MB Weekly 10/30/2025

MB WEEKLY CELEBRATES:
MB SAFE’S 7 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH A PACKED HOUSE AT LIDO DI MANHATTAN

It was standing-room only at Lido de Manhattan on Wednesday, October 22, as MB Weekly hosted a packed cocktail celebration marking the 7th anniversary of MB SAFE. The evening honored the volunteer-driven organization’s tireless work in keeping Manhattan Beach clean, compassionate, and free of encampments. Mayor David Lesser presented MB SAFE founders Rita Crabtree and Debbie Van Ness with a formal commendation from the Manhattan Beach City Council, praising their leadership and impact. Councilmen Joe Franklin and Steve Charelian also addressed the enthusiastic crowd, underscoring the City’s ongoing support for MB SAFE’s mission. Guests mingled over appetizers and conversation, reflecting on seven years of community collaboration and shared commitment to safety and dignity. What began as a grassroots effort has become one of Manhattan Beach’s most respected civic success stories – proof that compassion and accountability can coexist beautifully by the beach.

www.MBSafe.org

Zislis Fires Back – “None of Their Sales Tax Money Stays in Manhattan Beach”:

After Tuesday night’s City Council meeting, prominent restaurateur Michael Zislis voiced frustration as Manhattan Beach moves toward creating a new “mobile vending permit” for food trucks and other mobile vendors. “None of their sales tax money stays in Manhattan Beach,” Zislis said, arguing that brick-and-mortar restaurants shoulder heavy taxes and community costs while transient vendors reap profits. The proposed permit – prompted by a summer surge in food trucks across Southern California – aims to regulate mobile operations, address congestion, and improve safety compliance. Councilmembers voted unanimously to proceed with drafting a formal permit system, which will return on November 4 for final review, including business fee structures. Currently, mobile food vendors must hold both an L.A. County health permit and a local business license. Still, the new city-issued permit would impose stricter limits on locations, hours, and operational standards.

Runway On The Boulevard – Estell Boutique & MB Weekly Kick Off Holiday Style, Perks In Tow:

Estell Boutique and MB Weekly will team up to launch the season in style with a Holiday Collection Fashion Show on Saturday, November 8, from noon to 3 p.m. at Estell Boutique in downtown Manhattan Beach. Guests can preview looks for parties, travel, and gifting while models showcase new pieces and accessories on an in-store runway. Shoppers will enjoy complimentary appetizers, a gift-bag raffle, and special event-only pricing throughout the afternoon. Stylists will be on hand for one-on-one advice, and select items will be available in exclusive bundles timed to the show. Capacity is limited; early arrival is encouraged. First looks step off at noon, with additional showcases at the top of each hour. For details and sneak peeks, visit the boutique’s website at www.EstellBoutiques.com and follow MB Weekly for highlights and post-show coverage.

MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE VIDEO:

An exclusive MB Weekly video of MB SAFE’s 7th anniversary.

Click Link To Watch:
https://youtu.be/_uLsylWfwLo

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Cynthia Campos
(Beach City Brokers)

Q: WHAT’S THE QUIRKIEST OR FUNNIEST THING YOU’VE EVER SEEN AT A MANHATTAN BEACH OPEN HOUSE?
A: Funniest thing ever at a Manhattan Beach open house was Client and I are standing in The Village, 1.7 miles inland, surrounded by nice homes and well-kept landscaping – and a client squinted toward the horizon and goes: “So… how’s the ocean view from here” Wanted to say, “Well, on a really clear day, perfect sunset view.” But had to disappoint and apologize. It’s that kind of moment that perfectly captures the delightful disconnect some buyers have when they hear “Manhattan Beach” and assume every listing includes a wave breaking in the backyard.

Q: IF MANHATTAN BEACH HOMES HAD “PERSONALITIES,” WHAT KIND OF CHARACTER WOULD A STRAND PROPERTY BE?
A: If Manhattan Beach homes had personalities, a Strand property would be the charismatic extrovert with eclectic designs – always turning heads, always hosting, and never shy about mixing laid-back surf vibes with high-end style. It’s the kind of home that does sunrise yoga on the deck, throws unforgettable sunset dinners, and somehow pulls off both custom art walls and sandy feet.

“Strand property would be the charismatic extrovert with eclectic designs…” —- Cynthia Campos

Q: WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING REQUEST YOU’VE EVER HAD FROM A CLIENT? LISTING HORROR – OR COLLECTOR’S DREAM?
A: One of my most memorable showings came with an unexpected twist: the client hadn’t yet finished their estate sale… and left over 50 collectible dolls meticulously arranged in one of the bedrooms. Think: porcelain faces, glassy eyes, old-fashioned dresses – the full vintage lineup. Some buyers wouldn’t even step foot in the room. Others peeked in, wide-eyed, and asked, “Are they… watching us?” We ended up calling it “The Doll Room” on the showing notes (and gently recommending buyers focus on the natural light). Let’s just say staging matters – and sometimes unstaging matters even more.

