GRENELL VS. KAMALA?
POSSIBLE 2026 CALIFORNIA SHOWDOWN
Manhattan Beach resident and Trump confidant Richard Grenell, interim executive director of the Kennedy Center, hinted he may enter the 2026 California governor’s race – if Kamala Harris does. Speaking on Politico’s The Conversation podcast with Dasha Burns, Grenell said, “I want to see if Kamala runs. If Kamala runs, I think there’s a whole bunch of Republicans who are going to have to take a look at it, not just me,” Grenell said in the interview. “If she runs, it is going to make me have to take a look at it. Right now, I’m not running for governor.” Grenell’s comments preview a fiery partisan clash on California’s horizon.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Dr. Kirk Steinam
(Veterinarian, MB Animal Hospital)
Q: HOW DID YOU COME TO BEGIN THE MANHATTAN BEACH ANIMAL HOSPITAL?
A: I was looking for a job as a staff veterinarian back in 1992, one that would offer me a chance to eventually own a part of the business. MBAH had just been started a few months before, and had already lost their staff veterinarian, so I applied for and ended up getting the position. A little more than a year later, I was able to negotiate the purchase of the hospital, and thus started that portion of my veterinary career as practitioner/owner.
Q: WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING THE ANIMAL HOSPITAL POST-COVID?
A: Managing our personnel. Frankly, that seems to always be the case for my profession, but COVID did change some of the dynamics of veterinary hospitals, and put different pressures on the staff. Helping the staff cope and change with new demands accelerated issues that would have normally developed over a much greater time frame.
Q: HOW CAN READERS GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE MANHATTAN BEACH ANIMAL HOSPITAL?
A: manhattanbeachanimalhospital.com or 310-536-9654
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: San Diego
Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: Cancer
www.ManhattanBeachAnimalHospital.com
MB WEEKLY – HISTORY:
It’s 1978. Skateboarding in Hermosa Beach, CA.
Crown Jewel In The Sky Returns To Manhattan Beach:
Manhattan Beach’s beloved coastal gem, Esperanza Cocina de la Playa, reopens on June 26 with a stunning rooftop revival – offering locals a reimagined Baja escape just steps from the sand. The grand reopening unveils a bold new rooftop experience, complete with design elements by award-winning architect Gulla Jónsdóttir and a refreshed Michelin Guide-recognized menu that promises deeper flavor and vibrant flair. “This isn’t just a reopening,” said Greg Newman, CEO of Baja Sharkeez Restaurant Group. “It’s a love letter to the South Bay.” Esperanza’s elevated rooftop now blends the chic elegance of Cabo with the bold spirit of Mexico City, making it the must-visit destination for sunset dinners and stylish lounging. With a reinvigorated cocktail program and immersive ambiance, Esperanza is poised to reclaim its title as the South Bay’s most coveted dining and lifestyle hotspot – where every night feels like a vacation.
MB WEEKLY – EXCLUSIVE COMMENTARY:
by Paul Wafer (Manhattan Beach Community Activist)
Rather than my usual presentation of data about the Manhattan Beach city budget. In this post I want to give you my general observations regarding the meetings I attended in person or reviewed online. Since I was out of town during the final 2 meetings, I was unable to comment in real time. The budget meeting on May 13th included a presentation by each department head of their department budgets, followed by questions from the council members. I found it interesting that there was not a single question by any of the council members on whether there were any opportunities to reduce costs or personnel. The focus of the council seemed to be whether there were opportunities to increase revenue, i.e., taxes or fees. The presenters were proud of the fact that no new employees were going to be added to the budget this year, even though 40 full-time positions have been added over the last 3 fiscal years! No one blinked at the expense for overtime! Unfunded pension liability has jumped to $36 million on top of the $93 million covered under the pension obligation bond. No one seemed bothered by those numbers, nor mentioned that maybe by reducing the number of personnel that number could be reduced. There was a lot of discussion about all the capital needs within the city, especially our aging infrastructure. Capital projects are funded by grants and from the General Fund. There was no discussion about reducing the number of employees to divert more funds for capital projects from the General Fund. Finally, there was what I would call a “Who’s on first” discussion about what the salary would be for a Deputy City Manager verses the current Assistant to the City Manager role or the proposed Assistant City Manager. The council voted to approve the Deputy City Manager role at an additional expense of $100,000.00. In my opinion, what the city needs is a COO type person to hold all departments accountable to meeting their budget and find opportunities for cost reductions. I will save my comments on the approved salary increases for another post.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE LENS VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video featuring Urban Plates restaurant in Manhattan Village.
