Category Archives: Uncategorized

MB Weekly 03/16/2023

MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:

78% FEEL DISNEYLAND IS “WAY TOO EXPENSIVE!”

78% of MB Weekly readers in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities felt that Disneyland was “way too expensive,” and 52% said they were reconsidering going back to Disneyland in the next year due to the high cost. “The costs of Disneyland have gone from outrageous to insulting in the last couple of years,” said longtime Manhattan Beach resident and grandfather Paul O. of Manhattan Beach.

Agree? Disagree? Send your comments to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

Man Shot At South Bay Galleria:

Gunman Still At Large

On March 11, a man was shot in the South Bay Galleria, and the shooter was being sought by police. According to Redondo Beach Police Sgt. Salvador Garcia, the shooting was an isolated incident at roughly 2 p.m. on the east side of the mall in Redondo Beach. Police were searching for the shooter late Saturday night; they suspect fled the site in a dark-colored car. He wasn’t described in any further detail.

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Kris Denton

Partner At Denton & Denton Group

Q: HOW DID YOU DECIDE UPON REAL ESTATE AS YOUR PROFESSION?
A: This was sort of a no brainer for us, both of our families have properties and have participated in remodeling/flipping homes over the years. I also helped build my family home, and felt that I have a lot of insight and knowledge to share with our future clients. We had an awesome neighbor and friend next to our first house here in El Porto who then kicked us in the booty to get our licenses.

Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I was born in Nevada City, California. Steph was born in Torrance.

Q: WHAT ABOUT REAL ESTATE CURRENTLY IS MOST CHALLENGING?
A: The most challenging part of this industry is finding the perfect home or investment property for our buyers as inventory is so low but that is a healthier market than the last 3 years with several multiple offers. It just takes longer and a lot more digging and hunting to find “THE ONE.”

Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY PREDICTIONS ON THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: Ahh the multi-million dollar question! Based on our opinion and global/local economists, the Manhattan Beach Real Estate market will stay strong and prices will continue to increase, just not as quickly as the last 3 previous years which can feel like the sky is falling to some. We live in one of, if not The most sought after towns in America! Our inventory remains at an all time low, and the causes and circumstances of this “recession” are radically different from what many go to in their minds of the 2008-2010 market.

Q: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH AND THE SOUTH BAY AREA?
A: Currently we are on a kick of Northern Cafe in The Works, Love and Salt always because the pasta is amazing and the craft cocktails are the best in town. The Post biscuits are always a go to! Also digging, Japonica’s ramen!

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Top Gun, the original although the second was stellar in its own way and one of the best new movies I’ve seen in a while!

Q: WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE DINNER WITH ELON MUSK OR PRESIDENT BIDEN?
A: No doubt Elon Musk, I have been a Tesla FanBoy for years! I got the Y for my 40th birthday and the wife ends up stealing it from me every day. Dinner would probably feel like an interview for him with all of the questions I have for his brain.

www.dentonanddenton.com

The Centerpiece Of The Manhattan Beach Student STEM Expo Is Chevron’s Robotic Dog:

During a recent STEM exhibition at Manhattan Beach Middle School, Chevron gave kids from Manhattan Beach an up-close look at cutting-edge technology, including a robotic version of man’s best friend. Chevron introduced Spot 2.0, a robotic dog, as well as other innovations at the expo earlier this month, including drones that the El Segundo refinery utilizes for safety and other technical advancements. According to Frederick Walker, director of Chevron’s El Segundo refinery, the goal of the expo was to encourage the next generation of kids to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) courses.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Coyote at Mascagni and Greene 9:30 a.m. March 11, 2023. Feel free to share your photos with your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – AROUND THE AREA:

*****The Los Angeles International Airport’s long-term modernization is more than halfway finished, airport officials said in an update last week, with some projects completed in the past few years and others under construction and upcoming.

Dive N’ Surf:

Vintage Surf Swap here at Dive N’ Surf!
Starts March 25th, 2023, at 9am to 3pm!

www.divensurf.com

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Steve Revel

The site would be returned to Los Angeles County for $20 million, the owners of Bruce’s Beach in Manhattan Beach stated in January. Just as such initiatives were beginning to gain support at universities and local governments, the Bruces’ decision to sell has sparked new discussion about the objectives and strategies of reparations. The decision of the Bruce family not to hold onto the land and attempt to recover the vision of their ancestors disappointed activists who had assisted the family in securing it as well as other observers. On his radio broadcast, Tavis Smiley urged listeners to “say it ain’t so.” In my opinion, that was the perfect illustration of how reparations ought to operate. And a lot of us were encouraged by this uncommonly visible instance of the government treating Black people fairly. The Bruce family has questioned whether receiving the land back genuinely constituted restitution.

