TAGGED & TIRED:
SHELLBACK OWNER DEMANDS ACTION IN MANHATTAN BEACH
Bob Beverly, longtime owner of the Shellback Tavern is calling on Manhattan Beach leaders to finally crack down on escalating late-night chaos at the city’s oceanfront parking lots. Beverly revealed that vandals recently etched acid into another one of his restaurant’s ocean-facing windows – a $2,000 repair. “It is getting a little ridiculous,” he said on social media, describing how gang members gather in the lots nightly, drinking, blasting music, and arguing until dawn. “The Manhattan Beach I grew up in, would’ve put a stop to that in one night,” Beverly added. He is urging city officials to close the parking lot at 2 a.m., echoing Councilman Franklin’s long-standing proposal to deter crime and noise. The move, Beverly argues, would free up police resources, reduce loitering, and ensure only residents with passes leave cars overnight. “It’s time for a change in Manhattan Beach,” he declared.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
37 MBUSD Retirees had lunch together on the first day of school at Urban Plates in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Mark Nicholas
(Manhattan Beach Studios Owner & The Irreverent Film Festival)
Q: EXPLAIN THE IRREVERENT FILM FESTIVAL AND WHY YOU DECIDED TO START IT?
A: The Irreverent Film Festival celebrates freedom of expression by honoring filmmakers and creators who take risks, push boundaries, and challenge social norms. The festival concept came after hearing Mel Brooks say in 2017 that Blazing Saddles “wouldn’t be permitted” today – despite being one of the most important comedies ever made; one that brilliantly satirized racial issues and entertainment. Others have echoed that sentiment about films that shaped our culture. We believe great storytelling, whether comedy, horror, documentary, or drama – shouldn’t be prejudged or limited by social filters or arbitrary rules. We simply believe that true expression is scary in a world which favors safety, and filmmakers should be given great latitude and celebrated when they step into precarious waters.
Q: WHEN YOU FIRST ENVISIONED THE FESTIVAL, WAS IT A REBELLIOUS IDEA OR A REACTION TO WHAT YOU SAW LACKING IN TRADITIONAL FESTIVALS?
A: People think “irreverence” means rebellion. For us, it means creative freedom – and the willingness to accept ideas, humor, and viewpoints that might make us laugh, cringe, think, or even get offended. Traditional festivals often reward “safer” choices over bold, deserving work. The best material can be messy, off-color, abrasive, and stomach-turning – and that’s exactly what makes it powerful. If it’s great, it deserves to be honored. If it’s not great, it should not be penalized or we undermine the core value we purport to hold as essential. Now this is all not to suggest that we exist to promote ideas which are inherently rebellious. Clearly there must be freedom of speech, but to quote James Carr, there is no freedom from consequences. With that said, open creativity must be protected. Society will all be better off and far more informed and entertained.
Q: HOW DO YOU BALANCE BEING PROVOCATIVE WITH ATTRACTING SERIOUS FILMMAKERS AND AUDIENCES?
A: Irreverence and taking risks isn’t inherently provocative either – but provocation can’t be our enemy. In a provocative world that claims to value free expression, being offended at the slightest poke is irrelevant. Just look at comedians such as Dave Chappelle – he provokes when there is something worth discussing. This isn’t about celebrating content that’s offensive or shunning content which we disagree. It’s about keeping the door open to all forms of expression. We don’t need by default to be provoked, but we can survive, and maybe occasionally enjoy entertainment, information, discussion, comedy and expression we may not personally favor.
Q: WHAT WAS THE BOLDEST DECISION YOU MADE EARLY ON THAT SET THE TONE?
A: Putting the word irreverent in the name. Just look at the reaction it gets!
https://filmmakers.festhome.com/festival/irreverent-film-festival
www.ManhattanBeachStudios.net
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE LENS VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video of Manhattan Beach Butchery.
https://youtu.be/djdDY0nnlnU
Nando Trattoria:
Midweek or weekend, there’s always something cooking worth talking about. Here’s a little glimpse of what’s waiting for you.
www.NandoTrattoria.com
MB WEEKLY – HISTORY:
1964: Mrs. Babe Ruth joins the El Segundo 14-15-year-olds Babe Ruth World Series Championship team near their dugout. L-R: Craig Cousins, Kemer Brett, Mike McCready, Richard Standage, Ed Hora, Gary King, Greg Butler, Dana Pagett, Jack Cuzick, Bob Appleby, Larry Filson, Steve Hunley, Tom Frank, Coach Larry Appleby, Manager Ed Helvey, Coach Dick King. (missing are Dan Parsoneault and Ron Green).