Q: IF YOU WEREN’T SELLING HOMES, WHAT OTHER SOUTH BAY DREAM JOB WOULD YOU LOVE TO HAVE?
A: “Empowering Generations. Building Community.” Empower South Bay women, children, and seniors with knowledge, mentorship, and personalized plans to live their best lives – now and for the future. Create local nonprofit in the South Bay, dedicated to empowering women, children, and seniors with the resources, knowledge, and mentorship they need to live their best lives. For women and children, focus on providing life skills, and strong mentorship connections opening doors to greater opportunities. For the older population, offer support through personalized plan to solidify their wishes.

Q: AFTER CLOSING A BIG DEAL, WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO WAY TO CELEBRATE IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: Head to the beach, pick up some takeout, watch the sunset, and listen to the waves roll in. It’s real. It’s grounding. The sound of the ocean hasn’t changed, and neither has that nostalgic feeling it brings from a lifetime of enjoying four generation in Manhattan Beach sand. After all the contracts, showings, and negotiations, the best “closing gift” is knowing I still get to live the California dream – and help clients find their dream home.

www.BeachCityBrokers.net

Lido Di Manhattan:

Make this Holiday Season extraordinary! Whether it’s a family gathering or an office bash, our catering services will bring the magic to your celebrations. Effortless, delicious, and oh-so-memorable! Call us to book your holiday catering now.
310-536-0730 | www.LidoDiManhattan.com

MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
Clickmas Triumph – 67% Embrace Online Shopping for Holiday Cheer!

In a festive twist, MB Weekly’s latest reader poll unveils a digital shopping revolution as 67% of participants declare online platforms their preferred avenue for holiday gift hunting. The survey, conducted by MB Weekly, sheds light on the evolving shopping landscape, with virtual sleighs triumphing over traditional stores. Whether it’s the convenience of browsing from home or the allure of exclusive online deals, the majority has spoken, propelling Clickmas into the spotlight. As the holiday season unfolds, the joy of giving has found a new address – the virtual shopping cart.

Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Paul Wafer (Manhattan Beach Community Activist)

Are We Being Taken for a (Patrol) Ride? A promise made, is a promise kept. When our City Council in February 2023 approved our Chief of Police’s request for 7 more sworn police officers and some additional support positions, they promised our city would have an increase in police presence by creating a crime impact group and a year-round bike patrol with 4 dedicated officers. The increased visibility would lead to a safer community. Our residents rightfully expected they would keep their promises. Yet, today, when I started reviewing this year’s approved budget, I focused on personnel increases by department. The police department showed the largest growth, adding 13 employees over the last 5 years. Digging deeper, I wanted to confirm that there were 7 additional sworn officers. Because some divisions were reorganized, I counted the employees by category for all divisions combined in to get an accurate count. The budget data shows that five of those seven “officer” roles were filled by Police Services Officers (PSOs) i.e., non-sworn staff who cannot carry firearms or make arrests. Only two sworn positions were added (one sergeant and one officer). Despite this, departmental statements still claim seven new “officers.” While one might argue that adding PSOs improves efficiency and reduces costs by supporting the sworn staff, the numbers tell a different story: police overtime has nearly doubled in five years – from $1.375 million to almost $3 million – with over $2 million of that attributed to patrol officers in 2025. We were promised an increase in police presence with 7 new sworn officers by our chief. I believe we are being taken for a ride, and the people of this city are owed an explanation.

Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)

THE CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH IS DEVELOPING A “MOBILE VENDING PERMIT” THAT WOULD IMPOSE RESTRICTIONS ON FOOD VENDORS AND OTHER MOBILE NON-FOOD BUSINESSES OPERATING ON CITY STREETS:


** MARK BURTON (former mayor): I wholeheartedly support our City adopting a “mobile vending permit”. This new commercial activity in Downtown MB and other areas needs to be locally regulated with stricter regulations.

** PAUL WAFER (community activist): It is already too congested downtown with little parking to spare. Perhaps they could designate one day per week, like while the farmer’s market is going on and have them park on 13th St.? If it cannot be limited to one day for a specific period of time, I think it is a bad idea.

** JOHN BRAITMAN (community watch): I agree with the permitting requirement. The City Council should limit the number of permits issued which would impose some order and will, hopefully, keep our city from being overrun with food trucks.

