PIER TO PIER FRIENDSHIP WALK:
CLAYTON KERSHAW RALLIES 20,000 WALKERS AT SKECHERS PIER TO PIER FRIENDSHIP WALK
Just two days after the Dodgers eliminated the Brewers to pave their path to a second consecutive World Series title, pitcher Clayton Kershaw surprised fans at the 17th Annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk in Manhattan Beach. Kershaw kicked off Sunday’s walk from the Manhattan Pier to the Hermosa Pier and back – energizing the crowd of roughly 20,000 to cheer the Dodgers on as they prepare to face the Toronto Blue Jays in Friday’s World Series opener. Before Kershaw’s remarks, Friendship Foundation’s Michael Greenberg thanked participants for helping raise more than $2 million for the Friendship Foundation and local education foundations. The walk, which has raised $32 million since 2009, supports the upcoming Future Friendship Campus – a $60 million, 60,000-square-foot facility in Redondo Beach that will help neurodiverse students prepare for employment. Learn more at SkechersFriendshipWalk.com.
www.Skechers.com
Bold Goal, Bright Futures – MBEF Calls On Families To Help Reach $5.2M Annual Appeal:
The Manhattan Beach Education Foundation (MBEF) is rallying community support as it works toward its ambitious $5.2 million goal for the 2025–26 Annual Appeal. These funds directly sustain next year’s educational programs across the Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD). In partnership with MBUSD, MBEF provides essential resources that go beyond what state funding covers, supporting key staff positions, enrichment programs, and innovative initiatives. “We ask each family to consider a donation of $2,500 per student,” from the MBEF Annual Appeal page. “If that is not possible, please give within your means. Every contribution – no matter the size – makes a difference.”
www.MBEF.org
Ribbon Of Resolve – Mayor Pro Tem Joe Franklin Marks A Historic Milestone:
In a quiet but deeply symbolic gesture, Manhattan Beach Mayor Pro Tem Joe Franklin untied the yellow ribbon that had been wrapped around his home’s banister for the past two years. The ribbon, placed there by a thoughtful neighbor, served as a daily reminder of the Israeli hostages taken in the October 2023 Hamas attacks. He untied it and will wear it with the Israel and U.S. flag pin he’s worn for the past two years. His decision came on the heels of what he called “an incredible accomplishment” – the historic diplomatic breakthrough involving Israel, the United States, and Middle Eastern nations. The moment marked both personal reflection and communal solidarity, underscoring how global events reverberate in local lives.
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video of Neptunian Woman’s Club.
Click Link To Watch:
https://youtu.be/X6_oHZDEPGU
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Lucia La Rosa
(MB Safe)
Q: WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING THING PEOPLE LEARN ABOUT YOU AFTER MEETING YOU?
A: It may surprise people who have only recently known me, but for most of my life I was a proud Democrat, even volunteering in the presidential campaigns of 2004 and 2008. Over time, though, like so many others, I found myself stepping away when the party moved so far to the left that I simply couldn’t follow in good conscience. My Catholic faith has always been at the center of my life, and there are a few things that are non-negotiable for me, such as the dignity of every unborn child, the freedom of conscience, and the right to live and speak our faith openly. Those values have guided me and continue to guide me today. I know every party has its flaws and its questionable leaders, just as each has many dedicated and well-intentioned people. I am realistic enough to recognize that no political party will ever perfectly embody a Christian worldview. Still, I try, as best I can, to keep my vote aligned with my faith.
Q: IF MANHATTAN BEACH GAVE YOU ONE DAY TO BE “MAYOR LUCIA,” WHAT’S THE FIRST RULE YOU’D PASS?
A: My answer would be much more fun if I didn’t recognize that the council–manager form of government very much limits the mayor’s formal powers… However, one power the mayor does have, and that I would use, is the ability to call a special City Council session. I would call a special meeting to discuss establishing a Manhattan Beach Fourth of July Parade and Celebration. It is very disappointing that our city does not currently fund an Independence Day celebration. That’s a missed opportunity.
“My Catholic faith has always been at the center of my life…” —- Lucia La Rosa
Q: WHAT’S YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE SNACK (THE ONE YOU’D NEVER ADMIT TO AT A DINNER PARTY)?
A: It’s not the what, but the how: I am a dark chocolate lover. But here’s the thing – I do not bite it and I do not chew it: I just like to hold the chocolate against the roof of my mouth and let it melt slowly….you should try: it is so good!
Q: IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY THREE PEOPLE – LIVING OR DEAD – TO A BEACH BONFIRE, WHO’S ON THE GUEST LIST?
