Category Archives: Uncategorized

MB Weekly 04/18/2024

MANHATTAN BEACH CITY MANAGER RETIRES:
Bruce Moe Retires As Manhattan Beach City Manager After 35 Years

City Manager Bruce Moe retired from Manhattan Beach after 35 years at Thursday night’s Council meeting. Future private sessions, such as City Council sessions, will consider his succession. City Manager Moe joined Manhattan Beach in 1989 as the General Services Supervisor for buying and warehouse operations. He became Finance Director in 1998, handled the City’s finances through the Great Recession, and worked with credit rating agencies to secure Triple-A bond ratings. Moe was appointed the city manager for six years in 2018. As City Manager, Moe led Manhattan Beach through the COVID-19 epidemic, the restoration of Fire Station #2, and one of the most significant projects in City history, the replacement of Peck Reservoir. His dedication, ethics, and hard work have gained him the respect of colleagues, government authorities, and locals.

MB WEEKLY:
EXCLUSIVE READER QUESTION
TO MB MAYOR JOE FRANKLIN

Dear Mayor: ARE YOU PLEASED WITH THE NUMBER OF CITATIONS THE POLICE DEPARTMENT GIVES OUT TO THE COUNTLESS E-BIKE RIDERS WHO BREAK NUMEROUS RULES AND LAWS IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA?
A: Not every E-bike stop results in a citation being issued. MBPD endeavors to educate E-bike riders of E-bike safety and rules of the road with training conducted in the schools. To date over 6,000 MBUSD and American Martyr students have received extensive E-bike training at school assemblies conducted by MBPD School Resource Officers (SRO’s). Additional training is provided at the Hometown Fair weekend and Junior Guards. Local bike shops have also committed to providing enhanced training for families who purchase E-bikes. When MBPD officers stop an E-bike rider (or regular bike rider) they have discretion to issue a warning or a ticket. It’s understandable residents see E-bike infractions go unpunished – our PD cannot be everywhere at once. Residents can report unsafe E-Bikers by calling the MBPD Dispatch number 310-545-4566. The Police Chief gives a monthly update on the number of E-bike citations at City Council meetings. In addition, residents can do their part by praising good behavior when they see it. Every little bit helps.

Dear Mayor: WHY DID YOU (AND DAVID LESSER) OPPOSE THE FUN SHARK MURAL?
A: I believe we have enough murals about town without having to add more like the shark mural. Our city is blessed with a natural beauty, accented by stunning sunsets (and sunrises if you are up early enough), parks, a wide beach and beautiful ocean. Persistent murals detract from such beauty. I’ve rarely, if ever, had someone say to me the reason they visited (or moved to) Manhattan Beach was we had great murals. They come for the beach, the ocean and the parks. There may be some of our murals which are whimsical or thought provoking. But I found none of these qualities in the shark mural.

Send Your Questions To
The Mayor Of Manhattan Beach

The Mayor of Manhattan Beach, Joe Franklin, has generously agreed to write an “Ask the Mayor” monthly column exclusively for MB Weekly. Please send your questions to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:

71% Are Sick of Pronouns – Public Weary of Political Correctness “B.S.”

In a recent survey conducted by the MB Weekly, an overwhelming majority, 71% of respondents, expressed frustration with the increasing sensitivity around gender pronouns. Many perceive it as excessive political correctness, dubbing it “B.S.” that inhibits everyday communication. Speaking anonymously, one prominent local business owner highlighted the situation’s absurdity. “I don’t care if you’re of any gender. Doesn’t bother me,” they stated candidly. “But damn, why does everyone get all defensive and cussing me out if I say the wrong damn pronouns!” The frustration extends to professional settings, with concerns about its impact on hiring practices. “I see it on a resume and throw it in the garbage as fast as I can!” another business owner added, revealing the potential consequences of such hypersensitivity. “Radicals have created a new world of utter nonsense and I am not buying it,” said Stella G., a longtime Manhattan Beach resident.

Nando Trattoria:

Cavoletti Ortolani: this tasty tower is flavored with truffle honey, stracciatella, parmigiano reggiano and toasted almonds.

www.NandoTrattoria.com

Caffe Luxxe Roasts Small-Batch Coffee In Manhattan Beach:

Mark Wain and his close friend Gary Chau are coffee nerds from San Pedro. This has been excellent for the coffee-loving duo, expanding their South Bay coffee empire with a Manhattan Beach Caffe Luxxe. To celebrate its big launch at 904 Manhattan Ave. on March 27, the rising brand offered free latte, cappuccino, Americano, and drip coffee. “I adore Manhattan Beach. It’s one of the South Bay’s gems, and I think customers there know who we are and what we do,” Wain said. “Caffe Luxxe is a European-style neighborhood coffee bar where everyone comes.” He stated it’s about making friends and meeting people.

www.CaffeLuxxe.com

MB WEEKLY – COLUMNIST:
Rita Crabtree-Kampe
(Community Activist)

A young man was roaming Manhattan Beach for a few weeks with all his belongings in a suitcase and a cooler. We had offered housing and services. Finally, scared, hungry, and cold, he trusted us enough to accept housing, and we placed him there the same day! He was desperate for glasses. MBSAFE could pay for the exam and glasses (his prescription was so severe he could barely see to sign his rental agreement). He is on the path to a more prosperous life thanks to donations made to MBSAFE by generous community members. A HAND UP IS NOT A HANDOUT

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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Aaron Ganz

CEO at GANZ Media

Q: WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO LOCATE YOUR MEDIA BUSINESS IN THE SOUTH BAY?
A: After spending several decades enduring the scorching heat of the San Fernando Valley, I had the pleasure of meeting my now wife who was working in the South Bay. So you could say that having a beach in my backyard, weather 30 degrees cooler, and a beautiful woman, all had a hand in my decision to work here.