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

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Vince Altamura

Altamura Real Estate Group

Q: WERE YOU BORN AND RAISED IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: Yes, I was born and raised in Manhattan Beach. I participated through the entire public school system and graduated from Mira Costa High School in 2007.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN THE COMPANY BUSINESS CURRENTLY?
A: I am a salesperson and client relationship manager at Altamura Real Estate (a boutique family owned real estate brokerage). In addition, I help our developers acquire parcels for speculative construction and help raise equity capital for such projects.

Q: HOW MANY HOURS A WEEK DO YOU WORK?
A: I work 45-50 hours per week.

Q: WHAT BOOK MOST INFLUENCED YOU IN YOUR LIFE?
A: The most recent book that comes to mind is Morgan Housel’s Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed, and Happiness. This is a phenomenal behavioral finance book that will help you change the way you look at money.

Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: I love to dine at Un Caffe Altamura, Nicks and Arthur Js. I strongly believe the restaurant scene and quality of food in Manhattan Beach is on par with the rest of Southern California.

Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG REALTORS LOOKING TO MAKE A NAME FOR THEMSELVES IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY?
A: My advice for young realtors is to join a large sales team. Real estate is all about experience and you need to learn how to handle different situations because every single transaction is different. You deal with different personalities from buyers and sellers. You deal with different inspection issues from property to property. And you deal with different negotiations from agent to agent. By joining a large team, you get to see constant transactions and can learn from the team’s experience.

www.johnaltamura.com

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

The women of the Manhattan Beach Police Department. Feel free to share your photos with your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY:

“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”

Intriguing People. Intriguing City.
Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to sign up for free:
www.MBWeekly.net

MB WEEKLY – AROUND THE AREA:

*****Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band added 18 more cities to their 2023 tour and they’re coming to Kia Forum in Inglewood December 4 and 6.

Slay Steak & Fish House:

www.slaysteakandfishhouse.com

** David Archer, Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce President, having dinner at SLAY Italian Kitchen.

** Realtor, Stuart Fournier, having lunch at Urban Plates in Manhattan Beach.

** Health and Human Services Cabinet Secretary, Xavier Becerra, having dinner at SLAY Steak and Fish in Manhattan Beach.

** Famed restaurant critic, Merrill Schindler, having dinner at SLAY Steak and Fish House in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Sara Garcia

I adore TikTok because I don’t value my privacy or my time. The small makeup fads are cute, the dances are adorable, and I enjoy watching this one girl meticulously arrange her cupboard. Yet given that it’s Grand Theft Auto, the most recent viral sensation is quite unsettling. Two-thirds of the 9,700 cars stolen in Milwaukee in 2021 were Kias or Hyundais. Teenagers in American cities are stealing Kia and Hyundai cars at alarming rates, taking them for joyrides or crashing them, then abandoning them when they’re through. Using a screwdriver and an iPhone charge cord, anyone can hotwire these incredibly simple-to-steal cars, making you a “Kia Boy” in the process. What other platform posts tutorials and winning spins? TikTok. There are several parties to blame in this situation, including TikTok, car manufacturers, insurance firms, police, parents, and the Kia Boys themselves.

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

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Happy Birthday {pages}. Thirteen years ago, on March 12, 2010, Patty, Margot & Linda opened {pages} – a bookstore in Manhattan Beach.

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Richard Montgomery

Meet Manhattan Beach Mayor Pro-Tem Richard Montgomery.

Hildy Stern, former Manhattan Beach City Councilperson

Having served on the City Council isn’t a thankless job. This is such a rewarding job. And I’m so grateful for having this opportunity to have this life-changing job at this time in my life.

MB WEEKLY LIST:
People From Manhattan Beach

Athletes

Victoria Azarenka: professional tennis player
Isabelle Connor: Olympic rhythmic gymnast
Maria Sharapova: professional tennis player, Olympic silver medalist; given key to the city by Mayor Wayne Powell
Pearl Sinn: former LPGA golfer
Rebecca Soni: five-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer and world record holder; given key to city by Mayor Wayne Powell
Wally Wolf: swimmer, water polo player, and Olympic champion

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

A modern living room in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photos with your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:

** I first found your weekly digital magazine from a friend at the Bay Club in El Segundo. I didn’t think much of it at first, but it seemed to have creative energy that made me stick with it. Now I’m a full-fledged addict who thinks it’s among the most clever, independent, unbiased digital magazines I’ve ever seen. Congratulations MB Weekly! —- Lucy Z., Manhattan Beach

MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:

Life in Manhattan Beach?

MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

WOULD CONCERNS ABOUT SAFETY KEEP YOU FROM TRAVELING TO MEXICO?

Please share your reply with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.

Send your Vote to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Yes / No / Unsure)

Prominent PR / Marketing / Branding Firm In South Bay Area Seeks Part-Timer:

Local, Part Time, Entry Level, Paid Team Members

Freedom • Flexibility • Autonomy

Two (2) Entry Level Roles Available:
Special Projects & Research

Seeking entry-level, mature, smart, hungry, motivated people looking to break into the dynamic world of Public Relations, Media, Entertainment, and Branding. Battles are won from within, and we offer an extraordinary opportunity to work hands on in a rare environment of both professional and personal dynamic growth. Both positions require a commute to South Bay Area.

www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Too much moaning, blaming on NextDoor. If I don’t quit, I’ll lose respect and love for my neighbors, some of whom seem very angry and bitter! —- Linda L., Manhattan Beach

2. ** Hermosa Beach shooting linked to failed real estate transaction. —- Blair L., Hermosa Beach

3. ** The new Police Chief in Manhattan Beach is funny. —- Charlotte Z., Manhattan Beach

4. ** We now have the most authoritative estimate of the value provided by wearing masks during the pandemic: approximately zero. —- Zack P., Manhattan Beach

5. ** Woke Disneyland has removed a controversial lyric from a new parade in the latest symbolic step to distance the Anaheim theme park from the 1940s Disney film “Song of the South” that radical wokesters have criticized for perpetuating racist stereotypes. —- Suzanne H., Manhattan Beach

6. ** The City of Manhattan Beach is seeking to commission an original, site-specific sculptural artwork to honor the history and legacy of the Bruce’s Beach neighborhood. The artwork should evoke a sense of peace, healing, and community, and offer an educational opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of this area. Visit our website for additional information regarding the history of the site and application requirements.

7. ** The second person in a conga line is always the person who starts it. —- Jose R., El Segundo

8. ** Where have all the adults gone? That is one of the questions I keep wondering about wherever I look in America. We have politicians who behave like schoolchildren, teachers who live in fear for their students, and bosses and CEOs who their most junior employees terrorize. —- Donald M., Manhattan Beach

9. ** The Apple Pie at Urban Plates is yummy! —- Maggie M., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Why do so many folks on NextDoor sound so bitter and angry? —- Candace H., Manhattan Beach

11. ** As Anne Lamott says: “Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts.” —- Garrison H., Manhattan Beach

12. ** I recommend these light bulbs for dark streets and driveways. They brighten the doorway and driveway. They deter criminality. Amazon-purchased. Adore. GE LED+ Dusk-to-Dawn Outdoor Decorative Light Bulbs, Sunlight Sensor, Soft White, Automatic On/Off Light Detecting Bulb (Pack of 2) https://a.co/d/21ohDDO —- Glenn S., Manhattan Beach

13. ** No one deserves to be unjustly targeted by a lawsuit, yet it’s all too familiar in California. PAGA, ADA, and Proposition 65 make it easy for trial attorneys to mercilessly sue small businesses without reason, making it no wonder that companies are leaving our state. —- Shannon K., Manhattan Beach

14. ** I look forward to artificial wombs because it will finally equalize men and women. Women have always had to bear this unique suffering. —- Diane S., Manhattan Beach

15. ** I felt the recent Manhattan Beach community town hall meeting on public safety was generally good but went on way too long. Frankly, I came to this critical evening to learn about increasing crime in our community, not about what the city is doing with turtles and Bunny rabbits. —- Alice H., Manhattan Beach

16. ** If you haven’t tried the lasagna at Slay Italian, you haven’t really lived. —- Mr. and Mrs. Henri B., Manhattan Beach

17. ** Eat this Sandwich on Knob Hill, and PCH makes the best South Bay deli sandwich. —- Frenchi K., Hermosa Beach

18. ** Dear Dr. Glenn: You are a victim of “A girls gotta eat!” —- Garrett K., Manhattan Beach

19. ** According to Karl Marx and all socialists, crime, and misbehavior are caused by external factors alone. This is because only such factors exist. According to Marx particularly, the economic factor is the sole driver of crime. On the other hand, Neo-Marxism (woke ideology) tells us that injustice is inherent based on the structure of society itself, such as distributive justice. Based upon that, crime and misbehavior are structured in the DNA of whites against blacks, etc. —- Dr. Hollace W., Manhattan Beach

20. ** If you’re ever at a hotel, or I’ve used this on planes as well, where people are next to you and being really loud and rude, and you want to ask them to be quiet, but don’t want to be a d–k about it, say to them, ‘Hey, I’m sorry, could you please quiet down? I have to wake up early for a funeral tomorrow.’ Every time they immediately feel so bad. They will quiet down instantly. —- Erica T., Manhattan Beach

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. The recipient should check this mail and any attachments for the presence of viruses.