A: This may sound sentimental, but if I could, I would invite my parents, both of whom passed away within the last decade. I would give anything to spend one more day with them at the beach, alongside my husband Greg, the love of my life.
www.MBSafe.org
Slay Italian Kitchen:
At Slay Italian, we passionately embrace the essence of ‘Rustic’ Italian cuisine through our dynamic, ever-evolving menu, featuring a delightful array of fresh and dried pasta, premium meats, stone-fired pizzas, garden-fresh vegetables, and an exquisite selection of wines.
www.SlayItalianKitchen.com
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
73% Say “No Pay” For Congress During Shutdown
In a striking rebuke of Washington, a recent MB Weekly reader poll found that 73% believe members of Congress should not receive their salaries during a government shutdown. The poll, which drew hundreds of responses from South Bay residents, reflects growing frustration with political gridlock. “This is bull-s–t,” said Laurel F. of Manhattan Beach, echoing the sentiment of many respondents who believe lawmakers should share the consequences of their inaction. During a shutdown, essential federal workers often go without paychecks, while members of Congress continue to collect their salaries – protected by law. Many MB Weekly readers view this as a glaring injustice and a symbol of Washington’s disconnect from ordinary citizens. The strong response underscores a simple message from the South Bay: no results, no paycheck.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Fred Taylor (Community Activist)
Will Prop 50 really save ‘democracy’? Let’s take a look at the facts. According to ChatGPT, there are 10.4 million registered Democrats in California. Republicans have 5.8 million as of September ’25. So, using common core math, the Dems have a whopping 64.2% of the two mainstream party registrations while the GOP has just 35.8% What about Congressional seats? Newsom wants to gerrymander 5 more GOP seats out of existence. Currently, they have just 9 of California’s 52 seats; That’s just 17.3%, only half of their registered percentage. The fact is, California has already gerrymandered Republican influence by 50%. If ‘King’ Newsom wins November 4th, he will demolish Republican representation down to 7.7% by some 80%. This isn’t about ‘democracy’, it’s about total political domination in an already one party state. Talk about fascism. It’s here!
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Experience Saint & Second in Manhattan Village:
Lunch / Dinner / Weekend Brunch / Weekday Social Hour / Late Night Menu
Locally sourced seasonal cuisine l innovative cocktails, Hundreds of handpicked whiskeys l masterfully curated wine list, Private Dining Room Available.
www.SaintAndSecond.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Russ Lesser (Former Manhattan Beach Mayor)
About a year ago we, along with some friends from Manhattan Beach, went on a trip to Japan. We were there for seventeen days and visited several different cities and places. We went with a tour company named Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT). Their tours are great and we have been on several with them. They immerse you in the culture including visiting personal homes, etc. What was amazing to us was that in the seventeen days we were there we saw one beer bottle and two pieces of paper on the street. We came home to Manhattan Beach and my wife and I walked from our house near 4th and Highland to Manhattan Beach Blvd. and picked up about forty pieces of trash on the street. This part of our culture is disgusting. People leave empty beer cans and bottles all over the streets. They throw trash down on the street right next to a trash can. We need to teach our children this is not acceptable and also do better ourselves.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Dan Stern (Former Manhattan Beach Mayor)
Bob Holmes really ought to give up his obsession with criticizing Mark Burton. His hate filled missives are really getting old and they’re misleading. Bob was responsible for irresponsible spending, a secret sweetheart deal with a former city manager and questionable investments with developers. Give it up Bob.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Estell Boutique:

www.EstellBoutiques.com
MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:
by Paul Wafer (Manhattan Beach Community Activist)
Frequently, the logic given for an increase in city full time employees is to improve the services for our community. Objectively, this would mean that the more people that are hired, the better the services would be in Manhattan Beach. The city conducts a biannual opinion survey to better understand how residents measure their overall satisfaction with the City and its efforts to provide municipal services. In 2023 there was a total of 318 full time employees and the overall survey satisfaction percentage was 88%. In 2025 there was a total of 353 full time employees and the survey satisfaction rate has dropped 8 points to 80%! Robust management systems improve service, additional personnel are not always the answer!