Q: WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING YOUR COMPANY AFTER COVID?
A: During the first few months of COVID, most of my business had dried up. At the four months in, businesses realized they had to adapt to the changing world, and with the increased need for Digital Marketing, the opportunities exploded for my business, and have not stopped since.

Q: WHAT WAS YOUR TRAINING FOR BEGINNING A MEDIA COMPANY?
A: While in college, based purely on a love of computers and technology, I was hired in a marketing position for a software company. I was privileged to have an entrepreneurial boss who took a chance on me and encouraged me to grow, learn, and teach myself the skills I needed for the position. Years later, I took a position at Ticketmaster doing email marketing. At that time, they were sending out 1.4 billion emails per year. Working for a Fortune 500 company with a solid team helped expand and refine my skills while securing a professional, comprehensive understanding of the digital marketing space. Based on that foundation, GANZ Media was born.

Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I was born in Hollywood, California, and came out three and a half months early, as I had things I wanted to do.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: My sign is a Pisces, which is said to have aspects of all the other 11 players in the Zodiac. So we get along with everyone.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: My favorite movie is the Shawshank Redemption. I was inspired by the main character Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins), his persistence in overcoming impossible odds, and learning to get by with the help of a friend.

Q: HOW CAN PEOPLE GET MORE INFORMATION ON YOUR COMPANY?
A: To find out more about GANZ Media and the services we offer, including web design, graphic design, social media, and email campaigns for small and medium-sized businesses, visit:

www.GanzMedia.com

Tin Roof Bistro:

In a world full of plain hamburgers, be the one who eats the best burger in town. The signature Tin Roof Bistro, making burger lovers’ dreams come true, one bite at a time! This delightful burger is made with a premium Angus beef patty, a soft pretzel bun, and a delectable pairing of balsamic glazed mushrooms and crispy onion rings.

www.TinRoofBistro.com

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Annie, a Manhattan Beach dog, with popular dog-walker Silvia on the El Porto Strand.

Surfer From Manhattan Beach Trains For ISA World Junior Nationals:

2024 USA Surfing ISA World Jr Championship team captain Kai Kushner finished 33rd in Jack’s Surfboards Pro in Huntington Beach. The 17-year-old is preparing for next month’s Championships. Kushner emulates his father, South African surfer Warren Kushner, who competed in the ISA World Games in the 1990s, whom he credits for getting him into surfing. “My favorite people to surf with are my dad and my friends,” Kushner’s Instagram page notes.

Two Manhattan Beach Pharmacies, Two Burglaries:

In the parking lots of two CVS shops in Manhattan Beach, police responded to two cries for help on March 30. After withdrawing cash from her bank, a lady went to the CVS on Sepulveda 2900 and discovered her passenger side glass damaged. The bank envelope with the money was stolen from the vehicle’s center console. MBPD responded to a CVS report at 1570 Rosecrans Avenue that day. A retail thief was testing parking lot car door handles to determine whether they were open. A struggle led to minor injuries to the suspect and two cops as they tried to apprehend him. MBPD responded. Officers found the unhoused guy with a rock, not a weapon. A mental health evaluation was given to the homeless person. MBPD received 44 criminal complaints from March 28 to April 4, including three assaults, three auto thefts, four thefts, two vehicle burglaries, and one home burglary.

MB WEEKLY – MEET:
MEET MARLOWE

A Hermosa Beach Resident Since Birth

THE TRUTH SESSION:

  • Never seen The Godfather.
  • Has a landline phone.
  • Never eats lunch.
  • Stopped vaping three months ago.
  • Never played Monopoly.
  • Doesn’t know the name of the Vice President.
  • Loves The Doors.
  • Never been to The Kettle.

LOVE in Manhattan Beach:

A reader told us there was recently an epic beach marriage proposal in front of our iconic Manhattan Beach Pier. Famous local photographer Pete Halvorsen (by sheer chance) captured the proposal unbeknownst to the mystery couple. It was no ordinary day on the beach. Winds were topping 30 mph and the proposal took place on the same day as the solar eclipse. Since Halvorsen didn’t have time to let the romantic couple know he captured their special moment, he is trying to make his video viral to find them. Do you know this couple? Let us at MB Weekly know … so we can find out their story and share their love with our readers. You can view the video on both Peter Halvorsen and the Love Driven Book Series Instagram accounts.

Lido Bakery:

Home of the Most Extraordinary Wedding Cakes

Lido Bakery first opened its doors in 2003. Ernesto Valenzuela started Lido Bakery with his mother, Evelinda, with the dream of bringing back what had become a rarity: the neighborhood bakery. 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

MANHATTAN BEACH CRIME UPDATE:

** On April 4, a suspect stole a wallet from a locked car at the south pier parking lot, police said. The victim told authorities that she also noticed fraudulent charges on her credit card. No signs of forced entry were found.

** A Toyota dealership reported a car burglary on April 6. An employee told police they saw the rear passenger side window of the brand new car was smashed and the key was stolen from the lockbox.

** Police issued a citation for a shoplifting incident that happened on April 6 at the Macy’s in the 3400 block of North Sepulveda Boulevard. According to MBPD, the suspect stole boots and jewelry. Loss prevention officers confronted the suspect outside the store and MBPD arrived. the items were recovered and the suspect was released with a citation.