** KELLY STROMAN (president, downtown business association): The Downtown Manhattan Beach Business & Professionals Association appreciates the City’s thoughtful and proactive approach in addressing the growing number of mobile vendors operating in our community. We recognize the value that diverse food and retail options can bring, while also supporting the need to ensure public safety, uncluttered sidewalks, visibility at crosswalks and driveways, maintain traffic flow, and uphold fair business standards for our local brick-and-mortar establishments that invest heavily in our city year-round. We commend the City Council and staff for moving quickly to develop a balanced permit system that creates clarity, consistency, and accountability for all business operators. We look forward to reviewing the proposed framework in November and continuing to collaborate to preserve the vibrancy, safety, and character that make Downtown Manhattan Beach so special.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Manhattan Beach resident Carol Patterson holds up the flier, which she held for two years, of Alon Ohel, kidnapped by Hamas, who was freed on October 13.

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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.

310-801-4286 | contact@tonersociety.com | www.TonerSociety.com

The Shade Snatchers – Crew Caught After $2.68 Million Eyewear Crime Spree:

Six suspects – including three juveniles – have been arrested in connection with a $2.68 million burglary ring that targeted luxury eyewear retailers across Southern California, authorities announced. Dubbed “The Shade Snatchers” by investigators, the crew allegedly followed a detailed playbook for each smash-and-grab: stolen SUVs or pickup trucks were rammed into storefronts in the early morning hours, allowing masked thieves to flood in with laundry baskets and bins to scoop up designer eyewear, handbags, and accessories before fleeing in getaway convoys. Manhattan Beach’s Trendy Eyes boutique on Manhattan Beach Boulevard was hit twice – on March 26 and April 18 – suffering more than $100,000 in damages and losses. LAPD officials said the arrests mark a major step in dismantling an organized retail crime network that’s left dozens of luxury shops literally shattered across Los Angeles County.

R.I.P. Lorena A. Wolf, 94, Of Manhattan Beach:

Lorena A. Wolf of Manhattan Beach passed away peacefully on October 17 at the age of 94 – on her birthday. Born in Chandler, Oklahoma, in 1931 to Walter and Lois Franz, Lorena graduated from Chandler High in 1949 before becoming a Registered Nurse. She married her high school sweetheart, Jerry Wolf, and the couple later settled in San Bernardino, where Lorena worked at St. Bernardine Hospital and supported Jerry’s interior design business. Together they raised three children – Kevin, David, and Shari – while building a life filled with love, dedication, and family devotion.

** Distinguished Speaker Series Founder Kathy Winterhalder having dinner at Tin Roof Bistro in Manhattan Village.

** Manhattan Beach Police Chief Rachel Johnson having coffee at Reborn Coffee in Manhattan Beach.

** Award-winning Chef Tracy Evans, of Set The Table personal chef services, having lunch at JOEY in Manhattan Village.

El Porto’s Long Wait For Buried Utility Lines Drags On:

The plan to underground utility and lighting wires in El Porto quietly marked its 20th anniversary this year, with little cause for celebration. Residents – some who paid as much as $30,000 per parcel over five years ago – are still waiting for completion. At a recent Manhattan Beach City Council meeting, officials reported modest progress: the underground grid is now energized, and Southern California Edison has finished 57 percent of private home conversions. A City team continues to push SCE, Frontier, and five private contractors – responsible for most of the work – to accelerate their efforts. Full completion isn’t expected until 2027.

Wave Of Change – $54 Million Surf Park Could Transform El Segundo:

Vinny Smith, the wave pool mogul behind Palm Springs Surf Club, just splashed $54 million on property in El Segundo with plans to bring a full-scale surf park to Los Angeles. Betting that L.A.’s crowds, dirty runoff, and inconsistent waves demand manufactured perfection, Smith sees a big opportunity. The project would join South Bay neighbors like Topgolf, Porsche’s test track, and the World Surf League HQ – right down the street from El Porto’s notorious closeouts. But like any mega-project in L.A., the dream faces red tape, high costs, and potential pushback.

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

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MBW Bulletin Board

1. ** Urban Plates’ Dragonfruit refresher is AMAZING! —- A. Moon

2. ** Regarding Francis Cs post about being “bullied” into signing a petition at Costco. A gentleman near the entrance to Costco politely asked me if I would sign a petition – not a voter suppression petition – but one that would require voters to show a valid ID. You know, the same thing needed to fly on a plane, open a bank account, get medical care, etc. How does that translate into “voter suppression”? BTW, I signed it. —- Thomas F.

3. ** CALLING ALL MIRA COSTA FAMILIES – JOIN PTA TODAY – Did you know that only 25% of the families are supporting 100% of the PTSA-sponsored activities? That means almost 1600 families have not yet joined. It only takes a minute to give and any amount is truly appreciated. Every dollar is 100% tax-deductible and 100% directly benefits our students this year! Please consider joining today and let’s see if we can get 100% participation. —- MBUSD

4. ** Rich Habits | Best-Selling Author, Tom Corley | Daily Success Habits of the Wealth & How to Adapt These Habits + 2 Clay Clark Client Success Stories + Join Eric Trump At Clay Clark’s Dec. 4-5 ThrivetimeShow.com Business Conf.