MB Weekly Bonus Edition 03/12/2023

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Theresa Plakos, Cancer Support Community South Bay (CSC South Bay).

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Former MB Mayor Russ Lessor.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Cool kitchen in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photos with your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Photographer Jefferson Graham.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Realtor Vince Altamura.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Realtor Stuart Fournier.

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Magical bathroom in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photos with your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

What Book Are You Currently Reading?

** The Body (Bill Bryson) —- Ed Kushins, Entrepreneur

** Wonder by R J Palacio, The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi. —- Deborah Hofreiter, Educator

** Currently reading “An Incomplete Education” – 3,684 things you should have learned but probably didn’t. Judy Jones and William Wilson are the authors. Things you may have heard of but don’t know the details ( Miranda rights) and things you’ve never heard of (Lionel Trilling, Hannah Arendt, Democratic Republicans, National Republicans). Ernesto Miranda kidnapped and raped an 18 year old. He confessed and was sentenced to prison. Ultimately the Supreme Court set him free (you have the right to refuse to answer self-incrimination questions). Justice was done when he was stabbed to death in an Arizona bar 10 years later. Fair warning: Some of the stuff you probably don’t give a sh** about but other stuff is fascinating and leads to a more complete education. —- Phillip Cook, Financial Advisor

** Money Dick —- Jacquely Nemay

** It’s such a timely question because I read “Metropolis” by Ben Wilson. It’s an incredible book that ties in the history of planning and development in all the world’s cities from Mesopotamia to today. Interestingly it mentions Manhattan Beach and goes into depth about Compton. I never knew our neighboring City Of Lakewood was the first planned residential development in the United States. —- Stewart Fournier, Realtor

** The Five Dysfunctions of a Team —- Mark Burton, Former MB Mayor

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

Should Parents Of Mass Shooters Be Charged If They Helped The Shooter Acquire Guns?

** Yes. “Parents of individuals who were engaged in serious violence to others, including all gun shootings, should be held criminally accountable if they assisted in helping acquire the weapon used and knew, or should have known, that their child was mentally unstable or had a history of violence.” —- Wayne Powell, Former MB Mayor

** YES —- Zein Obagi Jr., District 4: Council Member

MB WEEKLY – READER RESPONSE:

Who Would You Rather Have Dinner With – Elon Musk Or President Biden?

** Well, dinner with crazy uncle Joe over Elon. President Biden is still president of the United States of America which is the greatest country second to none. I love our country, I love our democracy, unfortunately I don’t love where it is right now, but this will pass. It would be a distinct honor to have dinner with any president of the United States of America no matter which party. —- David M. Slay, Slay Restaurants

MB WEEKLY:

“Once a week, but never weakly”

Intriguing people. Intriguing community.
Sign up for free:

www.MBWeekly.net

Prominent PR / Marketing / Branding Firm In South Bay Area Seeks Part-Timer:

Remote and Local, Part Time, Entry Level, Paid Team Members

Freedom • Flexibility • Autonomy

Two (2) Entry Level Roles Available:
Special Projects & Research

Seeking entry-level, mature, smart, hungry, motivated people looking to break into the dynamic world of Public Relations, Media, Entertainment, and Branding. Battles are won from within, and we offer an extraordinary opportunity to work hands on in a rare environment of both professional and personal dynamic growth. Both positions require a commute to South Bay Area.

www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Have you had enough of the pronoun crap yet? —- Leslie H., Manhattan Beach

2. ** The catalytic converter from my Prius was stolen overnight while parked in Torrance. —- Olivia K., Torrance

3. ** Every day, there is a silent war being waged on the minds of our children. Drag Queen Story Hour, hyper-sexualized books in children’s libraries, and transgender social media influencers are confusing our impressionable, young children. It’s time we said, “Enough is Enough.” —- S. H., Manhattan Beach

4. ** Dare I confess, I once ate three Cinnabons in a day. —- Pablo M., Hermosa Beach

5. ** We were trying to raise money for her and her two sons when my brother-in-law was fatally shot. —- Name withheld by request., Torrance