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Where’s Chef? – The Slay Legend Is Healing, but Not Slowing Down:
If you’ve noticed Chef Slay missing from the daily buzz around Manhattan Beach’s dining scene, don’t panic – he’s simply been out of sight while recovering from knee replacement surgery. But true to his unstoppable spirit, Chef Slay hasn’t let a little thing like surgery keep him away from the kitchen. Armed with a walker and his trademark determination, he’s been spotted making surprise appearances at his restaurants, insisting it’s all part of his doctor-approved “physical therapy.” Friends say he’s in great spirits, cracking jokes and tasting dishes as if nothing happened. “Slay All Day” isn’t just a slogan – it’s a lifestyle. And as he continues his recovery, locals can expect the culinary mastermind to be back at full speed soon, bringing his signature energy and flavor back to the South Bay dining scene. Nothing, not even titanium knees, can keep Chef down.
Dunkin’ Manhattan Beach:
Dunkin’ is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee, espresso, breakfast sandwiches, and donuts. The world’s leading baked goods and coffee chain, Dunkin’, serves more than 3 million customers each day. With 50+ varieties of donuts and dozens of premium beverages, there is always something to satisfy your craving. Dunkin’ is proud to serve Manhattan Beach, CA, for all breakfast and snacking needs. Stop by today to try a classic favorite or a new featured product!
1100 N. Sepulveda Blvd | www.DunkinDonuts.com
Manhattan Beach Ralphs Overcharge Violation Sign on store window.
A New Musical Note At MBUSD – Meet Matthew Chavez:
This year, MBUSD proudly welcomes Matthew Chavez to the exceptional music programs at MBMS and Mira Costa High School. In his first year with the district, Chavez wears many hats: Secondary Music Teacher, Director of Bands at MBMS, Associate Director of the Mira Costa Marching Band, and Music Theory instructor at Mira Costa. A proud UCLA Bruin, Chavez recently earned his B.A. in Music Education from the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. When he’s not teaching, he composes pieces performed by ensembles like YOLA and the UCLA Symphonic Band, and he loves a good chess match.
BELLA BUILDERS:
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MBUSD Scores Soar – Local Students Rank Among California’s Top Performers:
The Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD) is celebrating a remarkable academic rebound, with across-the-board gains in state testing results released by the California Department of Education.
“Once A Week, But Never Weakly”
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1. ** In psychotherapy, one of the cardinal rules is simple: it’s better to talk than not to talk. Dialogue opens channels for understanding, and more often than not, solutions follow. Congratulations to MB Weekly for helping foster open dialogue in the South Bay. —- Chris R.
2. ** MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION: What should be the City’s top three priorities? What is your vision for our City 20 years from now? Send your reply to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
3. ** Katie Porter dumped scalding mashed potatoes on her husband’s head, and this lovely woman wants to be Governor. —- Tim L.
4. ** This past week, a friend of mine killed himself. He left a family behind, and the people who knew him are still reeling. No one in my close circle saw it coming. —- Craig H.
5. ** I think it would be very interesting if you guys wrote a piece on the small local providers that support city and county infrastructure – things like testing, inspections, signage, or maintenance services, etc. The kind of businesses that quietly keep local systems running – but no one talks about. Just a suggestion. —- Giacomo Prandelli
6. ** HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA – 10/25 – Join Manhattan Beach Community Church for a wickedly fun night under the striped tent! Saturday, Oct. 25, 5–9 PM at 303 S. Peck Ave. Enjoy free treats, carnival games, trick-or-treating, crafts, prizes, face painting & spooky photo ops. Open to all – fun for kids of every age.
7. ** Diane Keaton could communicate a world of feeling with a single look. R.I.P. Diane! —- Megan T.
8. ** Masa chips are good, but not worth $14 a bag. —- Gloria M., Hermosa Beach
9. ** LA County quietly approved a $2 million settlement with its own CEO – who’s still on the job – no public notice. No transparency. She controls a $50 billion+ budget, yet this payout skipped the usual public reporting for large settlements. I can’t imagine why people don’t trust politicians! —- Avery S., Redondo Beach
10. ** Last Wednesday night, officers responded to Eucalyptus Dr. & Imperial Ave. for a suspected vehicle burglary. Four individuals were contacted; one female was arrested on four warrants. A male juvenile was arrested on multiple firearm charges. Thanks to the alert neighbor – “See Something, Say Something” truly keeps our community safe. —- El Segundo Police Department
11. ** MBUSD, in partnership with MBFD, is offering CPR refresher sessions for staff this fall. These interactive, hands-on classes help participants refresh vital life-saving skills, boost confidence, and strengthen emergency response. Six voluntary sessions will be held in Oct., Nov., and Dec. at Mira Costa, MBMS, and Grand View. —- MBUSD
12. ** Tragic shooting in Hawthorne: Anthony Jackson Jr., 35, was killed Sunday night while watching football on the patio of The Greatest bar. Authorities say the suspect had been kicked out earlier after a fight, then opened fire from a vehicle while fleeing around 7 p.m. on Oct. 12. —- Editor’s note
13. ** Transitional Kindergarteners at Pennekamp Elementary are mastering early literacy through their weekly “Letter of the Week” activity. Each week, students focus on one letter, brainstorm words, and practice writing in their special notebooks – building phonemic awareness, vocabulary, and spelling skills through fun, hands-on learning. —- MBUSD
14. ** Best-selling author seeks expert LinkedIn tutor to accelerate growth and engagement. Must master profile optimization, content cadence, analytics, creator tools, newsletters, and follower acquisition. Responsibilities: audit current presence, build a roadmap, set KPIs, and coach in short sessions. Flexible Zoom/phone. Prior thought-leader wins required; media/PR a plus. Email AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com.
