MB Weekly – Reader Poll:
66% Favor A Manhattan Beach DOGE To Find Efficiencies And Cut Government Costs
With an undeniable loud sound, a recent MB Weekly reader poll reveals that 66% of MB Weekly readers support appointing a local DOGE to streamline government spending. The poll over two weeks suggests that locals are eager for unconventional approaches to address escalating public expenses. “Our city salaries and benefits, not to mention the size of our local government, have gotten way too high, and this simply isn’t sustainable,” remarked a long-time Manhattan Beach CPA, voicing widespread concerns over the fiscal matters. Proponents argue that it needs a fresh perspective and creative cost-cutting measures. “Simple look at the salaries and benefits! The City is sure generous in our money,” commented Jenny A., a resident who believes the DOGE proposal could encourage deeper scrutiny of municipal finances. The poll highlights the growing public pressure for fresh solutions that may lead to more efficient use of taxpayer dollars and a leaner government structure.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
IN LESS THAN 6 MONTHS SINCE SEPTEMBER 2024, MANHATTAN BEACH HAS SEEN 11 HOME BURGLARIES – EIGHT IN EAST MANHATTAN BEACH:
** With the defeat (thank goodness) of criminal friendly District Attorney George Gascon by Nathan Hochman, I would expect crime to go down. Criminals now know that we have a District Attorney who will prosecute criminals. Our residents, however, have to do their part. Lock your doors, keep your garage door closed, and shut your windows when you are not home. Become involved with our excellent Manhattan Beach Neighborhood Watch and take care of each other. It sounds trite and overused, but if you see something, say something. Our MBPD would rather go on a call and find nothing than be called later after the fact to take a crime report. —- Bob Holmes (Former MB Mayor)
** It’s time to be vigilant, look out for your neighbors, recommit to a neighborhood watch group and before you vote, it might be a good idea to better understand your candidate’s position on crime. Has anyone ever seen the billboard on the 405 South heading to Orange County? It said something like… Coming to Orange County? We prosecute! Today, thieves think it’s legal to steal. It seems change is needed in California. I still feel safer in Manhattan Beach than most parts of L.A., our police force is quick to respond and have a genuine concern for our community. We just seem to have a state that doesn’t know how to handle the bad peeps. It will take all of us to change that. —- Ed Kaminsky (Manhattan Beach Realtor)
MB WEEKLY – CHARTS:
Manhattan Beach Households.
The Beach Cities Health District 2025 – 2028 Community Health Report:
The well-being index of Manhattan Beach is higher than that of the U.S. and other Beach Cities, according to The Beach Cities Health District 2025 – 2028 Community Health Report released in January. At 70.6, Manhattan Beach has a higher WBI than Hermosa Beach (69.3) or Redondo Beach (66.5). Manhattan Beach residents also top the U.S and other Beach cities with 75.3% thriving in their life evaluation. Only Hermosa Beach (96.1) tops Manhattan Beach (95.8) in the California Healthy Places Index, a tool that combines various health, economic and social factors into a single index to assess and compare community well-being across cities in California. On the other side, the causes of stress for the Beach Cities is Political Climate, Current Events and Health, with 42% of Manhattan Beach residents experiencing significant daily stress. Some of the results:
- Total Population – 35,123
- Median Household Income – $187,217
- Mean Household Income – $280,470
- Educational Attainment Among Adults
— Less Than High School – 1.2%
— High School Graduate – 5%
— Some College – 15.6%
— Bachelor’s Degree or Higher – 78.2% - Community Safety
—Adults Reporting their Neighborhood is Safe from Crime – 94.6%
—Adults who Always Feel Safe and Secure – 79.6%
—Serious Violent Crime (Crimes per 100,000 Population) – 154.2 - Voter Turnout 2020 – 85.4%
- Adult Depression (Current) – 7.3%
- Adults Feeling Little or No Connection to Others – 11.3%
- Adults Experiencing Significant Loneliness – 12.5%
- Adults Experiencing Significant Daily Stress – 42%
- Adults Experiencing Significant Daily Worry – 33.9%
A total of 625 individuals participated, with 93% residing in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach or Redondo Beach.
