EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE
RITA CRABTREE-KAMPE:
Q: Was there one issue that led you to decide to run for City Council?
A: I am a fresh voice with a new perspective for our city council. I will be able to look at issues facing our city from the view of a resident that has been working with the City Council, MBPD and our community to address homelessness. I have worked in family business to manage renovation and landscaping projects overseeing budget, purchasing and staff. As an advocate, I have researched legislation and collaborated with agencies to problem solve to best serve a client. I am running for City Council because I have the demeanor, dedication and decision making skills to serve in our community’s best interest.
Q: Do you believe Manhattan Beach is as safe today as it was a year ago?
A: In some ways MB can seem safer than it was a year ago; the MBPD has stepped up its physical presence in the community in response to the increase in crime. However, DA George Gascon has not prosecuted over 125 misdemeanor arrests in MB and the message to the criminals is that they have free reign in our community. I supported the recall of Gascon and strongly support the efforts of our MBPD but they need the cooperation of the community. If officers can create a track record of a perpetrator, they have a stronger case for prosecution. When a crime is committed, the residents of MB need to press charges every time.
Q: In your opinion, what is the most pressing problem facing Manhattan Beach?
A: The most pressing problem in Manhattan Beach? The ND App comes to mind! But seriously, I think that crime, including the hate speech and messaging that continues to occur on our school campuses must be addressed with urgency. Zero tolerance is the only policy. We must band together against hatred. Irresponsible Ebike operation is also a major hazard: young children, who have no knowledge of the rules of the road are operating motorized vehicles. We need enhanced education programs and strict traffic enforcement of all riders and drivers who are not following traffic rules.
Q: Where were you on the infamous night of the smash and grab robbery in downtown Manhattan Beach?
A: On the night of the armed robbery at PASHA we were having a BBQ with friends on our patio. It was a beautiful evening and unbeknownst to us, the getaway cars flew down streets close by our home. Scary!
Q: If your campaign had a slogan, what would it be?
A: If my campaign had a slogan? Perhaps, RITA – Responsible Initiatives That Advance MB.
Q: Are you in favor of increasing the size of the Police Department?
A: I am in favor of growing our MBPD. We need to address the increase in crime that is afflicting our town. Residents and business owners want to see an increased police presence throughout the community and increased communication regarding pending cases that impact them. We need to be sure that the PD has the staffing and the tools needed to ensure the safety and security for all of Manhattan Beach.
www.voterita4mb.com
Best Mexican Food In Manhattan Beach:
El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant
Readers of MB Weekly voted El Sombrero the “best Mexican food in Manhattan Beach – 2022.” Located in downtown Manhattan Beach, “El Som” or “The Hat” as known by locals, has been building relationships with people since 1975. El Som is a small family-owned restaurant with a big heart. If you are one of those people who loves tradition, family, and enjoys a simple, little-town feel, then El Som is the place for you. El Som has been ingrained in the Manhattan Beach community for 40 years. Many of El Som’s customers have been coming back regularly for decades; the owner and staff not only recognize parents, but their children and grandchildren as well. Many local children have grown up eating at El Som from grade school to high school, eventually many of those children leave for college, but they always come back to El Som to eat the food they have always enjoyed and remembered. “Locals know who we are, and we want to remain being a reliable, trusted, and convenient restaurant and a part of the community.” 1005 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach.
www.elsommanhattan.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
A new hat for Christy Barnes, a candidate for school board in Manhattan Beach.
Mark Burton
City Council Candidate
I refuse to let Manhattan Beach become like Santa Monica or San Francisco. Here is my top issue that are most concerning to me. Crime, crime and more crime! That is the number one issue of concern in this election. With crime up 30%, and expected to get worse, we need to have more police officers to prevent and deter crime. The presence of a police officer is the #1 deterrent to crime. More police officers equals less crime. We need more police officers so we can have regular foot beat officers in Downtown MB, North MB/El Porto and our MB Mall. We need more police officers to increase patrols in our MB neighborhoods. And, with more police officers we can form a Special Problems Unit to focus patrols on specific problem areas. Our MBPD force has been at 65 for the last 20 years. In the next three to five years, we need to increase our force to 80 police officers, 10 permanent positions and 5 over hire positions. Did you know that in the last ten years, the City has gone from 168 full time positions to well over 210 full time positions without one new police officer position? Not acceptable. Did you know that in the last three years, our police force was as low as 56 police officers, with positions being left vacant? Not acceptable. —- Mark Burton, candidate for City Council and former mayor.
www.burtonforcouncil.com
MB WEEKLY:
“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”
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More Than 80,000 Attend 50th Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair:
The Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair celebrated its biggest fair yet recently with more than 80,000 in attendance, Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair Association President Joe Marcy said. “Our 50th Annual Fair was a resounding success!” Marcy said. “It was our largest attended parade with proclamations and resolutions presented by Mayor Napolitano and Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi.” This year’s fair was focused on the history of the event to celebrate the milestone, with a Historical Tent that hundreds visited and even made some fairgoers and volunteers emotional, Marcy said. The Silent auction raised $11,826 for the local fair and the merchandise booth had a record-breaking year, nearly selling out by Sunday afternoon.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Winona
“YES OR NO” INTERVIEW
Have you ever watched a horror movie by yourself?