** On April 7, officers responded to the 2300 block of Balnche Road after receiving a report of a person in a resident’s backyard with a flashlight. At the scene police located the suspect, who then began to run from officers, MBPD said. The suspect was ultimately arrested on suspicion of loitering, possession of burglary tools and resisting arrest.

** On April 8, police witnessed two people riding bicycles while carrying an open container of alcohol and holding an additional bike. Upon further investigation, police discovered that the third bike was reported stolen and one of the subjects had an outstanding warrant for their arrest. Both suspects were arrested on suspicion of possession of stolen property, possession of burglary tools and conspiracy to commit a crime.

** On April 8, police responded to Bevmo to investigate a report of alcohol theft. Police were able to locate the suspect and they were issued a citation for theft and trespassing.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Lucia La Rosa (Manhattan Beach)

In this time of spring and renewal, in this time of Passover, I do pray that God might deliver Israel from its enemies as it has happened in the past at Passover, with Daniel, with Esther, and with the smite of 185,000 Assyrian soldiers on the first night of Passover and the end of their siege of Jerusalem. Build yourself in hope because when your friends betray you, God is faithful to Israel.

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MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:

Your Free MB Weekly Bulletin Board captivates me with its addictive content, seamlessly blending thought-provoking insights and occasional strangeness. The section offers diverse perspectives, sparking intellectual curiosity and fostering an environment where ideas, no matter how occasionally unconventional, find a space to thrive. In a world often constrained by conformity, the Free MB Weekly Bulletin Board is a testament to the enduring value of free expression. —- Lola Z., Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Video surveillance footage captured five suspects involved in a smash-and-grab robbery at a Manhattan Beach jewelry store on Saturday, October 7, 2023. Gardena Police officers later arrested one suspect, and authorities continue their search to identify and arrest the other four suspects. Critics continue to vent frustration on the lack of arrests, though the entire crime was captured on video. “Very, very frustrating!” said one neighboring merchant. “And the worst part, even if arrested, is that nothing much will happen to them.”

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Darby Winston

Nestled in the heart of downtown Manhattan Beach, The Kettle stands as an iconic treasure, weaving itself into the fabric of the community. Guided by the experienced hand of General Manager Jeff, this beloved establishment has become a cherished gift for locals and visitors alike. The Kettle is more than just a restaurant; it’s a beacon of warmth and familiarity, where the aroma of delicious cuisine mingles with the laughter of friends and the clinking of glasses. With its cozy atmosphere and an extensive menu that caters to diverse tastes, The Kettle has become a culinary haven for Manhattan Beach residents. Under Jeff’s adept management, The Kettle has seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, continuously evolving to meet the ever-changing preferences of its patrons. From hearty breakfasts to a large assortment of dinners, each dish is a testament to The Kettle’s commitment to culinary excellence. For those seeking a slice of Manhattan Beach’s soul, The Kettle is a must-visit destination. To experience the charm and flavor that defines this iconic gem, explore their offerings at www.TheKettle.net.

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MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:

“Son, we won’t see this many eclipse glasses returned to Amazon from Manhattan Beach for another twenty years.”

MB WEEKLY:

“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”

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1. ** Be careful! Last night, someone tried to steal our car in front of our house. They shattered four windows to crawl in from the back without setting the alarm using the front doors. We learned to (1) charge and point our Ring front door camera at vehicles in front of our house, (2) install anti-theft alarms on our cars’ back windows, and (3) check with all our neighbors to see whether they recorded the dastardly deed! —- C.T., Hermosa Beach

2. ** For anyone in the community who wants a better view of the complexities of being a cop today and how it influences policing – this newly published book is the best I’ve ever read on the subject. It should be required reading for every police officer – but also any civilian, whether pro-police or part of the criticized police – so we can attempt to have a better Birds Eye view of the ugly dynamics in our culture to work towards building bridges rather than further divide. Setting My Sights On Stigma: Thoughts From An Injured Mind https://a.co/d/5DEX3UR

3. ** I just read that 80% of U.S. families did not buy or read a book last year. WTF? —- Scott P., Manhattan Beach

4. ** I was very impressed with police chief Rachel Johnson’s comments in your last issue of MB Weekly. Well done, Chief! —- Harris K., Manhattan Beach

5. ** The pizza at Slay Italian Kitchen is memorable. —- Addison H., Manhattan Beach

6. ** MB USD board is putting ideology ahead of truth. —- Garrison H., Manhattan Beach

7. ** WTF?: A Nigerian entrepreneur was arrested and will be prosecuted for damaging another business by posting a “malicious allegation.” Her crime: a review of tomato paste she said was too sweet. —- Arthur O., Manhattan Beach

8. ** This year, gas prices have increased faster than normal, due largely to severe weather at home and geopolitical disruptions abroad. —- Victor D., Manhattan Beach

9. ** When construction of the Automated People Mover at Los Angeles International Airport is finished, travelers will finally have an option to avoid the airport’s dreaded traffic loop. But a strained relationship between LAX and the People Mover contractor has led to project delays, according to credit agency Fitch Ratings. —- Editor’s Note

10. ** MSNBC’s Joy Reid is a racist. —- Hans F., Manhattan Beach

11. ** NO SELF-CHECKOUTS. Fraud attempts have forced me to cancel my credit card three times in a few months (last week someone tried to buy $2,400 online). Professional crooks are targeting gas stations and self-checkouts, according to Chase Fraud. They suggest avoiding or using a credit card with a low limit if necessary. —- Dana T., Hermosa Beach

