MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE COMMENTARY:
by Steve Napolitano
(Former MB Mayor)
Just move the Residential Overlay District from Sepulveda to Rosecrans? Well, duh! Why didn’t city staff, the public, the planning commission, or city council, over many hours of public meetings, not think of this obvious and straightforward solution to all things about housing that ails us? Those idiots! I mean, the Housing Element was only a years-long process in which State law required the city to adopt a very complex methodology to identify sites suitable for realistic housing opportunities throughout the city, not just in a portion of it. That’s why housing sites are also already identified on Rosecrans too. But don’t take my word for it, it’s actually all explained in the staff reports and the 6th Cycle Housing element itself, particularly Appendix E. But who cares about State law! We can fix all this by just amending our Housing Element so that any projects go where they least offend. Never mind all that hate mail we got during the process from the State Department of Housing and Community Development, or all those housing advocates threatening to sue us. I’m sure they’ll be okie dokie with whatever we want to do. I mean, remember all that discretion we were told we had over the HighRose Project? That worked out, right?
Seriously folks, if we could have put our additional required housing only where it doesn’t impact anyone else, we would have. We couldn’t then and we can’t now. The city did what it had to do. I’m not saying you have to like it. I sure don’t. But this is what Sacramento demands and willfully ignoring that results in worse consequences. I get that most folks don’t want to hear any of this. It would be so much easier for me to just write about attractive but unrealistic solutions on social media. Why? Because I know people are naturally inclined to believe something when that something is what they already hope to be true. And then they’ll like what I have to say and listen to me more. I also know it’s easier for people to read a few easily digestible sentences rather than laboriously dig through the hundreds of pages of staff reports, the 6th Cycle Housing Element, Appendix E, or any of the love notes from the State Department of Housing or nonprofit housing advocates. Unfortunately, there’s nothing easy and simple about any of this and having read all those things myself, I can’t pretend there is just to get clicks and likes. If it’s too good to be true…
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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Fred Taylor, Community Activist
(Manhattan Beach)
Recently, MB Weekly has published articles exposing our incredible generosity toward city employees in MB. The author passed along to me compensation information at local school districts. Amazing! I grew up in a culture and economic environment where private businesses paid the most and had no security. … Today, city government and schools are the way to go. Consider Dr. John Bowes at MBUSD. He’s banging down a cool $373,741 in compensation as Superintendent. BTW, Redondo Beach is paying $542,928 for their ‘Super.’ Tiny El Segundo is shelling out $373,094 for theirs. Comparing apples to apples, we pay Bowes $63 per student, RB $56, and El Segundo is taken to the cleaners, paying $106. Maybe, we are getting a bargain? Yet, at LAUSD, Albert Carvalho is getting $440,000 annually, including a nifty $50,000 in benefits. Nice! LAUSD has 4 General ‘Supers’ totaling $1.684 million … paying a paltry $3.02 per student (557,362 students). Of course, these are ‘superintendent’ numbers and not ‘cost to educate a student’ numbers. By LA standards, we are getting screwed with Bowes. But who would want to send their kids to LAUSD? But when we pay our ‘Park & Rec’ Director a cool $276,057 to mow some lawns and have a few summer concerts, maybe Bowes is a bargain. Yikes!!! [Cited salary numbers are all from Transparent California.]
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Manhattan Beach Dining Scene – Rough Days In Downtown:
Manhattan Beach’s restaurant scene downtown has soured of late as closures mount. Tacolicious, once a modern Mexican staple, crumbled after five years, burdened by high prices for a cuisine many expect to be affordable. Management’s desperate newsletters begged for catering business – a plea that fell on deaf ears. Lemonade, a fast-casual spot in Metlox Plaza, also folded, stripping the area of a healthy dining option. Nearby, Pitfire Pizza fizzled out following a much-publicized sale to Great White, and Presotea couldn’t sustain selling Taiwanese bubble tea and waffles in a high-rent district. The lone bright spot? Fusion Sushi’s rebranding as Yu-Me, complete with a Lego-inspired decor. Whether this “metamorphosis” can counteract the restaurant slump remains to be seen.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
MB Weekly and Urban Plates “We All Walk In Different Shoes” Annual Drive. We’re proud to announce we have collected several hundred pairs of used shoes for the L.A. Mission.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Dayna Bubenicek
Sandpipers President
Q: HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED IN THE SANDPIPERS ORGANIZATION?
A: I joined Sandpipers in 2010 when my next door neighbor, who was incoming president at the time, invited me to the Sandpipers prospective member event held each May. I made my sister, Micall, go with me, and after meeting so many wonderful women and hearing about the incredible work Sandpiper does in the South Bay, both my sister and I decided to join. We have both been members for almost 15 years and my sister will follow me as Sandpipers president for 2025-2026.