6. ** Thank God Lori Lightfoot was defeated! Amen. —- Paul O., Manhattan Beach

7. ** Has anyone else experienced poor security at Whole Foods in El Segundo? My bag was stolen. —- Andrea B., El Segundo

8. ** I went into the Vitamin Shop in Manhattan Beach on Rosecrans Blvd. for the first time the other day and won’t return. The service was horrible, like most retail businesses, but after I made a $14 purchase, I asked for a bag, and they said there was a $0.50 charge for bags. I’ll find another place to buy vitamins. —- Mallory M., Manhattan Beach

9. ** I love Girl Scout cookies! Yum. —- Drake P., Manhattan Beach

10. ** Yoelin is a good waitress at The Kettle. —- Garrett U., Manhattan Beach

11. ** Redondo Beach loses another tiny business. Calimex Artesia closed permanently. Excellent meal. Kind, honest owner. —- Sandra and Bill W., Hermosa Beach

12. ** I had an excellent experience at the new Studio MDR in Manhattan Beach. Primi is a great teacher —- Tara G., Manhattan Beach

13. ** Tipless – Why do 20% of food delivery customers not tip? Do they not realize we must pay for our gas, car, supplies, and phone? If you think not tipping is a good idea, think again. —- Kelly S., El Segundo

14. ** Big surprise? – Crime skyrockets on the L.A. Metro system, including a jump in drug deaths. The incidents of violent crime, illicit drug use, and people dying from drug overdoses on the L.A. Metro transit system skyrocketed in 2022, leaving board members saying that the alarming trend should be treated as an emergency to be addressed immediately. What the Hell took them so long to notice? Are they blind or just stupid? —- Fern O., Manhattan Beach

15. ** Another consumer rip-off! SoCalGas is asking the Public Utilities Commission for permission to collect another $4.7 billion for 2024 through 2027; SDG&E wants another $3 billion (not all of it for gas). —- Dr. Lance M., Manhattan Beach

16. ** The souls of emperors and cobblers are cast in the same mold. —- Howie L., Hermosa Beach

17. ** Hello MBW – What will it take to stop kids on electric bikes to stop blowing stop signs and riding at night with no lights or reflectors? Really! Dark clothes on a black bike with no lights coming from nowhere at 35 mph! I, for one, do NOT want to lose these precious young people. —- Dave Harris, Manhattan Beach

18. ** Trader Joe’s purse stealing was awful! I hope the woman is okay. Did the cops catch him? Rosecrans Trader Joe’s. Beware! —- Clay T., Hermosa Beach

19. ** Cheesecake Factory marks 45th anniversary this week. I am proud to say I have only “eaten” there once. Once was quite enough! Actually, once too many. —- Ryan M., Manhattan Beach

20. ** According to exit polls, 63% of voters ages 18 to 29 voted for the left in the 2022 midterm elections. That means a majority of Gen Z support destructive left-wing policies, such as socialism, open borders, student loan forgiveness, and higher taxes. —- Brittany S., Manhattan Beach

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. The recipient should check this mail and any attachments for the presence of viruses.

MB Weekly 03/09/2023

MB WEEKLY:
EXCLUSIVE READER QUESTIONS
TO MB MAYOR STEVE NAPOLITANO

Dear Mayor: WHY HAVE THE ESCALATORS AT METLOX BEEN ALLOWED TO GO UNREPAIRED FOR MONTHS AND MONTHS? IT SEEMS A PROBLEM THAT THE CITY SHOULD ADDRESS. —- J.A., MANHATTAN BEACH
A: Well, I’d like to say that it’s all part of the City’s new exercise program to promote healthy living by taking the stairs but that’s just a bad joke. I’m just as frustrated as everyone else is about the repeated failures of the escalators at Metlox. We’ve had rotating issues with contractors, supply chains, all the things you’ve been hearing about whenever things have broken down over the last couple of years and nobody seems to know why it takes so long to fix them. In this case we do know why – the escalators are old and at the end of their useful life. They need to be replaced, but in the meantime, we’ll continue to repair them the best we can because replacing them is not a quick, easy or cheap undertaking and we’ll need to budget for their replacement this June. Until then, if anyone has any ambulatory issues, we want to encourage folks to take the elevators. As of the time I wrote this, they were working!