12. ** God almighty, there are almost no raisins in my Raisin bran. —- Donald M., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Unless you want to get ripped off, I encourage you to skip Reborn Coffee in the Manhattan Village. Tea $5.50. Oh, yeah, they also want you to tip. WTF? —- Blair R., Manhattan Beach

14. ** On a recent visit to Home Depot, virtually no customer service was available. I walked around for almost 20 minutes trying to find someone to help me. Urggh! —- Candace H., Manhattan Beach

15. ** The price of Altoids has grown to be outrageous. I’m out. —- Clarence C., Manhattan Beach

16. ** Why is California broke and Texas is not? —- https://youtu.be/R3y3ejYDZmM?si=GiQ7BiO4Sh8LFw4n

17. ** If the tables are any closer together at Love & Salt in downtown Manhattan Beach, they’ll be on each other. Literally! —- Mary Elizabeth A., Manhattan Beach

18. ** Nearly 40 years ago, a University of Chicago professor, Alan Bloom, warned that higher education was closing Americans’ minds. Today, he could be called the grandfather of our culture wars. —- Dr. Harvey S., Manhattan Beach

19. ** Please be aware the parking lot at the corner of Whiting and El Segundo, the Chevron lot, is a busy spot in the town at night. Police should patrol it more often. Two nights ago, we heard loud voices and a fight. There were multiple cars and yelling. People are breaking into vehicles. So be conscious of being over there at night. —- Gay A., Manhattan Beach

20. ** Exer Urgent Care in Manhattan Beach is a disaster. Dirty rooms. No Doctor on site. Just nurses. —- Bart A., Manhattan Beach

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MB Weekly Bonus Edition 04/14/2024

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Manhattan Beach police captain Christian Eichenlaub.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Hope Sabater … MB Weekly “Once a week, but ever weakly.”

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Veteran financial planner Phil Cook.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Manhattan Beach Mayor Joe Franklin and Manhattan Beach City Manager Bruce Moe at the annual State of the City event.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Community activist Lucia La Rosa.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Tappy Hour, a brand new feature at Portofino hotel.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Head Chef Ramie Arbid at Joey Restaurant in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Happy team member at The Kettle in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A happy team member from Tin Roof Bistro.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Lido Bakery apple pie in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Two guests celebrating a beautiful sunset at the Portofino Hotel in Redondo Beach.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Kevin, manager of Dunkin in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Entrepreneur Gerry Morton having lunch at Fishing with Dynamite.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

An extraordinary dinner at Slay Italian Kitchen.

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

SAFETY • CITY • CRIME • WOKE

** Education administrators are more worried about being/teaching woke than teaching students something that will help them survive and prosper in today’s world. I wish I could see a show of hands as to how many parents were offered or required to take classes in financial literacy in high school. I would also like to see a show of hands of all the parents who have a budget and follow it. Based on my high school experience and that with clients, many hands would not be raised. Without primary financial education, you are setting yourself up for dependence (family, friends, government and state programs, community groups, etc.) that can last for decades. Helping someone get back on their feet is a good thing, but it should be temporary. Otherwise, they will never learn to walk again. —- Phil Cook (Veteran Financial Planner, Manhattan Beach)

** MB Weekly safeguards freedom of speech and the responsibility to speak the truth. Distorting the truth and the meaning of language undermines our ability to deal with and even recognize objective reality. MB Weekly understands that. We need MB Weekly – we need as much information and as many viewpoints as possible to make intelligent decisions. —- Lucia La Rosa (Community activist, Manhattan Beach)

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

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Ducks at the Manhattan Village. Feel free to send your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
by Darby Winston

** BALEEN KITCHEN AT THE PORTOFINO
Baleen Kitchen at the Portofino Hotel in Redondo Beach offers a culinary delight that’s simply memorable. The Hot Crab Dip, a delectable masterpiece priced at $19, is a symphony of flavors with succulent Dungeness crab, zesty old bay seasoning, and a divine croque sauce served alongside a perfectly toasted baguette. The culinary journey doesn’t end there; their Key Lime Pie dessert is an absolute triumph, a sweet and tangy finale that leaves taste buds dancing. The ambiance is charming, and the service pleasant, making every visit a memorable experience. Baleen Kitchen is a true gem where culinary excellence meets coastal elegance.
[Food:B+  •  Atmosphere:A+  •  Service:B+]

** JOEY RESTAURANT IN MANHATTAN VILLAGE
Had a good time for lunch on a rainy Wednesday afternoon at Joey Restaurant in Manhattan Village. The place is so pretty, and the lunch was terrific. I tried their outstanding fish tacos – crispy and flavorful. The best part was the dollop of sour cream on top. The service was good, and everyone was friendly. It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy good food. I can’t wait to go back and try more dishes. Recommend Joey for a delicious and delightful dining experience.
[Food:A-  •  Service:B+  •  Atmosphere:A]

** EDDIE V’S IN EL SEGUNDO
Entering Eddie V’s in El Segundo, given its reputable status, I expected a refined dining experience. However, the initial impression was marred by incongruities. While a dress code was announced at the entrance, it didn’t seem that same code of demeanor and appearance applied to some of the wait staff. Despite the odd start, the food redeemed the experience to some extent. Although there was a delay in receiving our entrees, they were ultimately well-prepared and flavorful. The complimentary dessert served as a pleasant surprise, adding a touch of generosity to an otherwise peculiar encounter. While the quality of the cuisine met expectations, the overall ambiance and service left much to be desired. Eddie V’s in El Segundo may have a solid reputation, but my first visit fell into the odd category, leaving me mixed feelings about returning.
[Food:B+  •  Service:C-  •  Atmosphere:C]

** TACOLICIOUS MANHATTAN BEACH
Tacolicious Manhattan Beach used to be fun, but lately, it’s been nothing short of disappointing. The service is unfriendly, even downright arrogant, and the food is barely fair. It’s a shame to see such a decline in service quality. Unless there are significant changes, I won’t be returning. It’s disheartening to witness the downfall of a place I once enjoyed. Hopefully, the owner recognizes the need for improvement and restores the charm that once made Tacolicious a fun spot in Manhattan Beach.
[Food:C  •  Service:D-  •  Atmosphere:C-]

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Toilet paper in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

THOUGH PROPHECY IS A DUBIOUS BUSINESS, WHAT DO YOU PREDICT WILL BE THE OUTCOME OF OUTDOOR DINING IN MANHATTAN BEACH ONE YEAR FROM TODAY?