Q: WHAT IS THE MISSION OF SANDPIPERS?
A: Sandpipers was started in 1931, in the midst of the Great Depression, when seven Hermosa Beach women recognized a need in their community. Inspired by The Magnificent Obsession, a popular 1929 novel by Lloyd C. Douglas that emphasized selfless acts of kindness, these women decided that the main purpose of Sandpipers would be to give confidential financial assistance to those with temporary financial hardship. That December, Sandpipers’ first philanthropic initiative was born: Holiday Baskets. For Christmas, baskets filled with food, essential items, and toys were anonymously delivered to seven local families in need. Today, Holiday Baskets reaches 100 families each year, and Sandpipers is still a 100 percent volunteer-run organization dedicated to serving the needs of the South Bay community through such programs as Emergency Casework which provides immediate financial support for families in crisis, our college scholarships program, which currently supports 47 college students with a 4-year scholarship of up to $10,000 per year. Our scholarship program started in 1941 and is the oldest continuing college scholarship in the South Bay.
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: My family is from the South Bay and I grew up mostly in Redondo Beach, which is where I currently live with my husband and children, although I have lived all over the South Bay, from Rolling Hills Estates to Hermosa Beach. I graduated from Redondo Union High School.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: Gemini, so if you don’t like any of these answers, just ask again tomorrow. I’ll probably have a different one.
Q: HOW CAN MB WEEKLY READERS LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR CHARITY?
A: Anyone interested in learning more about Sandpipers and how to support our philanthropic efforts can visit our website at Sandpipers.org. Women interested in joining the organization can attend our prospective member reception on Thursday, May 22 (email MembershipVP@Sandpipers.org to RSVP). We would love to have members of the community attend the 1st Annual Sandpipers Coastal Classic Golf Tournament to be held at the Palos Verdes Golf Club on April 21 and our 3rd Annual Gala on Saturday, May 17 (email FundraisingVP@Sandpipers.org for more information on these events).
Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING SANDPIPERS?
A: Leading an all-volunteer organization comes with unique challenges. Sandpiper members are passionate and dedicated, but they are also balancing their own careers, families, and personal commitments. It’s a constant effort to ensure everyone feels supported. Another challenge is ensuring we have the resources, both financial and volunteer hours, to sustain the breadth of our programs. Managing our ambitious philanthropic initiatives and our fundraising events requires careful coordination of Sandpipers’ monetary and man-power resources. Sandpipers’ board of directors, a remarkable group of 25 altruistic women, is constantly navigating how to address the needs of our community and ensure the long-term success of our programs, a task that can be particularly difficult in times of crisis, like the recent wildfires, that also demand and deserve the attention of our members and donors.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: My very favorite restaurant in Manhattan Beach will always be the Kettle! The Kettle is like an old friend that’s always there whenever you need her and I have so many fond memories there, from after prom munchies to meet-ups with old friends who have come back to town to visit. I challenge you to find a better burger than their French quarter. Plus, their bran muffins… need I say more? I also love Esperanza – it’s a favorite to meet for dinner with my girlfriends. The Nachos de Mariscos is to die for! Rockefeller has my favorite happy hour menu and their $2 Tuesday burgers are always fabulous.
www.SandPipers.org
MB WEEKLY – CHARTS:
Age in Manhattan Beach.
Simms Restaurants Opens Heart To L.A. Fire Disaster With Comfort And Care:
Amid the devastating fires in Los Angeles, Simms Restaurants has stepped up to support the community. Offering comfort in times of chaos, they’ve announced free delivery and 10% off takeout orders with the code LAStrong. “Whether you need a comforting meal or a moment of normalcy, we are here for you,” said a company spokesperson. Simms Restaurants’ heartfelt gesture unites Angelenos, reminding them of the power of community. “In challenging times, we unite as one,” they added. This effort highlights their unwavering commitment to serving food and hope to those affected by this disaster.
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
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Name Withheld by Request (Hermosa Beach)
My sister Mary Ann is a hoarder. Despite her refusal to assist in addressing the chaos in her home, she has recently started sorting through her overwhelming accumulation of “treasures.” While this is a positive step, it has led to an unintended challenge for our extended family. In her effort to declutter, Mary Ann has begun gifting us items she no longer wants – some opened, used, dusty, and even carrying traces of animal fur. While the gesture may come from a place of love or guilt, these “gifts” are neither practical nor welcome. This situation highlights the complex intersection of mental health, family dynamics, and boundaries. We want to support her progress, but it’s essential to have honest conversations about what is truly helpful versus what becomes a burden. Compassion is critical, as is establishing respectful limits to protect everyone involved.