Dear Mayor: SINCE THERE APPEARS TO BE SUCH A RISE IN CRIME LATELY IN MANHATTAN BEACH, HOW DO YOU THINK THE NEW POLICE CHIEF IS DOING? —- P.C., MANHATTAN BEACH
A: Chief Johnson is doing a great job. To combat rising crime, the Chief recently proposed and the City Council approved the hiring of 7 new police officers, one Police Support Supervisor, and one Administrative Assistant, bringing our total number of sworn positions to 72 from 65. The additional staffing will be devoted to crime prevention, active response, and investigative follow up. The new positions will also allow the Department to create a Crime Impact Group to support investigative efforts in the Detective Bureau through conducting surveillance, following leads, identifying suspects, composing warrants, and making arrests as appropriate. Additionally, a year-round full-time bike patrol unit will enhance engagement within our community, providing highly visible patrols in both the residential and commercial areas, including our downtown, while also patrolling areas difficult to patrol in vehicles, such as the bike path, high density traffic locations, and small streets and alleys. The addition of administrative support will free up Detective’s time to focus on investigative work, and will ensure the crime data is up to date and provided to the community in a timely manner. We also continue to look at the increased use of cameras and drones as near future steps in our policing. With these improvements, Chief Johnson has laid out a blue-print for the future of policing in Manhattan Beach and she has the full support of City Council.

Dear Mayor: IS IT TRUE THAT YOU WERE FIRST ELECTED TO THE CITY COUNCIL AT AGE 28? HOW IN THE HELL DID YOU PULL THAT OFF? —- S.H., MANHATTAN BEACH
A: Actually I was 26 when I was first elected. I had no money for a campaign but I had time, so my best friend and I printed off a bunch of flyers and went door to door throughout the whole city – twice. Apparently nobody had done that before, or at least not in anyone’s recent memory. But going door to door isn’t enough and still isn’t. People get elected for their positions and ideas and I like to think that since people knew I had lived here all my life, my message and ideas hit home with folks as someone who really cared and loved my community and would always put residents first. I’ve run on that same message ever since and it’s been the honor of my life to serve our community.

Send Your Questions To
The Mayor Of Manhattan Beach

The Mayor of Manhattan Beach, Steve Napolitano, 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:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Michael Zislis

Of Zislis Group

Q: WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE MANHATTAN BEACH AS YOUR BUSINESS HEADQUARTERS?
A: I opened by first business here – Manhattan Beach Brewing Company 32 years ago and I have loved Manhattan Beach ever since. I moved from Palos Verdes to Manhattan Beach and haven’t looked back. It’s truly the perfect place to raise a family, we have amazing schools and the best beach. Where else can your kids take surf for PE?! The amazing community has supported me here since my first restaurant and I am forever grateful for that.

Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY EXPANSION PLANS FOR THE NEXT THREE YEAR?
A: After COVID, we are instead focusing on rebuilding the businesses; remodeling, updating menus and retraining staff. COVID was very difficult for the restaurant & hotel industry. We are however currently working on one new concept… more on that soon, but we plan to open it in 2024.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING YOUR RESTAURANTS POST-COVID?
A: Staffing, supply chain issues and costs.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Planes Trains and Automobiles & The Fifth Element.

Q: NAME THREE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH THAT YOU DON’T OPERATE THAT YOU ESPECIALLY ENJOY?
A: Arthur J, Slay, Sugar Fish.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: Libra

Fun Fact: Michael shares his birthday with the Red Rocker–Sammy Hagar!

www.ZislisGroup.com

State Of The City 2023:

MARCH 16th, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
WESTDRIFT HOTEL
Presented by
Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce
& City of Manhattan Beach

www.manhattanbeachchamber.com

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO:
Interview With Former MB Mayor
Mark Burton

The Story of… former Manhattan Beach Mayor, Mark Burton.

www.youtube.com

MB WEEKLY – AROUND THE AREA:

*****Space Systems Command and mission partners have successfully executed a U.S. Space Force mission by launching two military satellites from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida recently. The liftoff was from Launch Complex-39A using SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy Rocket. The purpose of the mission, titled USSF-67, was to put to satellites to transmit military communications data in orbit and transport payloads to space. Space Systems Command is headquartered at Los Angeles Air Force Base in El Segundo.

The Rockefeller:

$2 Burger Tuesdays

The Rockefeller is a locally owned South Bay staple serving American cuisine in a casual, yet sophisticated atmosphere. With locations in Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo Beach, you will see a dedication to high quality food, atmosphere and customer service. Now open for lunch daily (M-Th), brunch (F-Sun) and a new Happy Hour from 3-6pm (Mon-Fri). as well as dinner 7 days a week. Stop by on Tuesdays after 3pm for $2 Burger Tuesdays! Reservations. Online Ordering. Events.

www.eatrockefeller.com

WOW! – MBPD Finds More Than 40,000 Fake Oxycodone Pills:

A mound of allegedly bogus Oxycodone pills was discovered by officers during a traffic stop in Manhattan Beach last week, according to the police. On the evening of February 23, police officers on Rosecrans Avenue stopped a car for violating the rules after spotting it, according to Manhattan Beach Police Department officer Andre Abreu. When police investigated the automobile, they discovered more than 40,000 phony pills hidden in various locations. It’s undoubtedly a lot for one person to carry about, according to Abreu. The risk of these bogus pills, according to the police, is in what they might contain. In situations like these, it’s not unusual for them to be spiked with fentanyl and methamphetamine. Since 2016, there have been an increase in the number of fentanyl overdose deaths in Los Angeles County, prompting regulators to urge extra vigilance from the general public.