–HELL, YES!
Are you good with insects?
–HELL, NO!
Have you ever held a snake?
–HELL, NO!
Are you claustrophobic?
–WHAT IS THAT?
Have you ever fainted?
–WHEN I HAVE A BLOOD TEST
Have you ever gotten surgery?
–NO
Have you ever had a near-death experience?
–NO, UNLESS YOU COUNT WATCHING PRESIDENT BIDEN ON TV.
To be featured in “The Faces of Manhattan Beach,” send your photograph to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
And the winner of the Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair 2022 Battle of the Bands is … JOYRIDE!
“QUEEN” OF MANHATTAN BEACH:
** No-brainer, Jan Dennis —- MB Mayor Steve Napolitano
** Jan Dennis: MB historian, author, past MB Mayor, councilwoman, and commissioner —- Suzanne Karger, philanthropist
** Martha Andreani: Lived her whole life in MB. She’s fun, has a great sense of humor, and is quite active, especially in Manhattan Beach Historical Society. Living here for so long gives her a unique perspective of where MB has been and where it is likely to go. She is the queen of Manhattan Beach —- Phil Cook, financial planner
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Congratulations to MB Police Lieutenant Jason Knickerbocker on his retirement after 21 years of service. Lt. Knickerbocker worked a variety of assignments during his career, including Detective, Motorcycle Officer, SWAT Team Member, Firearms Instructor, Honor Guard Member, and SWAT Team Commander. He is retiring as an Administrative Lieutenant overseeing Detectives, Records, & Community Affairs. Lt. Knickerbocker is also a U.S. Army Veteran.
MB WEEKLY – VIDEO:
Culture of Fear – Mike Welsh, candidate for School Board, Manhattan Beach. WATCH
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Smokin’ in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to share your photos with thousands of your Manhattan Beach neighbors.
Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
WHO READS MB WEEKLY?
Prominent real estate and economic development leader Larry Kosmont.
Sign up for free: www.MBWeekly.net
MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
By Darby Winston
Tapizon
Tapizon truly embodies a transformative feeling once you step inside. With open spaces, eclectic artwork that offers a “Tropi-Cali” feel, and the smell of tropical fruit, this restaurant truly is a gem nestled in the heart of downtown El Segundo. Where Brazilian and American flavors collide in a festive array of food and spirits, you don’t want to miss out on the zesty freshness of Caipirinha (the native drink of Brazil), the Yucca Fries with Parmesan Foam & Guava Ketchup, or the Tapi-Tacos, which are delicious taco options served with tortillas made from gluten-free tapioca flour. Happy Hour, Brunch, and Private Parties are also on offer at this tropical location.
Food: A • Service: B • Value: A
www.tapizon.com
** Manhattan Beach City Councilman Joe Franklin having dinner at Slay Italian Kitchen.
** Prominent real estate consultant Larry Kosmont having drinks at Slay Steak and Fish.
** City Council candidate and former mayor David Lesser having coffee at the Coffee Bean in Manhattan Village in Manhattan Beach.
** City Council candidate and former Fire Battalion Chief Frank Chiella having dinner at Urban Plates in the Manhattan Village in Manhattan Beach.
** Jessica Vincent, Communications Manager for the City of Manhattan Beach, having ice tea at the Coffee Bean in the Manhattan Village.
** Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz and Rick Grenell having dinner at Slay Steak and Fish in Manhattan Beach.
“Best of Los Angeles Award 2022”
Set The Table Personal Chef Services
It all begins with you. We customize all our menus to meet your culinary and dietary needs. Whether it’s meal prep or a special event, we’ve got you covered.
www.setthetablela.com
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“This makes me feel almost as insignificant as looking for parking in Manhattan Beach in the summer!”
MB WEEKLY – DID YOU KNOW?