15. ** From communist Hungary to Hollywood stunt work, Szilvia Gogh chased extremes worldwide – until cancer at 39 stopped her cold. Diving Into Dreams reveals how a pioneering underwater performer discovered that true contentment isn’t found in achieving more, but in fully receiving what you already have. —- Szilvia Gogh (www.SzilviaGogh.com)
16. ** Many Dodger fans have grumbled since Farmer John stopped supplying the team’s signature hot dogs in 2021. But I kept stepping to the plate – because at $7.99, that dog feels like the last affordable bite in a stadium where beers cost $18, chicken platters $34.99, and parking $60. —- Craig H.
17. ** Former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said the state’s redistricting effort is a “big scam.” —- Tony A., El Segundo
18. ** Elevate your plate —- Set The Table (www.SetTheTableLA.com)
19. ** I read the news today, oh boy! —- www.MBWeekly.net (Once A Week, But Never Weakly)
20. ** What the hell happened to Flemings in El Segundo? It used to be quite good, but my last two visits left me, well, quite underwhelmed. The service was lackluster, the food felt phoned-in, and the vibe just wasn’t there. What happened to the place? Not returning. —- Sean T., El Segundo
21. ** If you remain Heartbroken about the Charlie Kirk assassination, I encourage you to donate to Turning Point USA. www.TPUSA.com —- Maureen S., Hermosa Beach
22. ** Loved your hard-hitting questions of police chief Rachel Johnson. (Ha!) —- Paul Wafer, Manhattan Beach
23. ** Research shows that keeping your smartphone nearby – even when silent and face down – reduces your memory and problem-solving performance by up to 20 percent because your brain constantly monitors its presence. —- Dr. Jay B., Redondo Beach
24. ** Housing needs:
https://open.substack.com/pub/thedustyarchive/p/housing-needs-versus-reality —- Name Withheld by Request
25. ** I loved the fun interview with the Police Chief! Great personality, great energy – and I agree entirely: I want to have dinner with Austin Powers too! Yeah, baby! What a refreshing, lighthearted read that reminds us community leaders can have both humor and heart. —- Sean A., Manhattan Beach
26. ** I passionately agree with Michael Zislis – the Chevron fire communication was a complete disaster. Amateur hour, for sure. Manhattan Beach residents deserve far better when it comes to public safety and honest, timely communication – unacceptable performance.
27. ** Amen to Paul Wafer’s recent video about the insane, wild spending in Manhattan Beach. He’s 100% right – fiscal sanity seems to have left the building. It’s time for budgetary leadership. This gang reminds me of drunken sailors, only drunken sailors are at least spending their own money. —- Phil K., CPA
28. ** Two missing children from Utah, ages 7 and 11, were safely located in Hermosa Beach after a nine-day search, police announced recently. The Hermosa Beach Police Department worked with Utah’s Payton Police in a multi-state investigation that led to the children’s recovery. The case remains under active investigation. —- Editor’s Note
29. ** We just moved to Manhattan Beach and are looking to rent out our apartment for 3 or 4 weeks from mid-November to mid-December. We live downtown and a block from the beach with two covered parking spaces. If you are interested or know anyone who may be, please email me with any questions at Ucladoc@elc.edu
30. ** WANTED: Part-time, remote Associate Producer for award-winning YouTube podcast Without Notes. Book guests, manage calendars, craft promos, support production, track performance. You’re sharp, reliable, news-obsessed, and Zoom savvy. ~10 hrs/week, flexible schedule, absolute growth path. Ready to shape memorable interviews? Apply now. Email your resume and contact information to Amanda Kent: AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com
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