all just get along?” Michael, I thought you were a tad heavy handed on your assessment of the good mayor, but I still like you … keep up the good work. —- Tom, Manhattan Beach
2. ** Jamie Lovelynn’s exhibit & experience featuring her Coastal Calm Collection. Discover fine art photography designed to evoke serenity, encourage a pause, a deep breath, and a connection to the present moment. Experience the transformative power of visual tranquility. Sunday, September 17, 3-6 p.m. at MESH Space in Redondo Beach. www.jamielovelynn.com & @jamie.lovelynn. Here is the link to the event: https://jamielovelynnfineartphotographyexhibitexperience.eventbrite.com
3. ** A school where students speak many different languages. Well, of course, it divides, as a high majority of the people who natively speak languages other than English would tell you. —- Dan W., Manhattan Beach
4. ** I read Stewart Fournier’s interview twice. Yikes! Quite a “word salad,” I must say. —- Libby Z., Manhattan Beach
5. ** We’re all environmentalists until our straws get soggy. —- Oliva F., Manhattan Beach
6. ** As you get older, you begin to suffer the occasional series of increasingly humiliating micro-injuries. —- Liam P., Manhattan Beach
7. ** What in the world is going on right now? About a dozen police cars speeding down Aviation Boulevard toward P.C.H.? —- Otis H., Redondo Beach
8. ** We have an irrational hatred for people doing the speed limit. —- Noah F., Manhattan Beach
9. ** Washingtonians’ health care shows who are loved and hated. While President Biden fumbles through his first term and heads toward another, the Democratic media complex ignores his abundantly clear physical and mental decline. G.O.P. Senate leader Mitch McConnell freezes twice in five weeks before cameras and must resign immediately. The truth is both should go. They are way, way too old! —- Noah L., Manhattan Beach
10. ** Stewart F. has a unique ability to say in 500 words, or others do in 50. —- M.G., Manhattan Beach
11. ** I’m not too fond of the loud Country music at The Rockefeller in Manhattan Beach. I can’t talk to my guests. —- Ava I., Manhattan Beach
12. ** So I felt sad, talking to friends dropping daughters at college, to hear of rampant anxiety, campuses awash in S.S.R.I.s – serotonin boosters found in drugs like Prozac and Lexapro – and long waits for therapy. —- Mia F., Manhattan Beach
13. ** We love South Bay Archery Lessons — www.SouthBayArcheryLessons.com —- Paul and Suzie Cron, Hermosa Beach
14. ** Slay Steak and Fish is now open for dinner on Monday nights. —- Editor’s Note
15. ** Let’s be honest: President Biden is a consummate race hustler! —- Isabella V., Manhattan Beach
16. ** Hermosa Valley children took a Hermosa Beach School Board-initiated e-bike safety course … A 40-year-old cycling safety nonprofit, Safe Moves, tested children’s ability to navigate a city street simulation on the school basketball court. —- Editor’s Note
17. ** Dale Velzy started shaping surfboards in the 1940s and eventually opened what is considered the first retail surf shop in the world in Manhattan Beach in 1950. His legend as a surfboard shaper grew over the decades until he died in 2005 at 77 years old. A plaque honoring Velzy’s legacy was unveiled recently at the Hermosa Beach Museum, with friends and family in attendance, including his son, Matt Velzy, who flew out from Hawaii for the event. —- Editor’s Note
18. ** Russ Lesser makes a lot of common sense, not a common quality in today’s odd world. —- Oliver E., Manhattan Beach
19. ** A Hermosa Beach house designed by Earl T. Heitschmidt, the architect of the Wrigley Mansion, is on the market for the first time in 36 years. The asking price is $8.25 million. —- Editor’s Note
20. ** After midnight last night, I failed to lock my car in our driveway. A fu*king burglar broke into my car and ransacked it this morning. Beware Neighbors! —- Ellijah K., Hermosa Beach
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