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Kathy McQuiggan CPA

Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor

Q: WHEN DID YOU BEGIN BEACH CITIES ACCOUNTING?
A: I began Beach Cities Accounting in 2012.

Q: WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE MANHATTAN BEACH AS YOUR HEADQUARTERS?
A: I wanted a short commute! I originally moved to Manhattan Beach in 1989 and still love the area.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: I can’t pick just one, I like all feel-good movies!

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS?
A: Hiring great people is always difficult. We have a fabulous team now, however, it has been a difficult and time-consuming process.

Q: HOW CAN PEOPLE GET MORE INFORMATION ON BAY CITIES ACCOUNTING?
A: Those interested in service can always check out our website, call us at 424-257-0253, or email us at info@beachcitiesaccounting.com.

Q: WHO IS YOUR IDEAL CUSTOMER?
A: Anyone seeking information on the Employee Retention Credit. If we are not doing the Employee Retention Credit, we are providing accounting services to law firms.

Q: REVEAL A FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF?
A: During COVID lockdowns I turned my minivan into a camper van and traveled to several National Parks. My adventures included visits to Yosemite, Bryce, Zion, Big Sur, the Grand Canyon, and a few other smaller locations.

www.beachcitiesaccounting.com

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

The Mira Costa High School Cheer team at Walt Disney World in Florida, where they finished second in the nation among schools their size.

MB WEEKLY:

“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”

Intriguing People. Intriguing City.
Sign up for free at:
www.MBWeekly.net

MB WEEKLY – AROUND THE AREA:

*****The Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant still isn’t doing enough to mitigate odors coming from the facility, according to the region’s air quality watchdog. Los Angeles Sanitation & Environment, which oversees the wastewater treatment facility near El Segundo, now has a longer list of rules to abide by as it works to rid the area of a regular sewage smell that has plagued residents for about a year-and-a-half – and a shorter amount of time in which to do so.

Set The Table:

Wouldn’t you love having gourmet meals, tailored to your specific health needs and taste, delivered and immaculately plated for you every night?

Wouldn’t that restore meal time to the family time it’s supposed to be? Wouldn’t that be a burden off your shoulders? It’s time to enjoy meals again. The award-winning culinary artists at Set the Table Professional Chef Services are ready to create and implement the best meals of, and for, your life. Find out how you can save time, effort, and be healthier at the same time right here. Oh, by the way… For those wanting to learn some of the techniques and tools for creating healthy gourmet meals, Set The Table also offers cooking lessons.

www.setthetablela.com

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO:
Spinning Around Manhattan Beach
With Kate

Urban Plates

www.youtube.com

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Stewart Fournier

“Southern California home sales fall to all-time low” makes a good headline, but what does it mean? For what period, specific location, and what does it mean for me? Let’s face it, in this click-bate era how does the headline inform or mean anything? Everyone knows home prices are cyclical; however, the prices have skyrocketed for an unprecedented 13 years. It makes sense a change was inevitable. The so-called mass California exodus is slowing; remember, those who replaced them are more wealthy. The possibilities for those who stay are still growing. You may be amazed to discover how any real estate investment, which is a long-term position, is suitable for you no matter the property market de jour, especially in Southern California.

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

MB WEEKLY – LENS:

Former MB Mayor/Councilmember Wayne Powell on vacay in Cabo San Lucas.

MB WEEKLY – AROUND THE AREA:

*****The Los Angeles International Airport’s long-term modernization is more than halfway finished, airport officials said in an update this week, with some projects completed in the past few years and others under construction and upcoming. The second and final phase of the $15 billion capital improvement project recently began, said Justin Erbacci, CEO of Los Angeles World Airports during a January 27 virtual forum on its progress, and construction will go through 2030.

MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mike Simms

Of Simms Restaurants

My take away is that Frank from the Chargers is a class act. He withdrew the application so that council wouldn’t have to vote it down. His comments were exemplary of a group I’d like to see MB partner with in some fashion going forward.