https://bchd.blob.core.windows.net/docs/bchd/CommunityHealthReport_2025-2028_digital.pdf
JOEY Manhattan Beach:
The Happiest Hours
Join us for our Day or Late-Night Happy Hour
Daily: 3:00pm – 6:00pm
Sunday – Thursday: 9:00pm – Close
www.JoeyRestaurants.com
MB WEEKLY – MEET:
LIDO BAKERY (MANHATTAN BEACH)
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan Beach, Lido Bakery has been delighting the community with its handcrafted confections for over three decades. Located at 3001 N Sepulveda Blvd, this family-owned establishment is renowned for its commitment to quality, elegance, and simplicity. Each creation is made from scratch using all-natural ingredients. The bakery specializes in custom wedding cakes for those seeking a personalized touch. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
www.LidoBakery.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Skechers kids in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your local photos into: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Russ Lesser (Former Mayor)
Last week I had lunch at the Metlox Plaza. I parked in the underground parking lot and took the escalator up. I was the only one using the escalator. I noticed during lunch that in over an hour hardly anyone used the escalators, but they ran constantly as they all do. Last year while visiting Japan we got to the airport and needed to take an escalator up to the higher level. It was stopped but as soon as someone stepped on a sensing plate at the bottom of it it started up. In that country they only use electricity to run them when someone needs one. Wow, what a great idea. In the Metlox plaza there are four escalators constantly running. How much electricity does that use? I am not an expert but it has to be a lot. I called a city councilman to see if our escalators could be upgraded with this feature. He checked with the public works department and was told, “Unfortunately the State of California does not allow this type of feature for escalators.” WHAT? In a state that is so concerned about Climate Change this makes no sense to me.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Fishing with Dynamite:
Chilled, Classic, and Absolutely Irresistible
Dive into our Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail – served on ice with the perfect kick of cocktail sauces!
www.EatFWD.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Katie Travers
Watch out for this driver around South Bay Area!! She would honk at us for stopping at stop signs and yielding in pedestrian areas … she sped around us and sped through the stop sign instead of stopping. Just felt a little strange for someone to honk at someone multiple times for following the law while driving. We get it. Californians like to do the California stop, but most of the time she was honking there was another car turning in front of us or pedestrians waiting to cross.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
AWARD-WINNING NUTRITIONIST:
SAMANTHA F. GRANT, C.N.
Sam specializes in hormonal balancing, correcting metabolism irregularities, weight loss, and complex gastrointestinal issues.
www.SamFGrant.com
El Segundo Man Arrested After Alleged Knife Attack On Mother:
A domestic dispute took a terrifying turn when a man allegedly assaulted his mother with a knife, prompting a SWAT standoff, police said. Authorities responded to a call around 6 a.m. on the 300 block of Penn Street, near Grand Avenue, where the suspect had barricaded himself inside the home. After tense negotiations, the suspect ultimately complied and was taken into custody without further incident. Details regarding the mother’s condition or potential charges against the suspect were not immediately released.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Pink’s in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your local photos into: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
Former Manhattan Beach Mayor Mark Burton Signs Off With a Warning: “The Real Problems Begin and End in Sacramento”
After years of dedicated public service, former Manhattan Beach Mayor Mark Burton officially signs off, leaving a stark warning about the city’s future. “I have given everything and then some to the city I love,” Burton said. “It is now time for me to step aside and allow others to shape the future of Manhattan Beach. I strongly believe the real problems begin and end in Sacramento.” Burton’s departure comes as state-mandated housing policies threaten to reshape Manhattan Beach, replacing its single-family residential charm with high-rise developments. He points to the anticipated approval of a seven-story apartment building at 2301 Sepulveda Boulevard as the first of many that could forever alter the city’s low-profile character. “For several years now, single-party Sacramento has had communities like ours in their crosshairs,” Burton stated. “These politicians are committed to changing our community into one with towering apartment buildings – plenty of them.” His message is clear: change in Sacramento is the only solution. With the 2026 election looming, Burton urges residents to vote for new leadership to preserve the community’s identity. With that, Burton shifts his focus to family. “Now, it’s time for me to devote all my time to my grandkids,” he said.
“As I sign off, I am deeply concerned with an apparent ‘cancer of complacency’ on our City Councils. Just going along, to get along and clinging to the status quo is the best way for our City to be left behind, to let change happen that erodes the character of our community. Our Council and future Councils need to manage changes to preserve and protect the character of our community. Please don’t let the ‘cancer of complacency’ infect our City Council. Vote for ‘proactive’ candidates that have the skills and courage to manage changes.” Signing off.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
OPEN UP YOUR MOUTH IN MB WEEKLY FREE BULLETIN BOARD:
Share Your Thoughts, Comments, Questions, etc.