** What will the City of Manhattan Beach do a year from now on outdoor dining? Great question! Drum roll, please … here is my prediction: one year from now. “Nothing will be done one year from now.” —- Mark Burton (Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)

** The issue of outdoor dining in Manhattan Beach will be resolved three (3) years from now. —- Michael Zislis (Founder of the Zislis Group, Manhattan Beach)

MB WEEKLY:

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MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Why don’t people fight obvious evils? If you can’t tell that Hamas is as evil as the Nazis were, it is because you refuse to do so. It’s easy to identify evil decades after the atrocities of the Nazis, Stalin, and Mao. The trick is to call out evil while it’s happening. You have a moral obligation to do so. —- Abby Z., Manhattan Beach

2. ** Americans have 40% chance of getting cancer. —- Darcy L., Manhattan Beach

3. ** Do people who walk around with the earbuds on all day understand how f—king stupid they look? —- Carla H., Manhattan Beach

4. ** The Woke mindset is an evil destroying this country. —- Helen R., Manhattan Beach

5. ** Chick-fil-A announced that it would be shifting from antibiotic-free chicken starting this spring, citing supply reasons, in an update shared recently. Boo! —- April J., Manhattan Beach

6. ** CA Among the Most Dangerous States in America. Charming. —- Vern C., Manhattan Beach

7. ** WTF? Shocking … 4 pm yesterday in downtown Manhattan Beach, two teenagers on E-Bikes, dressed in dark clothing, actually came to a complete stop and checked for traffic before proceeding … WTF? —- Glenn S., Manhattan Beach

8. ** I’ve never seen an unhappier-looking group of people than the staff at Shake Shack in El Segundo. Each and every one of the team members looks miserable and burdened to be there. There wasn’t one smile on one face. Not one! —- Howard W., Manhattan Beach

9. ** Afraid of losing any attention, Meghan Markle will sit down with Oprah to talk about the one time Chipotle got her order wrong. —- Dennis C., Manhattan Beach

10. ** I finally got my taxes done today. I owe Ukraine $25,563. —- Heidi B., Manhattan Beach

11. ** Man, the coffee drinks at Dunkin’ in Manhattan Beach are expensive! —- Ava E., Manhattan Beach

12. ** Weird that a country with 35 trillion in debt is giving me a credit score! —- Angel B., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Lie detector tests are total bull-shit, which is why they are not admissible in court. I have seen dozens of false results. —- Steve M., Manhattan Beach

14. ** I hate Pit Bulls! —- Lauren H., Manhattan Beach

15. ** If you can’t figure out that cell phones have made kids sedentary, solitary, anxious, and depressed, you aren’t very bright. —- Timothy S., Manhattan Beach

16. ** About 95% of nonorganic strawberries, leafy greens such as spinach and kale, collard and mustard greens, grapes, peaches, and pears tested by the U.S. government contained detectable levels of pesticides, according to the 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce. —- Editor’s Note

17. ** Researchers have discovered that bottled water sold in stores can contain 10 to 100 times more bits of plastic than previously estimated – nanoparticles so infinitesimally tiny that they cannot even be seen under a microscope. —- Editor’s Note

18. ** I think professional people who put pronouns on their e-mail signature lines look like woke radicals. I expect this stupidity out of 20-year-olds, but adults. Really? I am sick of their P.C. insanity. It is part of what is ruining this country. —- Clara N., Manhattan Beach

19. ** Trader Joe’s recently upped the price for a single banana to 23 cents, a 4-cent – or 21% – increase from the Monrovia-based grocer’s previous going rate for the fruit that had remained unchanged for over 20 years. —- Editor’s Note

20. ** The “Mean Girls” pile-on at NBC against Ronna McDaniel is the perfect demonstration of what bullies all these leftists are – while pretending to be paragons of compassion and empathy. They lecture everyone else about the evil of bullying and impose disastrous “anti-bullying” measures on schools only because they want to reserve this instrument of social control for themselves. —- Howard R., Manhattan Beach (A former Democrat)

Comment / Hire / Share / Promote / Barter / Discuss
The MB Weekly Free Bulletin Board is your place to communicate for free with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach. Send your message (maximum 50 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB Weekly Disclaimer: 1.) MB Weekly accepts no liability for the content of this email, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. MB Weekly is not associated with any commercial or political organization and is transmitted via the web for the sole benefit of its subscribers. 2.) Unfortunately, computer viruses can be transmitted via email.

MB Weekly 04/11/2024

MB WEEKLY – INVESTIGATES:
In Manhattan Beach Grocery Stores
$100 Doesn’t Go As Far As It Did In 2019

A selection of commonly purchased items valued at $100 in 2019 shows that today’s goods cost 36.5% more, a nearly $37 increase. The price of some items, such as sugar and dish soap, climbed more than 40%.