https://youtu.be/uwoDIGRmpnw
Nando Trattoria:
Dinner is served. Some plates are made to slow you down and savor every bite – this is one of them.
www.NandoTrattoria.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Name Withheld by Request (Manhattan Beach)
Drive by shooting in the sand section of Manhattan Beach. Yes, you heard correctly. And in true MB style, it was done in a Porsche Taycan – the only thing that would be funnier is if it occurred in a golf cart! Facts: On Saturday, June 14th, at 5:43 am, a black Porsche Taycan starts casing my street. The car goes back and forth down the street at 5:46 am, 5:47 am, 5:51 am, and 5:52 am and opens fire with a BB pistol at 6:01 am. The targets of the shots were my bedroom windows! The video below depicts the gun firing. Zoom in, and you will see the gun going off from the driver’s side window. MBPD has all the footage. The investigation is ongoing. Have a tip? Contact the MBPD detective’s bureau at 310-802-5120. Spread the word!
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
SPEAK UP … FOR FREE:
In the wildly popular MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board
*Comment *Hire *Share *Barter *Rent *Sell *Promote
Speak up. Share your thoughts with the entire South Bay for FREE. Maximum 50 words. Send in yours to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (50 words)
MB Resident Urges Parents To Celebrate School Staff:
As the school year draws to a close and the spotlight turns to student awards and graduations, longtime Manhattan Beach resident and former Mira Costa vice principal Gary Hartzell urges families to widen the recognition lens. With 23 years of service in education, Hartzell reminds parents that behind every student’s success are unsung heroes – counselors, custodians, secretaries, coaches, and aides – whose quiet contributions often go unnoticed. He’s calling on families to take a moment and write to their school principal, sharing stories of kindness, support, or encouragement that made a difference in their child’s life. “Recognition is the only real reward we can give,” Hartzell says, noting that monetary incentives or autonomy are restricted by law. In a season of celebration, Hartzell offers a powerful reminder: the most profound impact often comes from the smallest gestures – and acknowledging them matters more than we know.
Manhattan Beach Mastermind Quiz
Think you know everything about Manhattan Beach? Let’s find out.
1. WHICH ICONIC TV SHOW FEATURED SCENES FILMED AT THE MANHATTAN BEACH PIER?
A. Baywatch / B. Beverly Hills, 90210 / C. The O.C. / D. Saved by the Bell
2. WHAT IS THE TOTAL SIZE OF MANHATTAN BEACH IN SQUARE MILES?
A. 2.5 / B. 3.9 / C. 4.9 / D. 6.2
3. WHICH FAMOUS OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST GREW UP IN MANHATTAN BEACH AND DOMINATED BEACH VOLLEYBALL?
A. Misty May-Treanor / B. Kerri Walsh Jennings / C. Holly McPeak / D. April Ross
4. WHAT YEAR WAS MANHATTAN BEACH OFFICIALLY INCORPORATED AS A CITY?
A. 1902 / B. 1912 / C. 1927 / D. 1939
5. WHAT’S THE NAME OF THE BELOVED MANHATTAN BEACH AQUARIUM LOCATED AT THE END OF THE PIER?
A. Ocean View Aquarium / B. Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab / C. Manhattan Sea Life Center / D. Roundhouse Aquarium
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Community activist Fred Taylor and family celebrating Father’s Day at Tin Roof Bistro in Manhattan Beach.
Michelin-Starred Sandwich Magic Lands In Downtown MB:
Downtown Manhattan Beach just got a whole lot tastier. Bread Head, at 1129 Manhattan Ave, the wildly popular sandwich shop from Michelin-starred chefs Alex Williams and Jordan Snyder, has arrived with bold flavor and beachy flair. Known for its addictive house-made focaccia and stacked sandwiches like the Combo Grinder and Calabrian Turkey, the new location offers dine-in, takeout, a sun-soaked patio, and a bar serving craft beer and wine.
DID YOU KNOW?…
60% of readers enjoy reading MB Weekly on their phones.
www.MBWeekly.net
MANHATTAN BEACH FOOD & WINE:
The 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Returns
Friday, September 12th & Saturday, September 13th, 2025!