In the popular MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board
Hire • Barter • Sell • Promote • Date • Comment
Send your FREE 50-word posting to:
MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by E.W. (Manhattan Beach)
I am at my wit’s end. I love my older son dearly, but his refusal to take responsibility for his life is exhausting. I’ve supported, encouraged, and even given him ultimatums – yet nothing seems to change. He drifts from job to job, always blaming others for his failures, while I watch in frustration, knowing he is capable of more. Meanwhile, his younger brother thrives – balancing school, work, and personal passions. It’s not about comparison but about accountability. I want my older son to see that his struggles aren’t bad luck or unfair treatment; they are the result of his unwillingness to grow. I don’t want to push him away, but I cannot keep carrying him. I need advice – how do I help him without enabling him? How do I love him without losing myself? No matter what I do, I feel like the villain. Neighbors, I need some advice.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Fast Track To Success – Speed Networking Event Offers Game-Changing Connections:
Looking to expand your professional network? Leadership Manhattan Beach presents Speed Networking for Business Professionals, a high-energy event designed to maximize connections quickly. Set for March 12, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at Kinecta HQ, this event features structured one-on-one networking sessions, dinner, drinks, and raffle prizes. Attendees will engage in meaningful conversations with entrepreneurs, executives, and industry leaders, fostering relationships that could lead to future collaborations. Tickets benefit Leadership Manhattan Beach, with a pre-registration survey required.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Mystery girl at the MB Pier on a cold evening in February. Feel free to send your local photos into: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
Manhattan Beach Crime Summary
February 13 to February 19, 2025
- 707 CALLS FOR SERVICE
- 18 ARRESTS
- 9 TRAFFIC COLLISIONS
- 47 CRIME REPORTS FILED
Notable Events:
** On 2/18/25 at approximately 8:13 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of 8th Street regarding a residential burglary report. The victim told officers they woke up at approximately 7:30 a.m. and discovered their garage open. The victim discovered the garage door remote and other property stolen from their vehicle, which was parked on the driveway. The victim also discovered property stolen from their garage. The victim stated their vehicle was locked and garage was closed prior to the burglary.
** On 2/18/25 at approximately 9:20 a.m., officers were dispatched to The Strand regarding a burglary report. The construction crew arrived and discovered a plastic tarp was cut which was attached to a window. The construction crew discovered tools were stolen from the site. The burglary occurred between 2/14/25 and 2/18/25 from 5:00 p.m. to approximately 7:20 a.m.
** On 2/19/25 at approximately 12:10 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 3400 block of Palm Avenue regarding a robbery that just occurred. The female victim was walking up to her driveway when the suspect, driving a blue sedan or SUV, called out to her. The male suspect asked for directions to Whole Foods and handed the victim his cell phone, asking her to speak into the phone for translation because his English was not very good. After the victim handed the phone back to the suspect, the suspect grabbed the victim’s wrist and tried to put a gold ring and two gold chains on the victim. As the victim pulled away, a female suspect leaned out of the rear passenger window and grabbed the victim, pulling the victim’s chain off her neck. The victim attempted to grab her chain back, but the male suspect drove the car away, knocking the victim to the ground. The jewelry the suspects tried to put on the victim was found in the street, and officers collected it for DNA. The victim suffered abrasions to her knees. The MBPD Detective Bureau responded and canvassed the neighborhood for video surveillance. This is an active investigation. The male and female suspects were described as Middle Eastern. The female was approximately 40 years old with black hair. The male was approximately 30-40 years old.
Dunkin Donuts:
100 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach
www.DunkinDonuts.com
MEET YOUR SOUTH BAY NEIGHBORS…
Read MB Weekly:
“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”
Intriguing People. Intriguing Community.
Sign up to receive for FREE.
www.MBWeekly.net
MB WEEKLY – BUSINESS INSIDER:
Manhattan Beach-based Skechers USA Inc. (SKX) reported a fourth-quarter net income of $99.3 million on Thursday, translating to 65 cents per share, falling short of Wall Street’s 74-cent estimate. Despite the earnings miss, the footwear giant met revenue expectations, pulling in $2.21 billion for the quarter. For the full year, Skechers posted $639.5 million in profit ($4.16 per share), with revenue reaching $8.97 billion. While sales remain strong, investors may tread carefully as profit margins tighten.
Breaking Barriers – $500K Grant Fuels Creative Dreams For Students With Special Needs:
Thanks to a $500,000 grant from the W.M. Keck Foundation, students with physical and intellectual challenges will soon have a vibrant new space to explore their artistic potential. The funding will support the Friendship Foundation’s Friendship Campus: The Greenberg Family/Skechers Center in Redondo Beach, which is set to open in early 2026. The campus will focus on vocational training and job placement and feature the W.M. Keck Foundation Creative Arts Studio, empowering students with special needs to pursue their passions. “This will be a game-changer,” said Friendship Foundation cofounder Yossi Mintz, emphasizing its transformative impact.
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
WHO HAS YOUR FAVORITE PIZZA?