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Name Withheld by Request (Manhattan Beach)
An Open Letter to Congressman Ted Lieu: I live in Manhattan Beach, and as one of your constituents, I am writing to raise a deeply concerning issue: the growing presence of coyotes roaming our community. This has become more than a nuisance – it is a genuine public safety concern. Families are increasingly anxious, pets have been attacked, and many residents now feel unsafe walking outside in the early morning or evening hours. What makes the situation worse is the lack of effective action from our local City government. Despite repeated complaints, residents see little progress and no meaningful solutions. The sense of frustration and fear is growing by the day. Congressman, can you help us? We urgently need leadership, resources, and attention from higher levels of government. Our community is looking to you for support in addressing this escalating problem before it results in further tragedy.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Homeless tent in El Segundo, just north of Grand Ave and lifeguard station 60.
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
Smoke Signals Fading – Only 2% Of South Bay Teens Still Light Up
In a sign of changing times, cigarette smoking among South Bay high school students has nearly vanished. Approximately 2% of local teens report having smoked at least once in the past 30 days, according to an MB Weekly Reader Poll. The figure mirrors a national trend that has pushed youth cigarette use to historic lows, with vaping and other alternatives replacing the once-dominant habit. For comparison, cigarette smoking among teens was closer to 30% just a generation ago. Health officials hail the decline as a significant public health victory, though they warn that the dangers of nicotine addiction remain – especially with the popularity of e-cigarettes. For now, traditional cigarettes appear to be on their way out of South Bay schoolyards, a cultural shift few would have predicted even 20 years ago.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
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MB WEEKLY – ASK THE FORMER MAYORS:
ON TUESDAY EVENING, JULY 29, A TSUNAMI ADVISORY WAS ISSUED FOR COASTAL CALIFORNIA:
** DAN STERN: The more likely problems will come with either an earthquake or fire. Unfortunately I don’t think either the county or state is well prepared for either if they’re significant. The Palisades fire pretty much established that. Manhattan Beach has trained a large number of first responders and there may not be much more we can do other than more general awareness.
** BOB HOLMES: Let’s deal with tsunamis first. In recorded history, the largest tsunami to hit Santa Monica Bay was 4 feet. Now that can certainly damage some boats in King Harbor and Marina del Rey with the surge, but realistically poses no danger to Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach residents. We get much much larger waves than that in winter with a strong west or north swell. Earthquakes are the most realistic major threat that the Beach Cities, Torrance, and the Palos Verdes Peninsula will face. Everyone should have a food and water supply that will carry them through two full weeks. Go to Walmart or an Army surplus store and buy three 5 gallon jerry cans for water. Rotate it out every six months. Keep a supply of power bars and other non-perishable food on hand. In case of a major disaster, you will not have utilities. If you have the garage space, consider purchasing a small electrical generator so you can use your refrigerator. Make sure you have first aid supplies beyond a few bandages. Get a five pound ABC rated fire extinguisher for your house and another one for your garage. Learn how to effectively use them (spray at the base of the fire, not the top of the flames). You will be on your own. In a major disaster, our first responders will be overwhelmed. We have 35,000 residents in our less than 4 square mile town. You need to be self-sufficient if you care about your family. Take responsibility. Government can’t do everything for you.
** RUSS LESSER: Certain areas of the city are potentially endangered by a tsunami. My wife Charlotte (after 45 years of founding and running the Neighborhood Watch program) is involved in our emergency education program “Map Your Neighborhood.” Interestingly enough, the day before the tsunami warning was sent to the community she was training neighbors living on the 500 block of 6th street which possibly could be endangered by flood waters that move along the Valley-Ardmore corridor from King Harbor Marina. I suggest everyone get together with their neighbors and get educated through the Map Your Neighborhood program and learn how to respond to many types of emergencies.