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Tara Grings

Principal at Grand View Elementary

Q: HOW DID YOU INITIALLY GET CONNECTED WITH MANHATTAN BEACH ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS?
A: I began in MBUSD seven years ago when I was initially hired as a Vice Principal at Mira Costa High School after obtaining my Administrative Credential through the California State Long Beach’s South Bay Cohort program. This group held class regularly at the Manhattan Beach District Office. Some of my professors in that program were Dr. Ben Dale, Dr. Mike Matthews, and Dr. Dawnalyn Murakawa-Leopard. I fell in love with Manhattan Beach schools when the cohort was invited to attend Back to School Night at Mira Costa High School.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF YOUR JOB POST-COVID IN RUNNING GRAND VIEW?
A: Post-COVID, I was knee-deep in construction at Grand View. Our playgrounds, the Kindergarten wing and the new Cafeteria/Multi-Purpose/Administrative three-story building still needed to be completed. Though we temporarily had to work around closed sections of our campus, we still managed to make learning enjoyable with the help of some incredibly dedicated teachers, staff, and families.

Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT GRAND VIEW FOR?
A: This is my third year as principal at Grand View Elementary!

Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I was born in South Los Angeles to a L.A. City Firefighter dad and a Hairstylist mom. My parents had a strong work ethic and deeply valued public education. This was instilled within me at a very young age.

Q: AS A PRINCIPAL, DO YOU THINK YOUR USING “PRONOUNS” IS AN IMPORTANT SYMBOL FOR YOUR JOB?
A: Identity is important to me. As a mixed-race woman, I’ve always pushed to make sure both my Japanese and African American heritage are an equally celebrated part of who I am. As Principal of Grand View, I hope to ensure I, too, provide a welcoming climate of care that represents the diverse community of our students and families.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: My favorite movie of all time is The Truman Show. I think Jim Carey brilliantly embodies the relentlessness of the human spirit in this coming-of-age film.

www.GVPTA.com

Manhattan Beach Will Require Permits For RV And Trailer Parking:

Manhattan Beach will soon require licenses to park trailers, campers, and other large vehicles on city streets. The public Council unanimously approved the permit scheme banning motor homes, RV, and other large vehicle owners from parking on public roads for long periods. Dozens of signs in Manhattan Beach prohibit parking non-motorized cars and trailers on city roadways, many of which are near schools and parks. The California Vehicle Code defines oversized vehicles as trailers, semitrailers, unmounted campers, trailer buses, trailer coaches, fifth-wheel travel trailers, or a combination of vehicles longer than 22 feet, broader than seven feet, and higher than eight feet.

Joey Manhattan Beach:

JOEY + HAPPY HOUR / JOIN THE PARTY
Now Bigger and Better Than Ever
Sunday – Thursday: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily | 9 p.m. to close

www.JoeyRestaurants.com

Manhattan Beach Gains Modern Fine Art Gallery:

Joanna Garel sought to provide emerging artists, especially women and people of color, a voice in modern art. Thus, the Filipino-Canadian art collector and artist opened a Manhattan Beach gallery. Garel Fine Art opened at 1069 N. Aviation Blvd. The 750-square-foot gallery will debut with blue-chip works by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Picasso, Ed Ruscha, and rare and early works by L.A. superstars Jonas Wood and Delfin Finley.

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Tim Wallender

Wallender & Associates Consulting Firm

Q: HOW DID YOU FIRST GET ATTRACTED TO MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: It was 1993 and we were very happy in our 3 year old home we purchased in Hermosa Beach and then we were expecting our first child, Lauren and our realtor said we just had to move to Manhattan Beach for the school and family life it offered so we looked around and found a great new spec home and made the move. We ended up schooling all 3 children (Lauren, Andrew and Justin) at American Martyrs, never used the schools but the home prices have never looked back and we know we made the right choice.

Q: EXPLAIN TO THE READERS WHAT YOUR BUSINESS DOES?
A: After graduating from the US Air Force Academy, my first assignment was at Los Angeles Air Force Base working on many large Space Programs and I still support the base as a support contractor becoming a Project Management Professional and Certified Financial Planner to save the tax payer millions of dollars over the years.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS POST-COVID?
A: It seems we keep having to hurdle all the regulations that the State puts in front of small businesses and contract prices have not kept up with inflation causing lower profits across the enterprise.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: I’m Sagittarius.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and any John Hughes movie.

Q: HOW WOULD SOMEONE GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOU AND YOUR COMPANY?
A: We only work off of personal referrals and never look for new business thru advertising or other marketing. By doing the best job we can for existing clients has never left us looking for more work.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT PROBLEM FACING MANHATTAN BEACH IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS?
A: I believe the high cost of commercial rent and primary housing is going to be a problem for attracting new families because they are being priced out of the market unlike the opportunity our family had back in the 1990s.

www.WallenderAssociates.com

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Colorful sangria at The Rockefeller in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Tiffany Barbara

Ever fancied wielding a heroic firefighter’s rescue gadget, or being chummy with the grand poobahs of Manhattan Beach’s council? Dreamed of rubbing elbows with the town’s business celebs, or buddying up with Manhattan Beach’s bravest and the finest – a real boon if your home’s a teen lair (wink wink)? Curious about what powers Manhattan Beach, or what’s being brewed at the local water recycling alchemy lab? Yearning to leave a mark with a deed so grand it sings through neighboring cities? Step right up! Make haste to the grand halls of the Manhattan Beach City Council Chambers (1400 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach) on Wednesday, April 17th and Wednesday, May 15th, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., the keepers of local lore will unveil how you can join the illustrious ranks of Leadership Manhattan Beach! Join us!