Please share your comment 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)
1. ** Ebikers & Cyclists – Be Seen, Stay Safe: Helmets? Great! But dark clothes at dusk? A disaster waiting to happen. Saturday, 6:45 pm, 3-4 young riders (12-14 years old) in dark hoodies nearly invisible at MB & Meadows. One had a hint of yellow – thank goodness! Wear reflective gear. Be seen. Stay alive. —- Alice C.
2. ** Join us for the MBCC March 13th Luncheon at AdventurePlex – We’ll honor students from local schools while enjoying individually boxed lunches. RSVP now – $20 per person at the door. Register here: https://www.mbcoordinatingcouncil.com/march-13-2025-luncheon. See you there.
3. ** Has anyone seen the disgraceful state of the North Redondo Beach Post Office on Artesia? The American and POW flags are faded and still at half-staff – long past the 30 days for Jimmy Carter. It looks neglected and sends the wrong message about improving Artesia and our city’s image. —- Darren H.
4. ** Zein Obagi has served District 4 with dedication, bringing impactful improvements to North Redondo. His leadership has enhanced traffic and pedestrian safety, upgraded parks and playgrounds, and revitalized the Artesia corridor. His efforts have made the community safer, more beautiful, and more livable for residents. —- Cindy M.
5. ** Every perfume/cologne ad is super weird, and as a society, we’ve just accepted that. —- Stella G.
6. ** If the federal government comes even close to delivering on Trump’s campaign pledge to deport “millions and millions of illegals” Southern California stands to lose a lot of people. Amen! —- Sherri M.
7. ** I will never understand why people attend Chamber mixers without business cards. How are you running a business if you can’t grasp networking basics? What’s next – showing up to a marathon without shoes? If you’re serious, act like it. Otherwise, stay home. —- Aaron T.
8. ** It’s really getting heartless. DOGE Is canceling Social Security payments to the most vulnerable people in our society. Those over 150 years old. —- Vicki R.
9. ** The epic story of Winston Churchill: —- https://youtu.be/2dCgK8_-5PU?si=nSdtLJGa9E6Teeya
10. ** It’s a hard and realistic lesson of history that wars are easy to start and hard to end. —- Vincent D.
11. ** I still miss that part of 2020 when it was illegal for anyone to come near me. —- Cole H.
12. ** I wonder what percentage of people have sat in the back seat of their own car. —- Emma S.
13. ** Heads Up, Neighbors! If you live near Rosecrans and Oceangate, watch your vehicles closely! Last night, some lowlife broke into my car, stole items, and left a mess – frustrating and violating. Stay alert, lock up, and report any suspicious activity. Let’s watch out for each other! —- Wendi P.
14. ** Yet another DEI disaster! Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass just ousted Fire Chief Kristin Crowley – effective immediately – because meritocracy means nothing anymore. In comes interim Chief Ronnie Villanueva, but let’s be honest: Was this about leadership or politics? When identity trumps competence, L.A. burns – figuratively and literally. What a disgrace! —- Ray M.
15. ** Organize your travel around passions instead of destinations. —- Kenneth H.
16. ** David and the team at South Bay Cycle are fantastic! Their customer-friendly service and expert bike knowledge make them the go-to shop for all cycling needs. Whether you’re a casual rider or a pro, they’ll take great care of you. I highly recommend stopping by for top-notch service and gear. —- Clay T.
17. ** Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi is reportedly considering a run for the state’s chief school post. If you’re looking for another hard-left political hack to control education, he’s your guy. California’s schools need authentic leadership, not more failed policies. Think before you vote. —- Allison J. (Parent of two Manhattan Beach school children)
18. ** Tom, a pharmacist at CVS in Manhattan Beach, is a nice blend of helpful and competent. His knowledge and kindness made my visit a breeze. Tom goes above and beyond for customers. If you need excellent service, he’s the one to see. —- Lindsay W.
19. ** INCREASED GANG GRAFFITI AND ACTIVITY IN TORRANCE: Serious gang activity is creeping into Kingsdale Avenue between 182nd and 186th Street near El Nido Park. Bright blue graffiti – a gang’s trademark – plasters the area. Torrance Police Detectives were on-site Friday morning documenting the vandalism. Community leaders must step up before this escalates further. —- Dr. Howard Z.
20. ** L.A. County Leaders Have Failed for Years – What’s Going to Change? L.A.’s homeless crisis is out of control, and now we learn the county’s homeless services chief handed a $2.1 million contract to her husband’s employer. A blatant ethics violation! Supervisors are finally “concerned” after years of corruption, wasted tax dollars, and incompetence. —- Rich L.
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.