Building Safer Streets With Sandwiches – MB Neighborhood Watch Hosts First Picnic:
Manhattan Beach Neighborhood Watch held its first-ever community picnic on Saturday, August 23, at Polliwog Park, celebrating the dedication of Area Coordinators and Block Captains who work tirelessly to keep the city safe. Special guests included Mayor David Lesser, Mayor Pro Tem Joe Franklin, Charlotte Lesser, former Director of Neighborhood Watch, and former Mayor Russ Lesser. Chief of Police, Rachel Johnson was unable to attend.
Fishing with Dynamite:
Lobstah’ Roll Picnic Kit Is Back For Labor Day Weekend
Packed with chilled lobster rolls, vibrant summer sides, and our signature key lime pie parfait, this kit brings the flavor to wherever the day takes you. Whether you’re hitting the sand or hosting in the backyard – we’ve got your weekend eats covered.
Available Saturday, August 30 – Monday, September 1
Pick Up Between 11AM-3PM at FWD
$275 | Serves 4
https://eatfwd.com/order/labor-day
Running Strong – Manhattan Beach 10K Marks 48th Year Without A Sponsor:
This October 4th marks the 48th annual Manhattan Beach 10K Run, a community tradition founded in 1978 by Charlotte and Russ Lesser. Unlike most top-tier races in the country, this event has never taken on a corporate sponsor. Why? Because organizers refuse to plaster ads on the coveted finisher t-shirts. Run entirely by volunteers, the race has achieved something extraordinary – donating nearly $1 million back into the Manhattan Beach community. Funds have gone toward building local fitness stations, supporting student scholarships, and strengthening a culture of health and connection. The Manhattan Beach 10K stands as one of the rare races ranked among the nation’s Top 100 while proudly maintaining its grassroots spirit. What began as a simple idea to bring neighbors together has blossomed into one of the city’s defining traditions – a celebration of fitness, generosity, and hometown pride.
www.MBWeekly.net
Johnny Rockets Closing After 33 Years In Manhattan Beach:
After more than three decades, Johnny Rockets in the Bristol Farms parking lot of Manhattan Beach is shutting its doors. The retro-style burger joint, known for its jukebox tunes and diner feel, will serve its final customers next Sunday. A local staple since 1991, the restaurant has been a gathering spot for families, students, and late-night crowds. Its closure marks the end of an era for many in the South Bay community, who fondly recall its burgers, shakes, and fries as part of Manhattan Beach life.
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Fix California Event In Manhattan Beach Draws Packed House:
A capacity crowd gathered in Manhattan Beach last week for the Fix California event hosted by Kelly and Mark Holscher, featuring Ambassador Richard Grenell. The evening combined cocktails, appetizers, and a spirited discussion on restoring balance and accountability to California’s political future. Grenell, former U.S. Ambassador to Germany and Acting Director of National Intelligence, addressed guests with a solutions-focused message centered on strengthening voter registration efforts that are already showing measurable results statewide. Attendees engaged in a lively exchange of ideas about charting a more effective and transparent course for California governance. The event also highlighted the community’s connection to local excellence, with acclaimed chef David Slay catering the evening. For supporters, the gathering was more than a social event – it was a rallying point for energizing grassroots momentum to bring about meaningful reform in California.
www.FixCalifornia.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Cones for Cops at Handel’s in Manhattan Beach.
Super Sports Marks 45 Years – A Family Legacy of Style and Sportsmanship:
By 1982, Manhattan Beach’s retail landscape was changing – and so was Super Sports. Founder Rene Sandera moved his store into a sprawling 8,000-square-foot space at the newly expanded Manhattan Village Mall, where the business still thrives today. Over the years, Rene branched out into ventures like Sports Mania, The Grind, golf course management, and recreation facilities across Southern California. Yet his heart always returned to Super Sports. The store has long been a family affair. Rene’s wife Anne, her sister Cathy, and their brother Safari have worked alongside him for decades. Generations of local high school students have also found their first jobs there, making Super Sports both a business and a community hub. With a mix of athletic gear and fashion-forward lifestyle brands like PJ Salvage, Vuori, and Uggs, Super Sports has stayed nimble and personal in a big-box era – cementing 45 years of loyalty and local love.