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Turning The Page – Beloved Downtown Bookstore Celebrates 15 Years In Manhattan Beach:
March marks a milestone for {pages}, the cherished bookstore in Downtown Manhattan Beach, as it celebrates 15 years of enriching the community with its literary treasures. Since opening its doors, {pages} has become a cultural hub, fostering a love of reading and hosting countless author events. The store plans a year-long celebration with exciting surprises and community-focused events to honor this anniversary. Stay tuned for details on how you can join the festivities and support this iconic local gem.
ISRAEL vs. EVIL 2023:
A New Critically Acclaimed Book
www.Amazon.com
From Ashes To Community – Manhattan Beach Welcomes Palisades Fire Evacuees:
American Martyrs Catholic School in Manhattan Beach has opened its doors to 57 students from Pacific Palisades, evacuees from the devastating Palisades Fire. The blaze ravaged their community, destroying homes, businesses, and Corpus Christi School. The swift enrollment reflects the spirit of compassion as families seek stability amid loss.
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Ring In 2025 By Making A Difference – Join The Manhattan Beach Fair Board:
The Manhattan Beach Fair seeks enthusiastic individuals to fill four open positions on its Board of Directors. Roles include Director of Environmental Services and Communication, Director of Main Stage, Director of Marketing and Communications, and Director of Wine. Board members help shape one of the city’s most celebrated events, making meaningful contributions while connecting with like-minded locals. Eligible applicants must be 21+ and have ties to the Manhattan Beach community. In-person interviews will be held on March 11 at 7 p.m. To learn about each role and its responsibilities, email recruiting@mbfair.org for details.
Manhattan Beach Residents – Claim Your Free Smart Water Monitor:
The City of Manhattan Beach, in partnership with Flume Water and the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), is offering residents a chance to claim a FREE Flume Smart Home Water Monitor & Leak Detector as part of a statewide study on residential water use. This device provides real-time water tracking, usage targets, instant leak alerts, appliance-specific data, and outdoor water insights. The monitor installs in just 10 minutes, helping homeowners conserve water, cut costs, and detect leaks before they become costly. For questions, contact support@flumewater.com.
Manhattan Beach Crime Summary
January 16 to January 22, 2024
- 648 CALLS FOR SERVICE
- 14 ARRESTS
- 26 TRAFFIC COLLISIONS
- 28 CRIME REPORTS FILED
Notable Events:
** On 1/16/25 at approximately 1:12 p.m., officers responded to Polliwog Park regarding the theft of an e-bike. A witness observed a suspect steal an e-bike near MBMS. Officers observed the suspect near Marine Park, where he left the bike and ran into the park. The suspect was detained in the Skate Park area and found in possession of a circular saw and narcotics. The bicycle was returned to the student and the suspect was arrested.
** On 1/17/25 at approximately 7:50 p.m., a neighboring agency was alerted of a carjacked vehicle traveling southbound on Sepulveda Boulevard through Rosecrans Avenue. An officer located the vehicle in the 100 block of Manhattan Beach Boulevard and a felony traffic stop was conducted at 15th Street and Ardmore Avenue where the vehicle yielded.
** On 1/19/25 at approximately 12:35 a.m., officers were driving in the 500 block of Rosecrans Avenue when they observed a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation. The officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. The driver was on felony probation for robbery. During a consensual search of the vehicle, officers located a loaded firearm. The driver was arrested and transported to the MBPD jail for booking.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Ed Kaminsky
The State of Emergency, which was declared, limits rental housing to be increased by no more than 10%. If you lowered your price, you would comply. There are other sites you can post it on, like Apartments.com, if Zillow does not allow the post. Suppose you prefer to handle the search for renters, which will likely draw enough traffic. Your other option is to hire a property manager who has the places they market the property, but there are property management fees you would want to discuss with them. Everyone is quick to call landlords price gougers, but many accusations are inaccurate. I would be sure to document everything you have and also seek the advice of a real estate attorney.
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www.ITZsold.com
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“My MB calendar’s pretty full, but I can squeeze you in between my post-holiday burnout and my midwinter blues.”
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THRIFT STORE IN THE SOUTH BAY?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
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1. ** Thank God America’s senile and DEI-obsessed commander-in-chief is gone from the halls of power forever. Amen! —- Audrey T.
2. ** Attended last night’s opening of Rene Labrado’s stunning watercolor art exhibit, hosted by Easy Reader News’ Kevin Cody. It’s great to see current & former Redondo, Hermosa, and Manhattan officials supporting local art! Don’t miss this exhibit at 67 14th St., Hermosa Beach, running through Feb. 23rd. —- Steve C.
3. ** Remember Frank Perdue? It takes a tough man to make a tender chicken. Lots of wisdom there. —- Abby B.