PRE-SALE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE!
www.ManhattanBeachFoodAndWine.com
Jill Lamkin Takes Helm At Manhattan Beach Chamber:
The Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce has tapped longtime business advocate Jill Lamkin as its new president and CEO. Lamkin aims to unify and energize the local business community and improve the Chamber’s role. Lamkin replaces interim leader David Curry, who will now serve as chamber chair. Her appointment marks a strategic move to ensure continuity and momentum in supporting local enterprises following former President David Archer’s sudden departure earlier this year. Lamkin’s deep community ties make her a powerful force for regional economic growth.
** Former long-term Manhattan Beach City Councilman Richard Montgomery having lunch at JOEY in Manhattan Beach.
** Prominent broadcast journalist Charles Feldman having dinner at Slay Steak + Fish.
Chief Michael Lang Retires After Decades Of Service:
After more than 30 years in public service, including a transformative tenure in Manhattan Beach since 2021, Fire Chief Michael Lang is retiring. Known for his steady leadership and heart-forward approach, Lang modernized emergency response systems, revitalized the Fire Prevention Bureau, and strengthened regional ties. He also championed increased staffing and career opportunities within the department.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Congratulations to our newest Sergeants, Lieutenant, and Records Manager. Records Manager Trust, Sgt. Udeoji, Sgt. Hartnell, Lt. Hidalgo. Interested in joining the MB Police team? They have openings for Academy Recruits, Lateral Police Officers, and Jailers. Visit www.manhattanbeach.gov/jobs for more info.
Kelly Stroman Returns To Lead Downtown MB’s Business Pulse:
Kelly Stroman is back – and ready to shape the future. The longtime South Bay business and nonprofit leader has been named executive director of the Downtown Manhattan Beach Business and Professional Association, a role she previously held from 2013 to 2018. The announcement, marks her return to a familiar post at a time of significant transformation. Stroman replaces Jill Lamkin, who now leads the Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce.
R.I.P. Michele Margaret Nies (1939–2025):
Michele Margaret Nies (née Newman), 85, of Manhattan Beach, passed away peacefully at home on April 27.
Roundhouse Gala Blends Star Power With Ocean Passion:
The Roundhouse Aquarium’s annual Splash gala made waves on May 1, drawing nearly 200 guests to the Manhattan Beach home of philanthropist Ted Schwartz. Hosted by sportscaster Jaime Maggio and headlined by L.A. Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh, the night raised vital funds for marine education. Notables like Sugar Ray Leonard, Howie Mandel, Rickea Jackson, and Denise Austin lent star power to the cause. Executive Director Grace Adams reminded attendees, “The ocean belongs to everyone.” Schwartz was honored with the Harrison Greenberg Legacy Award, capping an evening of inspiration, generosity, and fierce advocacy for the sea.
Lido Di Manhattan Ristorante & Bar:
Italian, California-fresh Cuisine
Fueled by an energetic staff, the lively energy of Lido Di Manhattan Ristorante & Bar is constantly buzzing with special events, happy hours, live music, and wine tastings. Lido Di is a classy & contemporary wine bar and restaurant serving Italian, California-fresh cuisine in Manhattan Beach, CA for over 25 years.
www.LidoDiManhattan.com
MCHS Grads Stroll Into the Future:
It’s been a busy month for the Mira Costa High School Class of 2025. After a week of finals, on June 9, 100 seniors, dressed in their caps and gowns, filled the auditorium for the annual Senior Recognition Night, where students were honored with scholarships from over 40 community donors, organizations, associations, boosters, and memorial funds totaling more than $300,000 in awards. On June 12, the graduates took their final steps as students by reviving a cherished pandemic-born tradition of walking from Hermosa Beach to the Manhattan Beach Pier, led by Principal Jennifer Huynh, after commencement ceremonies.