“Uncle Bill” McElroy opened Uncle Bill’s in 1961. Or rather, half of it was Uncle Bill’s – the south end was a barbershop until 1999. P. Allen VanAmburgh bought the restaurant in 1973, remodeled the place a bit, and added a few tables. In 2000, the restaurant expanded again into the space vacated by the barbershop, and opened the outdoor patio. Today the restaurant remains in the VanAmburgh family, who are happy to welcome you for breakfast and lunch every day.
MB – BULLETIN BOARD:
1. ** There are 6 candidates running for 3 open seats on the school board. The first group of 3 candidates are unabashedly Far Left and will stay the course that the District is on. The second group of 3 candidates, called the Trifecta, got into the race to make Academics the priority again and rid the classrooms of partisan politics. —- Candace H., Manhattan Beach, parent of two
2. ** Life is one long daisy chain of surprises, isn’t it? —- Michael J., Manhattan Beach
3. ** Best dog walker in the South Bay. Winner “Best of Los Angeles Award 2022” as the best dog walker. Ten years experience. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Silvia at 310-714-9877 or alohamydogs@gmail.com.
4. ** South Bay native Misty Copeland, the first African American female principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, opens the upcoming Distinguished Speakers series season on Thursday, Oct. 20 at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. —- Kathy W., Manhattan Beach
5. ** Fleming’s steakhouse masquerade wine dinner event. Join us for an evening of revelry and intrigue. We prepared a selection of four (4) California wines perfectly paired with a curated four-course chef’s dinner. Friday, October 28th at 7:00 PM $110 per guest Fleming’s El Segundo
6. ** The countdown is officially on with holiday shopping kicking off earlier in the year. Promote your product or service —- www.PRPrime.net
7. ** Is it just me, or is MBUSD completely out of control? Here is a real MCHS Grade 10 Social Justice reading assignment. Students were to highlight for: Powerful commentary on identity; Concepts you agree with; Concepts you are unsure of or need to consider further. Are you kidding me? https://uucsj.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/The-Complexity-of-Identity.pdf —- Bernard W., Manhattan Beach
8. ** Allen Kirschenbaum was also one of the two complainants, along with Mr Congeniality, Michael Sinclair, to file FPPC complaints alleging campaign finance disclosure violations by the No on Measure A proponents. Given that Amy was one of the chief organizers of the Yes on A group. —- Mike Michalski, Manhattan Beach
9. ** Police are asking for help finding the guardians of a boy found wandering in the South Bay. The boy, who “appears nonverbal” was found at about 5:50 a.m. near Madrona Avenue and Torrance Boulevard, according to the Torrance Police Department. The police department released a picture of the child in hopes that someone will recognize him. The boy may be in his teens. He is Black, has short hair and was wearing a gray Vans t-shirt when authorities found him. Anyone with information about him is urged to call the Torrance Police Department at 310-618-5641.
10. ** Sweet nanny looking for a full-time job. I’ve been working as a nanny for over 20 years. I have excellent references. Experience with newborns, toddlers, and kids. I can help with potty training as well. I was a teacher in my country, and I have a lot of experience with kids. English/Spanish. Excellent driving record. CPR certified. Very flexible schedule – Vaccinated – (310) 489-2756
11. ** Council swore to protect and promote our city’s character and atmosphere. Beach, family, ocean, recreation, and fresh air define our culture. It’s worth preserving. Until now, our zoning laws have kept us an oasis. —- Christian F., Manhattan Beach
12. ** What happened to Two Guns on PCH and what’s expected to move in to their old spot? —- Nick Restivo, Manhattan Beach
13. ** Toyota 4 runner license plate #9CGY925 was driving recklessly while throwing trash out of the window at other cars. In addition, kids were hanging out the windows. Someone get your kid. —- Hatcher Johnson, Manhattan Beach
14. ** Hardship is now equated with victimhood. Outward displays of vulnerability in defeat are celebrated over winning unabashedly. The pursuit of excellence and exceptionalism are at the heart of American identity, and the disappearance of these ideals in our country leaves a deep moral and cultural vacuum in its wake. —- Leonard M., Manhattan Beach
15. ** The service at Corner Bakery in Manhattan Beach is so horrible that it fascinates me – who does the hiring? —- Yolanda Z., Manhattan Beach
16. ** The prices at Nando Restaurant in downtown are insane! —- Claire O., Manhattan Beach
17. ** We are all facing an interesting time for PS I Love You’s 21st Annual Community Event. Though we fill up quickly with a waiting list each year with mentorship, this year since we moved the date, we are still short 75 adult mentors. Please help us recruit more adults to join us to adopt a child for the day on October 22nd from 8:30am-3:00pm. – Please contact steve@psiloveyoufoundation.org
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