4. ** Andrew, the General Manager at Mercado in Manhattan Village, is a rising star in hospitality. His leadership, passion, and attention to detail create an unforgettable dining experience. This young visionary is going significant places, and his dedication will lead him to even greater success in the future. —- Brad H.
5. ** L.A. Is the only city that fines you $100 for parking in front of a fire hydrant that has no water in it. —- Tabbi T.
6. ** MB Weekly Reader Question: Should Trump enforce the TikTok law and ban TikTok? Send your reply to: —- MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
7. ** ROOM FOR RENT IN SOUTH BAY. I am posting for a friend: Looking for a roommate /move-in date, Feb 1st. The available space is a private bedroom and bath in a townhouse, with bedrooms on separate levels for added privacy. In Manhattan Beach, it includes a pool and jacuzzi. If interested or know someone, reach out to —- nancysgolf@aol.com
8. ** Could a tragedy like the Palisades fire happen in Hermosa Beach? I dismissed it – until realizing it could – dense brush lines Hermosa Valley from Gould to Pier. A few sparks and wind could fuel disaster. Is the city or Fire Marshal taking action? Forget granite paths; clear the brush and protect us. —- Arlene H.
9. ** Gavin says he’s searching for who’s responsible for the dry fire hydrants. It’s like OJ searching for the real killer. —- Tom A.
10. ** What I love about America is that we’re $35 trillion in debt, and we’re about to inaugurate a guy with a solid gold toilet to reign in unnecessary spending. —- Erica B.
11. ** Babies born to vegetarian moms were, on average, 240 grams lighter. —- Dr. Jan S.
12. ** Some folks who complain don’t consider they are part of the problem. Reference “Easy Reader,” 1/16/2025, Letters to the Editor, California to the President-elect by Dr. Pissed Off. The letter reads as he approves of Governor Newsom’s performances; if yes, Dr. Pissed Off is a part of the problem. The Wizard. —- Joyce
13. ** My friend, my book supplier, gave me Joan by Katherine Chen to read. I think this is going to be a boring read. Not so. It is historical, engaging, and an excellent read. —- Ed M.
14. ** Did you know that MB Weekly received over 450 postings for the MB Weekly Free bulletin board with only space for 25? —- Editor’s Note
15. ** Remember the celebrity promises to leave the U.S. with Trump as President? John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, Olivia Wilde, Sharon Stone, Robert De Niro, Bruce Springsteen, Cher, and more. Let’s hold them to their word – actions speak louder than headlines. Time to see if they meant it or if it was talk! —- Tony P.
16. ** My first visit to Burger Lounge in Manhattan Beach was disappointing. The food was fine but overpriced – $11 for a cheeseburger. The ambiance felt lackluster, and the service was practically non-existent. Overall, not worth it. I don’t plan on returning. —- Ali M.
17. ** Why do we even need them if the City Council votes 98% unanimously? Are we supposed to believe Joe Franklin and David Less agree 98% of the time? That’s not representation – it’s rubber-stamping. We need independent voices, not a choir singing from the same “go along to get along” songbook. —- M.W.
18. ** A hotshot firefighter friend told me they were ready to do controlled burns years ago, but officials stopped them over an endangered frog species. Now, it’s all gone – burnt down anyway. This disaster was avoidable. Newsom and Bass should face criminal charges or step down. Their incompetence is inexcusable. —- Grey B.
19. ** Does anyone know why a parade of a dozen or more CHP or Sheriff’s patrol cars, with sirens on, was flying in the carpool lane on the 405N every morning last week around 6:30 – 6:45 AM? I saw this daily between the Crenshaw and Inglewood exits. —- Rex L.
20. ** Narrowing Aviation Blvd. to ONE lane each way? Seriously? This traffic nightmare-in-waiting needs a reality check!. Speak now, or forever hold your complaints. —- Thomas K.
21. ** Ranked “one of the most influential business books of the last decade.” —- www.BrokenWindowsBook.com
22. ** Did you know? MB Weekly is the largest digital publication (by far) in the South Bay – covering El Segundo, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Hermosa Beach. —- https://mbweekly.net
23. ** This morning, I got a call from “Martin Ashley” claiming I won $250K in a Walmart sweepstakes. He asked for my Social Security and bank info – classic scam! I said no, hung up, and wanted to warn everyone: Don’t fall for it. Stay safe, and have a blessed day. —- Arnold L.
24. ** Jeff Bezos wasn’t solo on his inaugural trip – his fiancée, Lauren Sánchez, tagged along, grabbing attention for all the wrong reasons. Her overly revealing outfit clashed with the class displayed by the Trumps and Usha Vance. Why overshadow the moment with an unnecessary flash? Elegance always outshines ostentation, but some never learn. —- Leslie B.
25. ** We hate to say it, but the United States has spent years trending toward becoming a spiritually empty country. —- Oscar and Silvia
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