5. ** IS YOUR TEEN STRESSED OR OVERWHELMED? THEY ARE NOT ALONE. We want to make all parents aware of Mira Costa’s peer counseling program, a vital support resource available on campus. Every Thursday during office hours in Room S2, trained student counselors are ready to listen and help their peers through challenging times. This program ensures all students have a safe space to find understanding and guidance. Supporting your child’s well-being is important, and we encourage you to share this resource with them. For more information, visit @costapeercounseling on social media. —- MBUSD

6. ** I don’t think I’d make a good squirrel. I don’t have the self-control not to eat my nuts before winter. —- Charlie C., Hermosa Beach

7. ** I see our friends at Breadhead have decided to drop their $27 tuna fish sandwich from their menu. —- Nick Carmickel

8. ** A significant community thank-you to MB Weekly for hosting the recent 7th-anniversary party for MB Safe. —- S.K., Manhattan Beach

9. ** As you can see, our City did a great job on the MB Pier railing project! Glad they kept the sea foam color! —- Mark Burton

10. ** I love KUSC classical radio, but if I hear them beg for donations over and over and over and over and over and over again, I think I am going to puke. —- Cassidy S., Hermosa Beach

11. ** Cruisin’ 2 Freedom Rolls Into Redondo Beach – The annual car cruise, backed by In-N-Out Burger, is moving to Redondo Beach on Jan. 17. The event supports the Slave 2 Nothing Foundation, founded by Lynsi and Sean Ellingson, which fights substance abuse and human trafficking. Join the fun at Seaside Lagoon. —- Editor’s Note

12. ** A 26-year-old woman, Dionna Phylow, has been charged with murder and assault with a deadly weapon in the fatal July shooting outside Hawthorne’s VIP Sports Bar. Authorities say Phylow shot 37-year-old Amber LaFlora while she sat in her car after a fight. Phylow pleaded not guilty on Oct. 14. —- Editor’s Note

13. ** Fred Taylor, facts are a beautiful part of a reasonable mind. Thank you for your accurate numbers. These facts, presented in a simple 15-second commercial, would help clear up the confusion. No matter your politics, I think everyone would want our representation to be fair. —- Tani Golden, Manhattan Beach

14. ** Is it me, or do the United Against Hate signs actually ooze hate? A one-sided agenda cloaked in “unifying” wording? Costa had an anti-hate assembly, yet zero representation of widespread political hate. —- Kathy A., Manhattan Beach

15. ** Thank you, MB Weekly, for hosting the wonderful MB Safe 7th-anniversary party! —- Ken S.

16. ** Why are there so many billboard ads for lawyers? —- Tyler O., Age 11, Manhattan Beach

17. ** Lido Bakery in Manhattan Beach makes the best wedding cakes in the world. —- Dr. Lori B., Hermosa Beach

18. ** Lucia’s MB Weekly interview last week was fun and honest, just like the woman herself. —- M.Z., Manhattan Beach

19. ** The Redondo Beach Unified School District has reached a tentative two-year deal with its teachers’ union, including 2.5% and 2.0% salary increases for 2025–27, higher stipends, and boosted medical benefits – $1,500 for singles, $1,000 for employee-plus-one, and $750 for family coverage. Agreement announced Oct. 17. —- Editor’s Note

20. ** MB owes much to Michael Greenberg of Skechers – a visionary whose Pier to Pier Friendship Walk is pure joy to behold. Each year, it unites thousands with a sense of purpose, compassion, and community spirit, proving once again that kindness and leadership walk hand in hand along our beautiful South Bay coast.

21. ** John Fetterman, yes, that John Fetterman, the hoodie-wearing senator who literally had a stroke… is now out here sounding like the only adult left in the Democratic Party. —- F.R.

22. ** The entire staff at Providence Urgent Care in Manhattan Beach is caring and kind. —- Harold Z., Manhattan Beach

23. ** Sorry to hear about Chef Slay’s surgery, and hope he recovers quickly. We love his food – he’s our MB favorite. —- Dr. A.T., Manhattan Beach

24. ** Unbelievable! This utterly selfish, brainless dog owner dragged his mutt onto the Marine Avenue Park turf field this morning – then let it pee THREE times and poop right on the field! The nerve! Total disregard for everyone else. This isn’t a dog park – it’s a community athletic field, you asshole! —- Rory C.

25. ** I have a simple idea – enforce the law. Instead, L.A. officials are spending $2.3 million on a fence to “solve” gang violence, drug trafficking, and homelessness. MacArthur Park was meant to be an urban oasis for families, not a sanctuary for chaos. L.A. deserves leaders with priorities – not excuses. —- Sue S.

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