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

MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Milo Bacic

Feel free to send your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net

MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:

“Now that everyone’s stopped masking in Manhattan Beach, it’s harder to tell I’m an asshole.”

MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:

WHERE DO YOU GO IN MANHATTAN BEACH TO GET A JOY BOOST?

Please share your reply 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)

DON’T GROW OLD – TELL YOUR STORY:

FACTS TELL, STORIES SELL

www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com

MB – BULLETIN BOARD:


1. ** Via the Older People Poetry Circle program of the City of Manhattan Beach’s Parks and Recreation Department, Mira Costa students in Shannon Vaughan’s creative writing class took part in an exceptional intergenerational poetry writing session. —- Hope E., Manhattan Beach

2. ** I hate my neighbor’s dog! —- Helen M., Manhattan Beach

3. ** How quickly someone answers you is rarely a sign of how much they care about you. Delayed replies to emails, texts, and calls are often symptoms of being overextended or overwhelmed. Unless it’s urgent, the true test of a relationship isn’t the speed of response. It’s the quality of attention. —- Darren G., Redondo Beach

4. ** NewsGuard – one of the largest and most influential “fact-checkers” employed by Big Tech—is targeting influential conservative voices. As the self-appointed “Internet trust tool,” NewsGuard claims it is leading the fight against misinformation. In reality, NewsGuard is a weapon powerful leftist organizations use to silence their opposition. —- Vince B., Manhattan Beach

5. ** It has never been harder to be a teenage girl. The latest study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is terrifying. Twice as many girls as boys felt persistent sadness in the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey given to 17,000 high school students, the highest rate in a decade. One in 3 girls reported seriously considering attempting suicide. —- Sue E., Manhattan Beach

6. ** In Panera – Hermosa Beach – A homeless man is sleeping in the fetal position. He fought two police officers to escape. The manager must report – more homeless B.S. taxpayer costs. Enough. Oh, yeah, the criminal is not my “unhoused neighbor!” —- Yolanda H., Hermosa Beach

7. ** Ralph’s pricing is unreal (El Segundo), especially if you go online and compare to Kroger stores in other markets. What is driving the rising grocery prices? —- Tracy H., El Segundo

8. ** I must say I was very impressed with doctor Michael Mercado at Providence urgent care – caring, non-rushing, smart, and helpful. —- Holly R., Manhattan Beach

9. ** I sincerely hope Redondo Beach will make an investment in real bike lanes with curb guards. —- Amy H., Redondo Beach

10. ** Luckily, at Council’s February 7 meeting, the Police Chief and Council dismissed the crime deniers and unanimously approved an 11% increase in MBPD’s sworn police officer personnel (from 65 to 72 officers) and three other much-needed civilian support staff jobs. Long overdue but welcome. —- Traci P., Manhattan Beach

11. ** Pablo at JP Electric is a unique, trustworthy, and reliable electrician. He’s affordable and cheerful. —- Lance H., Manahattan Beach

12. ** Heartbroken. Addiction took my daughter yesterday. Police discovered her. She hid in his bedroom and took all his prescriptions. It all started years ago with pot. —- Wally K., El Segundo

13. ** This is the coldest f—king winter ever in Manhattan Beach! Sick of it. —- James A., Manhattan Beach

14. ** Why are some notable black performers and athletes making antisemitic remarks? Is it because of the way black history is taught to them? —- Claire D., Manhattan Beach

15. ** Catalytic converter thieves. I saw catalytic converter thieves stealing from a Toyota Prius on Avenue C. I confronted them while calling 911 despite their attempts to scare me. —- Blair H., Redondo Beach

16. ** MB Weekly – Thanks so much for highlighting the reimagined blue line flag we recently presented to City Council. Other local MB newsletters don’t seem to want to publicly support our PD (shame) … glad MB Weekly will! Means a lot to residents who respect & value law enforcement. Keep up the great work. —- Heidi Rayden, Manhattan Beach

17. ** I’d like to know why the price of natural gas doubled or tripled from the previous year. —- Arnold W., Manhattan Beach

18. ** MB Weekly is a dynamic and welcoming addition to our community. —- Chelsea P., Manhattan Beach

19. ** Our favorite taco restaurant in the neighborhood, El Tarasco, had its cash registers ripped into (second time). They are strong supporters of our local community and schools. —- Lulu R., Redondo Beach

20. ** On last Wednesday night, February 22, high winds cracked and fell a massive Manhattan Beach Tree Section tree over an apartment building and parked truck. —- Tedi L., Manhattan Beach

Comment / Hire / Share / Promote / Barter / Discuss
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