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BEACH BOYS SONG?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
Send your reply, anonymously if you choose, to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – QUIZ ANSWERS:
1. Which iconic TV show featured scenes filmed at the Manhattan Beach Pier? ✅ A. Baywatch
2. What is the total size of Manhattan Beach in square miles? ✅ B. 3.9
3. Which famous Olympic gold medalist grew up in Manhattan Beach and dominated beach volleyball? ✅ B. Kerri Walsh Jennings
4. What year was Manhattan Beach officially incorporated as a city? ✅ B. 1912
5. What’s the name of the beloved Manhattan Beach aquarium located at the end of the pier? ✅ D. Roundhouse Aquarium
1. ** I must say, as a loyal Democrat, L.A.’s illegal alien riots have handed Trump a cinematic gift: chaos in California, the sanctuary state gone mad. Arson, looting, and anti-cop violence – enabled for years – now fuel a national reckoning. The Democratic elite? Foaming with rage, exposed and powerless. Law and Order just got its best campaign commercial – shot on location. —- Franklin G.
2. ** Los Angeles is in chaos. Radical mobs have stormed ICE facilities. American flags are burning. And extremists are demanding the end of immigration enforcement altogether. Charming. —- Russell H.
3. ** Redondo Beach is cracking down on smoke shops. In a unanimous vote, the City Council extended a moratorium on new tobacco retailers to curb illegal tobacco and cannabis sales. No new smoke shops can open while the ban is in place. Officials say it’s about protecting public safety and community standards. —- Editor’s note.
4. ** An anteater ends more lives in a single meal than a lion does in its whole lifetime. —- Doris G., Hermosa Beach
5. ** Best Advice from Dad: Whatever you do in life, do it well. Try to be the best at whatever you do, whether it’s a banker or janitor. —- Vida H.
6. ** Hello, MB Weekly Bulletin Board – Ever notice that no cars are charging at MB’s City charging stations? Not at the beach, not in the underground city hall. They used to be free. But the current vendor charges more than the cost of gas! Big Mistake! —- D.H., Manhattan Beach
7. ** Sad to report: I saw a coyote carrying what looked like a grey cat in its mouth this morning around 8 AM. It was heading down 31st Street and turned right onto Pacific. This isn’t my first time seeing a coyote here in broad daylight. —- Name Withheld by Request (Manhattan Beach)
8. ** Special thanks to your radical rioters downtown! Once again, hardworking small businesses in Little Tokyo and beyond pay the price for chaos. Vandalism, fear, and curfews drive them to shut their doors early – or for good. This isn’t justice. It’s destruction disguised as activism. —- Angi S.
9. ** The city wouldn’t be in this mess if Angelenos had elected Caruso. —- H.J., El Segundo
10. ** If they love their countries so much, why are they burning ours to avoid going back? —- R.G.
11. ** Promote Your Biz at the MB Grand Prix – Get seen by thousands! Set up your 10×10 tent on the Greenbelt for just $250 during the Manhattan Beach Grand Prix, Sunday, July 13, 7 AM–5 PM. Or sponsor a toy for the Kids’ Races goodie bags – starting at just $60! Contact Steve: steve@hermosacyclery.com.
12. ** JOIN OUR AWARD-WINNING P.R. TEAM – Boundless Media is hiring a part-time (10–15 hrs./week) entry-level superstar for our New Business Team. Flexible, remote, with real mentorship. 58 Oscar winners. 61 NYT bestsellers. 36 Grammy legends. AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com – BoundlessMediaUSA.com. A chance in a lifetime…in a lifetime of chance.
13. ** I love Patterson Cleaners. Great people! —- Ashley R., Manhattan Beach
14. ** I just learned that Clemson University has 15 genders on its student profiles. —- Abby G.
15. ** MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION: Should Trump have deployed the National Guard to quell the Los Angeles protests? Send your reply to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
16. ** The Reuben sandwich at The Kettle has no corned beef. Huh? —- Tom W.
17. ** Drumroll, please… the first wave of chef headliners joining us at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine has arrived! Secure your spot today and stay tuned – more incredible chefs will be revealed soon. Tickets are on sale now at www.MBFoodAndWine.com.
18. ** The 5th annual Hermosa Beach Pride lit up the Strand on June 14 with a vibrant parade celebrating love, unity, and the LGBTQ+ community. Marchers in rainbow gear rallied from local hotspots, parading down to the Pride lifeguard tower near the pier. —- Editor’s Note
19. ** WTF is going on at MB Target? Customers were herded to one side, employees pushed to the back, and NO ONE could check out. The manager told us to leave our carts and go. No explanation. MBPD rolled in as I was leaving. I heard something about a gun. —- Claire H.
20. ** Dating online sucks! —- Darren H.
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.