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BEACHLIFE BRUNCH:
AT THE PORTOFINO HOTEL

SATURDAY, MAY 4 | 11:00AM – 2:00PM
IN THE PACIFIC BALLROOM | $45 FLAT ENTRY FEE
Enjoy a grand buffet and mesmerizing ocean views at our BeachLife brunch.
www.HotelPortofino.com

City To Remove Polliwog Park Beetle-Infested And Diseased Trees:

The Longhorned Borer Beetle and the Pine Pitch Canker are invading trees in Polliwog Park. According to the City, “17 trees have been selected for removal throughout Polliwog Park due to the following issues. 7 Eucalyptus trees species are infested with the Eucalyptus Longhorned Beetle, 7 Pine tree species are infected with Pine Pitch Canker, 2 trees for selective thinning, and 1 tree for structural issues. The project involves the essential removal of these trees to maintain a healthy park canopy. Concurrently, the city is introducing 78 new trees from 8 diverse Genus/species. Explore our new tree palette further below, which increases the tree canopy and biodiversity of the park.”

MB WEEKLY – MEET:
MEET ABBY

Abby Has Worked In Manhattan Beach Since 2018

THE TRUTH SESSION:

  • Takes baths seven nights a week.
  • She hates beef jerky.
  • Stopped drinking alcohol two years ago.
  • Never uses dating apps.
  • Loves The Kettle.
  • Lost 20 lbs. five years ago and kept it off.
  • Loves boxing and the gym.
  • Hates Trump.
  • Doesn’t smoke or vape.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Rodger J. Deuerlein (Manhattan Beach)

Regarding South American theft groups targeting residents: 1. MB Police Chief Rachel Johnson’s update contained no metric of accomplishment. How many such criminals has her department arrested? What has been the result of such arrests? Anyone delivered to the county jail, or at least turned over to DHS/ICE, vs. released to the streets? 2. Our representatives want these thieves here. In Sacramento in 2017, Ben Allen voted for SB-54 to shield foreign criminals from deportation. Al Muratsuchi did not oppose the bill. In Washington DC, just three weeks ago, Ted Lieu voted against HR-7511 to deport illegal aliens arrested for theft/burglary.

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Pro-Local Zoning Group Drops Manhattan Beach Apartment Complex Lawsuit:

A lawsuit challenging the Highrose housing project was dismissed earlier this month. In January of 2023, the Manhattan Beach City Council approved the Highrose housing project proposed for the Verandas Beach House site, located at 401 Rosecrans Avenue. A group named Chill The Build, LLC, filed a lawsuit against Manhattan Beach, challenging the Council’s approval of the project, and later filed a motion for a preliminary injunction to stop excavation, demolition, and construction at the site. In denying the motion, the Los Angeles Superior Court Judge ruled that Chill The Build “did not demonstrate a likelihood of prevailing on the merits of the case,” either under state law or the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Construction on the 79 unit project is expected to proceed, with six of the units designated as “very low income” affordable units.

Dive N’ Surf:

Now carrying STANLEY! Come get your favorite styles of Stanley cups now at Dive N’ Surf!

www.DiveNSurf.com

MANHATTAN BEACH CRIME UPDATE:

** After being found dead in the surf off the Beach Cities this winter, Jennifer Hanie, 31, was the second drowning victim the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner autopsied this year. In addition, the coroner found that 42-year-old Ryan Martin drowned accidentally. Martin was recovered in the surf at 22nd Street at Hermosa Beach the morning after Thanksgiving.

** Douglas Aziz, a Manhattan Beach homeowner, was found dead in his hot tub of accidental drowning on the same street as a Torrance man shot dead weeks earlier.

** Manhattan Beach Police warn homeowners they can request extra patrols when leaving town. Two empty homes were burglarized March 21 – 27. Between March 17 and 23, a 1600 block of 10th residence was ransacked. The homeowner was away. All the lights were on when the house sitter discovered stolen computers, antique jewelry, and camera lenses. The 300 block of Elm Street home under construction was also burglarized. A neighbor told the homeowner the fence was unlatched. The garage was plundered and the house damaged.

** MBPD responded to a 2909 Sepulveda Blvd. Auto Check Center burglary on March 25. A guy in a black, hooded sweater smashed a side door on video. Suspect stole a credit card machine and left.

** The week of March 21 – 27, MBPD received 43 criminal complaints, including 13 thefts, one assault, one vandalism, two home burglaries, and one business burglary.

MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
by Darby Winston

Oath Pizza in El Segundo

Oath Pizza in El Segundo left me disappointed. Despite splurging on the Muffled Trushroom, I was met with a lackluster experience. The price was exorbitant for what felt like a flavorless cardboard disc with cheese. Any hope for truffle essence was dashed as the pizza lacked a hint. The overall taste was bland and uninspiring. Save your money and taste buds, and forget Oath Pizza.

Food: D  •  Service: D (There is no service)  •  Atmosphere: D (Small)

www.OathPizza.com

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Steve Napolitano
(Councilman, Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)

A better question is, “why do we vote for any murals?” We have a dedicated art fund for public art paid for through developer fees to support public art in Manhattan Beach, and murals are a part of that. We’ve chosen some that are abstract, some that are representative, and all things in between, and they’re larger versions of what we’ve been putting on utility boxes. There are all sorts of reasons to choose a given design. In this case, the shark mural is an excellent example of trompe l’oeil painting, a style that lends itself well to murals and a style we’ve lacked so far in our choices. Hermosa has several examples, as do other cities, and this was the best example submitted to us and one of the better mural submittals I’ve seen so far.