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In MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board
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1. ** The solution to the coyote influx in Manhattan Beach (MB) is that MB officials outsource coyotes to the City of RB, which has a plan to deal with coyotes. MB does an outstanding job at “outsourcing” those without homes who move to MB (aka homeless), and it is working very well it seems. —- JA (FYI: Coyote Plan https://www.redondo.org/news_detail_T11_R245.php)
2. ** Homeless – MB solution
https://www.manhattanbeach.gov/government/city-manager/homelessness
3. ** Carson Sheriff’s deputies arrested 64 people during a massive street takeover in the South Bay Sunday night. The crackdown at Avalon Blvd. and Gardena Ave. targeted illegal street racing and car mods. Arrests included reckless driving, DUI, drug warrants, and nitrous oxide possession. Authorities vow continued enforcement. —- Editor’s Note
4. ** I would like to know if Fred Taylor has had an IQ test. —- Stacy Gottlieb, Manhattan Beach
5. ** Sadly, I came out this morning to find the remains of a black cat in my yard, yet another victim of a coyote attack. A sobering reminder that coyotes are very active in our neighborhoods and that our pets remain vulnerable. Stay alert and protect your furry companions. —- Lani A.
6. ** The latest Cracker Barrel logo now shows Hunter Biden in overalls leaning next to the barrel, and it simply reads Crack. —- Mia L., Hermosa Beach
7. ** Memo to Jewish voters: Ted Lieu’s record is clear. He sided with Hamas-linked pressure on Lowe’s, watered down a resolution condemning antisemitism into one on Islamophobia, and smeared U.S. Ambassador David Friedman with a dual-loyalty trope. Jewish voters deserve leaders who stand firmly against antisemitism. —- M.T.
8. ** The long and obnoxious CVS receipt is a scam in paper form. Coupons? A total waste of time. I’ve never saved a dime. They’re rigged with fine print and phony “deals” like a Las Vegas casino slot machine – except here, the house always wins, and your patience always loses. —- Claude D., El Segundo
9. ** I hate Cracker Barrel. —- Joyce A., Manhattan Beach
10. ** I thoroughly enjoyed your interview with Shelby Russell of the MB Food and Wine Festival. My wife and I are already excited – we’ve got our tickets and can’t wait for what promises to be one of Manhattan Beach’s best events. —- Clark T.
11. ** Good to see that Mayor Lesser is resuming the Mayor’s interview with MB Weekly. —- M.W., Manhattan Beach
12. ** Urban Plates in Manhattan Beach is the best for healthy, reasonably priced food. —- Zoey L., Hermosa Beach.
13. ** More than 3 out of 4 Americans say it’s unfair for men to compete in women’s sports. —- Tim O.
14. ** OH, HERMOSA! – I saw a transient showering completely naked outside someone’s house at 6:30 pm last night. Where the f–k are the police? Families walk these streets! If this isn’t public indecency, what is? Enough excuses – Hermosa Beach deserves protection, not excuses. —- Kirby N., Hermosa
15. ** WTF is wrong with YOUR kids? Aside from the e-bike insanity tearing up our streets, I just heard one of them tell a teenage girl in Hermosa she needed Ozempic. Parents… what the f–k is wrong with you? Raise them better – this isn’t edgy, it’s cruel. —- Allison J., Hermosa
16. ** TCM showing Gina Lolabrigida and Rock Hudson. This country used to have movie stars. In 1959 you’d pay good money just to watch them flirt while painting a fence for 2 hours. —- Emily H.
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18. ** Only dead fish go with the flow. —- G.M., Manhattan Beach
19. ** Over $500 for a pair of loafers at Bespoke downtown. WTF? —- Clay T.
20. ** Skyline Mobile Home Park in Torrance is advancing a $2M solar project with 700+ panels across 1.5 acres. Approved by City Council, the system will generate enough clean energy to power 250 homes annually in a move to push sustainability forward. —- Editor’s Note
21. ** The prices at Growing Wild florist are… wild. —- Anni H.
22. ** Boa in Manhattan Village was disappointing. Service was slow and inattentive, with staff more interested in chatting with others than serving. The food was overpriced for what felt like average quality at best. Not recommended. —- Tina M.
23. ** South Bay Best Dog Walker: Award-winning dog walker exclusive to the South Bay. Experienced, kind, caring, reliable. Call Sivia: 310-714-9877
24. ** It’s August, and Amazon is already pushing its Halloween crap on customers. Now that is scary. —- Mia T.
25. ** Say no to partisan gerrymandering. —- www.ProtectFairElections.org
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