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MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:

I praise MB Weekly’s commitment to unbiased and independent writing. In a media world often marred by biases, this publication shines with its dedication to presenting facts without agenda. The publication is a free voice that fosters critical thinking, allowing readers to form informed opinions. I also love your new video series. Keep up the great work! —- Sandra G., Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by John J. McKillop

Let’s be honest: Olive Garden is not one of Manhattan Beach’s fine dining restaurants. But even Olive Garden’s affordability is slipping away for many. Darden, Olive Garden’s parent company, acknowledges a significant shift in consumer behavior, particularly among middle- and lower-income demographics. CEO Rick Cardenas highlights the impact of inflation, with households earning less than $75,000 increasingly shying away from Olive Garden’s offerings. Even those earning $50,000 bypass the chain’s supposed fine dining ventures. This trend underscores a larger economic reality where affordability is pivotal in dining choices. As Olive Garden grapples with these challenges, it serves as a microcosm of broader economic shifts and consumer preferences, where even the most established chains must adapt or risk losing their appeal in a changing landscape of dining experiences.

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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Linda Rosen (Manhattan Beach)

A new construction break-in Saturday night at midnight; a group of 5 jumped our construction fence on Hermosa Ave and 30th and rummaged through the house. Luckily, I have a monitored camera alarm system that sees them inside, sets the alarm, and calls the police. We don’t leave tools around, so there wasn’t anything easy for them to grab and sell. Lock up, everyone!!!

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MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?

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1. ** Pardon me for saying that Dunkin’ in Manhattan Beach could use good cleaning. —- Hunter T., Manhattan Beach

2. ** Mexican cuisine foodies: El Amigo is expanding to where Leo’s Mexican Food / Inglewood Blvd, just south of Manhattan Beach (MB) Blvd was. El Amigo’s “hole in the wall” corner location on MB near the 405 will continue to operate – one of the best. El Tarasco, corner of Marine / Inglewood streets, is an outstanding Mexican restaurant under recent new ownership/remodeled – food so much improved from before, opens at 8 AM. If you like Mexican cuisine – the shrimp cocktail at both locations is soooooo delicious. —- Joyce A., Manhattan Beach

3. ** When teachers fight to keep drag queens in school and the Bible out of school, you need new teachers. —- Hillary J., Manhattan Beach (Parent of two)

4. ** The lasagna at Slay Italian Kitchen is outstanding! —- Deborah W., Manhattan Beach

5. ** Today, it costs the Average family of 4 an additional $11,576 a Year for the same goods purchased four years ago. Inflation. Thanks, Mr. President. —- Craig H., Manhattan Beach

6. ** The Manhattan Beach community deserves praise for renewing legislation MB, the parcel tax legislation that funds our local schools. Last week’s outcome was just over the two-thirds supermajority, with only a few votes left. —- Victoria S., Manhattan Beach

7. ** Do you think any teachers in Manhattan Beach have OnlyFans pages exist? —- Steward C., Manhattan Beach

8. ** I miss the Souplantation! —- Brooks T., Manhattan Beach

9. ** In Manhattan Beach you’re legally allowed to park in a handicap spot if you get back with your ex more than twice. —- Frank B., Manhattan Beach

10. ** The tables at Love & Salt are so close together that I felt like I was eating in a broom closet. —- Sandra W., Manhattan Beach

11. ** Hermosa Beach’s Saint Rocke celebrated its first anniversary with royalty. Tribute band Queen Nation took the stage on Saturday, March 23, about a year after the popular South Bay concert venue opened its doors to live music after a pandemic-induced hiatus, and new ownership took over in January 2023. —- Editor’s Note

12. ** Chloe Cole was celebrated by the transgender community after she decided she was born in the wrong body and had her healthy breasts surgically removed at age 15. During the post-operation process, Chloe began to regret her decision and had to come to terms with the irreversible damage done to her as a minor. She began speaking out against the very people who once celebrated her – and was met with vitriol and hate. —- Gary W., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Coming changes to real-estate agents’ commissions have home buyers and sellers questioning whether to rush deals ahead of the new rules or wait and see. —- J.C. (Real estate agent), Manhattan Beach

14. ** How would you feel if your surgeon, pilot, or lawyer was an affirmative action hire? Society’s obsession with race and gender at the expense of merit is hurting us all. Isn’t it past time to explore how this destructive policy is unfair and erodes trust and competence in vital professions where qualifications should matter most? —- Gil J., Manhattan Beach

15. ** California is clearing criminal records, including violent crimes. And we wonder why California is the laughing stock of the nation. —- Bob M., Manhattan Beach

16. ** Measure MB, the $225 parcel tax that generates $2.5 million for the Manhattan Beach Unified School District, has been renewed. —- Editor’s Note

17. ** Have you ever disagreed even slightly with someone on the radical left? They will immediately call you a “hater,” “racist,” Nazi! They approve of free speech as long as you totally, entirely, and passionately agree with them 100% of the time. —- George A., Manhattan Beach

18. ** Patricia “Pat” Ann Perkins (Hill) died peacefully in her family home in Manhattan Beach on March 8, at the age of 73. —- Editor’s Note

19. ** What a bunch of bull-s—t! An L.A. court official actually says that zero bail has not caused any increase in crime. What a f—king lying idiot. Let me guess. He is a radical Leftist. —- Tommy L., Manhattan Beach

20. ** The people at the desk At Target in Manhattan Beach are really nice! —- Charlene Z., Manhattan Beach

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